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Companies from Yokohama can use Hong Kong's strategic location and its advantages and business opportunities to extend their reach in Mainland China, Asia and beyond.
The above remarks were made by the Principal Hong Kong Economic and Trade Representative (Tokyo), Ms Sally Wong, at a business seminar attended by some 130 people in Yokohama, Japan, today (April 26).
Outlining the reasons for choosing Hong Kong as a partner for growth and development in the global market, Ms Wong pointed out that Hong Kong has always been a staunch supporter and practitioner of free trade and free markets, welcoming investments from all over the world.
"Hong Kong has a very low and simple tax system, a clean, transparent and efficient government, zero tolerance of corruption and a level playing field for all.
"In terms of location, Hong Kong is strategically located right on the doorstep of China, and is the logistics hub of Asia.
"With our 'One country, Two Systems' and a high degree of autonomy, Hong Kong has become an international city in China but outside the Mainland system," she said.
These characteristics enable Hong Kong to enjoy a special status and can be strategically important for foreign businesses to expand into China and Asia, where the market potential is huge, Ms Wong added.
"Our skilled and talented personnel, who understand both international and Mainland practices, can help Japanese businessmen develop their business there.
"Doing business in Hong Kong, and through Hong Kong to Mainland China. Asia and the global markets means that you are protected by the laws of Hong Kong, which are based on the common law system.
"You can enjoy all the freedoms and rights, the pluralism and cosmopolitan outlook, our unique and fascinating blend of Eastern and Western cultures, and you can feel the vibrancy of the city as you go about doing business or if you come to stay in Hong Kong," she said.
Given the strong and close bilateral ties between Hong Kong and Japan, Ms Wong said that by joining together to leverage on these advantages Hong Kong and Yokohama could create a winning team in today's fast changing business environment.
Other speakers at the seminar were the Director, Japan, of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, Ms Shigemi Furuta; the Regional Director, Japan, of the Hong Kong Tourism Board, Mr David Leung; the Principal Consultant of Invest Hong Kong in Tokyo, Mr Yukio Sasaki; and the General Manager of External and Government Affairs Department of Nissan Motor Co Ltd, Mr Hidehiko Hirabayashi.
The seminar was organised by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (Tokyo) of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government with the aim of briefing participants from the Japanese government and business sector on Hong Kong's various opportunities and advantages for Japanese businesses.
Ends/Friday, April 26, 2013
Issued at HKT 15:17
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