SFST's opening remarks at APEC Finance Ministers' Meeting 2026 seminars
Following are the opening remarks by the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, at the APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation) Finance Ministers' Meeting (FMM) 2026 seminars today (October 20):
Honourable guests, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen,
Good morning. It is a great pleasure of mine to welcome you all to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), and to this seminar session held in connection with the APEC Finance Ministers' Meeting 2026.
It is especially meaningful for the HKSAR to welcome the FMM to our city for the very first time. We are deeply honoured to contribute to the APEC China Year under the theme, "Building an Asia-Pacific Community to Prosper Together", and to facilitate dialogue that advances our shared prosperity across the region.
That theme could not be more timely. In an era of profound economic transformation and evolving global challenges, prosperity will not be secured by any economy acting alone. It will be built through partnership, innovation and resilience. I am therefore delighted that this seminar brings together regulators, business leaders and experts from across the Asia-Pacific region for meaningful exchanges on how we can unlock new opportunities, strengthen financial resilience, and drive sustainable growth for all.
My sincere thanks go to the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) and the APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC) Hong Kong, China for organising today's seminars and for their unwavering support.
The HKMA, as our central bank and also a steward of monetary and financial stability, is a driving force behind the development of our financial infrastructure ecosystem.
ABAC, on the other hand, serves as an important bridge between the public and private sectors, providing APEC leaders with valuable business perspectives on regional co-operation. Its voice helps ensure that our policies remain connected with the realities and aspirations of the business community.
Together, these seminars provide a valuable opportunity for the business community to contribute directly to the broader discussions of the FMM, bringing market insights, practical experience and fresh perspectives to the table.
Today's discussions will centre on two highly important themes: trade and supply chain finance, and green and sustainable finance. These themes are not only relevant to the region's development, they are also closely aligned with the HKSAR Government's latest policy direction. In our inaugural Five-Year Plan (First Five-Year Plan for Economic and Social Development of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (2026-2030)), we set out a clear vision to advance "Finance+" so that finance can better serve the real economy.
Under "Finance + Trade", we are stepping up support for small and medium-sized enterprises. In this regard, the HKMA has been playing a pivotal role through various initiatives and innovative financing solutions like its Project CargoX. Rather than getting ahead of the discussion, I shall leave it to our speakers to share their insights on these exciting developments.
Under "Finance + Green Development", we are making a resolute push to accelerate the development of green and sustainable finance and advance an international carbon market. A prime example is the collaboration between the HKEX (Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited)'s Core Climate and the Hong Kong Quality Assurance Agency to explore Hong Kong's participation in cross-boundary carbon trading. In doing so, we may leverage our financial strength as a premier international financial centre to support our country in building a carbon market of greater international influence, thus creating a powerful engine for global environmental sustainability.
Beyond these areas, the Five-Year Plan also sets out a clear vision to reinforce Hong Kong's roles as a global offshore Renminbi business hub, an international asset and wealth management centre, and an international risk management centre. We are also committed to developing a commodity trading ecosystem with gold as an entry point. Together, these strengths position Hong Kong as a premier platform connecting capital, enterprises and opportunities across the region and beyond.
I am particularly pleased that we are joined today by an outstanding line-up of speakers and practitioners. Their insights have been shaped not only by knowledge, but also by experience at the very forefront of their respective fields. I personally look forward to their sharing and to the vibrant discussions that are to follow.
Last but not least, while you are here for the FMM, I warmly invite you to venture beyond the meeting rooms and feel the unique vibe of the many sides of Hong Kong. From our rich Chinese cultural heritage and local traditions to our renowned food culture and dynamic city life, I hope you will have wonderful memories and enjoy the captivating spirit that makes Hong Kong a truly special and beautiful place.
With that, may I wish the seminars and the FMM every success, and all of you a fruitful and thoroughly enjoyable stay in Hong Kong. Thank you.
The APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation) Finance Ministers' Meeting 2026 opened in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region today (October 20). The Hong Kong Monetary Authority and the APEC Business Advisory Council held thematic seminars. Photo shows the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, delivering opening remarks at a seminar. Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
