As we enter 2026, Hong Kong continues to play a central strategic role in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA)—a mega-region with a combined GDP exceeding US$2 trillion and a population of over 86 million. This positions the GBA as one of the world’s most vibrant economic zones, comparable to leading global bay areas.
Hong Kong’s unique advantages under “one country, two systems”—as an international financial centre, trade hub, and innovation gateway—perfectly align with Beijing’s national vision. The recent Central Economic Work Conference and President Xi Jinping’s directives emphasize building the GBA into an international centre for technological innovation, a strategic fulcrum for high-quality development, and a demonstration zone for Chinese-style modernization. Hong Kong’s efforts actively support this direction, deepening integration while leveraging its global connectivity.
Recent HKSAR Government initiatives from the 2025 Policy Address and ongoing projects signal strong economic momentum heading into 2026.
Alignment with National Development Strategies
Hong Kong’s GBA role directly supports Beijing’s priorities in the transitioning 14th to 15th Five-Year Plans (2026–2030):
- International Innovation Hub — The Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Guangzhou cluster topped the 2025 Global Innovation Index, reflecting rapid progress in collaborative R&D.
- Super-Connector Function — Hong Kong bridges mainland strengths with global markets, facilitating “going global” for enterprises and attracting international talent and capital.
- High-Quality Growth Engines — Focus on AI, green finance, low-altitude economy, and advanced manufacturing aligns with national goals for new quality productive forces.
These efforts reinforce Hong Kong’s proactive integration into national development, as urged by central leaders.
Key Government Initiatives Driving Growth
The 2025 Policy Address and related measures introduce forward-looking policies to stimulate the economy:
- Innovation & Technology Boost — Expansion of Cyberport’s AI Supercomputing Centre, support for aerospace projects, and the opening of facilities in the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Cooperation Zone (Hong Kong Park opened in December 2025).
- Low-Altitude Economy — Formulation of a dedicated action plan, regulatory sandbox pilots, and alliances to position Hong Kong as an Asia-Pacific hub for drones and advanced air mobility.
- Northern Metropolis Acceleration — Fast-tracking this innovation corridor near Shenzhen, enhancing land supply, housing, and tech industry synergy.
- Green Finance & Sustainability — Deepening GBA cooperation on carbon markets and green initiatives.
- Talent Attraction — Increasing non-local student quotas to 50% in universities and enhancing the “Study in Hong Kong” brand.
- Infrastructure Enhancements — Completion of the HKIA Dongguan Logistics Park initial phase by end-2025 and progress on world-class airport clusters.
These initiatives, combined with upgraded GDP growth forecasts (around 3% for 2025), set the stage for continued recovery and surplus budgets in 2026.
Opportunities for Businesses Expanding into China
For international companies, Hong Kong’s strengthened GBA role offers seamless access via CEPA, advanced financial services, robust IP protection, and emerging sectors like AI, biotech, and low-altitude applications.
Your Vision. Our Expertise.
At Symphony Secretarial Services Limited, our boutique consulting firm specializes in guiding global clients through Hong Kong company formation, governance, and strategic GBA expansion. As Hong Kong builds exciting momentum into 2026, there’s no better time to establish your foothold.
Ready to seize these opportunities? Contact Our Experts today.