Hong Kong’s Five-Year Plan and Policy Address: Unlock Opportunities and Shape a Brighter Future

2026 marks the commencement of the nation’s 15th Five-Year Plan as well as Hong Kong’s very own First Five-Year Plan, signalling a highly encouraging shift from “alignment” to “proactive planning”. To reinforce Hong Kong’s status as a global business hub, and premier “Go Global” destination for the Chinese Mainland, the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce has been following the development of this updated blueprint for the city since day one.

We are pleased to see that many of the recommendations from our submissions for Hong Kong’s First Five-Year Plan and the 2026 Policy Address have been adopted by the Government, such as accelerating Northern Metropolis development, empowering SME AI adoption, and elevating “Study in Hong Kong”. The First Five-Year Plan will help drive robust economic growth and create broader opportunities for the business community, ultimately shaping a brighter future for Hong Kong, aligning with the “One Country, Two Systems” framework.

The development of the Northern Metropolis, underpinned by a “planning-oriented, infrastructure-led, industry-driven and people-centric approach”, will allow for Hong Kong to further its reputation as an innovation and economic hub. To fully achieve this vision, digital and transport infrastructure must be strengthened while keeping in mind cross-boundary connectivity, promoting industry participation and advancing the coordinated development of the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone (Hetao Co-operation Zone).

Initiatives to drive financial innovation and advance “Finance+” also strengthen Hong Kong’s international competitiveness through the “Four Centres and One Hub” approach. Focusing on technological innovation, like digital assets and tokenisation, allow for the city to re-enforce its status as a premier cross-boundary wealth management centre and global offshore RMB hub, while also prioritising sustainability and health innovation.

Addressing gaps in AI implementation in the city’s AI ecosystem is essential when promoting “industries for AI” and “AI for industries”, and we look forward to actioning national development priorities, including life and health technology, AI and robotics. SME digital transformation through targeted funding will also help capture opportunities arising from emerging technologies and enhance long-term competitiveness for rising talent.

The Government’s holistic push to enhancing social well-being and development will address shifting demographics and promote stronger synergy between education, technology and talent development. The Plan also includes ensuring Hong Kong’s advantages as a premier international study destination are captured through the “Study in Hong Kong” brand.

Deepening Hong Kong’s regional and international economic integration is vital to its continued success as a global “super connector” and “super value-adder.” By leveraging premier professional services, robust financing capabilities, and high value-added supply chain networks, the city is perfectly positioned to serve as the preferred international springboard for Mainland enterprises expanding overseas. This structural advantage is further amplified by closer technology collaboration within the Greater Bay Area (GBA), where the seamless cross-boundary flow of talent, data, and research will drive regional, innovation-led growth.

Beyond core business and technology sectors, elevating Hong Kong’s international brand as a premier events and tourism destination remains critical. Cultivating compelling visitor experiences and vibrant cross-sector partnerships will help capture shifting demographics and attract travellers from emerging, high-growth markets. Diversifying these offerings — such as promoting inclusivity through Muslim-friendly initiatives and continued investment in yacht and marina infrastructure — will be essential in unlocking the lucrative potential of high-value tourism.

As the foremost voice of business, the Chamber’s priority is ensuring the business community is fully empowered to capitalise on the immense opportunities these visionary blueprints present. The success of Hong Kong’s First Five-Year Plan relies on execution. While the Government has charted a clear course, it is the business community that will drive the momentum forward. By focusing on these strategic pillars, the Chamber aims to integrate enterprises into a "joint fleet", leveraging our collective strength to navigate complex global markets and drive sustainable local growth. Together, we can translate these policies into tangible business success, ensuring Hong Kong remains Asia's most dynamic and competitive international city.