The New World Order: How UK Trade is Navigating the Global Power Shift

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The China International Fair for Investment and Trade (CIFIT) is one of the world’s leading platforms for investment promotion, showcasing the business environment, industrial policies, and key cooperation projects across China’s provinces and municipalities. It also highlights opportunities arising from the Belt and Road Initiative, cross-border investment services, and emerging industries, providing a valuable forum for international exchange and practical collaboration. Each year, CIFIT attracts thousands of industrial, commercial, and investment institutions from more than 100 countries and regions, serving as a vital bridge between China and the global capital. This year’s Fair will span 200,000 square meters, representing an increase of nearly 70% over the previous edition. The exhibition will be structured around three core sections—“Invest in China,” “China Investment,” and “International Investment”—offering a comprehensive overview of China’s high-level opening-up and investment opportunities. To help members stay abreast of latest market developments, the Chamber will organise a delegation to Xiamen on 7–8 September to participate in CIFIT 2026. The visit will provide members with valuable insights into emerging investment trends while facilitating the expansion of international collaboration networks. Tentative Itinerary*Itinerary may change. 7-8 September (Monday to Tuesday) Hong Kong - Xiamen - Take High Speed Rail G924 (08:48 / 12:50) from Hong Kong West Kowloon Station to Xiamen North on 7 September (Suggested) - Attend CIFIT Welcome Reception and Dinner - Visit the Hong Kong Pavilion - Visit the exhibition hall of the Officiating Guest Country or the Official Guest Province - Explore the CIFIT, attend various seminars, forums and project matchmaking sessions (Optional) - Take High Speed Rail G923 (16:15 / 19:48) from Xiamen North to Hong Kong West Kowloon Station on 8 September (Suggested), or stay behind in Xiamen

Event Update (as of 10 July) Please note that the event timing has been revised due to a change in the Secretary for Education's official schedule. The forum will now be held from 5:15 - 6:00 pm on 17 July 2026 . Other event details remain unchanged. Join us on 17 July for an exclusive opportunity to hear from Secretary for Education, Dr the Hon Choi Yuk-lin, JP , on the Government’s priorities and upcoming initiatives shaping Hong Kong’s education landscape. As Hong Kong advances its role under national development strategies, including the 15th Five-Year Plan and Greater Bay Area integration, education is increasingly positioned as a key pillar supporting talent development and innovation, and enhancing Hong Kong’s competitiveness. Against this backdrop, the Government is advancing initiatives to strengthen Hong Kong as an international education hub – including expanding non-local student admission; promoting the “Study in Hong Kong” brand; advancing digital and AI capabilities; developing the Northern Metropolis University Town to deepen collaboration between academia, research, and industry; all the while supporting the attraction and nurturing of high-calibre local and global students and talent. This Town Hall Forum will offer business leaders valuable insights into the Bureau’s latest policy direction and ongoing initiatives , including how the latest reforms are enhancing post-secondary pathways, strengthening industry linkages, and supporting talent development through closer alignment between education and evolving economic needs - building a future-ready talent pipeline for Hong Kong. Complementing the Secretary’s keynote, Professor James Tang, Secretary-General of the University Grants Committee (UGC) , will also join as a special guest contributor to share the UGC's perspectives on the sector’s development and advancing Hong Kong’s higher education ecosystem. Seats are limited and available on a first-come-first-served basis. Register early to secure your place.

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The global trading landscape is being reshaped by geopolitical tensions, supply chain realignments, and shifting economic priorities. As the United Kingdom continues to redefine its trade and investment strategy in the post-Brexit era, businesses are navigating an increasingly complex international environment while seeking new opportunities for growth and cross-border collaboration. The UK remains one of the world’s largest economies and a leading global financial centre. Through new free trade agreements, evolving industrial policies and closer engagement with high-growth markets, the country is adapting to changing patterns of global commerce. At the same time, sectors such as financial services, advanced manufacturing, life sciences and technology continue to drive the UK’s international competitiveness. Hong Kong and the United Kingdom have long maintained strong commercial and investment ties. As a leading international financial centre and gateway to Chinese Mainland and Asia, Hong Kong continues to play an important role in facilitating trade, investment and professional services between the UK and the wider region. Against a backdrop of global uncertainty, businesses on both sides are exploring new ways to strengthen economic cooperation and leverage their respective advantages. To help our members better understand the UK’s evolving trade strategy, business environment and investment outlook, this roundtable luncheon will bring together government, professional services and business leaders to share their perspectives on the opportunities and challenges facing companies operating between Hong Kong and the United Kingdom. Speakers (to be updated): Brian John Davidson, Consul General of the United Kingdom to Hong Kong and Macao Keith Pogson, Vice Chair, The British Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong; EY Global Assurance Leader, Banking & Capital Markets and EY Asia-Pacific Financial Services Senior Partner See you there.