At the 2026 Sina Finance Global Capital Summit, a proposal was made to elevate the existing Financial Services Development Council to a statutory body, similar to the Trade Development Council. This new entity would operate alongside the current financial regulatory framework with a dedicated mandate to attract international capital to Hong Kong, thereby amplifying the city's effectiveness as the nation's international financial hub.
The proposal's proponent emphasized Hong Kong's indispensable role as the country advances towards becoming a financial powerhouse. Beyond the institutional upgrade, it was also suggested that Hong Kong must effectively implement the principle of serving "the nation's needs and leveraging Hong Kong's strengths." This involves clearly explaining to the mainland the functions of various financial instruments available in Hong Kong, proactively communicating to the world the developmental narrative of Hong Kong under the "one country, two systems" framework, and enhancing information exchange between the mainland and international markets.
It was noted that the nation is vigorously developing technology, green, inclusive, and digital finance, and the construction of a modern industrial system is generating vast long-term investment demand. It was highlighted that from the 12th to the 15th Five-Year Plan periods, the central government has consistently supported Hong Kong in consolidating and enhancing its status as an international financial center for two consecutive decades. "Hong Kong is not only China's international financial center but also the international center for Chinese finance, and the global offshore renminbi funding pool."
The city's financial advantages are underpinned by the long-term legal safeguards of the Basic Law, which confirm the free convertibility of the Hong Kong dollar, the absence of foreign exchange controls, and the free flow of capital. Combined with a highly open market, comprehensive financial infrastructure, and international credibility built on the rule of law and integrity, these factors constitute Hong Kong's unique competitive foundation.
Reflecting on the 1990s, it was recalled that the market once questioned whether Hong Kong's listing competitiveness could match that of Taiwan. However, after years of dedicated effort, Hong Kong has now become the primary platform for mainland enterprises to raise capital overseas. Since Tsingtao Brewery's listing in Hong Kong in 1993, the city has progressively built a bridge connecting mainland industries with international capital. Balancing national financing needs with financial security, Hong Kong plays a crucial role in facilitating the flow of capital between the mainland and global markets.