Hong Kong's Chief Executive, John Lee, has stated that expanding the city's role as a gold trading center presents a significant opportunity. As an international financial hub, Hong Kong must pursue diversified development.

In a recent interview, Lee pointed out that while Hong Kong's stock market is already highly successful, the increasingly complex global political landscape is driving investor interest towards safe-haven assets like gold.

He mentioned that during consultations for last year's policy address, it became evident that many mainland institutional investors are active in gold trading. Beyond their domestic market activities, these investors have substantial demand for gold trading in international markets, making them key participants globally. Lee suggested that if Hong Kong becomes a gold trading hub for the Asia-Pacific region, the facilitation of physical gold settlement would greatly benefit mainland investors.

Lee also outlined a goal for Hong Kong to establish its own gold storage facilities, targeting a capacity exceeding 2,000 tonnes within three years. This development is intended to support the future construction of a gold trading and settlement system in Hong Kong.

He expressed confidence that establishing Hong Kong as a premier gold trading center, where more transactions, settlements, and physical deliveries occur, would generate a substantial multiplier effect for the city. This initiative would not only stimulate the development of financial products but also create more opportunities for professional services, representing a win-win policy.