The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) celebrated its 60th anniversary today with the Next 60 Forum and 60th Anniversary Cocktail Reception, drawing over 1,000 guests from the political and business sectors. The events highlighted the council’s role in Hong Kong’s economic evolution and its vision for the next six decades, with multiple former chairmen sharing insights on the city’s future under the “One Country, Two Systems” framework.
HKTDC Chairman Prof. Frederick Ma personally invited former chairmen Dr. Victor Fung, Peter Woo, Jack So, and Vincent Lo to serve as forum guests, while he moderated the discussion. Together, they reviewed the HKTDC’s development and looked ahead to future opportunities. Prof. Ma emphasized the collective experience of the panel, stating, “This forum brings together an accumulated 480 years of experience and wisdom of several former Chairmen. We will build on the past and pave the way for the future, charting a new development outlook for Hong Kong.”
The Next 60 Forum centered on the theme “Retrospect and Prospect,” examining Hong Kong’s transformation from a manufacturing base into an international financial and trading hub. Participants explored how the city can continue to serve as a superconnector and super value-adder in a changing global landscape. Former Chairman Baroness Dunn opened the forum with a pre-recorded address.
Secretary for Justice of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), Paul Lam, officiated at the evening cocktail reception, joined by other government officials including Deputy Financial Secretary Michael Wong, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law, and Acting Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury Joseph Chan. In his address, Lam noted the significance of the 60-year milestone, stating, “In Chinese culture, 60 years represents the completion of a full cycle – it does not mark an end, but a beginning of new cycle. It reminds us that after six decades of growth, wisdom and achievements, the time has come to welcome a new, and even more successful chapter.”
Prof. Ma echoed this sentiment, expressing optimism despite global challenges. “Right before this reception, I had a lively dialogue with the HKTDC’s former Chairmen who shared their vision for the Council and Hong Kong in the coming decades. Let me tell you: the future looks bright. In spite of global challenges, I firmly believe that Hong Kong remains a beacon of hope.”
Looking ahead, the HKTDC plans to seize opportunities from the country’s 15th Five-Year Plan, support government initiatives, and assist mainland enterprises in expanding overseas. The council will also tailor its support to five major industry clusters: Finance and Professional Services; Global Network and Supply Chain; Technology and Digital Innovation; Wellness and Creative Industries; and Consumer Goods and Lifestyle. These efforts aim to deepen international exchange and facilitate substantive cooperation, reinforcing Hong Kong’s role as a global business hub.
For more details on the HKTDC’s 60th anniversary events, visit the 60th Anniversary Exhibition Zone and the 60th Anniversary Celebration Activities page. Photos from the event are available for download here.
