Dr. Patrick Lau Says Hong Kong Is A Strategic Hub For Insight, Partnership, and Innovation

27/01/2026

HONG KONG, Jan 27: At the Asian Financial Forum (AFF) 2026 launch, Dr. Patrick Lau, Deputy Executive Director of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), addressed members of the media at a press conference in Hong Kong.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Lau said, “We are privileged to host more than 3,600 distinguished participants this year, representing global thought leaders, policymakers, investors, and business executives from around the world.”

He noted that the Forum takes place at a time of profound transformation, as geopolitical shifts, rapid technological progress, and the urgency of climate action are reshaping the global economic landscape. “Against this backdrop,” Dr. Lau said, “the Asian Financial Forum serves as a premier platform to explore challenges, identify opportunities, and chart a sustainable path forward for Asia and beyond.”

Highlighting AFF’s prestige, he noted that over the past two decades the Forum has consistently attracted a high-level audience, with more than 80 percent of participants representing C-suite executives. This underlines Hong Kong’s role as a globally recognized financial centre and a key platform for meaningful dialogue among decision-makers.

This year also marks a major milestone with the debut of the Global Business Summit. While the AFF has traditionally focused on financial leadership, the new initiative underscores the growing synergy between finance and business. Dr. Lau emphasized that, “Finance must ultimately serve the real economy — the industries, innovations, and enterprises that power growth.”

In alignment with China’s new Five-Year Plan, AFF 2026 will spotlight future industries such as artificial intelligence, robotics, health technology, new energy, and the next-generation consumer economy. These sectors, he said, represent Asia’s growth frontier, and financial collaboration will be vital to unlocking their full potential.

Deal Flow Matchmaking remains one of AFF’s signature features. The event hosts more than 800 business meetings each year, and over its history, the HKTDC has facilitated more than 10,000 such connections. Dr. Lau said this demonstrates Hong Kong’s pivotal role as a “super connector” and “value creator,” linking global capital with innovation, sustainability, and opportunities across diverse sectors.

This year’s deal-making platform features project presentations from Hong Kong’s Northern Metropolis Development and the Skytopia Airport City initiatives, alongside global projects in fintech, agri-tech, green technology, smart city development, and health innovation. Dr. Lau noted that these collaborations are expected to generate new synergies and long-term partnerships well beyond the Forum itself.

As participants navigate a fast-changing 2026, Dr. Lau expressed hope that AFF will continue to provide valuable insights, foster partnerships, and equip business leaders to move forward confidently and strategically.

Concluding his remarks, Dr. Lau invited attendees to experience Hong Kong’s vibrant and multidimensional character — from its financial dynamism to its cultural richness. He highlighted the West Kowloon Cultural District, the Palace Museum, the city’s renowned horse racing events, and heritage landmarks such as the Court of Appeal.

“These experiences showcase the unique strengths that make Hong Kong not only a global financial hub but also a dynamic international city where culture, commerce, and innovation converge,” he said.