The National Development and Reform Commission’s (NDRC) Department of Foreign Capital and Overseas Investment and the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) jointly held a seminar in Hong Kong on September 24, 2024, focusing on “Supporting Mainland enterprises’ cross-border financing in Hong Kong,” according to the Hong Kong Monetary Authority.

Key Figures and Participants

Mr. Zheng Chiping, Director-General of the NDRC’s Department of Foreign Capital and Overseas Investment, was present at the seminar, where he delivered a keynote address. The event also featured Mr. Eddie Yue, Chief Executive of the HKMA. The seminar gathered around 200 participants, including representatives from Mainland enterprises, industry associations, financial institutions, and law firms.

Focus on Offshore Debt Issuance

The seminar included a policy briefing session and a roundtable discussion. The NDRC delegation provided insights into supporting the issuance of offshore debt by Mainland enterprises. This event marks the first promotional activity following the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the NDRC and HKMA in October 2023, aimed at promoting the diversified development of the offshore bond market and enhancing the understanding of relevant policies among market participants.

Enhancing Cross-Border Financing

Hong Kong has long been a premier offshore financing platform for Mainland enterprises. Mr. Zheng emphasized the importance of leveraging Hong Kong’s international financial platform to conduct cross-border financing activities, broaden financing channels, and optimize financing structures. He highlighted the NDRC’s commitment to encouraging Mainland enterprises to utilize Hong Kong’s platform for their financing needs while welcoming global investors and market institutions to participate actively in this initiative.

Industry Reception and Future Cooperation

Mr. Yue expressed gratitude to the NDRC for recognizing Hong Kong’s role as a cross-border financing hub and appreciated Mr. Zheng’s leadership in organizing the policy briefing. He noted that the seminar was well received by the industry and deepened the understanding of Central Government policies, which is crucial for supporting Mainland enterprises’ cross-border financing activities and contributing to the internationalization of the Renminbi and the region’s green and low-carbon transition.

Looking ahead, both the HKMA and NDRC aim to build on this successful foundation to deepen their cooperation further. The HKMA is committed to fostering Hong Kong’s financial services sector to support the Mainland’s high-quality economic development and high-standard opening up.

For more information, visit the Hong Kong Monetary Authority.

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