Hong Kong’s Task Force on Supporting Mainland Enterprises in Going Global (GoGlobal Task Force) was launched on Oct 6, witnessed by Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po, and steered by Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development Algernon Yau Ying-wah.

To better support Chinese mainland enterprises in going global, the 2025 Policy Address has proposed integrating the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region’s overseas offices, including those under Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK), the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, as well as Hong Kong offices on the mainland, to set up a one-stop platform — the GoGlobal Task Force — to proactively facilitate mainland enterprises seeking to expand their overseas business. For investors and businesses from abroad, especially Europe, this initiative also makes scouting for partnerships with mainland companies more efficient.

In an era where the global economic landscape is being rapidly reshaped by shifting trade dynamics, technological disruptions and rising geopolitical headwinds, Hong Kong stands at a crucial juncture. The city’s future prosperity will increasingly depend on how effectively it leverages its strengths to integrate more deeply into global markets, attract investment and project its unique value proposition to the world. It is precisely within this context that the GoGlobal Task Force deserves close attention. This initiative is more than just another government program; it represents a forward-looking, strategic effort to re-anchor Hong Kong’s international engagement, turbocharge the global expansion of local enterprises and reinforce the city’s role as a bridge between China and the world.

One of the most valuable contributions of the task force will be its ability to leverage Hong Kong’s unique advantages under the “one country, two systems” principle. As an international financial center with a robust legal system, world-class professional services, free flow of capital and information, and deep connections to the mainland, Hong Kong offers a launchpad for companies seeking to go global and for foreign players to pursue their success in China.

To sum up, if Hong Kong is to write the next chapter of its success story, it must not stand still but venture boldly into new markets, new sectors and new partnerships. The GoGlobal Task Force is an important instrument in that journey. The “one country, two systems” framework continues to serve as a bedrock for progress, intertwining Hong Kong’s fortunes with the mainland’s successes

Indeed, as an old Chinese proverb says, “Grab opportunities swiftly before it is too late.” This is perfectly applicable to Hong Kong, eager to grasp any opportunities to attract investment and innovation.

Why is Hong Kong’s position so unique?

First, Hong Kong is one of the world’s most important financial centers. The city of resilience has enhanced its role in recent years despite criticisms and challenges.

Second, Hong Kong’s robust rule of law and sound legal system are widely recognized in the international community.

Third, the city is an innovation hub,  as confirmed by the World Intellectual Property Organization’s Global Innovation Index 2025, which ranks Hong Kong 15th.

By taking advantage of opportunities from the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area’s development and actively engaging in China’s 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-25), Hong Kong is able to leverage unwavering support from the central government to augment its role, and embrace advancements such as the digital yuan and environmental, social and governance initiatives.

Another important dimension of the task force’s mission lies in helping mainland companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SME), overcome the structural barriers that often stand in the way of overseas expansion. Surveys have repeatedly shown that while many SMEs aspire to explore international markets, they often lack the necessary knowledge, networks and resources to do so.

The initiative also aligns closely with Hong Kong’s broader ambition to strengthen its role as a global innovation and technology hub. By offering a structured pathway to explore overseas opportunities, connect with investors and partners, and navigate regulatory landscapes, the GoGlobal Task Force can accelerate growth trajectories and enhance Hong Kong’s reputation as a source of cutting-edge innovation with global impact.

The synergy between Hong Kong and the mainland, together with the central government’s support and closer collaboration within the Greater Bay Area, highlights the region’s potential for pioneering advancements in public health and personalized medicine.

To sum up, if Hong Kong is to write the next chapter of its success story, it must not stand still but venture boldly into new markets, new sectors and new partnerships. The GoGlobal Task Force is an important instrument in that journey. The “one country, two systems” framework continues to serve as a bedrock for progress, intertwining Hong Kong’s fortunes with the mainland’s successes.

The author is a fintech adviser, a researcher and a former business analyst for a Hong Kong publicly listed company.

The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.