Editor’s note: With the nation’s 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-25) nearing its conclusion and the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30) in the pipeline, Hong Kong has strengthened its competitiveness by consolidating its roles as “eight centers” outlined in the 14th Five-Year Plan — finance, shipping, trade, aviation, innovation and technology, legal and dispute resolution services, intellectual property trading, and cultural exchange. In this eight-installment data series, China Daily examines the city’s progress and achievements in driving  forward these key sectors. The first part focuses on the city’s role as an international financial center.