Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development Algernon Yau Ying-wah on Tuesday urged Italian companies to utilize Hong Kong’s unique advantages as a global business and trading center in expanding their business in Asia.

In a speech at the Juventus Business Reception, Yau said Hong Kong’s strategic location, world-class infrastructure and highly open business environment help connect the Chinese mainland with the rest of the world and provide a gateway to opportunities across Asia.

“To our friends from Italy and around the world who are with us this evening, I warmly invite you to make use of Hong Kong's unique advantages and international connectivity to explore new opportunities, build new partnerships and grow your business in Asia,” Yau said.

“Whether you are looking to access the Chinese mainland market or collaborate with mainland enterprises in going global, Hong Kong is ready to be your partner.”

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Yau said the number of companies in Hong Kong with mainland or overseas parent companies, as well as the number of start-ups, reached record highs in 2025, demonstrating strong international confidence in Hong Kong as a place to establish, expand and grow businesses.

The 2025 Annual Survey of Companies in Hong Kong with Parent Companies Located outside Hong Kong showed that the number of companies from overseas and the mainland rose 11 percent year-on-year to a record 11,070 in 2025.

On the other hand, the number of start-ups also increased 11 percent to 5,221, also a record high, the 2025 Startup Survey showed.

“Many multinational enterprises have also chosen Hong Kong as the location for their regional headquarters, recognizing our unique advantages as an international business hub,” Yau said.

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“Italy has long been an important economic partner of Hong Kong. We look forward to strengthening collaboration with Italian businesses and welcoming more enterprises to establish or expand their presence in Hong Kong,” he added.

Yau also said that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government is actively developing the mega-event economy by attracting more world-class sporting, cultural and entertainment events, including the Hong Kong Football Festival which kicked off last Saturday.

Chelsea FC takes on Juventus for The Herbalgy Trophy at the festival on Wednesday.

“We are delighted to welcome Juventus to Hong Kong as part of this exciting festival. Together with other participating clubs, Juventus is helping to showcase Hong Kong's ability to host major international sporting events and bring people, businesses and communities closer together,” Yau said.