Hong Kong  does have a number of advantages over other Mainland cities, and will continue to do so in the foreseeable future. These do factor heavily in the decision-making process of multi-nationals looking for a regional base, or of small and medium-sized enterprises looking for a foothold in the Mainland market or the Asian region.

The most important is Hong Kong’s legal system, which is trusted, tried and tested by international business.

Hong Kong’s capital account is fully convertible, and there are no restrictions on foreign exchange dealings. Property, securities, gold and silver can be bought and sold by anyone, without restriction.

A strong and well-regulated financial sector, a free press, the free flow of information, low taxes and a simple taxation system, a pool of managerial talent with international experience, ease of access, proximity to major markets, and a dense network of services firms are among the strengths and advantages of doing business in Hong Kong.

At the end of 2001, there were more than 525 000 expatriates living in Hong Kong, with sizeable groups from the USA, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom and Japan.