HONG KONG - China Daily organized a thematic workshop, titled "Exploring Cross-border Green and Sustainable Finance Opportunities in the GBA", on Thursday to examine how the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area can contribute to the country's low-carbon economy and what opportunities could be brought by green finance both to the GBA and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. The workshop is part of the sessions at the Asian Financial Forum, which took place over Jan 24-25 in the HKSAR, to focus on issues including promoting global development, business opportunities and sustainable economic models.
2024-01-25香港,2024年1月25日 — 由中國日報攜手亞洲金融論壇合辦題為「探索大灣區跨境綠色和可持續金融機遇」的專題研討會,將於2024年1月25日(星期四)在香港會議展覽中心舉行。此次研討會預計吸引逾300名來自世界各地不同金融機構的投資者、私募股權管理人、專業投資者及各金融機構服務業界人士參會。 亞洲金融論壇旨在為全球政府、金融及商界領袖提供平台,促進交流真知灼見及發掘投資商機。論壇為期兩日,由香港特區政府與貿易發展局合辦,今年主題為 “多邊合作 共譜新篇” ,香港特別行政區行政長官李家超、阿拉伯聯合酋長國Younis Haji Al Khoori 閣下、卡塔爾國財政部長Ali bin Ahmad Alkuwari 閣下、2022年諾貝爾經濟學獎得主及芝加哥大學布斯商學院金融學教授Douglas Diamond 教授、伊斯蘭開發銀行行長Dr. Muhammad Al Jasser 閣下、中國綜合開發研究院院長樊綱先生、及歐洲聯盟委員會金融穩定、金融服務和資本市場聯盟副總幹事Alexandra Jour-Schroeder 女士等來自世界各國、地區的政府、金融及商界領袖共同交流探討投資商機。 綠色和可持續金融是一項發展迅速以及前景廣闊的金融活動領域。本次研討會旨在探討大灣區如何在促進內地低碳經濟的發展中發揮其作用,以及綠色金融為香港和大灣區帶來的機遇。 根據中央政府提出的“3060雙碳目標”,國家有望於2030年前達到二氧化碳排放峰值,並於2060年前實現碳中和。為配合這項政策,香港推出了《香港氣候行動藍圖2050》,提出實現零碳排放、打造宜居和可持續發展城市的目標,把握綠色金融市場大幅增長的機遇並在當中發揮橋樑作用。憑借香港健全的金融監管制度和綠色債券平台,以及與粵港澳大灣區城市之間的互聯互通機制,香港可推動及協助在粵港澳大灣區內發行不同貨幣的綠色債券,吸引更多海外投資者通過香港於內地發債, 以及發展其他的跨境可持續商業活動,同時為實現碳中作出貢獻。 此次專題研討會由中國日報亞太分社多媒體總監大衛•克拉克博士擔任主持人,綠色發展研究院高級顧問孟萌女士,可持續科技學院學術院長、香港大學經管學院客座教授何昊洺教授,中國銀行(香港)有限公司高級可持續發展團隊經理、香港綠色金融協會銀行轉型融資工作組代表劉逸飛先生等嘉賓參與討論,共同探索大灣區中跨境綠色和可持續金融的機遇。 關於中國日報 中國日報是中國國家英文日報,是中國與世界交流信息的重要管道,已形成全球化、分眾化、多語種、全媒體傳播體系。截至2023年11月,全媒體用戶總數超過4.5億,中國日報用戶端目前全球下載用戶超過4100萬,是我國唯一下載量過千萬的英文新聞用戶端;微博粉絲數超過6491萬;微信訂閱人數達2027萬;臉譜帳號粉絲數超過1.05億,位居全球媒體帳號粉絲數第二位;推特帳號粉絲數約420萬。 關於中國日報亞洲領袖圓桌論壇 中國日報亞洲領袖圓桌論壇(www.cdroundtable.com), 創建於2010年,旨在搭建一個由亞洲國家和地區的政、商、學界領袖和社會精英參與的高端對話和交流平台,圍繞亞洲地區經濟、商業、產業和社會發展等具有戰略影響的重要議題展開討論和分享見解,以增進中國與亞洲國家和西方國家的交流和理解。迄今,在港澳和亞太多個國家和地區舉辦超110屆,逾8萬名決策精英參會。 媒體垂詢: 肖佳慧小姐 電話:(852) 3465 5416 電郵:nancyxiao@chinadailyhk.com
2024-01-25Hong Kong, Jan 25, 2024 — Co-organized by China Daily and the Asian Financial Forum, a panel discussion session themed “Exploring Cross-border Green and Sustainable Finance Opportunities in the GBA” was held on Thursday, Jan 25, 2024 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. The event drew over 230 investors, private equity administrators and investment professionals from diverse financial institutions across the globe. To achieve the central government's 3060 decarbonization goal, the country is expected to reach peak CO2 emissions by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. In alignment with this policy, Hong Kong launched its Climate Action Plan 2050 with the aim of achieving zero-carbon emissions and creating a livable and sustainable city, with substantial growth in the green finance market expected to play a key part. Leveraging Hong Kong’s robust financial regulatory regime and green bond platform, along with the connectivity mechanism among Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) cities, Hong Kong can play a vital role in facilitating the issuance of green bonds involving various currencies within the GBA. This would enable overseas investors to access mainland bonds via Hong Kong, as well as other cross-border sustainable business ecosystems, while at the same time contribute significantly to the global progress toward carbon neutrality. Given that green and sustainable finance is a rapidly expanding and promising area of financial activity, this panel discussion session examined how the GBA can contribute to the mainland’s low-carbon economy and what opportunities green finance can bring both to Hong Kong and the GBA. This session marked the 13th year of collaboration between China Daily and the Asian Financial Forum. Mr Zhou Li, deputy editor-in-chief of China Daily Group, publisher, editor-in-chief of China Daily Hong Kong and chairman, Asia Leadership Roundtable, kicked off the session with some welcoming remarks. Chaired by Dr DJ Clark, multimedia director, China Daily Asia Pacific, the session featured many esteemed speakers, including Ms Meng Meng, senior advisor, Green Development Institute; Dr Stan Ho Ho Ming, academic dean, the Institute of Sustainability and Technology, adjunct professor, Faculty of Business and Economics, University of Hong Kong; Mr Fei Lau, senior vice-president of Sustainability Strategy, Economics and Strategic Planning Department, Bank of China (Hong Kong) Ltd; Banking – Financing the Transition Working Group Representative, Hong Kong Green Finance Association, joined the panel discussion and shared their insights on the topic. In his welcoming remarks, Mr Zhou Li said, “Leveraging its robust financial infrastructure, Hong Kong is positioned to facilitate the issuance of green bonds within the GBA. This not only allows overseas investors to access mainland bonds via Hong Kong but also contributes to global progress toward carbon neutrality.” Mr Fei Lau said, “If we want to achieve carbon neutrality, we have to see ourselves (in the GBA) as one ecosystem and mutually dependent on each other so that we can actually connect all the dots from Hong Kong and the mainland.” Meng Meng said there are “abundant” investment opportunities in green finance brought about by both the establishment of bilateral and multilateral carbon markets amid the global climate drive. Meng Meng added, “It is essential to leverage the advantages of the GBA and collaborate to promote broader cooperation in carbon markets.” Dr Stan Ho said, “As the only city in the world that has five universities ranking in the top 100”, Hong Kong holds a significant role in leveraging education for the development of green finance and the entire spectrum of ESG. He added that he hopes students in Hong Kong go beyond just taking one or two relevant courses and instead “be fully proficient in all aspects of ESG”. About China Daily Founded in 1981, China Daily reaches 440 million readers and users worldwide through diversified platforms, including newspapers, websites, mobile devices, and social media. As of August 2023, the number of China Daily followers had reached 64 million on Weibo, 20 million on the WeChat blog platform, 105 million on Facebook, and 4.2 million on Twitter. About the China Daily Asia Leadership Roundtable The China Daily Asia Leadership Roundtable is a by-invitation network of movers and shakers in Asia, providing platforms for focused dialogue and investigation and possible collective action on strategic issues relating to Asia’s economic, business and social development. Our aim is to enhance communication and increase mutual understanding between China and Asian and Western countries. Roundtable events are held in major cities across Asia. Media Contact: Ms Nancy Xiao Tel: (852) 3465 5416 Email: nancyxiao@chinadailyhk.com
2024-01-25Greater Bay Area Conference 2023, co-organized by China Daily and Hong Kong Coalition, was held on Wednesday in Hong Kong. Themed “When GBA meets ASEAN - One Heart and One Mind”, the conference brought together government officials, industry leaders and academics to discuss emerging opportunities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations region. Vice-chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference Leung Chun-ying and Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu attended the event, among other dignitaries, and delivered speeches.
2023-11-22「2023大灣區論壇」將於11月22日舉行,共同探索大灣區與東盟合作機遇 中國日報攜手香港再出發大聯盟將於11月22日在香港舉辦「2023大灣區論壇」。此次論壇以「大灣區攜手東盟,共謀發展、共創繁榮」為主題,旨在探索大灣區與東盟的合作機遇,展望前景幷支持大灣區同東盟國家開展更緊密、更深層次的交流合作。 論壇邀請包括中國人民政治協商會議全國委員會副主席梁振英先生,中華人民共和國香港特別行政區行政長官李家超先生,中華人民共和國外交部駐香港特別行政區特派員公署署理特派員李永勝先生,中華人民共和國駐東盟使團特命全權大使侯艷琪女士,柬埔寨旅遊部國務秘書(副部長)帕克•索克姆先生等嘉賓作主旨演講,中央人民政府駐香港特別行政區聯絡辦公室副主任盧新寧女士將作爲主禮嘉賓之一出席論壇會議。 此次論壇設立三場研討會,業界專家學者將對粵港澳大灣區與東盟國家之間如何抓住機遇,實現優勢互補,並推動協同發展的話題進行探討,分享真知灼見。論壇以線上線下相結合的方式進行。 據研究報告指出,香港是最受東盟公司歡迎的海外上市地,目前已有84家總部設在東盟的公司在香港交易所上市。且在今年 7月,港交所與印尼證券交易所簽署合作備忘錄,為兩地企業跨境上市提供了更多的合作機遇。 首場專題研討會與香港貿發局合作,圍繞主題「賦能可持續發展:探索大灣區與東盟的綠色金融市場」展開討論,香港貿易發展局副總裁劉會平先生將發表致辭,香港貿易發展局研究總監范婉兒女士主持,建銀國際企業融資部董事總經理陳柏灝先生,中國東盟投資合作基金董事總經理葉家強先生,大華銀行(香港)財務總監兼可持續發展主管林詒亮先生,國際金融公司東亞及太平洋地區運營主管兼香港辦公處主管黃麗珊女士擔任演講嘉賓,探索雙重上市為大灣區與東盟帶來的機遇與挑戰,以及綠色金融與 Web3.0技術的融合發展。 隨著《河套深港科技創新合作區深圳園區發展規劃》的出台,深港兩地優勢互補協同發展,為大灣區的科創發展注入了新活力。與此同時,東盟亦努力加快綠色轉型的進程。 第二場專題研討會以「聚焦『衣食住行』中的綠色科技創新運用」為主題,華潤正大生命科學基金董事總經理柳達先生擔任主持人,十如仕品牌營銷及市場拓展總監陳凱怡女士,葉頌文環保建築師事務所創始人葉頌文博士,綠色發展研究院副院長吳劍林先生,綠芝園創辦人兼行政總裁譚嗣籇先生擔任演講嘉賓,探討推動產業結構高端化,打造綠色供應鏈的相關措施,以及綠色科技在住房及交通等領域的應用。 《粵港澳大灣區文化和旅遊發展規劃》中的「共建人文灣區」章節特別提到要做好重大文化遺產的保護和傳承。東盟具有語言多元化、信仰多元化的特性,在更可持續、創新和數字技術方面具有鮮明稟賦和極大潛力。 最後一場專題研討會以「可持續旅遊中的藝術與文化遺產保護:大灣區與東盟的合作開拓新思路」為主題,香港恒生大學藝術設計系課程主任許焯權教授擔任主持人,香港中旅國際投資有限公司産品中心負責人馬進女士,老撾新聞、文化和旅遊部旅遊管理司司長達拉妮•馮瑪翁薩女士,香港故宮文化博物館副館長(博物館營運)袁貺霖先生,聯合國教科文組織名錄遺産地可持續旅遊教席主持人張朝枝博士將作為演講嘉賓圍繞大灣區與東盟如何在促進可持續旅遊的同時,合作推進文化遺產保護和維護藝術的多樣性,以及數字科技如何加强藝術和文化保護等方面展開討論。 此次論壇預計匯聚《財富》世界500強企業和中國500強企業的高級管理人員、專家學者、媒體及亞洲企業精英人士逾300位嘉賓現場參會。 有關中國日報 中國日報是中國國家英文日報,是中國與世界交流信息的重要渠道,已形成全球化、分眾化、多語種、全媒體傳播體系。截至2023年8月,全媒體用戶總數超過4.4億,中國日報用戶端目前全球下載用戶超過4100萬,是我國唯一下載量過千萬的英文新聞用戶端;微博粉絲數超過6491萬;微信訂閱人數達2027萬;臉譜帳號粉絲數超過1.05億,位居全球媒體帳號粉絲數第二位;推特帳號粉絲數約420萬。 有關中國日報亞洲領袖圓桌論壇 中國日報亞洲領袖圓桌論壇(www.cdroundtable.com), 創建於2010年,旨在搭建一個由亞洲國家和地區的政、商、學界領袖和社會精英參與的高端對話和交流平台,圍繞亞洲地區經濟、商業、產業和社會發展等具有戰略影響的重要議題展開討論和分享見解,以增進中國與亞洲國家和西方國家的交流和理解。迄今,在港澳和亞太多個國家和地區舉辦超110屆,逾6萬名決策精英參會。 有關香港再出發大聯盟 「香港再出發大聯盟」成立於2020年 5月 5 日,由董建華先生、梁振英先生擔任總召集人,譚耀宗先生任秘書長,譚惠珠女士等11人擔任副秘書長,並由全港 1500 多位社會各界人士擔任共同發起人。「香港再出發大聯盟」的宗旨是:堅持「一國兩制」,推動香港戰勝艱難,重新出發,再創輝煌。 媒體垂詢: 方小姐 電話:(852) 3465 5451 電郵:jingfang@chinadailyhk.com
2023-11-22Links: Both regions to receive more benefits Hong Kong, as a super-connector and a value-adder, is well poised to play a crucial role in furthering cooperation between the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area of China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, both of which are among the world's most economically vibrant regions, prominent political and business leaders said on Wednesday at the Greater Bay Area Conference 2023. The Greater Bay Area enjoys close geographical proximity, cultural ties and trade connections with the 10-member Southeast Asian grouping, offering immense potential for increased cooperation, they said. This year's conference, co-hosted by China Daily and Hong Kong Coalition, was themed "When GBA Meets ASEAN — One Heart and One Mind" to explore the emerging opportunities in the two regions. It comprised three panel discussions focusing on green finance, the integration of green technology in daily life, and the preservation of art and culture for sustainable tourism. The hybrid conference, with online and offline participation, brought together hundreds of distinguished guests, including government officials, industry and business leaders, academics and representatives of various sectors. In a keynote address, Leung Chun-ying, vice-chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, said the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region is competitive in many aspects, and cities in Guangdong province and the ASEAN member states stand to benefit greatly by leveraging the SAR's pivotal role as a super-connector. Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said that Hong Kong can facilitate people-to-people exchanges, promote green finance and financial technology initiatives, and foster cooperation in public services between the Greater Bay and ASEAN. When the Greater Bay meets ASEAN with one heart and one mind, they can surely forge a promising future for their people and economies, he said. Qu Yingpu, publisher and editor-in-chief of China Daily Group, said that through the successful implementation of numerous collaborative projects under the Belt and Road Initiative, the ASEAN member states have witnessed remarkable progress in terms of infrastructure development and social well-being. The Greater Bay Area is a vital part of China's modernization journey, and deepening ASEAN's involvement in the area will help build an Asia-Pacific community with a shared future, Qu said. Jane Lee Ching-yee, deputy secretary-general of Hong Kong Coalition, said that in order to ensure the continuous success of the China-ASEAN partnership, it is crucial for Hong Kong, as a reputable super-connector, to effectively link the Greater Bay with ASEAN, generating substantial benefits for both regions. Li Yongsheng, acting commissioner of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, said that with the strong support of the motherland and a close connection with the world, Hong Kong can play at least four roles — a facilitator of trade and investment, a promoter of regional connectivity, the spearhead of innovative cooperation and a contributor to people-to-people bonds — in strengthening cooperation between the Greater Bay, or even the whole of China, and ASEAN. Hou Yanqi, ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary of the People's Republic of China to ASEAN, said that China-ASEAN cooperation has become the most shining example of the success and robustness of regional cooperation in the Asia-Pacific.
2023-11-22Greater Bay Area Conference 2023 will take place on Nov 22. Examining opportunities in GBA-ASEAN collaboration HONG KONG, 22 Nov, 2023 — Co-organized by China Daily and the Hong Kong Coalition, the Greater Bay Area Conference will be held on Nov 22 in Hong Kong. Running on the theme of “When GBA Meets ASEAN — One Heart and One Mind”, the conference focuses on the emerging opportunities and challenges of cooperation across various sectors between the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Keynote speeches will be delivered by a stellar line-up of top-notch speakers including Mr. C Y Leung, vice-chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference; Mr. John KC Lee, the chief executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China; Mr. Li Yongsheng, acting commissioner of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; Mme. Hou Yanqi, ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to ASEAN; and Mr. Pak Sokhom, Secretary of State (deputy minister) of the Ministry of Tourism of Cambodia. Ms. Lu Xinning, deputy director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region will attend the conference as one of the guests of honor. The event is expected to draw together industry heavyweights to share their insights on the GBA and ASEAN's collaborative prospects and how to leverage their strengths to achieve mutual development. There will also be three panel discussions. The event will be held both online and onsite. According to recent research, Hong Kong is the most favored overseas listing destination for ASEAN companies, with 84 ASEAN based companies already listed on the HKEX. In July, HKEX and the Indonesian Stock Exchange signed a Memorandum of Understanding, providing more opportunities for cross-border listings between companies from both regions. The first panel discussion on “Empowering Sustainable Development: Exploring Green Finance Market in the GBA and ASEAN” is supported by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC). Dr. Patrick Lau, deputy executive director of HKTDC, will deliver the special address. Ms. Irina Fan, director of research of HKTDC, will moderate the session. Mr. Calvin C. Chan, managing director of CCB International corporate finance, Mr. Patrick Ip, managing director of China-ASEAN Investment Cooperation Fund, Mr. Brian Lam, chief sustainability officer and chief financial officer of UOB Hong Kong, and Ms. Anna Ng, regional head of operations for East Asia and the Pacific and Head of Office for HKSAR, International Finance Corporation, will explore the challenges and opportunities of dual listings for the GBA and ASEAN, and the integration of green finance and Web3 technologies. With the emergence of the “Development Plan for Shenzhen Park of Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Cooperation Zone”, Hong Kong and Shenzhen will cooperate extensively, injecting new vitality into the development of science and technology innovation in the GBA. The ASEAN region is also accelerating its green transition. The second panel is themed “Focusing on Green Technology Used in Basic Life Necessities: ‘Clothing, Food, Housing and Transportation’”. Mr. Da Liu, managing director of CR-CP Life Science Fund, will moderate the panel discussion. Ms. Stephanie Chan, Brand, Marketing, Business Development and Partnerships of DETERMINANT, Dr. Tony Ip, founder of Tony Ip Green Architects Limited, Mr. Philip Ng, vice chairman of Green Development Institute, and Mr. Gordon Tam, founder and CEO of Farm66 Investment Limited, will discuss measures to promote high-end industrial restructuring, establish green supply chains, and integrate green technology in housing and transportation. The chapter on Jointly Developing a Cultured Bay Area in the Culture and Tourism Development Plan for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area specially points to improving the protection and preservation of key cultural heritage sites. The final panel discussion is themed “Art & Culture Preservation for Sustainable Tourism: GBA-ASEAN Collaborations in Heritage Conservation”. Prof. Desmond Hui, professor and head of Department of Art and Design of the Hang Seng University of Hong Kong will be the moderator. Ms. Jin Ma, deputy general manager (in charge) of Cultural Tourism Product Development Center of China Travel International Investment HK LTD., Ms. Darany Phommavongsa, director general of Tourism Management Department, Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism of Laos, Mr. Brian Yuen, deputy director of Museum Operations of Hong Kong Palace Museum, Dr. Chaozhi Zhang, UNESCO Chair of Sustainable Tourism in UNESCO Designated Sites will center on how the GBA and ASEAN can collaborate to preserve diverse artistic and cultural heritage while fostering sustainable tourism and the role of digital technology in enhancing the preservation of art and culture. The expected attendance is over 300 onsite and online delegates, including C-level senior executives from Fortune Global 500 and China 500 companies, think tanks, academics, media, and experts from across Asia’s public and private sectors. About China Daily Founded in 1981, China Daily reaches 440 million readers and users worldwide through diversified platforms, including newspapers, websites, mobile devices, and social media. As of August 2023, the number of China Daily’s followers has reached 64 million on Weibo, 20 million on the WeChat blog platform, 105 million on Facebook, and 4.2 million on Twitter. About the China Daily Asia Leadership Roundtable The China Daily Asia Leadership Roundtable is a by-invitation network of movers and shakers in Asia, providing platforms for focused dialogue, issue investigation and possible collective action on strategic issues relating to Asia’s economic, business and social development. Our aim is to enhance communication and increase mutual understanding among China, Asian and Western countries. Roundtable events are held in major cities across Asia. About the Hong Kong Coalition The Hong Kong Coalition was founded by 1,500 initiators from all sectors of Hong Kong society, with Mr. Tung Chee Hwa and Mr. Leung Chun Ying assuming the roles of chief convener, Mr. Tam Yiu Chung serving as secretary-general, and Ms. Maria Tam Wai Chu and 10 other members holding the posts of deputy secretary-general. The coalition held a press conference on May 5, 2020, declaring its official establishment. The aims of the Hong Kong Coalition are: Uphold “one country, two systems”, support Hong Kong to overcome difficulties, and start afresh for future brilliance. Media Contact: Ms. Jing Fang Tel: (852) 3465 5451 Email: jingfang@chinadailyhk.com
2023-11-22Italy will forge closer travel ties with China, including the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, by hosting various events that cover culture, fashion, music as well as sports, the European nation’s minister of tourism told China Daily. “We are very determined to push forward our travel campaign,” Daniela Santanche said in an exclusive interview on Sept 20. “Our new ambassador, Venus (based on the painting The Birth of Venus by Sandro Botticelli, an Italian painter of the Early Renaissance), is one of the (principal tools) for this campaign, and will be online on the WeChat platform and very soon you will also see her in the airports and other platforms,” Santanche said. Italy is the partner country of the Global Tourism Economy Forum 2023, which was being held in China’s Macao Special Administrative Region. At a media briefing in Hong Kong, Italy’s global tourism promotion campaign, titled “Open To Wonder”, was introduced to the public. Venus was chosen as the perfect representation of Italy on the global stage. “She is one of the most recognizable figures worldwide and is the star of the new international campaign” by Italy’s tourism ministry and other agencies including the Italian National Tourist Board, the minister said. A symbol of the Renaissance, Venus represents rebirth and renewal, and is therefore an apt choice to represent the Italian tourism sector. Recognizable due to her distinctive gaze and unique hair, this modern-day Venus — created with the help of artificial intelligence technology — takes on the role of a “virtual influencer”, journeying across Italy to present the marvels of Italian culture to the world. Dressed in modern-day designer clothing, she highlights the country’s stunning landscapes, cities renowned for their art, charming villages, delectable culinary delights, and a diverse array of other attractions that make Italy’s heritage genuinely one of a kind. “The campaign is designed to sell our nation and its excellence in an unprecedented way, never before seen in Italy: Venus will progressively appear on all national and international railways, televisions, and airports,” Santanche told reporters. “Botticelli’s Venus, symbolizing rebirth and the spring that blossoms after the harsh pandemic winter, is the exceptional ambassador who takes us by the hand and guides us on this journey.” Santanche’s visit to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, along with an official delegation, marks a a key stop on a tour that includes Seoul, Shanghai, and Macao. Discussing hopes of attracting Chinese visitors to Italy and promoting Italian tourism in China, the Italian minister said: “We don’t see any obstacles; we only see opportunities, because China and Italy share so many things.” Santanche said in her China Daily interview that Italy is well placed to boost tourism further. “We have much financial support from the government,” she said, adding that there are high hopes for southern Italy which has beautiful natural landscapes. “Italy has multiple UNESCO (World Heritage) sites,” Santanche said. “We are financing renovation of historical sites and we are working a lot on digitalization because it is very important for the younger generation. We believe that tourism can bring lots of job opportunities for the new generation.”
2023-09-25For the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), education is key, and perhaps the top priority in tourism development. Natalia Bayona, the organization’s executive director, made the remarks in an interview with China Daily on Thursday. Bayona said 50 percent of young people working in tourism have only secondary school education, and 50 percent want to become an entrepreneur or run their own startup. Therefore, education is a key driver if people want an innovative, sustainable, modern, efficient and value-added tourism sector, she said. “That’s why, through investments as well as investing in people, we feel that it (education) is key in order to ensure that the public and the private sectors will come together to create a strong workforce,” she said. By 2030, almost 1 million jobs will be needed in vocational tourism, Bayona said. “So we need to ensure that the next generations have both a quality and affordable education, and then the planet can have the sustainability and prosperity,” she said. Education will not only help create value-added jobs, but also empower young people through technology and innovation so that tourism can really become an example of how the most human economic sector is evolving, she added. For Bayona, tourism is a very resilient sector as its strong recovery in the post-pandemic area has been a surprise. Tourism data show that levels already are at 80 percent of pre-pandemic levels, she said. Many countries, such as Spain and the Dominican Republic, have already rebounded to their respective pre-pandemic levels. After the pandemic, people want to travel and experience new things — not just in the big cities, but also in rural areas, new destinations, and of course, new ways of traveling, Bayona said. However, UNWTO cares not only about the number of tourists, but also about the impact of tourism, she said. “More than ever, we need to measure the impact of tourism in terms of new jobs, the investment, the social impact, and of course, the impact in terms of the climate and the CO2 emissions, “When we are talking about sustainability, it is not limited to climate change. Sustainability to us is the power to work in tourism, thinking about future generations,” she said. The UNWTO is working for a more responsible tourism sector. “Basically, we will not only recover, but also lead by example in the way we do things in sustainable ways,” Bayona added.
2023-09-22Tourism business luminaries and scholars voiced their expectations of a tourism boom in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and called for greater efforts and cooperation to address headwinds at the Global Tourism Economy Forum in Macao on Thursday. Chen Yin, chairman of the China Tourism Group Corp, said the tourism sector in the Greater Bay Area is showing strong growth given its economic strength and abundant tourism resources. “The Greater Bay Area is one of the most open and economically vibrant regions in China. It boasts high per capita disposable income and consumption levels, ranking among the top in the country,” Chen told a session powered by China Daily. With a population of 87 million, the Greater Bay Area’s economic output topped 13 trillion yuan ($1.78 trillion) in 2022 — 2.8 trillion yuan more than in 2017 — data from Guangdong’s Development and Reform Commission show. Among the initiatives highlighted in the GBA’s blueprint, promulgated in February 2019, was a culture and tourism development plan, which is part of efforts to develop the region into an exchange hub for the cultures of the East and the West and a world-class tourism destination. “The Greater Bay Area is endowed with abundant tourism resources, including ecoresorts, coastal leisure destinations, urban tourism, and theme parks. It serves as an important source of tourists as well as a popular travel destination for individuals, holding a significant position in both the national and global tourism industry chains,” he said. According to Chen, the Greater Bay Area receives nearly 400 million tourists annually, generating tourism revenue of over 1.2 trillion yuan. “Recent data, such as the May Day holiday figures, indicate that the number of visitors to the six green city clusters, including Shenzhen and Guangzhou, has already returned to pre-pandemic levels,” he added. Complementary strengths Kaye Chon Kye-sung, dean and chair professor and Walter and Wendy Kwok Family Foundation professor in international hospitality management at the School of Hotel and Tourism Management of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, said the GBA boasts great advantages to boost its tourism sector as the three main areas, namely Guangdong province, Hong Kong and Macao, have their unique offerings. “Hong Kong is known for the East-meets-West culture and has a very long history of being Asia’s world city, while Macao is an entertainment and recreational destination with a unique combination of Portuguese flavors,” Chon said, adding that Guangdong’s cuisines and attractions are great selling points. Nevertheless, more efforts are needed to deal with the sector’s labor shortage and facilitate seamless travel within the city cluster, the professor said. Acknowledging that the equilibrium between labor supply and demand had broken down during the pandemic, Chon said there are many ways for cities in the Greater Bay Area to work together. For instance, Hong Kong, which suffered from a labor crunch in recent years, can access a great pool of labor from Guangdong, Chon said. He also cited his firsthand experience in crossing the border, saying the process to enter the Chinese mainland from Hong Kong is more complicated than going in the other direction. “So, I think we have to make sure there will be a more seamless integration of travel among the three major destinations,” Chon added. Tourism as a lifestyle Eduardo Santander, executive director of the European Travel Commission and honorary vice-chairman of the GTEF, shared his insights on how Europe has enjoyed remarkable growth through cooperation. “Education plays a crucial role in this process. It is essential to educate both the demand and supply sides of tourism. “On the demand side, showcasing the area’s attractions, infrastructure, and ease of travel, including visa processes and currency acceptance, is vital. On the supply side, preparing the local population to cater to foreign visitors by providing language skills, appropriate signage, and cultural sensitivity is essential,” he said. In Europe, the focus is shifting from quantity to quality in terms of tourism success. Striking a balance between filling accommodations and preserving the local community’s well-being is crucial, Santander noted. It is advisable for the Greater Bay Area to learn from experience and focus on developing in response to demand, he said. Santander said that understanding the Greater Bay Area’s links to various parts of the world, including Asia, Europe, and North America, should guide the tourism development approach. Experts have said that striking a balance between an influx of tourists and mitigating the negative effects on local people’s lives is crucial for driving growth of the tourism sector. Santander highlighted the importance of encouraging people to view tourism as an economic livelihood as well as an integral part of their lives, where they can enjoy cultural exchanges. When talking about the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin, he said the major advantage of the zone in developing tourism lies in its sophisticated infrastructure. “The railways and planes are already in place, so I believe the primary hurdle has been overcome. The groundwork has already been completed.” The zone, which spans 106.46 square kilometers, focuses on high-tech development and manufacturing industries, offering tax rebates for enterprises and individuals.
2023-09-22Tourism could serve as a catalyst for global economic recovery, and seeking common ground is key to the revival materializing, government officials and organizational leaders said at the Global Tourism Economy Forum in Macao on Thursday. At the opening ceremony of the four-day event, Pansy Ho Chiu-king, vice-chairman and secretary-general of the GTEF, said collaboration between the tourism industry and various sectors, along with cooperation of different countries, will foster a dynamic economy. She delivered a keynote speech to a group that included around 80 government officials and business leaders from around the world at the forum. Ho used Macao’s tourism development as an example of the “tourism plus” concept. “Here, tourism has integrated and fostered the development of nongaming industries, propelling the development of emerging industries and formulating a diversified and energetic economy,” she said. Over the past decade, the Macao forum has attracted 12,700 participants from over 90 countries with over 600 speakers, 72 global ministers, and brought together 552 organizations from different parts of the world representing different sectors. These data show the significant impact of the Chinese market on the world. The market has grown more than threefold in the past 10 years, reaching 115 million outbound tourists at its peak, Ho added. The GTEF has partnered with 37 countries and 16 Chinese cities and provincial-level areas over the past decade, this year featuring Italy as the partner country and Shanghai as the featured city. Ho said these partnerships have enhanced the world’s understanding of China while creating development opportunities for the Chinese tourism industry. The forum serves as a bridge between China’s private economy and the rest of the world. It proved to be “a vital step” in expanding the global tourism economy, Ho said. Pansy Ho Chiu-king, vice-chairman and secretary-general of the GTEF, delivers speech during the Global Tourism Economy Forum in Macao on Sept 21, 2023. (EDMOND TANG / CHINA DAILY) Tourism could serve as a catalyst for global economic recovery, and seeking common ground is key to the revival materializing, government officials and organizational leaders said at the Global Tourism Economy Forum in Macao on Thursday. At the opening ceremony of the four-day event, Pansy Ho Chiu-king, vice-chairman and secretary-general of the GTEF, said collaboration between the tourism industry and various sectors, along with cooperation of different countries, will foster a dynamic economy. Not seeking a trade surplus in travel services with any country or region is the fundamental guiding principle in formulating international tourism policies. Dai Bin, president of the China Tourism Academy She delivered a keynote speech to a group that included around 80 government officials and business leaders from around the world at the forum. Ho used Macao’s tourism development as an example of the “tourism plus” concept. “Here, tourism has integrated and fostered the development of nongaming industries, propelling the development of emerging industries and formulating a diversified and energetic economy,” she said. Over the past decade, the Macao forum has attracted 12,700 participants from over 90 countries with over 600 speakers, 72 global ministers, and brought together 552 organizations from different parts of the world representing different sectors. These data show the significant impact of the Chinese market on the world. The market has grown more than threefold in the past 10 years, reaching 115 million outbound tourists at its peak, Ho added. The GTEF has partnered with 37 countries and 16 Chinese cities and provincial-level areas over the past decade, this year featuring Italy as the partner country and Shanghai as the featured city. Ho said these partnerships have enhanced the world’s understanding of China while creating development opportunities for the Chinese tourism industry. The forum serves as a bridge between China’s private economy and the rest of the world. It proved to be “a vital step” in expanding the global tourism economy, Ho said. Long Yongtu, former vice-minister of the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation (now the Ministry of Commerce), delivers speech during the Global Tourism Economy Forum in Macao on Sept 21, 2023. (EDMOND TANG / CHINA DAILY) Broader perspective Long Yongtu, former vice-minister of the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation (now the Ministry of Commerce), said the tourism sector has been the most promising and fastest-recovering industry on the Chinese mainland in the post-pandemic period. He is encouraging industry professionals to embrace innovation, making significant contributions to economic recovery by expanding domestic demand. Tourism also helps to bridge the gap between the mainland’s rich and poor regions, said Long, who is also former secretary-general of the Boao Forum for Asia and honorary chairman of the GTEF. He noted that rural tourism is gaining in popularity among Chinese tourists. “In the less-developed central and western regions of the country, there is typically a scarcity of arable land but an abundance of labor resources. However, these areas are blessed with verdant mountains, lush greenery, and abundant tourism resources. “By harnessing the potential of tourism development, rural areas can accelerate their growth, ultimately narrowing the gap in wealth between the eastern and western regions,” Long said. The goal is to ensure that the tourism industry can drive high-quality development of the Chinese economy, Long concluded. A shot in the arm In July and August, the booking volume of flight tickets to some of the hottest destinations on the mainland jumped 40 percent compared with the same period in 2019, and the booking volume of domestic hotels grew by 140 percent over 2019, according to Beijing-based online travel agency Qunar. China Tourism Academy President Dai Bin said that from June to August, over 1.8 billion trips were made by domestic tourists, generating nearly 8 trillion yuan ($1.1 trillion) in tourism revenue. He predicted that the upcoming eight-day Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays will attract nearly 900 million domestic travelers. “Not seeking a trade surplus in travel services with any country or region is the fundamental guiding principle in formulating international tourism policies,” Dai said. China is accelerating its reengagement with global tourism by taking steps to reopen its inbound and outbound tourism sectors, he said. Dai also urged the authorities to implement streamlined visa, immigration, border control, and financial payment policies to facilitate smoother travel. Julia Simpson, president and CEO of the World Travel and Tourism Council, and honorary chairman of the GTEF, said as governments lifted restrictions, spending by foreign visitors also rebounded by 80 percent after the yearslong pandemic. In the next decade, Simpson predicted that the tourism industry will generate $9.5 trillion in value, leading to the creation of 24 million jobs. By 2033, the sector is expected to contribute 11 percent of global GDP and employ 430 million individuals worldwide. She noted that China boasts the world’s second-largest travel and tourism sector, valued at over $500 billion and creating over 62 million jobs. Acknowledging the evolving landscape of the tourism sector, Simpson said travelers are no longer satisfied with passive sightseeing. They seek immersive experiences that allow them to connect with local cultures, engage in meaningful activities, and return home with a deeper understanding of the world, she said. Advancements in technology will continue to shape the travel and tourism industry, Simpson said. However, it is crucial to address the challenges that come with technology, such as data privacy and security concerns. Striking a balance between innovation and safeguarding travelers’ rights and privacy will be essential, she added. Zhang Xu, chairman of the World Tourism Alliance and honorary chairman of the forum, addressed the forum’s 10th anniversary lunch.
2023-09-22MACAO – The Asia-Pacific region can contribute to the transformation of tourism in the next decade by putting the industry on a more sustainable path, enhancing digitalization, and boosting a diversification policy, experts said at a panel in Macao on Friday. They had a discussion about how the region can define tourism’s long-term sustainability during the session, “Sustainability in Focus: Navigating the Future of Tourism in Asia” at the Global Tourism Economy Forum in Macao. Hae Guk (Harry) Hwang, regional director for Asia and the Pacific at the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), stressed the importance of sustainability, green transformation, and climate action in a speech first. The Asia-Pacific Department at UNWTO is “fully ready to embark on this exciting journey of sustainability,” he noted. Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, director of the Macao Government Tourism Office and vice-chairman of GTEF, emphasized the role of technology, saying that it has become part of tourism development or tourism recovery, and that there are now various platforms to reach target customers better than in the past, and they can enhance customer satisfaction in the industry. According to Senna Fernandez, tourism accounts for nearly half of Macao’s GDP, which is unparalleled. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has shown that being so dependent on one industry is not sustainable for a destination, as this involves risks. The Macao government has come up with a diversification strategy going forward, she noted, describing the policy as one plus four: One referring to integrated tourism, with four areas of new development or diversification being technology; modern finance; meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions (Mice), culture and sports; health and well-being. So first, tourism has the role of giving ingredients or a breeding ground for the new kinds of industries that we can be engaging in, Senna Fernandez said. Priantha Fernando, chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority, said that sustainability in his country will be the key in developing tourism. “Also, tourism is not just an industry. It is a key player when it comes to the economy,” he said. Fernando said that from 2009 to 2018, Sri Lanka’s tourism sector enjoyed above average growth of around 20 percent a year. “We registered 2.3 million tourist arrivals (in 2018) with $4.3 billion in earnings from tourism. Unfortunately, in 2019 we had some incidents which affected tourism, and at a time when we were about to recover from that, the COVID outbreak really crippled the (travel) industry,” he said, “Only now are we are coming out of that.” Fernando said that Sri Lanka started giving more priority to sustainability matters prior to COVID-19, and they moved in this direction thanks to the assistance of the United Nations Development Programme. The island nation has set up nine provincial sustainable tourism units, with the key unit based in Colombo, which monitors the industry. It is currently developing a marine master plan. “As we move forward, sustainability is going to be key,” he said, “It’s not only for Sri Lanka, but for the entire region. We will have to work together in having sustainable tourism destinations.” Hussain Niyaaz, secretary of Economic Development Cooperation, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Maldives, said that his country is strategically located in terms of connectivity with the rest of the world. “We are quite central,” he said, “So that is the key to our success of our tourism, also the connectivity with the main markets in the world.” He said the Maldives needs to provide diversification because mostly when people around the world talk about the Maldives, they may feel it is too expensive because it is luxurious. “But with this new concept of local island hotels”, tourists have more variable products and more affordable products, he added. Niyaaz also noted that the Maldives have one concept, led by the private sector and facilitated by the government. “And we, the government, are only facilitating in terms of providing the basic services,” he said. Christina Garcia Frasco, secretary of the Department of Tourism of the Philippines, said her country sees itself as becoming a tourism powerhouse in Asia. “Sustainability and tourism have been absolute necessities and the driving force for the development of our country as early as 2009,” she said. “With the passage of the law that created the Tourism Act, sustainable tourism was identified by our government as being integral for social economic development.”
2023-09-22HONG KONG - China Daily organized a thematic workshop, titled "Exploring Cross-border Green and Sustainable Finance Opportunities in the GBA", on Thursday to examine how the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area can contribute to the country's low-carbon economy and what opportunities could be brought by green finance both to the GBA and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. The workshop is part of the sessions at the Asian Financial Forum, which took place over Jan 24-25 in the HKSAR, to focus on issues including promoting global development, business opportunities and sustainable economic models.
2024-01-25香港,2024年1月25日 — 由中國日報攜手亞洲金融論壇合辦題為「探索大灣區跨境綠色和可持續金融機遇」的專題研討會,將於2024年1月25日(星期四)在香港會議展覽中心舉行。此次研討會預計吸引逾300名來自世界各地不同金融機構的投資者、私募股權管理人、專業投資者及各金融機構服務業界人士參會。 亞洲金融論壇旨在為全球政府、金融及商界領袖提供平台,促進交流真知灼見及發掘投資商機。論壇為期兩日,由香港特區政府與貿易發展局合辦,今年主題為 “多邊合作 共譜新篇” ,香港特別行政區行政長官李家超、阿拉伯聯合酋長國Younis Haji Al Khoori 閣下、卡塔爾國財政部長Ali bin Ahmad Alkuwari 閣下、2022年諾貝爾經濟學獎得主及芝加哥大學布斯商學院金融學教授Douglas Diamond 教授、伊斯蘭開發銀行行長Dr. Muhammad Al Jasser 閣下、中國綜合開發研究院院長樊綱先生、及歐洲聯盟委員會金融穩定、金融服務和資本市場聯盟副總幹事Alexandra Jour-Schroeder 女士等來自世界各國、地區的政府、金融及商界領袖共同交流探討投資商機。 綠色和可持續金融是一項發展迅速以及前景廣闊的金融活動領域。本次研討會旨在探討大灣區如何在促進內地低碳經濟的發展中發揮其作用,以及綠色金融為香港和大灣區帶來的機遇。 根據中央政府提出的“3060雙碳目標”,國家有望於2030年前達到二氧化碳排放峰值,並於2060年前實現碳中和。為配合這項政策,香港推出了《香港氣候行動藍圖2050》,提出實現零碳排放、打造宜居和可持續發展城市的目標,把握綠色金融市場大幅增長的機遇並在當中發揮橋樑作用。憑借香港健全的金融監管制度和綠色債券平台,以及與粵港澳大灣區城市之間的互聯互通機制,香港可推動及協助在粵港澳大灣區內發行不同貨幣的綠色債券,吸引更多海外投資者通過香港於內地發債, 以及發展其他的跨境可持續商業活動,同時為實現碳中作出貢獻。 此次專題研討會由中國日報亞太分社多媒體總監大衛•克拉克博士擔任主持人,綠色發展研究院高級顧問孟萌女士,可持續科技學院學術院長、香港大學經管學院客座教授何昊洺教授,中國銀行(香港)有限公司高級可持續發展團隊經理、香港綠色金融協會銀行轉型融資工作組代表劉逸飛先生等嘉賓參與討論,共同探索大灣區中跨境綠色和可持續金融的機遇。 關於中國日報 中國日報是中國國家英文日報,是中國與世界交流信息的重要管道,已形成全球化、分眾化、多語種、全媒體傳播體系。截至2023年11月,全媒體用戶總數超過4.5億,中國日報用戶端目前全球下載用戶超過4100萬,是我國唯一下載量過千萬的英文新聞用戶端;微博粉絲數超過6491萬;微信訂閱人數達2027萬;臉譜帳號粉絲數超過1.05億,位居全球媒體帳號粉絲數第二位;推特帳號粉絲數約420萬。 關於中國日報亞洲領袖圓桌論壇 中國日報亞洲領袖圓桌論壇(www.cdroundtable.com), 創建於2010年,旨在搭建一個由亞洲國家和地區的政、商、學界領袖和社會精英參與的高端對話和交流平台,圍繞亞洲地區經濟、商業、產業和社會發展等具有戰略影響的重要議題展開討論和分享見解,以增進中國與亞洲國家和西方國家的交流和理解。迄今,在港澳和亞太多個國家和地區舉辦超110屆,逾8萬名決策精英參會。 媒體垂詢: 肖佳慧小姐 電話:(852) 3465 5416 電郵:nancyxiao@chinadailyhk.com
2024-01-25Hong Kong, Jan 25, 2024 — Co-organized by China Daily and the Asian Financial Forum, a panel discussion session themed “Exploring Cross-border Green and Sustainable Finance Opportunities in the GBA” was held on Thursday, Jan 25, 2024 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. The event drew over 230 investors, private equity administrators and investment professionals from diverse financial institutions across the globe. To achieve the central government's 3060 decarbonization goal, the country is expected to reach peak CO2 emissions by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. In alignment with this policy, Hong Kong launched its Climate Action Plan 2050 with the aim of achieving zero-carbon emissions and creating a livable and sustainable city, with substantial growth in the green finance market expected to play a key part. Leveraging Hong Kong’s robust financial regulatory regime and green bond platform, along with the connectivity mechanism among Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) cities, Hong Kong can play a vital role in facilitating the issuance of green bonds involving various currencies within the GBA. This would enable overseas investors to access mainland bonds via Hong Kong, as well as other cross-border sustainable business ecosystems, while at the same time contribute significantly to the global progress toward carbon neutrality. Given that green and sustainable finance is a rapidly expanding and promising area of financial activity, this panel discussion session examined how the GBA can contribute to the mainland’s low-carbon economy and what opportunities green finance can bring both to Hong Kong and the GBA. This session marked the 13th year of collaboration between China Daily and the Asian Financial Forum. Mr Zhou Li, deputy editor-in-chief of China Daily Group, publisher, editor-in-chief of China Daily Hong Kong and chairman, Asia Leadership Roundtable, kicked off the session with some welcoming remarks. Chaired by Dr DJ Clark, multimedia director, China Daily Asia Pacific, the session featured many esteemed speakers, including Ms Meng Meng, senior advisor, Green Development Institute; Dr Stan Ho Ho Ming, academic dean, the Institute of Sustainability and Technology, adjunct professor, Faculty of Business and Economics, University of Hong Kong; Mr Fei Lau, senior vice-president of Sustainability Strategy, Economics and Strategic Planning Department, Bank of China (Hong Kong) Ltd; Banking – Financing the Transition Working Group Representative, Hong Kong Green Finance Association, joined the panel discussion and shared their insights on the topic. In his welcoming remarks, Mr Zhou Li said, “Leveraging its robust financial infrastructure, Hong Kong is positioned to facilitate the issuance of green bonds within the GBA. This not only allows overseas investors to access mainland bonds via Hong Kong but also contributes to global progress toward carbon neutrality.” Mr Fei Lau said, “If we want to achieve carbon neutrality, we have to see ourselves (in the GBA) as one ecosystem and mutually dependent on each other so that we can actually connect all the dots from Hong Kong and the mainland.” Meng Meng said there are “abundant” investment opportunities in green finance brought about by both the establishment of bilateral and multilateral carbon markets amid the global climate drive. Meng Meng added, “It is essential to leverage the advantages of the GBA and collaborate to promote broader cooperation in carbon markets.” Dr Stan Ho said, “As the only city in the world that has five universities ranking in the top 100”, Hong Kong holds a significant role in leveraging education for the development of green finance and the entire spectrum of ESG. He added that he hopes students in Hong Kong go beyond just taking one or two relevant courses and instead “be fully proficient in all aspects of ESG”. About China Daily Founded in 1981, China Daily reaches 440 million readers and users worldwide through diversified platforms, including newspapers, websites, mobile devices, and social media. As of August 2023, the number of China Daily followers had reached 64 million on Weibo, 20 million on the WeChat blog platform, 105 million on Facebook, and 4.2 million on Twitter. About the China Daily Asia Leadership Roundtable The China Daily Asia Leadership Roundtable is a by-invitation network of movers and shakers in Asia, providing platforms for focused dialogue and investigation and possible collective action on strategic issues relating to Asia’s economic, business and social development. Our aim is to enhance communication and increase mutual understanding between China and Asian and Western countries. Roundtable events are held in major cities across Asia. Media Contact: Ms Nancy Xiao Tel: (852) 3465 5416 Email: nancyxiao@chinadailyhk.com
2024-01-25Greater Bay Area Conference 2023, co-organized by China Daily and Hong Kong Coalition, was held on Wednesday in Hong Kong. Themed “When GBA meets ASEAN - One Heart and One Mind”, the conference brought together government officials, industry leaders and academics to discuss emerging opportunities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations region. Vice-chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference Leung Chun-ying and Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu attended the event, among other dignitaries, and delivered speeches.
2023-11-22「2023大灣區論壇」將於11月22日舉行,共同探索大灣區與東盟合作機遇 中國日報攜手香港再出發大聯盟將於11月22日在香港舉辦「2023大灣區論壇」。此次論壇以「大灣區攜手東盟,共謀發展、共創繁榮」為主題,旨在探索大灣區與東盟的合作機遇,展望前景幷支持大灣區同東盟國家開展更緊密、更深層次的交流合作。 論壇邀請包括中國人民政治協商會議全國委員會副主席梁振英先生,中華人民共和國香港特別行政區行政長官李家超先生,中華人民共和國外交部駐香港特別行政區特派員公署署理特派員李永勝先生,中華人民共和國駐東盟使團特命全權大使侯艷琪女士,柬埔寨旅遊部國務秘書(副部長)帕克•索克姆先生等嘉賓作主旨演講,中央人民政府駐香港特別行政區聯絡辦公室副主任盧新寧女士將作爲主禮嘉賓之一出席論壇會議。 此次論壇設立三場研討會,業界專家學者將對粵港澳大灣區與東盟國家之間如何抓住機遇,實現優勢互補,並推動協同發展的話題進行探討,分享真知灼見。論壇以線上線下相結合的方式進行。 據研究報告指出,香港是最受東盟公司歡迎的海外上市地,目前已有84家總部設在東盟的公司在香港交易所上市。且在今年 7月,港交所與印尼證券交易所簽署合作備忘錄,為兩地企業跨境上市提供了更多的合作機遇。 首場專題研討會與香港貿發局合作,圍繞主題「賦能可持續發展:探索大灣區與東盟的綠色金融市場」展開討論,香港貿易發展局副總裁劉會平先生將發表致辭,香港貿易發展局研究總監范婉兒女士主持,建銀國際企業融資部董事總經理陳柏灝先生,中國東盟投資合作基金董事總經理葉家強先生,大華銀行(香港)財務總監兼可持續發展主管林詒亮先生,國際金融公司東亞及太平洋地區運營主管兼香港辦公處主管黃麗珊女士擔任演講嘉賓,探索雙重上市為大灣區與東盟帶來的機遇與挑戰,以及綠色金融與 Web3.0技術的融合發展。 隨著《河套深港科技創新合作區深圳園區發展規劃》的出台,深港兩地優勢互補協同發展,為大灣區的科創發展注入了新活力。與此同時,東盟亦努力加快綠色轉型的進程。 第二場專題研討會以「聚焦『衣食住行』中的綠色科技創新運用」為主題,華潤正大生命科學基金董事總經理柳達先生擔任主持人,十如仕品牌營銷及市場拓展總監陳凱怡女士,葉頌文環保建築師事務所創始人葉頌文博士,綠色發展研究院副院長吳劍林先生,綠芝園創辦人兼行政總裁譚嗣籇先生擔任演講嘉賓,探討推動產業結構高端化,打造綠色供應鏈的相關措施,以及綠色科技在住房及交通等領域的應用。 《粵港澳大灣區文化和旅遊發展規劃》中的「共建人文灣區」章節特別提到要做好重大文化遺產的保護和傳承。東盟具有語言多元化、信仰多元化的特性,在更可持續、創新和數字技術方面具有鮮明稟賦和極大潛力。 最後一場專題研討會以「可持續旅遊中的藝術與文化遺產保護:大灣區與東盟的合作開拓新思路」為主題,香港恒生大學藝術設計系課程主任許焯權教授擔任主持人,香港中旅國際投資有限公司産品中心負責人馬進女士,老撾新聞、文化和旅遊部旅遊管理司司長達拉妮•馮瑪翁薩女士,香港故宮文化博物館副館長(博物館營運)袁貺霖先生,聯合國教科文組織名錄遺産地可持續旅遊教席主持人張朝枝博士將作為演講嘉賓圍繞大灣區與東盟如何在促進可持續旅遊的同時,合作推進文化遺產保護和維護藝術的多樣性,以及數字科技如何加强藝術和文化保護等方面展開討論。 此次論壇預計匯聚《財富》世界500強企業和中國500強企業的高級管理人員、專家學者、媒體及亞洲企業精英人士逾300位嘉賓現場參會。 有關中國日報 中國日報是中國國家英文日報,是中國與世界交流信息的重要渠道,已形成全球化、分眾化、多語種、全媒體傳播體系。截至2023年8月,全媒體用戶總數超過4.4億,中國日報用戶端目前全球下載用戶超過4100萬,是我國唯一下載量過千萬的英文新聞用戶端;微博粉絲數超過6491萬;微信訂閱人數達2027萬;臉譜帳號粉絲數超過1.05億,位居全球媒體帳號粉絲數第二位;推特帳號粉絲數約420萬。 有關中國日報亞洲領袖圓桌論壇 中國日報亞洲領袖圓桌論壇(www.cdroundtable.com), 創建於2010年,旨在搭建一個由亞洲國家和地區的政、商、學界領袖和社會精英參與的高端對話和交流平台,圍繞亞洲地區經濟、商業、產業和社會發展等具有戰略影響的重要議題展開討論和分享見解,以增進中國與亞洲國家和西方國家的交流和理解。迄今,在港澳和亞太多個國家和地區舉辦超110屆,逾6萬名決策精英參會。 有關香港再出發大聯盟 「香港再出發大聯盟」成立於2020年 5月 5 日,由董建華先生、梁振英先生擔任總召集人,譚耀宗先生任秘書長,譚惠珠女士等11人擔任副秘書長,並由全港 1500 多位社會各界人士擔任共同發起人。「香港再出發大聯盟」的宗旨是:堅持「一國兩制」,推動香港戰勝艱難,重新出發,再創輝煌。 媒體垂詢: 方小姐 電話:(852) 3465 5451 電郵:jingfang@chinadailyhk.com
2023-11-22Links: Both regions to receive more benefits Hong Kong, as a super-connector and a value-adder, is well poised to play a crucial role in furthering cooperation between the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area of China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, both of which are among the world's most economically vibrant regions, prominent political and business leaders said on Wednesday at the Greater Bay Area Conference 2023. The Greater Bay Area enjoys close geographical proximity, cultural ties and trade connections with the 10-member Southeast Asian grouping, offering immense potential for increased cooperation, they said. This year's conference, co-hosted by China Daily and Hong Kong Coalition, was themed "When GBA Meets ASEAN — One Heart and One Mind" to explore the emerging opportunities in the two regions. It comprised three panel discussions focusing on green finance, the integration of green technology in daily life, and the preservation of art and culture for sustainable tourism. The hybrid conference, with online and offline participation, brought together hundreds of distinguished guests, including government officials, industry and business leaders, academics and representatives of various sectors. In a keynote address, Leung Chun-ying, vice-chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, said the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region is competitive in many aspects, and cities in Guangdong province and the ASEAN member states stand to benefit greatly by leveraging the SAR's pivotal role as a super-connector. Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said that Hong Kong can facilitate people-to-people exchanges, promote green finance and financial technology initiatives, and foster cooperation in public services between the Greater Bay and ASEAN. When the Greater Bay meets ASEAN with one heart and one mind, they can surely forge a promising future for their people and economies, he said. Qu Yingpu, publisher and editor-in-chief of China Daily Group, said that through the successful implementation of numerous collaborative projects under the Belt and Road Initiative, the ASEAN member states have witnessed remarkable progress in terms of infrastructure development and social well-being. The Greater Bay Area is a vital part of China's modernization journey, and deepening ASEAN's involvement in the area will help build an Asia-Pacific community with a shared future, Qu said. Jane Lee Ching-yee, deputy secretary-general of Hong Kong Coalition, said that in order to ensure the continuous success of the China-ASEAN partnership, it is crucial for Hong Kong, as a reputable super-connector, to effectively link the Greater Bay with ASEAN, generating substantial benefits for both regions. Li Yongsheng, acting commissioner of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, said that with the strong support of the motherland and a close connection with the world, Hong Kong can play at least four roles — a facilitator of trade and investment, a promoter of regional connectivity, the spearhead of innovative cooperation and a contributor to people-to-people bonds — in strengthening cooperation between the Greater Bay, or even the whole of China, and ASEAN. Hou Yanqi, ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary of the People's Republic of China to ASEAN, said that China-ASEAN cooperation has become the most shining example of the success and robustness of regional cooperation in the Asia-Pacific.
2023-11-22Greater Bay Area Conference 2023 will take place on Nov 22. Examining opportunities in GBA-ASEAN collaboration HONG KONG, 22 Nov, 2023 — Co-organized by China Daily and the Hong Kong Coalition, the Greater Bay Area Conference will be held on Nov 22 in Hong Kong. Running on the theme of “When GBA Meets ASEAN — One Heart and One Mind”, the conference focuses on the emerging opportunities and challenges of cooperation across various sectors between the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Keynote speeches will be delivered by a stellar line-up of top-notch speakers including Mr. C Y Leung, vice-chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference; Mr. John KC Lee, the chief executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China; Mr. Li Yongsheng, acting commissioner of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; Mme. Hou Yanqi, ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to ASEAN; and Mr. Pak Sokhom, Secretary of State (deputy minister) of the Ministry of Tourism of Cambodia. Ms. Lu Xinning, deputy director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region will attend the conference as one of the guests of honor. The event is expected to draw together industry heavyweights to share their insights on the GBA and ASEAN's collaborative prospects and how to leverage their strengths to achieve mutual development. There will also be three panel discussions. The event will be held both online and onsite. According to recent research, Hong Kong is the most favored overseas listing destination for ASEAN companies, with 84 ASEAN based companies already listed on the HKEX. In July, HKEX and the Indonesian Stock Exchange signed a Memorandum of Understanding, providing more opportunities for cross-border listings between companies from both regions. The first panel discussion on “Empowering Sustainable Development: Exploring Green Finance Market in the GBA and ASEAN” is supported by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC). Dr. Patrick Lau, deputy executive director of HKTDC, will deliver the special address. Ms. Irina Fan, director of research of HKTDC, will moderate the session. Mr. Calvin C. Chan, managing director of CCB International corporate finance, Mr. Patrick Ip, managing director of China-ASEAN Investment Cooperation Fund, Mr. Brian Lam, chief sustainability officer and chief financial officer of UOB Hong Kong, and Ms. Anna Ng, regional head of operations for East Asia and the Pacific and Head of Office for HKSAR, International Finance Corporation, will explore the challenges and opportunities of dual listings for the GBA and ASEAN, and the integration of green finance and Web3 technologies. With the emergence of the “Development Plan for Shenzhen Park of Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Cooperation Zone”, Hong Kong and Shenzhen will cooperate extensively, injecting new vitality into the development of science and technology innovation in the GBA. The ASEAN region is also accelerating its green transition. The second panel is themed “Focusing on Green Technology Used in Basic Life Necessities: ‘Clothing, Food, Housing and Transportation’”. Mr. Da Liu, managing director of CR-CP Life Science Fund, will moderate the panel discussion. Ms. Stephanie Chan, Brand, Marketing, Business Development and Partnerships of DETERMINANT, Dr. Tony Ip, founder of Tony Ip Green Architects Limited, Mr. Philip Ng, vice chairman of Green Development Institute, and Mr. Gordon Tam, founder and CEO of Farm66 Investment Limited, will discuss measures to promote high-end industrial restructuring, establish green supply chains, and integrate green technology in housing and transportation. The chapter on Jointly Developing a Cultured Bay Area in the Culture and Tourism Development Plan for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area specially points to improving the protection and preservation of key cultural heritage sites. The final panel discussion is themed “Art & Culture Preservation for Sustainable Tourism: GBA-ASEAN Collaborations in Heritage Conservation”. Prof. Desmond Hui, professor and head of Department of Art and Design of the Hang Seng University of Hong Kong will be the moderator. Ms. Jin Ma, deputy general manager (in charge) of Cultural Tourism Product Development Center of China Travel International Investment HK LTD., Ms. Darany Phommavongsa, director general of Tourism Management Department, Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism of Laos, Mr. Brian Yuen, deputy director of Museum Operations of Hong Kong Palace Museum, Dr. Chaozhi Zhang, UNESCO Chair of Sustainable Tourism in UNESCO Designated Sites will center on how the GBA and ASEAN can collaborate to preserve diverse artistic and cultural heritage while fostering sustainable tourism and the role of digital technology in enhancing the preservation of art and culture. The expected attendance is over 300 onsite and online delegates, including C-level senior executives from Fortune Global 500 and China 500 companies, think tanks, academics, media, and experts from across Asia’s public and private sectors. About China Daily Founded in 1981, China Daily reaches 440 million readers and users worldwide through diversified platforms, including newspapers, websites, mobile devices, and social media. As of August 2023, the number of China Daily’s followers has reached 64 million on Weibo, 20 million on the WeChat blog platform, 105 million on Facebook, and 4.2 million on Twitter. About the China Daily Asia Leadership Roundtable The China Daily Asia Leadership Roundtable is a by-invitation network of movers and shakers in Asia, providing platforms for focused dialogue, issue investigation and possible collective action on strategic issues relating to Asia’s economic, business and social development. Our aim is to enhance communication and increase mutual understanding among China, Asian and Western countries. Roundtable events are held in major cities across Asia. About the Hong Kong Coalition The Hong Kong Coalition was founded by 1,500 initiators from all sectors of Hong Kong society, with Mr. Tung Chee Hwa and Mr. Leung Chun Ying assuming the roles of chief convener, Mr. Tam Yiu Chung serving as secretary-general, and Ms. Maria Tam Wai Chu and 10 other members holding the posts of deputy secretary-general. The coalition held a press conference on May 5, 2020, declaring its official establishment. The aims of the Hong Kong Coalition are: Uphold “one country, two systems”, support Hong Kong to overcome difficulties, and start afresh for future brilliance. Media Contact: Ms. Jing Fang Tel: (852) 3465 5451 Email: jingfang@chinadailyhk.com
2023-11-22Italy will forge closer travel ties with China, including the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, by hosting various events that cover culture, fashion, music as well as sports, the European nation’s minister of tourism told China Daily. “We are very determined to push forward our travel campaign,” Daniela Santanche said in an exclusive interview on Sept 20. “Our new ambassador, Venus (based on the painting The Birth of Venus by Sandro Botticelli, an Italian painter of the Early Renaissance), is one of the (principal tools) for this campaign, and will be online on the WeChat platform and very soon you will also see her in the airports and other platforms,” Santanche said. Italy is the partner country of the Global Tourism Economy Forum 2023, which was being held in China’s Macao Special Administrative Region. At a media briefing in Hong Kong, Italy’s global tourism promotion campaign, titled “Open To Wonder”, was introduced to the public. Venus was chosen as the perfect representation of Italy on the global stage. “She is one of the most recognizable figures worldwide and is the star of the new international campaign” by Italy’s tourism ministry and other agencies including the Italian National Tourist Board, the minister said. A symbol of the Renaissance, Venus represents rebirth and renewal, and is therefore an apt choice to represent the Italian tourism sector. Recognizable due to her distinctive gaze and unique hair, this modern-day Venus — created with the help of artificial intelligence technology — takes on the role of a “virtual influencer”, journeying across Italy to present the marvels of Italian culture to the world. Dressed in modern-day designer clothing, she highlights the country’s stunning landscapes, cities renowned for their art, charming villages, delectable culinary delights, and a diverse array of other attractions that make Italy’s heritage genuinely one of a kind. “The campaign is designed to sell our nation and its excellence in an unprecedented way, never before seen in Italy: Venus will progressively appear on all national and international railways, televisions, and airports,” Santanche told reporters. “Botticelli’s Venus, symbolizing rebirth and the spring that blossoms after the harsh pandemic winter, is the exceptional ambassador who takes us by the hand and guides us on this journey.” Santanche’s visit to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, along with an official delegation, marks a a key stop on a tour that includes Seoul, Shanghai, and Macao. Discussing hopes of attracting Chinese visitors to Italy and promoting Italian tourism in China, the Italian minister said: “We don’t see any obstacles; we only see opportunities, because China and Italy share so many things.” Santanche said in her China Daily interview that Italy is well placed to boost tourism further. “We have much financial support from the government,” she said, adding that there are high hopes for southern Italy which has beautiful natural landscapes. “Italy has multiple UNESCO (World Heritage) sites,” Santanche said. “We are financing renovation of historical sites and we are working a lot on digitalization because it is very important for the younger generation. We believe that tourism can bring lots of job opportunities for the new generation.”
2023-09-25For the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), education is key, and perhaps the top priority in tourism development. Natalia Bayona, the organization’s executive director, made the remarks in an interview with China Daily on Thursday. Bayona said 50 percent of young people working in tourism have only secondary school education, and 50 percent want to become an entrepreneur or run their own startup. Therefore, education is a key driver if people want an innovative, sustainable, modern, efficient and value-added tourism sector, she said. “That’s why, through investments as well as investing in people, we feel that it (education) is key in order to ensure that the public and the private sectors will come together to create a strong workforce,” she said. By 2030, almost 1 million jobs will be needed in vocational tourism, Bayona said. “So we need to ensure that the next generations have both a quality and affordable education, and then the planet can have the sustainability and prosperity,” she said. Education will not only help create value-added jobs, but also empower young people through technology and innovation so that tourism can really become an example of how the most human economic sector is evolving, she added. For Bayona, tourism is a very resilient sector as its strong recovery in the post-pandemic area has been a surprise. Tourism data show that levels already are at 80 percent of pre-pandemic levels, she said. Many countries, such as Spain and the Dominican Republic, have already rebounded to their respective pre-pandemic levels. After the pandemic, people want to travel and experience new things — not just in the big cities, but also in rural areas, new destinations, and of course, new ways of traveling, Bayona said. However, UNWTO cares not only about the number of tourists, but also about the impact of tourism, she said. “More than ever, we need to measure the impact of tourism in terms of new jobs, the investment, the social impact, and of course, the impact in terms of the climate and the CO2 emissions, “When we are talking about sustainability, it is not limited to climate change. Sustainability to us is the power to work in tourism, thinking about future generations,” she said. The UNWTO is working for a more responsible tourism sector. “Basically, we will not only recover, but also lead by example in the way we do things in sustainable ways,” Bayona added.
2023-09-22Tourism business luminaries and scholars voiced their expectations of a tourism boom in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and called for greater efforts and cooperation to address headwinds at the Global Tourism Economy Forum in Macao on Thursday. Chen Yin, chairman of the China Tourism Group Corp, said the tourism sector in the Greater Bay Area is showing strong growth given its economic strength and abundant tourism resources. “The Greater Bay Area is one of the most open and economically vibrant regions in China. It boasts high per capita disposable income and consumption levels, ranking among the top in the country,” Chen told a session powered by China Daily. With a population of 87 million, the Greater Bay Area’s economic output topped 13 trillion yuan ($1.78 trillion) in 2022 — 2.8 trillion yuan more than in 2017 — data from Guangdong’s Development and Reform Commission show. Among the initiatives highlighted in the GBA’s blueprint, promulgated in February 2019, was a culture and tourism development plan, which is part of efforts to develop the region into an exchange hub for the cultures of the East and the West and a world-class tourism destination. “The Greater Bay Area is endowed with abundant tourism resources, including ecoresorts, coastal leisure destinations, urban tourism, and theme parks. It serves as an important source of tourists as well as a popular travel destination for individuals, holding a significant position in both the national and global tourism industry chains,” he said. According to Chen, the Greater Bay Area receives nearly 400 million tourists annually, generating tourism revenue of over 1.2 trillion yuan. “Recent data, such as the May Day holiday figures, indicate that the number of visitors to the six green city clusters, including Shenzhen and Guangzhou, has already returned to pre-pandemic levels,” he added. Complementary strengths Kaye Chon Kye-sung, dean and chair professor and Walter and Wendy Kwok Family Foundation professor in international hospitality management at the School of Hotel and Tourism Management of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, said the GBA boasts great advantages to boost its tourism sector as the three main areas, namely Guangdong province, Hong Kong and Macao, have their unique offerings. “Hong Kong is known for the East-meets-West culture and has a very long history of being Asia’s world city, while Macao is an entertainment and recreational destination with a unique combination of Portuguese flavors,” Chon said, adding that Guangdong’s cuisines and attractions are great selling points. Nevertheless, more efforts are needed to deal with the sector’s labor shortage and facilitate seamless travel within the city cluster, the professor said. Acknowledging that the equilibrium between labor supply and demand had broken down during the pandemic, Chon said there are many ways for cities in the Greater Bay Area to work together. For instance, Hong Kong, which suffered from a labor crunch in recent years, can access a great pool of labor from Guangdong, Chon said. He also cited his firsthand experience in crossing the border, saying the process to enter the Chinese mainland from Hong Kong is more complicated than going in the other direction. “So, I think we have to make sure there will be a more seamless integration of travel among the three major destinations,” Chon added. Tourism as a lifestyle Eduardo Santander, executive director of the European Travel Commission and honorary vice-chairman of the GTEF, shared his insights on how Europe has enjoyed remarkable growth through cooperation. “Education plays a crucial role in this process. It is essential to educate both the demand and supply sides of tourism. “On the demand side, showcasing the area’s attractions, infrastructure, and ease of travel, including visa processes and currency acceptance, is vital. On the supply side, preparing the local population to cater to foreign visitors by providing language skills, appropriate signage, and cultural sensitivity is essential,” he said. In Europe, the focus is shifting from quantity to quality in terms of tourism success. Striking a balance between filling accommodations and preserving the local community’s well-being is crucial, Santander noted. It is advisable for the Greater Bay Area to learn from experience and focus on developing in response to demand, he said. Santander said that understanding the Greater Bay Area’s links to various parts of the world, including Asia, Europe, and North America, should guide the tourism development approach. Experts have said that striking a balance between an influx of tourists and mitigating the negative effects on local people’s lives is crucial for driving growth of the tourism sector. Santander highlighted the importance of encouraging people to view tourism as an economic livelihood as well as an integral part of their lives, where they can enjoy cultural exchanges. When talking about the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin, he said the major advantage of the zone in developing tourism lies in its sophisticated infrastructure. “The railways and planes are already in place, so I believe the primary hurdle has been overcome. The groundwork has already been completed.” The zone, which spans 106.46 square kilometers, focuses on high-tech development and manufacturing industries, offering tax rebates for enterprises and individuals.
2023-09-22Tourism could serve as a catalyst for global economic recovery, and seeking common ground is key to the revival materializing, government officials and organizational leaders said at the Global Tourism Economy Forum in Macao on Thursday. At the opening ceremony of the four-day event, Pansy Ho Chiu-king, vice-chairman and secretary-general of the GTEF, said collaboration between the tourism industry and various sectors, along with cooperation of different countries, will foster a dynamic economy. She delivered a keynote speech to a group that included around 80 government officials and business leaders from around the world at the forum. Ho used Macao’s tourism development as an example of the “tourism plus” concept. “Here, tourism has integrated and fostered the development of nongaming industries, propelling the development of emerging industries and formulating a diversified and energetic economy,” she said. Over the past decade, the Macao forum has attracted 12,700 participants from over 90 countries with over 600 speakers, 72 global ministers, and brought together 552 organizations from different parts of the world representing different sectors. These data show the significant impact of the Chinese market on the world. The market has grown more than threefold in the past 10 years, reaching 115 million outbound tourists at its peak, Ho added. The GTEF has partnered with 37 countries and 16 Chinese cities and provincial-level areas over the past decade, this year featuring Italy as the partner country and Shanghai as the featured city. Ho said these partnerships have enhanced the world’s understanding of China while creating development opportunities for the Chinese tourism industry. The forum serves as a bridge between China’s private economy and the rest of the world. It proved to be “a vital step” in expanding the global tourism economy, Ho said. Pansy Ho Chiu-king, vice-chairman and secretary-general of the GTEF, delivers speech during the Global Tourism Economy Forum in Macao on Sept 21, 2023. (EDMOND TANG / CHINA DAILY) Tourism could serve as a catalyst for global economic recovery, and seeking common ground is key to the revival materializing, government officials and organizational leaders said at the Global Tourism Economy Forum in Macao on Thursday. At the opening ceremony of the four-day event, Pansy Ho Chiu-king, vice-chairman and secretary-general of the GTEF, said collaboration between the tourism industry and various sectors, along with cooperation of different countries, will foster a dynamic economy. Not seeking a trade surplus in travel services with any country or region is the fundamental guiding principle in formulating international tourism policies. Dai Bin, president of the China Tourism Academy She delivered a keynote speech to a group that included around 80 government officials and business leaders from around the world at the forum. Ho used Macao’s tourism development as an example of the “tourism plus” concept. “Here, tourism has integrated and fostered the development of nongaming industries, propelling the development of emerging industries and formulating a diversified and energetic economy,” she said. Over the past decade, the Macao forum has attracted 12,700 participants from over 90 countries with over 600 speakers, 72 global ministers, and brought together 552 organizations from different parts of the world representing different sectors. These data show the significant impact of the Chinese market on the world. The market has grown more than threefold in the past 10 years, reaching 115 million outbound tourists at its peak, Ho added. The GTEF has partnered with 37 countries and 16 Chinese cities and provincial-level areas over the past decade, this year featuring Italy as the partner country and Shanghai as the featured city. Ho said these partnerships have enhanced the world’s understanding of China while creating development opportunities for the Chinese tourism industry. The forum serves as a bridge between China’s private economy and the rest of the world. It proved to be “a vital step” in expanding the global tourism economy, Ho said. Long Yongtu, former vice-minister of the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation (now the Ministry of Commerce), delivers speech during the Global Tourism Economy Forum in Macao on Sept 21, 2023. (EDMOND TANG / CHINA DAILY) Broader perspective Long Yongtu, former vice-minister of the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation (now the Ministry of Commerce), said the tourism sector has been the most promising and fastest-recovering industry on the Chinese mainland in the post-pandemic period. He is encouraging industry professionals to embrace innovation, making significant contributions to economic recovery by expanding domestic demand. Tourism also helps to bridge the gap between the mainland’s rich and poor regions, said Long, who is also former secretary-general of the Boao Forum for Asia and honorary chairman of the GTEF. He noted that rural tourism is gaining in popularity among Chinese tourists. “In the less-developed central and western regions of the country, there is typically a scarcity of arable land but an abundance of labor resources. However, these areas are blessed with verdant mountains, lush greenery, and abundant tourism resources. “By harnessing the potential of tourism development, rural areas can accelerate their growth, ultimately narrowing the gap in wealth between the eastern and western regions,” Long said. The goal is to ensure that the tourism industry can drive high-quality development of the Chinese economy, Long concluded. A shot in the arm In July and August, the booking volume of flight tickets to some of the hottest destinations on the mainland jumped 40 percent compared with the same period in 2019, and the booking volume of domestic hotels grew by 140 percent over 2019, according to Beijing-based online travel agency Qunar. China Tourism Academy President Dai Bin said that from June to August, over 1.8 billion trips were made by domestic tourists, generating nearly 8 trillion yuan ($1.1 trillion) in tourism revenue. He predicted that the upcoming eight-day Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays will attract nearly 900 million domestic travelers. “Not seeking a trade surplus in travel services with any country or region is the fundamental guiding principle in formulating international tourism policies,” Dai said. China is accelerating its reengagement with global tourism by taking steps to reopen its inbound and outbound tourism sectors, he said. Dai also urged the authorities to implement streamlined visa, immigration, border control, and financial payment policies to facilitate smoother travel. Julia Simpson, president and CEO of the World Travel and Tourism Council, and honorary chairman of the GTEF, said as governments lifted restrictions, spending by foreign visitors also rebounded by 80 percent after the yearslong pandemic. In the next decade, Simpson predicted that the tourism industry will generate $9.5 trillion in value, leading to the creation of 24 million jobs. By 2033, the sector is expected to contribute 11 percent of global GDP and employ 430 million individuals worldwide. She noted that China boasts the world’s second-largest travel and tourism sector, valued at over $500 billion and creating over 62 million jobs. Acknowledging the evolving landscape of the tourism sector, Simpson said travelers are no longer satisfied with passive sightseeing. They seek immersive experiences that allow them to connect with local cultures, engage in meaningful activities, and return home with a deeper understanding of the world, she said. Advancements in technology will continue to shape the travel and tourism industry, Simpson said. However, it is crucial to address the challenges that come with technology, such as data privacy and security concerns. Striking a balance between innovation and safeguarding travelers’ rights and privacy will be essential, she added. Zhang Xu, chairman of the World Tourism Alliance and honorary chairman of the forum, addressed the forum’s 10th anniversary lunch.
2023-09-22MACAO – The Asia-Pacific region can contribute to the transformation of tourism in the next decade by putting the industry on a more sustainable path, enhancing digitalization, and boosting a diversification policy, experts said at a panel in Macao on Friday. They had a discussion about how the region can define tourism’s long-term sustainability during the session, “Sustainability in Focus: Navigating the Future of Tourism in Asia” at the Global Tourism Economy Forum in Macao. Hae Guk (Harry) Hwang, regional director for Asia and the Pacific at the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), stressed the importance of sustainability, green transformation, and climate action in a speech first. The Asia-Pacific Department at UNWTO is “fully ready to embark on this exciting journey of sustainability,” he noted. Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, director of the Macao Government Tourism Office and vice-chairman of GTEF, emphasized the role of technology, saying that it has become part of tourism development or tourism recovery, and that there are now various platforms to reach target customers better than in the past, and they can enhance customer satisfaction in the industry. According to Senna Fernandez, tourism accounts for nearly half of Macao’s GDP, which is unparalleled. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has shown that being so dependent on one industry is not sustainable for a destination, as this involves risks. The Macao government has come up with a diversification strategy going forward, she noted, describing the policy as one plus four: One referring to integrated tourism, with four areas of new development or diversification being technology; modern finance; meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions (Mice), culture and sports; health and well-being. So first, tourism has the role of giving ingredients or a breeding ground for the new kinds of industries that we can be engaging in, Senna Fernandez said. Priantha Fernando, chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority, said that sustainability in his country will be the key in developing tourism. “Also, tourism is not just an industry. It is a key player when it comes to the economy,” he said. Fernando said that from 2009 to 2018, Sri Lanka’s tourism sector enjoyed above average growth of around 20 percent a year. “We registered 2.3 million tourist arrivals (in 2018) with $4.3 billion in earnings from tourism. Unfortunately, in 2019 we had some incidents which affected tourism, and at a time when we were about to recover from that, the COVID outbreak really crippled the (travel) industry,” he said, “Only now are we are coming out of that.” Fernando said that Sri Lanka started giving more priority to sustainability matters prior to COVID-19, and they moved in this direction thanks to the assistance of the United Nations Development Programme. The island nation has set up nine provincial sustainable tourism units, with the key unit based in Colombo, which monitors the industry. It is currently developing a marine master plan. “As we move forward, sustainability is going to be key,” he said, “It’s not only for Sri Lanka, but for the entire region. We will have to work together in having sustainable tourism destinations.” Hussain Niyaaz, secretary of Economic Development Cooperation, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Maldives, said that his country is strategically located in terms of connectivity with the rest of the world. “We are quite central,” he said, “So that is the key to our success of our tourism, also the connectivity with the main markets in the world.” He said the Maldives needs to provide diversification because mostly when people around the world talk about the Maldives, they may feel it is too expensive because it is luxurious. “But with this new concept of local island hotels”, tourists have more variable products and more affordable products, he added. Niyaaz also noted that the Maldives have one concept, led by the private sector and facilitated by the government. “And we, the government, are only facilitating in terms of providing the basic services,” he said. Christina Garcia Frasco, secretary of the Department of Tourism of the Philippines, said her country sees itself as becoming a tourism powerhouse in Asia. “Sustainability and tourism have been absolute necessities and the driving force for the development of our country as early as 2009,” she said. “With the passage of the law that created the Tourism Act, sustainable tourism was identified by our government as being integral for social economic development.”
2023-09-22