Review of the HKCEA’s Major Activities in 2004

 

BUSINESS AFFAIRS

SUPORTING THE HKSARG TO REVIVE THE ECONOMY

Affirmatively engaged in HKSAR economic affairs  

To join efforts in invigorating recovery and development of Hong Kong economy, the Association and Chinese enterprises actively provided consultation in related consulting structure. According to some survey, the Association and Chinese enterprises engaged in related consulting structure included:

Member of the Exchange Fund Advisory Committee (EFAC), member of the Banking Advisory Committee, member of Hong Kong Trade Development Council, Board member of Airport Authority, member of the Greater Pearl River Delta Business Council —— Mr. He Guangbei, the Association’s Advisor, Vice Chairman & Chief Executive of Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited;

Member of the Hong Kong Port Development Council —— Dr. Fu Yuning, Ex-Vice Chairman of the Association, Director & President of China Merchants Holdings Co., Ltd.;

Member of the Hong Kong Maritime Industry Council, member of the Hong Kong Port Development Council —— Mr. Liu Guoyuan, Vice Chairman of the Association, Executive Vice Chairman and President of COSCO (H. K.) Group Ltd.;

Member of the Economic and Employment Council —— Mr. Zhou Jie, Vice Chairman & Chief Executive of the Association;

Member of the Economic and Employment Council —— Dr. Li Shan, Chief Executive Officer of BOC International Holdings Limited;

Member of Hong Kong Tourism Board —— Executive Director & Deputy General Manager of China Travel Service (Holdings) Hong Kong Ltd.

 

Hong Kong Economic Summit

On 23 August, the HKSARG and Hong Kong main business chambers, including the Association, jointly held “Hong Kong Economic Summit: Leveraging on the Mainland and Engaging Ourselves Globally”. Financial Secretary of the HKSARG, the Honourable Henry Tang, chaired the summit. And over 700 representatives of political, commercial, academic circles attended. This conference aimed to share thinking of different circles in the society and develop optimal strategies for Hong Kong future economic development. The Honourable Tung Chee-hwa, Chief Executive of the HKSAR, spoke at the luncheon held afterwards.

Discussing the Budget with the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury of the HKSARG

On 23 November 2004, the Secretary of the Financial Services and the Treasury held an ad hoc conversazione to seek views from the Association and Chinese enterprises on the 2005/06 Budget. Mr. Lam Kwong Siu, the Association’s treasurer attended the conversazione with a dozen of high profile executives of Chinese enterprises, and put forward some proposals to optimize the Budget from different perspectives.

Also, the Association received Head of HK-Guangdong Cooperation Coordinating Group, Supervision Commissioner of the Insurance Industry, etc, to exchange views on how to advance the co-operation between HK and Guangdong, and consolidate cooperation with Chinese insurance companies to minimize the risks of Hong Kong insurance industry.

 

BUSINESS AND LIAISON ACTIVITIES

Delegation of Hong Kong Industrial and Commercial Community to Shanghai

Aiming to capitalize business opportunities brought about by World Expo 2010, Shanghai, and CEPA, Hong Kong five major business chambers, including the Association, co-organized a delegation to Shanghai from in January. With Ms Guo Li, Deputy Director of Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR, as Honourable Advisor, and Dr. Tsang Hin Chi as Head, Mr. Cai Laixing, the Association’s Vice Chairman as Deputy Head. The Association’s Vice Chairman Mr. Zhou Jie, Executive Directors Mr. Zang Qiutao, Mr. Yuen Mo, Mr. Zhang Xianlin, and a dozen of executives from member companies joined the delegation.

Mr. Chen Liangyu, member of Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party and Secretary to CPC Shanghai Committee, and Mr. Han Zheng, Mayor of Shanghai Municipal City, respectively met all the delegates and introduced development and strategies of Shanghai. During the visit, the delegation attended the “Seminar on Cooperative Development between HK/Macao and the Yangtze River Delta under the Framework of CEPA” and a few briefings on World Expo 2010 and Shanghai’s development planning, and made tours to Shanghai Urban Development Planning Exhibition Centre and Shanghai Super Computer Centre, and a few Hi-Tech Zones as well.

Promotion Week for CEPA of Mainland, HK and Macao

At the beginning of the year, the Association and other major business chambers in Hong Kong co-organized large scale delegation to Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou, where the investment promotion agencies of the HK and Macao and, the CCPIT held “Promotion Week for CEPA of Mainland, HK and Macao” individually, aiming to capitalizing fresh cooperative opportunities with enterprises from the Mainland China. Dr. Fu Yuning, Vice Chairman of the Association, and other high profile officers, joined the delegation with dozens of executives of Chinese enterprises.

Organizing Lunar New Year Cocktail with the InvestHK

To reinforce the linkages between the Association and the InvestHK of HKSARG, and encourage more enterprises from Mainland to invest in Hong Kong, the Association and InvestHK of the HKSARG jointly hosted New Spring cocktail reception on 10 February. Mr. Zheng Kunsheng, Deputy Director of Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR, and the Honourable Henry Tang, the Financial Secretary of the HKSARG, attended as the guests of honour. Mr. Wang Huiheng, Vice Chairman of the Association, and Mr. Mike Rowse, Director General of Investment spoke at the reception. And Vice Chairman Mr. Zhou Jie and Executive Director Mr. Ou Bingchang and more than 140 representatives of Chinese enterprises and Mainland enterprises were present at the cocktail.

“New Spring Celebration and Shared Develop Opportunities” Evening Party

To advance exchanges and cooperation between business communities among Hong Kong, Macao and Guangdong, the Association joined 14 business chambers from the three areas to organize “New Spring Celebration and Shared Develop Opportunities” Evening Party. Mr. Ou Guangyuan, Deputy Secretary of Guangdong Provincial Committee of the CPC, Ms Guo Li and Mr. Li Guikang, Deputy Directors of Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR, and Miss. Elsie Leung, Secretary for Justice of the HKSARG, attended as guests of honour. And a few office bearers of the Association also joined the party. More than 2000 representatives from business communities of Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macau were in attendance.

Enterprises Development and Cooperation Conversazione

To bolster cooperation in technological development between HK and Mainland, the Association and the Hong Kong Association for Advancement of Science and Technology jointly organized “Enterprises Development and Cooperation Conversazione” in July. The Association’s Vice Chairman Mr. Zhou Jie, Treasurer Mr. Lam Kwong Siu, Executive Director Mr. Zhao Le, and Mr. Fu Yuning, President of The China Merchants Group, and a few other high level executives from Chinese enterprises attended the event. High profile officers from the Hong Kong Association for Advancement of Science and Technology were in attendance as well. Both sides exchanged views on the topics of common interest.

Boat Cruise with Hong Kong Trade Development Council

In July, the Association and Hong Kong Trade Development Council jointly organized a boat cruise gathering. The Association’s Vice Chairmen, Mr. Chen Shoujie and Mr. Zhou Jie, Executive Directors Mr. Wang Rongfeng, Mr. Zhao Le and Mr. Sun Zhongren attended the gathering with President of Hong Kong Trade Development Council, Mr. Frederick Lam, etc. They had a very warm talk during the event.

Joint Delegation of Hong Kong Business Community and Technology Industry to Beijing and Tianjin

At the end of August, a joint delegation headed by the Secretary of Commerce, Industry and Technology paid a visit to Beijing and Tianjin, and over 180 representatives from up to 70 industries joined the visit. And the Association’s Vice Chairmen Mr. Chen Shoujie and Mr. Li Fuyou, and other 14 representatives of Chinese enterprises were also delegates. During the trip, the delegates held talks with officials of Ministry of Information Industry and Ministry of Technology, and they also paid visits to leaders of the CCPCC and Tianjin Municipal City.

Seminar on “Regulations of Customs Clearance of Mainland China”

At the end of August, the Association jointly organized seminar of “Regulations of Customs Clearance of Mainland China” with the Hong Kong Shippers’ Council, Hong Kong Logistics Management Staff Association, etc., and invited related administers of Customs General Administration of China. Mr. Zhou Jie, Vice Chairman of the Association, and 40 representatives of Chinese enterprises attended the seminar.

The 8th Beijing - Hong Kong Economic Cooperation Symposium and 2008 Olympics Business Opportunities Briefing

In September, “the 8^th Beijing/Hong Kong Economic Cooperation Symposium and 2008 Olympics Business Opportunities Briefing” held in Hong Kong. Among VIPs attending the opening ceremony were Mr. Liu Qi, Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the CPC and Secretary to Beijing Committee of the CPC, the Honourable Fok Ying-tung, Vice Chairman of National Committee of Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, Chief Executive the Honourable Tung Chee-hwa, Mr. Gao Siren, Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR, Mr. Zhou Bo, Deputy Director of Office of Hong Kong and Macao Affairs of the State Council, Mr. Yang Wenchang, Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the PRC in the HKSAR, Mr. Wang Qishan, Mayor of Beijing Municipal City, etc. And the Association’s Chairman Dr. Qin Xiao, Advisor Mr. Chen Xinhua and Mr. Che Shujian, Executive Director Mr. Yi Xiqun also attended the ceremony as guests of honour.

The event included 2008 Olympics Business Opportunities Briefing, introduction to policy of trade in property rights and Beijing property market, Beijing/HK logistics industry, etc. Chinese enterprises joined the above meetings and seminars and shared their perspectives with other businesses.

Reception in celebration of the 55^th Anniversary of the Founding of P. R. China

On 23^rd September, the Association co-hosted with other five major chambers of commerce in Hong Kong, including the Chinese General Chamber of Commerce Hong Kong and Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce, “reception in celebration of the 55^th anniversary of the founding of P. R. China given by compatriot of Commercial & Industrial Circle of Hong Kong”. Mr. Zhen Kunsheng, Deputy Director of Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR, Mr. Yang Wenchang, Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the PRC in the HKSAR, the Honourable Henry Tang, the Financial Secretary of the HKSARG, and the Honourable Elsie Leung Secretary for Justice of the HKSARG, were invited to the reception as guests of Honour. The Association’s Chairman Dr. Qin Xiao, Vice Chairmen Mr. Liu Hu, Mr. Zhou Jie, Treasurer Mr. Lam Kwong Siu and Executive Director Mr. Zhao Bin attended the cocktail with other executives of Chinese enterprises.

World SME Expo

In November, World SME Expo opened in Hong Kong and attracted more than 330 enterprises from world wide to join. As a supporting association, the Association set up a booth at the exhibition and Vice Chairman Mr. Zhou Jie attended the opening ceremony. Chinese enterprises participated in various forums, seminars and exhibition to share their business experience and perspectives, and showcase their products and services for SMEs.

Evening Party Welcoming Mayor Dai Xianglong

On 29 November, the Association, together with other four major chambers of commerce hosted an evening party in honour of the delegation from Tianjin Municipal City headed by Mayor Mr. Dai Xianglong. Ms Guo Li, Deputy Director of the Liaison office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR, was invited to attend. Mr. Dai Xianglong briefed on Tianjin’s great potential in economic development at the party. And on behalf of the hosting organizations, the Association’s Vice Chairman Mr. Liu Guoyuan presented a souvenir to Mr. Dai Xianglong. And more than 140 representatives from Chinese enterprises joined the party.

Subscription Luncheon in Honour of Mr. Sun Zhenyu

To help the industrial and commercial circle understand the experience and future challenges ahead for China upon accession to the WTO, as well as to welcome Mr. Sun Zhenyu, Chinese Ambassador to the WTO, the Association co-organized a luncheon with Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce. Ms Guo Li, Deputy Director of the Liaison office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR, was invited to attended. Mr. Zhou Jie, Vice Chairman of the Association, Mr. Sun Zhongren, Executive Director of the Association, Dr. Fu Yuning, President of China Merchants Holdings (Hong Kong) Co., Ltd. and dozens of representatives of Chinese enterprises were present. Mr. Sun made a fairly informative speech at the luncheon.

Cocktail Reception in Celebration of France-China Year

To celebrate 40^th anniversary of China – France diplomatic relationship, the Association jointly hosted cocktail with French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Hong Kong on 17^th March 2004. Ms Guo Li, Deputy Director of Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR, Mr. Wu Hailong, Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the PRC in the HKSAR, Mr. Serge Mostura, Consul General of France in the HKSAR, etc. were invited to the reception as guests of honour. Over 50 representatives of Chinese enterprises, including the Association’s Chairman Mr. Hu Guangbei, Vice Chairman Mr. Wang Huiheng, Dr. Fu Yuning and Mr. Zhou Jie, Treasurer Mr. Lam Kwong Siu, Executive Director Mr. Yuen Mo, Mr. Ou Bingchang, Mr. Zhao Bin attended the cocktail. And the function also had dozens of members of the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Hong Kong in attendance, including Mr. Bertrand Michaud, the President of the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Hong Kong, etc. The two sides had great exchanges at the cocktail.

The 11^th China Business Forum

At the end of November, the American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong organized the 11^th China Business Forum with support from the Association. Mr. Yang Wenchang, Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the PRC in the HKSAR, was invited to deliver an opening speech. Executives of Chinese enterprises and American enterprises and professionals spoke at the forum, sharing their perspectives on future economic development and the business environment of China. Some representatives of Chinese enterprises attended the forum.

Exchanges with the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong

At the beginning of March, Vice Chairman Mr. Zhou Jie was invited to the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong to make a briefing on the Association and Chinese enterprises in Hong Kong. The two sides had a lively talk about reinforcing the linkages and cooperation in future.

Seminar on Recovering Belgian – Heart of the Europe

To help Chinese enterprises better understand Belgium market and strengths, the Association and the Belgium Consulate in Hong Kong, the Belgium - Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong jointly organized the Seminar on Recovering Belgium and New Opportunities from the Agreement on Taxation between Hong Kong and Belgium. Experts were invited to speak about Belgium market and the tax agreement. Mr. Zhou Jie, Vice Chairman of the Association and more than 20 representatives of Chinese enterprises attended the event.

Jointly Organized Luncheon with the British Chamber Of Commerce in Hong Kong

To strengthen the relationship with the British Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong, the Association and the British Chamber jointly hosted a luncheon. And the Association’s Vice Chairman Mr. Yang Chao spoke at the function. Chairman of China Committee of the British Chamber Mr. Ko extended warm welcome to Mr. Yang and acknowledged the influence of the Association and its member companies. The two sides discussed how to reinforce the linkages between the two chambers and their members.

 

CONTRIBUTION TO POLICY MAKING AND LEGISLATION BY CONSULTATION PAPERS

As always, the Association in 2004 responded to various policy and legal consultation papers from the HKSARG, such as the abolishment of estate duty, Companies (Amended) Ordinance, the Hague Convention, etc., which was of help to better government policy making and legislation involving weighing the interest of Chinese enterprises in Hong Kong.

 

 

SOCIAL AFFAIRS

COMMUNICATION WITH THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF THE HKSAR AND THE HKSARG

Communication with the Honourable Tung Chee Hwa

In 2004, the Association held conversaziones with the Honourable Tung Chee Hwa, Chief Executive of the HKSAR twice. Mr. Tung and office bearers of the Association deeply discussed some economic and social issues. The Association stated that it would spare no efforts in supporting the HKSARG to administrate Hong Kong in accordance with the Basic Law, and would do anything which is of help to the stability and prosperity of Hong Kong. The Chief Executive listened carefully to the introduction of the development of Chinese enterprises and perspectives about HK social and economic development, and expressed his appreciation to the support of the Association and willingness to keep close contact with the Association.

Among the leader attending the conversaziones were the Association’s Chairman Dr. Qin Xiao, Advisor Mr. He Guangbei, Vice Chairmen Mr. Yang Chao, Mr. Chen Shoujie, Mr. Li Fuyou, Mr. Liu Guoyuan, Secretary Mr. Zang Qiutao, Executive Directors Mr. Yi Xiqun, Mr. Wang Rongfeng, Mr. Liu Jifu, Mr. Yuen Mo, Mr. Hu Aimin, Mr. Ou Binchang, Mr. Zhao Bin, Mr. Zhang Xianlin, Mr. He Ning, Mr. Zhao Le, Mr. Wang Mingcai, Mr. Xue Zhiming, Ms Li Xiaoling, And Mr. Ning Gaoning, General Manager of China Resources Holdings Limited, and other high level executives of Chinese enterprises were also in attendance.   

Evening Party hosted by the Secretary of Home Affairs Bureau

On 20 July, the Honourable Patrick Ho, the secretary of Home Affairs Bureau of the HKSARG, hosted an evening party to treat the Office-bearers of the Association. And the Association’s Mr. Chen Shoujie, Mr. Zhou Jie, Treasurer Mr. Lam Kwong Sui, Executive Directors, Mr. Yuen Mo and Mr. Zhao Bin attended the party upon invitation. They exchanged views on Hong Kong related issues.     

 

Cooperation with the ICAC

As a chamber of commerce with strong social consciousness, the Association worked closely with the ICAC to make Hong Kong a fair and clean society. In September, the Association jointly organized “Ethnics in Corporate Governance in Hong Kong and Mainland China” as a member of Hong Kong Ethnics Development Advisory Committee, to help entrepreneurs to understand the anti-corruption ordinances and build a fair business environment.

At the end of the year, the Association and the ICAC jointly organized “Building a Clean Society with Our Joint Efforts” evening party with more than 200 young staff of Chinese enterprises in attendance. The Association’s Vice Chairman Mr. Zhou Jie, and Head of ICAC Community Relations spoke at its opening ceremony. The party helped the young staff how to cope with various business ethnics situations by means of very easy and lively show making.

 

AIRING VIEWS ON HONG KONG FUTURE CONSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Expressing Views on the Future Constitutional Development in Hong Kong

On 19 October, the Association formally wrote to the Constitutional Development Task Force of the Home Affairs Bureau of HKSARG, expressing its care and standpoints on the important issue, namely the means of election of Chief Executive in 2007 and afterwards, and of Legislative Council in 2008 and afterwards of the HKSAR .

Seminar on the Basic Law of the HKSAR

To promote the HKSAR Basic Law among young staff of Chinese enterprises, the Association organized a seminar on the Basic Law of the HKSAR, and invited the Honourable Elsie Leung, the Secretary of Justice of the HKSARG, a member of Drafting Committee of the Basic Law of the HKSAR, and Mr., Prof. Wang Zhenmin, Associate Dean of the Law School of Tsing Hwa University, to lecture on constitutional development of Hong Kong. The Association’s Vice Chairman Mr. Zhou Jie, Executive Director Mr. Zhao Le, attended the seminar together with over 200 staff of Chinese enterprises.

Conversazione on Supporting the Decision by Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress on 26 April 2004

On 27^th April 2004, the Association organized a conversazione to show support for the decision on Hong Kong future political system development by Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress on 26 April 2004. Office-bearers of the Association were present at the seminar, including Chairman Mr. He Gauangbei, Vice Chairmen Mr. Wang Huiheng, Mr. Chen Shoujie, Mr. Zhou Jie, Treasurer Mr. Lam Kwong Siu, Executive Director Mr. Yuen Mo, Mr. Ou Bingchang, Mr. Zhang Xianlin, Mr. Xue Zhiming, and leaders from over 30 prominent Chinese enterprises also joined the seminar. The participants agreed that the decision of Standing Committee of the NPC was a very important and meaningful decision, and all held that Hong Kong needed to join the efforts to revive the up-turning economy. They also agreed that Chinese enterprises in Hong Kong should develop themselves further so as to contribute more to stability and prosperity of Hong Kong.

Seminar in Memory of the 100^th Anniversary of Mr. Deng Xiaoping

To help Chinese enterprises staff better understand “One Country, Two Systems” concept and the principles of Hong Kong constitutional development, the Association organized a Seminar in memory of the 100^th anniversary of Mr. Deng Xiaoping in August. And the Honourable Elsie Leung, the Secretary of Justice of the HKSARG, and Mr. Cao Erbao, Director General of Research Department of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR, were invited to speak on success of “One Country, two systems” in Hong Kong, and Deng Xiaoping’s Contribution to “One Country, two systems”. Mr. Zhou Jie chaired the symposium. More than 300 people attended the meeting, including: Mr. Zhang Qiutao, Secretary of the Association, Treasurer Mr. Lam Siu Kwong, Executive Director Mr. Zhao Le and Mr. Sun Zhongren, etc.

 

OTHER SOCIAL AFFAIRS

Evening Party in Celebration of 55^th Anniversary of PRC and Firework Shows

On the National Day, the Association jointly with the Federation of Hong Kong Island Societies and four district councils in Hong Kong, co-organized a evening party in celebration of 55^th anniversary of PRC and firework shows, with support from other 14 district councils across Kowloon and New Territories. And Mr. Zhou Junming, Deputy Director of Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR, Mr. Song Masuo, Deputy Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the PRC in the HKSAR, the Honourable Patrick Ho, Secretary for Home Affairs of the HKSARG, etc, were invited to the opening ceremony as the guests of honour. The Association’s Vice Chairman Mr. Zhou Jie, Treasurer Mr. Lam Kwong Siu, Executive Director Mr. Zhang Xianlin, attended the function. Over 30,000 people including staff and families of Chinese enterprises visited the Carnival.

 

Supporting Social Charity Affairs

－Donated to Home of Hong Kong Anti-Japanese Invasion Fighters; 

－Donated to the “Lifeline Express” to help poor cataract patients in rural areas, and organized staff to join the walks sponsored by Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited;

－Donated to Sowers Action to help children in remote areas in Mainland China for the chance to have free education;

－Sponsored the “Walk for Millions” and organized group to join the walks in Hong Kong Island and Kowloon;

－Donated to ‘Charity Lucky Draw 2004” sponsored by Service Fund of the Federation of Societies of the New Territories;

Exchanges with Women Society

－The Association formed a female executives working group to increase communication and exchanges with Hong Kong women societies;

－The female executives attended the conversazione held in Hong Kong by the delegation from China National Women Federation on 17 February;

－Jointly organized a cocktail reception in celebration of 8 March International Woman Festival by female executives of HK business community;

－Jointly organized a cocktail in celebration of 55^th Anniversary of the Founding of PRC by HK business community.

Seminar on Practice of “One Country, Two Systems” and Mission of the Youth”

In memory of the 85^th anniversary of “4 May Movement”, the Association’s Youth Committee and Hong Kong Youth Society jointly held a conversazione on practice of “One Country, Two Systems” and mission of the youth on 2^nd May. Mr. Wang Rudeng, Assistant Director of Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR, Mr. Zhou Jie, Vice Chairman of the Association, etc. were invited as VIP speakers to the conversazione.

Contests of ABC about the Basic Law of the HKSAR

In June, the Home Affairs Bureau of HKSARF held contests of ABC about the HKSAR Basic Law and invited different walks of the society to participate. With the aim to promote the Basic Law among young staff of Chinese enterprises, the . To encourage youth in the Chinese enterprises learn and promote “Basic Law”, the Association’s Youth Committee joined the contest.

 

 

PROMOTING EXCHANGES BETWEEN HONG KONG AND THE MAINLAND

CO-ORGANIZING ECONOMIC AND TRADING ACTIVITIES

In 2004, the Association continued to work vigorously to promote economic exchanges and cooperation between Hong Kong and the Mainland. In particular, the Association during the year successfully co-organized or took park in up to 83 fairs, expo and symposiums, etc., held in Hong Kong by individual provinces, autonomous regions and municipal cities of the Mainland. Among them were Entrepreneurs Summit of Hong Kong - Zhe Jiang Week 2004, Hebei Province (H.K.) Investment and Trade Fair 2004, Jiangxi Province (H.K.) Investment Promotion Symposium, Anhui Province (H.K.) Investment Briefing 2004, Guangdong – Hong Kong Economic and Trade Cooperation Symposium 2004, Shangdong – Hong Kong Service Industries Cooperation Symposium, Briefing on 1^st China – ASEAN Expo, Jiangsu – Hong Kong Cooperation Promotion Week, and Shanxi – Hong Kong Economic and Trade Cooperation Week 2004, etc.

RECEIVING VISITING GROUPS FROM THE MAINLAND

In 2004, the Association received more than 50 visiting groups from Mainland China, and actively provided advice for their business activities in Hong Kong. Among these visitors were senior officials from provincial and municipal authorities, including Mr. Luo Qingquan, Governor of Hubei Provincial People’s Government, Mr. Yuan Chunqing, Deputy Secretary of the CPC Shanxi Provincial Committee and Secretary of the CPC Xi’an Municipal City Committee, Mr. Wang Limin, Vice Governor of Heilongjiang Provincial People’s Government, and Mr. Dai Xianglong, Mayor of Tianjin Municipal City People’s Government, etc.

MISSIONS BACK TO THE MAINLAND

Mission to the 8^th Investment & Trade Forum for Cooperation between East & West China

The 8^th Investment & Trade Forum for Cooperation between East & West China opened in Xi’an in early April, and the Association organized a mission to the business event, which was co-organized by related Ministries of the Central Government and 24 provinces and municipal cities, with the aim to boost cooperation between East and West China. At the exhibition, the Association set up an exhibition booth to promote the Association and Chinese enterprises by pictures and document layouts. During the trip, the mission paid a visit to the city of Yan’an, and held conversazione with local officials to know more about local economy and market.

 

Mission to the 1^st Symposium on Economic and Trade Cooperation in Pan Pearl River Delta Area

The 1^st Symposium on Economic and Trade Cooperation in Pan Pearl River Delta Area opened on 14 July in Guangzhou, which was organized by 9 provinces, autonomous region, namely Guangdong, Fujian, Jianxi, Wunan, Guangxi, Hainan, Sichun, Guizhou and Yunnan, plus the HKSAR and Macau SAR. The Association’s Executive Director Mr. Ou Bingchang headed a mission to the business event.

Mission to the 8^th China Investment & Trade Fair

Upon invitation from the organizing committee of the 8^th China Investment & Trade Fair, the Association sent a mission to the business event with Mr. Hu Zheng, Deputy President of China Merchants Holdings Limited, as the Head. At the opening ceremony, Vice Premier Ms Wu Yi made a theme speech. And up to 10,000 businessmen from 100 countries and regions, and delegates from individual provinces and cities, joined the fair. During the fair, the Association’s mission attended the opening ceremony and welcome evening party, as well as some forums and seminars. And China Merchants Holdings Limited signed a contract with a financial outlay up to 10 billion RMB involving port construction and real property development.

 

SERVING MEMBERS

SEMINARS AND TALKS

In 2004, the Association held talks to help executives of member companies to broaden horizons and invited experts to speak on a wide range of topics, such as RMB exchange rate, QDII, risk management of receivables, etc., which attracted hundreds of executives from member companies to join.

INFORMATION SERVICE 

With the aim to provide more valuable information to members, the Association in 2004 recommended members with many seminars, policy briefings and fairs organized by various organizations in Hong Kong.

BUSINESS PROJECTS PROMOTION

In 2004, the Association continued to help member companies with promoting business services, such as sales of traveling services, insurance packages, etc. Besides, the Association also devoted to match business cooperation between member companies and even with members of other chamber of commerce.

HELP MEMBER COMPANIES CULTIVATING CORPORATE CULTURE

“Taking Photos and Keeping Beautiful Memories” Training Programme

To enrich the cultural life of young staff, the Association and Hong Kong Youth Association, Chinese Photographic Association of Hong Kong and Chinese Bankers Club, Hong Kong, co-organized “Taking Photos and Keeping Beautiful Memories” Training Programme, and invited experts to give lectures. The programme was followed up with field trip study and experience, as well as contests of photographing skills. Over 100 young staff from different walks joined the activities.

The 1^st Artistic Show of Hong Kong Chinese Enterprises

The Association organized the first artistic show on 7 October in celebration of the 55^th anniversary of the founding of PRC. Mr. Zheng Kunsheng, and Ms Guo Li, Deputy Directors of Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR, were invited to watch the show. And the Association’s Advisor Mr. Che Shujian, Vice Chairman Mr. Li Fuyou, Mr. Liu Guoyuan and Mr. Zhou Jie, and leaders of influential Chinese enterprises also were in attendance.

In a warm and agreeable atmosphere, staff from Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited, COSCO (Hong Kong) Group Ltd., China Travel Service (Holdings) Hong Kong Ltd., China Overseas Holding Limited, and China Everbright Holdings Limited entertained the audience with great singing and dancing. Over 1000 representatives of Chinese enterprises watched the show on site.

The 1^st Sports Day of the Association

To enhance exchanges and friendship among Chinese enterprises, the Association organized the 1^st sports day on its history at the Siu Sai Wan Sporting Centre in early November. And 22 Chinese enterprises with 330 participants joined the contests, and over 4000 staff of Chinese enterprises attended the opening ceremony and watched the contests.

Among the honourable guests were Mr. Zheng Kunsheng, and Ms Guo Li, Deputy Directors of Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR, Mr. Song Masuo, Deputy Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the PRC in the HKSAR. And the Association’s Chairman Mr. Qin Xiao, Advisor Mr. He Guangbei, Vice Chairman Mr. Wu Jiesi, Mr. Li Fuyou, Mr. Liu Guoyuan and Mr. Zhou Jie, Secretary Mr. Zang Qiutao, Executive Directors Mr. Yi Xiqun, Mr. Yuen Mo, Mr. Zhang Xianlin and Mr. Sun Zhongren, together with leaders of influential Chinese enterprises also attended the opening ceremony and watched the contests.

Through fierce competition, Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited won the championship in terms of collectives points, and China Travel Services (H. K.) Holdings Ltd and COSCO (Hong Kong) Group as the 1^st runner up and the 2^nd runner up respectively.

EXPLORING OVERSEAS MARKET

Mission to the 8^th Macao International Trade and Investment Fair

On 21 October, the 8^th Macao International Trade and Investment Fair organized by China and Portugal Countries Economic Cooperation Forum opened and attracted thousands of businesses from over 30 countries and regions to join. Upon invitation of Macao Investment Promotion Bureau, the Association dispatched a delegation headed by Vice Chairman Mr. Zhou Jie. The delegates attended forums and visited the exhibition as well as the Macao Chinese Enterprises Association.

Delegation to Egypt and Morocco

To help member companies to capitalize overseas market, the Association organized a delegation to Egypt and Morocco in the first half of the year. With Vice Chairman, Mr. Yang Chao as the Head, the delegation paid visits to related government agencies and commercial associations of Egypt and Morocco, and held business matching functions with local major chambers of commerce. And Chinese Ambassador to Egypt Mr. Wu Sike, Ambassador to Morocco Mr. Cheng Tao received all the delegates and briefed on the political, economic environment and market potential. Through the visit, the delegates had a better understanding about local business environment of the two countries.

Mission to Australia and New Zealand

Late in the year, the Association organized a mission with over 30 members to Australia and New Zealand. With Mr. Che Shujian as the head, the mission was welcomed by related state governments of Australia, and Chinese Ambassador to Australia Ms Fu Ying and Ambassador to New Zealand.

During the visit, Victoria State Government held an ad hoc briefing on its market and a liaison cocktail for the delegates, and Queensland State Government and Queensland China Council also received the mission and briefed on its market strengths. The delegates also held conversaziones with local Chinese enterprises to share their business experience in the countries. Besides, they paid a visit to New Zealand China Trade Association in Auckland.

SERVICES BY THE ASSOCIATION’S SECTOR COMMITTEES

In 2004, the Association’s sector committees held gatherings and other kind of activities from time to time to exchange business information and discuss cooperation in their respective sectors.

The Committee of Building Industry, for instance, held a general meeting to sum up the work of the previous year. And in September, the Committee sponsored the Hong Kong Chinese Building Enterprises Conversazione 2004, and representatives from a dozon of representatives of member companies attended.The Committee on Insurance, the Committee on Securities, and the Committee on Finance also sponsored some functions, luncheons and talks to facilitate changes and share perspectives about the market and their respective sectors. And the Committee on Transportation organized National Day celebrating cocktail jointly with other associations of the circle.

After establishment in March, Financial and Accounting Affairs Steering Committee proactively communicate with local professional bodies and academic circles, and held talks and training programmes for financial and accounting executives of member companies. Additionally, the Committee published newsletter regularly to facilitate exchanges among member companies.

 

OTHER ACTIVITIES

Visit to the Barracks of the PLA Hong Kong Forces in Stanley

To celebrate the 7^th anniversary of Hong Kong’s return to China, the Association organized hundreds of Chinese enterprises staff and families to visit the barracks of PLA Hong Kong Forces. During the visit, the representative soccer team of the Association had a friendship match with that of PLA Hong Kong Forces.

Visit to the Parade Ceremony of the PLA Hong Kong Force

To celebrate the 77^th anniversary of the establishment of People’s Liberation Army of China, the PLA Hong Kong Forces, for the first time, held a great parade on 1^st August. Upon invitation, the Office-bearers of the Association Mr. Qin Xiao, Advisors Mr. Che Shujian and Mr. He Guangbei, Vice Chairman Mr. Liu Hu, Mr. Chen Shoujie, Mr. Yang Chao, Mr. Liu Guoyuan and Mr. Zhou Jie, Treasurer Mr. Lam Kwong Siu, Executive Director Mr. Wang Rongfeng, Mr. Yuen Mo, Mr. Ou Bingchang, Mr. Zhang Xianlin, Mr. Zhao Le and Mr. Sun Zhongren attended the ceremony. And more than 100 representatives of member companies were in attendance also.

Visit Groups to Guangdong

In July, the Association organized more than 500 staff of member companies to visit Nan Kun Mountain and Qing Yuan, Guangdong Province for leisure and field study. The participants were so happy to meet friends, old and new, through the pleasant and easy trip.

Visit to the Navy Base of the PLA

In early May, a navy fleet of the PLA visited Hong Kong. Taking the chance, Youth Committee and Recreation & Sports Committee organized some young staff of member companies to visit the fleet, with the aim to help them enrich understanding about the Motherland. The Association’s Vice Chairman Mr. Zhou Jie, and Chairman of Youth Committee Dr. Li Shan joined the tour and had a very happy morning. 

Visiting Group of Young Staff of Member Companies to Guangdong

To help young staff, newly recruited college graduates in particular, of member companies to know more about Mainland China, and advancements of economic integration between Hong Kong and the Mainland, the Association’s Young Committee organized a visiting group to Guangdong. During the field tour, the young men visited home village of Mr. Sun Yat Sin, and a few prominent companies in different ownership to share the experience and perspectives with the management.

 

 

OTHER ACTIVITIES

NEW SPRING RECEPTION 2004

On 2 February, the Association hosted new spring reception to liaison friends, old and new. And the Chief Executive the Honourable Tung Chee Hwa, Mr. Zheng Kunsheng and Ms Guo Li, Deputy Directors of Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR, Mr. Yang Wenchang, Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the PRC in the HKSAR, the Honourable Elsie Leung, Secretary for Justice of the HKSARG, were invited to officiate the ceremony. Office-bearers and Directors of the Association joined the function with over 700 guests, among them were heads of related departments of Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR and Commissioner’s Office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of PRC in the HKSAR, high-rank officials of the HKSARG, officers from consulates general of foreign countries in Hong Kong, leaders of foreign chambers of commerce, and representatives of member companies.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

The Association’s Annual General Meeting 2004 was held on 29^th June. Ms Guo Li, Deputy Director of Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR was invited to speak. On behalf of the Borad of Directors of the Seventh Term of Office, Chairman Mr. He Guangbei reported at the meeting the work that has been done by the Association in the previous year, and Treasurer Mr. Lam Kwong Siu reported the Financial Statements of the Association. Mr. Zhou Jie read the Recommended List of the Board of Directors of the Eighth Term of Office of the Hong Kong Chinese Enterprises Association, the Recommended List of Advisors of the Hong Kong Chinese Enterprises Association and the Recommended List of Legal Advisors, Auditor and Financial Advisor of the Hong Kong Chinese Enterprises Association. Through examination, the representatives of member companies passed the work report, financial statements.

The general meeting elected 91 board directors of the eighth term of office, and decided to invite Mr. Chen Xinhua, Mr. Che Shujian, Mr. Wang Mingquan, Mr. He Guangbei and Mr. Cai Laixing as the Association’s advisors, and Mr. Vincent W.S. Lo, Mr. Philip P. Y. Yuen and Ms Eliza C. H. Chan as the Association’s legal advisors, Mr. M. K. Tan as auditor and Mr. Aloysius H. Y. Tse as finance advisor of the Association.

At the First Session of the Board Directors of the Seventh Term of Office right after the general meeting, 27 executive directors were elected. They were: Mr. Qin Xiao, Mr. Liu Hu, Mr. Chen Shoujie, Mr. Wu Jiesi, Mr. Yang Chao, Mr. Li Fuyou, Mr. Wang Rongfeng, Mr. Zhou Jie, Mr. Liu Guoyuan, Mr. Lam Kwong Siu, Mr. Yi Xiqun, Mr. Zang Qiutao, Mr. Liu Jifu, Mr. Yuen Mo, Mr. Rui Xiaowu, Mr. Zhuang Yousong, Mr. Hu Aimin, Mr. Ou Bingchang, Mr. Zhao Bin, Mr. Zhang Xianlin, Mr. Wang Mingcai, Mr. Xue Zhiming, Mr. He Ning and Mr. Xue Zhiming, Mr. Sun Zhongren, Ms Li Xiaolin. And at the first meeting of Board of Executive Directors of the eighth Term of Office, Mr. Qin Xiao was elected as Chairman, and Mr. Liu Hu, Mr. Zhu Chi, Mr. Chen Shoujie, Mr. Wu Jiesi, Mr. Yang Chao, Mr. Li Fuyou, Mr. Liu Guoyuan and Mr. Zhou Jie as Vice Chairmen, and Mr. Zang Qiutao and Mr. Lam Kwong Siu as Secretary and Treasurer respectively.

 

THE BOARD OF EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS

In 2004, the Association held 9 executive meetings to discuss important affairs in the Association.

ADJUSTMENT OF THE SUB-COMMITTEES

In 2004, the Association reduced three sub-committees, established Financial and Accounting Affairs Steering Committee, and designated Dr. Li Shan, CEO of BOC International Holdings Ltd. to head the Youth Committee.

To enhance exchanges among the executives responsible of corporate finance and accounting, the Association established Financial and Accounting Affairs Steering Committee on 25 March. And an ad hoc formal conference followed up with a cocktail was held. More than 200 people attended the event, includes leaders from government agencies, and professional bodies both on the Mainland and Hong Kong, as well as educational and academic institutions. CCTV and some other media reported the event.