John Lee Ka-Chiu on Gold Trading Centre: A Game-Changer for Hong Kong's Financial Hub

Hong Kong's Urgent Need for a Gold Trading Centre

John Lee Ka-Chiu declared that Hong Kong must move quickly to reclaim its gold trading centre status. He referred to establishing this as a potential game-changer for the economy during a radio show following his annual policy address. With Beijing increasing pressures for enhanced financial capabilities and Singapore's new 500-tonne depository, action is critical.

Ongoing Capital and Tellurium Competition

Lee noted that Hong Kong's current gold vault holds approximately 150 tonnes, significantly overshadowed by the competition’s capabilities. Private metals company Silver Bullion recently opened a vault in Singapore, designed to host up to 10,000 tonnes of silver and 500 tonnes of gold, leading to the imperative for Hong Kong to adapt and enhance its trading mechanisms.

Building on Hong Kong's Financial Hub Status

Lee advocates for strategic enhancements to the commodities trading market, aiming to solidify Hong Kong as a prime financial hub for mainland Chinese businesses. He believes that Hong Kong's unique positioning as a safe haven in turbulent global times makes it attractive to investors.

Long-Term Economic Benefits

Realizing a robust commodities trading market could significantly raise capital influx and attract international talent, fostering growth within the economy.

Regulatory Development and Technological Integration

• Financial Services and Treasury Bureau assigned to establish a working group.
• Focused on regulating and enhancing the trading framework.
• Promoting financial technology applications and collaboration with mainland authorities.

As Hong Kong retains its title as the world’s freest economy in the 2024 Economic Freedom of the World report by the Fraser Institute, Lee's vision includes further strengthening the city's gold trading sector to ensure resilience and ongoing relevance in the global market.