HONG KONG, Sept 17 — In a sweeping and ambitious address, Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee laid out a vision for a more prosperous, compassionate, and future-ready city. Addressing the public in his fourth annual policy speech, Lee emphasized economic revival, stronger livelihoods, and affordable housing as the cornerstones of his government’s commitment to the people.
Lee, a former police deputy and now a key political figure, reaffirmed the city’s economic growth target of 2–3% for 2025, despite regional challenges including China’s economic slowdown and ongoing geopolitical tensions. At the heart of his speech was a promise: to elevate the standard of living for ordinary Hongkongers.
“Our ultimate objective is to improve livelihoods,” Lee said, “with better housing for members of the public, higher income for workers, enhanced care for the elderly, and greater prospects for young people.”
He painted a picture of a Hong Kong that isn’t just keeping up with the global pace, but leading in sectors like gold trading, fintech, green finance, and pharmaceutical innovation. The creation of an international gold trading hub and sustainable aviation fuel industry are among the government’s newest ventures to diversify and energize the city’s economy.
Bridging Borders, Building Homes
A key highlight was the acceleration of the Northern Metropolis project—a mega plan to house 2.5 million people and create a robust innovation hub near the Shenzhen border. This reflects Hong Kong’s evolving identity as a connector between China and the world, particularly through the Greater Bay Area initiative.
As part of Hong Kong’s internationalization efforts, Lee announced an increase in the number of university spots for overseas students—from 40% to 50% of local capacity. The move positions Hong Kong as a rising global education hub.
Recognizing Modern Lifestyles
In a lighter but impactful announcement, Lee proposed licensing pet-friendly eateries, citing the city’s nearly half a million pet cats and dogs. This effort is not just about animal rights—it’s a nod to changing lifestyles, rising pet ownership, and emerging economic opportunities in the pet care sector.
Encouraging Families and Future Generations
To address low birth rates, families will now receive a tax allowance of HK$260,000 per child over the first two years after birth—a significant step toward supporting new parents.
Why This Matters
John Lee’s policy address was more than just a governmental update—it was a call to action, a vision of shared prosperity, and a reminder that governance must be rooted in the lives of people.
In a city known for its economic strength but challenged by inequality and high living costs, these policies offer a glimpse of hope. Not everything was new or revolutionary, but the intent was clear: to connect opportunity with humanity.
Hong Kong is not just rising again economically—it is beginning to dream again.
