According to reports compiled by Worldway Group: The Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development of Hong Kong, Gregory So, stated that the commencement of these negotiations marks a significant milestone in Hong Kong's participation in regional economic integration. The conclusion of a free trade agreement between the two sides will promote mutual economic development and further strengthen Hong Kong's role as a regional trade hub, as well as a bridge for trade and investment between ASEAN and Mainland China.
The negotiations will cover issues such as the elimination or reduction of tariffs, rules of origin, liberalization of trade in services, investment liberalization, promotion and protection, and cooperation on intellectual property rights.
ASEAN member states include Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.
Worldway Group Editor