According to media reports, Hong Kong may secure a membership among the new members to be confirmed by the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank. Many financial experts in Hong Kong believe that due to its advantages in financing and various professional services, the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank may establish a branch in Hong Kong and potentially collaborate with other institutions to set up a financial center in the city. This will help Hong Kong seize the opportunities presented by the "Belt and Road" initiative and solidify its status as an international financial center, which is also good news for those planning to invest and immigrate to Hong Kong.
Experts analyze that the "Belt and Road" initiative, strongly promoted by the country, will bring about $8 trillion in investment demand. If the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank establishes a branch in Hong Kong, it will significantly enhance Hong Kong's role as a major bridge for mainland capital to "go global." This is undoubtedly a once-in-a-lifetime development opportunity for Hong Kong's overall economy.
Chen Fengying, former director of the World Economy Research Institute of the China Institute of Contemporary International Relations, expressed to the Hong Kong media that Hong Kong has the "timing, geographical advantages, and favorable conditions" to become a financial base for the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank. Hong Kong has close financial cooperation with the mainland, and the advantages of "one country, two systems" are unmatched by other countries and regions. However, he also reminded that the current social environment in Hong Kong may become an obstacle to future cooperation between the two regions. Hong Kong residents need to adjust their mindset and let go of prejudices so that cooperation can proceed smoothly, allowing for more sustainable economic development in Hong Kong.
Liao Qun, chief economist and general manager of the research department at China CITIC Bank International, stated in an interview with the Hong Kong media that 50-60% of the mainland's foreign direct investment is conducted through Hong Kong. As a bridge for mainland capital to "go global," Hong Kong has four key functions: fundraising, financing, professional services, and resource operation. If the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank establishes a financial base in Hong Kong, both financial sectors can utilize funds more effectively and have advantages in using financial instruments such as hedging and leverage.
Wang Chunxin, senior economic researcher at Bank of China Hong Kong, believes that Hong Kong can play five special roles in promoting the "Belt and Road" infrastructure construction through the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank: first, serving as a primary international financing channel for the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank; second, becoming an international investment partner for projects supported by the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank; third, facilitating mainland enterprises to go global; fourth, cooperating with the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank to promote the internationalization of the Renminbi; and fifth, providing international talent for the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank.
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government is eagerly anticipating this development. Chan Ka-keung, Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, revealed that the Hong Kong Monetary Authority is preparing to establish the "Infrastructure Financing Promotion Office" with the hope of developing Hong Kong into a major financing and fund management channel for the construction of the "Belt and Road," thereby better showcasing Hong Kong's role as a financial intermediary.