The Jiangsu (Nanjing)-Hong Kong Economic and Trade Cooperation Conference opened in Nanjing on November 13, attracting representatives from nearly 40 enterprises in the two cities.

This conference is also a part of Nanjing’s initiative to enhance investment and trade cooperation amid the sixth China International Import Expo in Shanghai.

Nanjing and Hong Kong have enjoyed closer economic and trade ties over the years. To date, Nanjing is home to 5,843 Hong Kong-funded projects, with the actual investment amounting to $42.55 billion. Meanwhile, Nanjing enterprises have invested in 403 projects in Hong Kong, with a combined pledged investment of $6.11 billion.

In the meeting, Shi Lop-tak, president of the Chinese Manufacturers' Association of Hong Kong (CMA), emphasized the association’s role in facilitating cooperation among businesses, academia, researchers and others for a synergistic effect. He said many companies present at the meeting possess rich experience in international trade and branding, urging both sides to collaborate in exploring markets associated with the Belt and Road Initiative.

Established in 1934, CMA is now one of the most representative industrial associations in Hong Kong. With some 3,000 member companies, CMA is committed to promoting Hong Kong’s industrial and commercial development, and advancing the city’s economic and trade cooperation with the mainland.