The Hong Kong Government is commencing a major strategic planning initiative by developing its first ever FIVE-YEAR DEVELOPMENT PLAN, which will more closely align with the national development objectives of the People’s Republic of China. With this announcement, there has been a fundamental change in the policy direction of Hong Kong and an attempt to further integrate the policies of Hong Kong with those of China by establishing a long-term vision and integrating Hong Kong into national objectives and development plans.

As stated by Chief Executive of Hong Kong, John Lee Ka Chiu, he will be chairing a new cross-department task force to assist in creating the landmark development plan. The task force will coordinate with all relevant departments within the Government to ensure that the policy direction of the Hong Kong Government aligns and complements the objectives set out by China through its Plan, which is to take effect during the period 2026-2030.

As stated by Chief Executive of Hong Kong, John Lee Ka Chiu,

“My plan right now is that once the details of the country’s 15th Five-Year Plan are released, we will align ourselves with the specifics – whether they are parts concerning Hong Kong or the country’s overall blueprint,”

Lee stated that the this development plan will be developed using a highly coordinated approach and involve extensive planning across all sectors. Furthermore, once this official Plan is released, then priorities and resources of the Hong Kong Government will be strategically aligned with the long-term economic growth of China.

Comprehensive Framework for the Development of Hong Kong: Now and Into the Future

Hong Kong’s long-term policy framework has traditionally been developed through annual policy addresses, budget presentations and individual sectoral strategies. However, this plan differs markedly from its predecessors in that it provides Hong Kong with a long term framework for strategic medium-term development; it will outline policy priorities related to economic development and finance; education; health care and housing; youth development and social services; and international engagement and market diversification.

The New 15th GFP and Importance of National Integration

Lee pointed out that in order to achieve ‘Strategic Alignment’ related to the Plan, here is now occurring, HK needs to create mechanisms to fill any gaps as they relate to policy, and thus, will allow for enhanced support for the direction of National Policy from 2023.  He indicated that these Policies are not exclusively only of an economic nature, but it can also include all aspects of society.  The nature of these new documents represents the entire objective of China in their desire for Sustainable and Balanced growth in all aspects.

Many experts and community representatives have shared opinions regarding the underlying significance of this decision.  Many political analysts have indicated that the establishment of this Plan for HK, represents an expanded and/or pro-Active role for the HK Government, and a greater alignment with National objectives than simply reacting to pressures from the outside.”

Official and public responses Commentators and local characterisations have stated that this initiative may assist:

• Clarifying the city’s strategic orientation

• Increasing the degree of policy co-ordination between different departments of government

• Providing greater faith and confidence to residents and investors

• Improving SAR government capability to hold to account and plan for the long-term

Several legislators and analysts believe Hong Kong has an excellent opportunity to capitalise on the positive aspects of its competitive position which includes its being a regional world centre for finance and capital, an international hub for attracting talent and as the bridge between Mainland China and the global markets whilst also meeting national priorities of developing and enhancing innovation, technology and human capital.