The 18th Asian Financial Forum (AFF) kicked off yesterday (13 January) at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The forum expects over 3,600 attendees from over 50 countries and regions to attend.

Themed “Powering the Next Growth Engine”, the forum aims to address the changing global economic landscape and explore new drivers for growth in a world facing resource constraints and environmental pressures.

It highlights the crucial role of innovation, such as AI, renewable energy, and fintech, in powering future economic growth.

The event features over 130 speakers, including policymakers and business leaders from around the world.

The opening session included addresses from Zhou Ji, Executive Vice Director of the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China; Dr. Pan Gongsheng, Governor of the People’s Bank of China; and Liu Zhenmin, Special Envoy for Climate Change of the People’s Republic of China.

Speakers and panelists will address a wide range of topics, including global economic outlook, investment strategies, artificial intelligence, fintech, sustainability, China opportunities, new markets, and philanthropy.

The forum will also feature a deal-making session to connect 270 investors with over 560 projects in sectors such as environment, energy, fintech, deep tech, health tech, and agritech.

The forum will also inaugurate the Gulf Cooperation Council Chapter, featuring discussions on economic development and financial cooperation between Hong Kong and Gulf countries.

The AFF is co-organised by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council.

Featured image: Paul Chan, Financial Secretary of the HKSAR Government participated in the Keynote Luncheon today and delivered welcome remarks