We thank all of you who have called to show concern and support for Hong Kong at this difficult time. I can report that the situation there is stabilizing.
Daily, Hong Kong government and heroic medical teams are gaining experience and winning ground in the battle against severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS).
Over the recent holiday period, the number of SARs patients who went home from hospital after successful treatment outnumbered new admissions, which has lifted spirits.
Some friends have asked if they can confidently conduct trade with Hong Kong at this time. The answer is a resounding “yes” for the following reasons:
*Imports and mail from Hong Kong do not pose a health risk. That is a World Health Organization fact.
*Production is going on as usual in Hong Kong’s widespread network of factories in the Chinese mainland and elsewhere.
*Goods are flowing to overseas markets with minimum disruption.
*Trade fairs are going ahead in Hong Kong for an extended spring buying season, with stringent health protection measures in place. At Hong Kong Trade Development Council’s (HKTDC’s) consolidated fairs for gifts and houseware (April and July) more than one third of reconfirmed exhibitors are from overseas. Hong Kong also look forward to welcoming overseas buyers with open arms, VIP treatment and attractive travel packages.
*Life is going on in Hong Kong, with people going to work every day and schools re-opening on a phased basis.
*Nimble and innovative Hong Kong firms are finding new ways to connect with customers, including setting up of temporary showrooms overseas.
The HKTDC, too, has stepped forward with special initiatives such as web conferencing, virtual exhibitions and catalogue shows in your markets to broaden your business communication channels with Hong Kong, Details are listed on our Resource Center page.
The entire Hong Kong community is united to overcome this problem. It is also the top priority for leaders on the Chinese mainland. Temperature checks and health screening at Hong Kong’s airport are restoring confidence in air travel. High-tech screening will soon be installed at Hong Kong’s land crossings with the mainland, in close co-operation with health authorities there.
It would be a tremendous help if you would help us pass these messages on. Meanwhile, please don’t hesitate to call us at 808-222-8183 if you have any questions.
Also for practical tips on how to connect with partners in Asia, see https://www.hkchcc.org/resource_center.htm
”’Johnson W. K. Choi, MBA, RFC, is president and executive director
of the China-Hawaii Chamber of Commerce, the Hong Kong China Hawaii Chamber of Commerce and the Hong Kong-Hawaii Chamber of Commerce. for more information, call (808) 222-8183, see”’ https://www.hkchcc.org/
”’or email at:”’ mailto:info@hkchcc.org