The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government officially opened its new Economic and Trade Office (ETO) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, today, marking a significant step in bolstering the territory’s economic engagement with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) bloc. The inauguration signals the commencement of phased operations for the office, fulfilling a key commitment outlined in Hong Kong’s 2025 Policy Address aimed at deepening regional commercial ties.
The newly established Kuala Lumpur presence is the HKSAR’s fourth ETO within ASEAN, joining established offices in Singapore, Jakarta, and Bangkok. This expansion underscores Hong Kong’s strategy to intensify trade, investment, and partnership promotion throughout Southeast Asia and extend its economic reach into neighboring Asian markets.
Strengthening Regional Economic Footprint
Commerce and Economic Development Secretary Algernon Yau confirmed the launch, highlighting its importance for Hong Kong’s status as a premier international trading hub.
“With the new ETO in place, we will step up trade, economic and investment promotion across the countries covered by our four ASEAN offices, and progressively extend our reach to neighboring Asian markets,” Secretary Yau stated. “This will deepen Hong Kong’s commercial ties with ASEAN and related economies, and further consolidate the city’s position as an international trading hub.”
The opening comes as ASEAN countries collectively represent a crucial and rapidly growing market for Hong Kong. By establishing a physical presence in Kuala Lumpur, the HKSAR aims to facilitate smoother communication, enhance collaboration on regional economic initiatives, and better assist Hong Kong businesses looking to enter or expand within the Malaysian market and adjacent territories.
Deployment and Operational Phase
The Kuala Lumpur ETO is commencing operations from temporary premises while preparations are underway for a permanent location. Hong Kong-based officers are being deployed gradually to handle initial preparatory work, which includes establishing vital local networks and logistical arrangements. This careful, staged approach ensures a robust foundation for long-term operational success.
The establishment of this newest ETO is strategically timed to maximize opportunities arising from regional trade agreements and accelerate the flow of goods, services, and capital between Hong Kong and the dynamic ASEAN economies. As global supply chains shift and regional integration deepens, Hong Kong is proactively positioning itself to be the primary gateway and intermediary for China’s Belt and Road Initiative and interactions with Southeast Asia.
Key Contact Information for the Kuala Lumpur ETO
For businesses and organizations seeking to engage with the new office during this initial phase, the temporary contact details are as follows:
- Address: Room 771, Level 7, Tribeca Bukit Bintang, No. 215, Jalan Imbi, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Website: www.hketokl.gov.hk
- Telephone: +60 3 2724 7836
The launch of the Kuala Lumpur ETO reflects Hong Kong’s unwavering commitment to maximizing its external economic partnerships, ensuring its continued prominence in the global trade ecosystem, and driving prosperity across the Asia-Pacific region. Businesses are encouraged to utilize this new resource to explore new investment and trade avenues in Malaysia and beyond.