Forum on Professional Services

This afternoon, I attended the Forum on Professional Services organized by the Government. My government colleagues introduced the new Professional Services Advancement Support Scheme to some 200 attending professionals.

Professional services is a fast growing sector in Hong Kong. In the 10 years between 2004 and 2014, the sector's contribution to Gross Domestic Product expanded, and the sector registered an annual growth rate of 8.7 per cent, higher than that of financial services, trade and logistics.

In Hong Kong, a great number of university graduates join the professional services sector every year. In order to meet the employment and development needs of our graduates and young professionals, we have to make continual efforts in exploring markets outside Hong Kong. Our professionals have laid the foundation overseas, but they need further support from the Government. I announced in this year's Policy Address that $200 million would be allocated to support the professional services sector. The allocation will be used to fund the Professional Services Advancement Support Scheme. I encourage and welcome interested parties to submit applications.

August 30, 2016