Our Scans · Hong Kong · Weekly Summary

• [New] Chainlink will supply its oracle technology for a new cross-border stablecoin pilot that connects Hong Kong and Australia through Project mBridge, a multi-nation initiative backed by the Bank for International Settlements. Analytics Insight
• [New] LRQA has acquired five risk-focused companies across the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, Canada, and the United States in a move to expand its service offerings in ESG, clean energy, digital assurance, food safety, and responsible sourcing. Insurance Business
• [New] Due to tariff war and ending de minimis for shipments from China and Hong Kong by the U.S. government, the valuation of Shein could decline to less than $50 billion. Emerging Market Skeptic
• [New] Since tax authorities have begun to focus on the tax regulation of offshore investment income from US stocks, Hong Kong stocks, etc., it is worth noting whether Web3 offshore income will become the next key audit target. IFC Review
• [New] Hong Kong's postal service will stop handling packages coming from or going to the United States, in the latest retaliatory move amid an escalating trade war between Washington and Beijing. CNN
• Hong Kong has the opportunity to lead by setting standards and providing APIs that enable fintechs and payment platforms to connect and expand across borders. Metaverse Post
• Since both cities have majority ethnic Chinese populations, a CCP operation could blend in more easily, and it may even be easier for Chinese operatives to entice a target to visit Singapore and Hong Kong as opposed to mainland China. FDD
• As a gateway to the Greater Bay Area and a magnet for global talent, Hong Kong offers unique opportunities for fintech startups. Fintech Hong Kong
• Hong Kong will create a new financial sector, including Technology, virtual assets, stablecoins, and green finance. FuTu News
• Attempting to develop a nuclear capability will disrupt South Korea's relations with export destinations such as China, Vietnam, Japan, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, India, Australia, Mexico, Germany and Malaysia. @RSIS_NTU
• Focusing on other business risks, a study conducted by QBE in late 2024 and early 2025 indicated that SMEs in Hong Kong and Singapore remain exposed to risks they often do not insure against. Insurance Business
• As a gateway linking global capital flows, Hong Kong offers unparalleled opportunities to serve high net-worth individuals, multinational corporations, and cross-border investors. Insurance Business
• The widespread adoption of WhatsApp in Hong Kong-used daily by 85% of consumers - creates a unique opportunity for businesses to connect with customers throughout the entire customer journey. The Manila Times
• For red-chip stocks of companies that are mainly controlled or have substantial business in mainland China but are listed in Hong Kong, red-chip enterprises will first withhold 10% corporate income tax before distributing dividends. IFC Review
• Financial incentives like lower taxes provided by the Shenzhen government, coupled with bordering Hong Kong, created a favorable environment for entrepreneurially-minded people like Wang to pursue their economic opportunities. The European Business Review
• The inclusion of Hong Kong in U.S. tariff measures against the PRC raises concerns about potential disruptions to trade flows and supply chains involving Hong Kong and U.S. enterprises. Charltons
• The risk of arbitrary arrest, charge and prosecution for security related offences is low in the context of the 7.5 million people residing in Hong Kong. GOV.UK
• While a decline in cases is expected in countries like Australia and Japan, others - such as Taiwan, South Korea, and Hong Kong - are likely to continue seeing elevated failure rates due to persistent economic challenges and weak trade demand. Insurance Business
• The reciprocal duty rate on most imported goods from China, Hong Kong, and Macau will increase from 34% to 84%. Woodland
• In another boost for quantum innovation and AI, China Telecom and the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology have signed a strategic partnership agreement under which both organizations will establish an Artificial Intelligence Innovation Laboratory and a Quantum Innovation Joint Laboratory. TelecomTV
• A recent study by the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology has revealed a startling public health threat: About 17 million people are at risk of gastrointestinal problems due to excessive sulfate levels in groundwater. ScienceDaily
• The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology has launched generative AI research labs, while the University of Hong Kong has announced that AI literacy will be a mandatory course for incoming students starting in the coming semester. Shroffed
• Announced & Implemented - 125% tariff on goods from China, Hong Kong, and Macau: Goods originating from China, Hong Kong, and Macau will now face a 125% tariff, effective immediately. Zonos

Last updated: 14 June 2025