CALL UPON THE SECRETARY OF STATE BY MR LI KA-SHING, 22 JULY
1987.
INWARD INVESTMENT
BACKGROUND
Inward investment from Hong Kong is not very significant in comparison
with the manufacturing investment of other countries. (A list of Hong
Kong manufacturers in the UK is attached plus a list of active projects
for information). Hong Kong investment around the world has traditionally
developed within Chinese communities in South East Asia, Australia,
California and Taiwan. In recent years joint ventures have been set up
with the Peoples Republic of China on short term contracts.
The Anglo-Chinese agreement of 1984 has largely halted the movement of escapist capital overseas and a mood of confidence has returned to Hong Kong. Nevertheless, the need to develop and protect international markets wiil continue to prompt a few businessmen to establish factories abroad
especially in the garment industry. Another reason for seeking expansion overseas might be to tap research and development facilities which are not
available in Hong Kong itself.
The Invest in Britain Bureau traditionally takes a low profile in Hong
Kong but reacts to enquiries as they arise. A few territorial and regional organisations have maintained a low key visiting programme over
the years and this careful approach is encouraged by the IBB and the FCO.
IBB
July 1987
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