Hong Kong citizens- The new measures in the policy address are practical and feasible and look forward to their implementation

On October 17, the Chief Executive of Hong Kong, John Lee, presented a new policy address that includes several measures aimed at boosting the economy and enhancing the well-being of residents. In recent interviews with various Hong Kong citizens, many expressed their appreciation for the comprehensive approach of the policy report, which addresses current issues faced by the city and proposes practical solutions. They hope to see these measures implemented swiftly.

Following the release of the policy address, a local media outlet conducted an online survey. As of October 17 at 6 PM, over 3,800 people had participated, and more than 86% expressed satisfaction with the new policy report.

Housing and land issues have always been a top concern for the people of Hong Kong. In his latest report, Lee proposed increasing public housing supply, converting subdivided units into standard “simple housing,” enhancing the property ladder, and further simplifying land development and construction procedures. He stressed, “We must urgently help citizens find homes.”

Mr. Chan, in his thirties, commented, “Observing the recent housing policies, it’s clear that the government is determined to solve these issues, gradually improving the living conditions of those in subdivided units. Young people are becoming more confident about home ownership, and I hope the measures outlined in this year’s report are implemented soon for the continuous betterment of our lives.”

The policy address also suggested promoting the integration of quick payment systems between mainland China and Hong Kong, which would facilitate real-time, small-scale cross-border transactions for residents of both regions. Additionally, it aims to enable Hong Kong-registered banks to issue bank cards through their mainland branches to develop inclusive finance.

Ms. Wang believes this will streamline financial connectivity and payment convenience between the two areas. “If mobile payments in Hong Kong could be compatible with those on the mainland, it would be a huge convenience—I’m really looking forward to it,” she said.

Mr. Yu supports the proposal to provide funding for elderly recipients of social welfare to reside in designated care homes in Guangdong. He believes this can assist those on welfare or those who have adapted to life in mainland cities within the Greater Bay Area, noting, “Some elderly have already settled there, so they would benefit from this.”

Mr. Huang, who works in finance, expressed his delight over the plan to establish an international gold trading center mentioned in the policy report. He believes it could attract global participants, particularly physical gold from countries in the Middle East for storage and related transactions in Hong Kong, which would effectively “attract capital” and create new job opportunities. This, in turn, could draw related talent to the city, enhancing Hong Kong’s reputation as an international financial center.

The new policy report also aims to tap into new economic growth areas, including the development of the low-altitude economy. Some residents spoke to reporters about the progress of low-altitude economic initiatives in mainland cities like Shenzhen. They noted that if Hong Kong could follow suit, it would strengthen collaborative development in innovation and technology with the mainland and also promote growth in the tourism industry, benefiting the overall economy of Hong Kong.