A delegation of Hong Kong business leaders and consular officials began a tour of northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region on October 10. The visit aims to explore new business opportunities and strengthen economic ties between Hong Kong and Xinjiang.
Cui Jianchun, commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Hong Kong, said at the launch ceremony that the tour will promote collaboration by combining Xinjiang’s advantages with Hong Kong’s strengths. “Xinjiang offers strategic location, rich resources, and diverse industries. Hong Kong brings expertise in funding, services, and innovation,” he noted.
The delegation includes representatives from Hong Kong’s consular corps and business communities. They will visit cities including Urumqi, Kashi, and Yining over the week-long trip, with a schedule running through Thursday.
David Whitwam, chairman of the New Zealand Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong, said he is particularly interested in Xinjiang’s dairy industry. He hopes to understand the technologies used in breeding cattle and processing dairy products, while exploring potential cooperation with local companies.
The itinerary also includes visits to cooperation zones developed under the Belt and Road Initiative, as well as fruit processing firms and other dairy enterprises. These stops are designed to showcase Xinjiang’s industrial and technological capabilities while identifying opportunities for investment and partnerships.
Officials emphasized that the tour will help Hong Kong businesses tap into Xinjiang’s growing markets while supporting regional development. The delegation aims to create lasting connections, foster knowledge sharing, and encourage collaborative ventures that leverage both regions’ strengths.
Economic analysts say such initiatives could strengthen trade ties and contribute to broader economic integration within China. They also highlight the potential for knowledge transfer in industries such as agriculture, food processing, and technology.
By exploring Xinjiang’s resources and industrial hubs, Hong Kong business communities hope to expand their portfolios and create new avenues for cross-regional cooperation. The delegation’s visit underscores the increasing focus on integrating Hong Kong’s financial and service capabilities with mainland China’s regional economies.
As the tour progresses, business leaders are expected to sign preliminary agreements, share best practices, and explore joint ventures. These efforts aim to boost economic growth while fostering innovation and sustainable development in both Hong Kong and Xinjiang.
