Hong Kong has launched public consultation for the 2026-27 budget, which the finance chief says will focus on how the city can expand its economic development and better integrate into China’s 15th five-year plan.
Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po on Wednesday highlighted several key issues for the coming budget, including how the city could further broaden and deepen its economy, accelerate innovation and technology, upgrade its industrial structure, and strengthen its integration and contribution to national development.
He said other issues included creating more high-quality jobs and ensuring the benefits of economic growth and diversification are widely shared across the community.
Next year marks the beginning of China’s 15th five-year plan, opening a new chapter not only for the mainland but also for Hong Kong and Macau.
In October, Beijing released details of the 15th five-year plan, marking a new stage in Hong Kong’s efforts to advance its economic and social development while focusing on the “eight-centres” strategy set out in the previous plan.
The strategy defines Hong Kong’s role in areas such as finance, trade and shipping, and talent development.