Hong Kong’s super-connector role can help Chinese EV makers tap more markets, experts say

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Hong Kong’s advantages in financing, logistics and commerce, along with friendly policies, can help Chinese carmakers expand overseas

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Hozon will establish its international headquarters and R&D centre at Hong Kong Science Park. Photo: HKSTP

Martin Choi

Published: 8:00am, 10 Aug 2024Updated: 12:53pm, 12 Aug 2024

Hong Kong can serve as a super-connector to help Chinese electric vehicle (EV) makers increase their market presence overseas, according to a government official and industry experts.

The city aims to leverage its proximity to the mainland to help companies in the intelligent-vehicle supply chain gain a foothold in export markets, said Lillian Cheong Man-lei, Under Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry.

As a super-connector and value-adder, “we can help more mainland companies to set up their business in Hong Kong, and expand into overseas markets,” she said at a forum on Friday at Hong Kong Science Park.

The event was organised by Hozon New Energy Automobile, the Shanghai-based start-up behind the Neta brand of EVs. The company signed an agreement with Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) in September to set up its international headquarters in Hong Kong.

HKSTP has signed partnerships with 11 advanced manufacturing enterprises so far this year as part of the city’s push to become an innovation hub.

“Hong Kong is not just a global financial centre and a bridge connecting Western and Eastern cultures,” said Fang Yunzhou, founder and chairman of Hozon. The city can also “serve as a strategic international innovation platform”, he added.