Eric Lam: Hong Kong's Role as a Legal Center Across Various Fields Depends on the Common Law Foundation Under the "One Country, Two Systems" Framework

The Secretary for Justice, Paul Lam, stated at the New City Financial TV’s “Heroic Wealth Banquet” and the Hong Kong Business Leaders Brand 2026 Awards Ceremony that the country’s 14th Five-Year Plan supports Hong Kong in consolidating and enhancing its status as an international financial, shipping, and trade center, as well as an international aviation hub. It also aims to strengthen its functions as a global offshore RMB business hub, an international asset and wealth management center, and an international risk management center; support Hong Kong in building an international innovation and technology center, deepen its international legal and dispute resolution services, and develop a regional intellectual property trade center; and accelerate the construction of the Northern Metropolis.

He continued, these are not new developments. He paid special attention to certain verbs—some are about “consolidating,” some about “building,” and others about “strengthening”—but these are not the main point. The key word is “international.” Everyone needs to understand that achieving internationalization is not a one-sided effort. It requires mutual willingness, meaning friends from other places will be very willing to come to Hong Kong, seeing it as a place full of opportunities, fun, safety, and enjoyment. To create this atmosphere, we must talk about its core—legal issues.

Mr. Lam believes that to foster an international environment, confidence must be instilled. People should feel assured that whether doing business or investing here, they will be fairly protected and operate in a stable environment. He thinks one of Hong Kong’s greatest successes as a legal hub across various fields is largely due to the “One Country, Two Systems” framework, based on common law, and a well-developed, high-level, reputable rule of law environment. Looking ahead, the Department of Justice will continue to work closely with other policy bureaus to create a fairer, more stable, and more convenient legal environment, supporting the development of commerce, finance, and other sectors.