The 18th Asian Financial Forum (AFF) 2025, co-hosted by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), successfully concluded under the theme “Powering the Next Growth Engine”. Held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, the two-day event brought together over 3,600 global financial and business leaders from more than 50 countries and regions, reinforcing Hong Kong’s status as a premier international financial hub.
A Platform for Collaboration and Innovation
The AFF 2025 showcased Hong Kong’s critical role in fostering multilateral cooperation and addressing global challenges. With more than 130 speakers, including policymakers, international finance leaders, and tech visionaries, the event delivered dynamic discussions on topics ranging from AI innovation to sustainability, investment opportunities, and China’s economic outlook.
Dr. Peter KN Lam, Chairman of the HKTDC, highlighted the importance of innovation-driven growth, stating, “Future growth will depend on sustainable practices, fintech advancements, and AI applications. Forums like AFF pave the way for innovative businesses to thrive globally.”
Opening with Strategic Insights
The forum commenced with high-level participation from Mainland China officials, including:
- Zhou Ji, Executive Vice Director of the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office
- Dr. Pan Gongsheng, Governor of the People’s Bank of China
- Liu Zhenmin, Special Envoy for Climate Change of China
These leaders underscored Hong Kong’s pivotal role as a financial super-connector linking Mainland China, ASEAN, and global markets.
Key Highlights and Sessions
Economic Growth Strategies
The Keynote Luncheon featured Prof. Justin Lin Yifu, former Chief Economist of the World Bank, who emphasized China’s capacity for sustained growth. Lin remarked, “With the world’s largest domestic market in purchasing power, China can contribute 30% of global growth annually.”
AI and Future Industries
The second day’s keynote focused on AI innovation, with insights from Prof. Stuart Russell, Co-chair of the World Economic Forum’s Council on AI. Russell emphasized responsible AI development, stating, “AI systems should prioritize human interests while avoiding the risks posed by human-like objectives.”
Dr. Kai-Fu Lee, Chairman of Sinovation Ventures, further highlighted AI’s transformative potential in reshaping global industries.
Sustainability at the Forefront
In alignment with Hong Kong’s green finance goals, sustainability was a core focus.
- Sue Lloyd, Vice Chair of the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB), discussed the adoption of sustainability disclosure standards, boosting investor confidence in Hong Kong’s capital markets.
- The session on Post-COP29 Implementation delved into innovative financing strategies for achieving climate goals. Liu Zhenmin called for international collaboration to advance sustainable initiatives.
Fostering Global Partnerships
Gulf Cooperation Council Chapter
This year marked the debut of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Chapter, fostering dialogue between Gulf states and Hong Kong. Speakers from Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates explored financial cooperation opportunities, bolstering ties between Hong Kong and the Middle East.
Deal-Making Opportunities
AFF 2025 facilitated over 700 one-on-one business matchmaking meetings, connecting 270 investors with 560 projects in sectors like fintech, health tech, and green energy.
Joe Tsai, Chairman of Alibaba Group, emphasized the role of corporate responsibility in supporting start-ups during the Global Spectrum session.
Exhibition Zones and Innovation Hubs
The forum featured several exhibition zones designed to promote innovation:
- Fintech HK Startup Salon: Hosted over 60 fintech companies showcasing AI-powered solutions.
- InnoVenture Salon: Provided a platform for 100+ start-ups to display cutting-edge technologies.
- Global Investment Zone: Connected investors with cross-border opportunities.
AFF’s Role in International Financial Week 2025
The AFF is the centerpiece of International Financial Week (IFW), which includes over 20 partner events covering private equity, family offices, and AI advancements. This comprehensive lineup reinforces Hong Kong’s reputation as a global financial hub.
Shaping the Future of Finance
Real-time polling during the AFF revealed participants’ optimism about AI-led innovation and advanced manufacturing as primary growth drivers for Asia-Pacific. As businesses adopt green finance and embrace digital transformation, Hong Kong continues to lead as a hub for global connectivity and innovation.
The 18th Asian Financial Forum showcased the critical role of collaboration, technology, and sustainable practices in shaping the future of global finance, offering actionable insights for business leaders worldwide.
For more information on the AFF 2025 and its outcomes, visit the official HKTDC Asian Financial Forum website.
