Hong Kong is actively courting African businesses, promoting the city as the ideal springboard to access the Chinese mainland and broader Asia-Pacific markets. Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) launched an eight-day mission on May 10, 2026, visiting Johannesburg in South Africa and Kigali in Rwanda to strengthen ties and attract African companies.

Led by Associate Director-General of Investment Promotion Loretta Lee Shuk-ching, the delegation is highlighting Hong Kong’s business-friendly environment. African firms setting up in the city can enjoy a globally recognised common law system, simple tax structure, and easy access to Asia’s massive consumer and business markets.

Hong Kong recently cut profits tax to 8.25% for qualifying physical commodity traders. Combined with its position as the world’s leading offshore Renminbi hub, this creates an attractive route for African exporters of commodities to reach high-liquidity Asian markets efficiently.

Loretta Lee emphasised Africa’s growing importance as an engine of global growth. She said Hong Kong offers stability, connectivity, and professional services that can help African enterprises expand successfully into Asia.

For many African businesses, entering Asian markets can be complex due to language barriers, regulations, and cultural differences. Hong Kong provides a familiar legal system, international financial services, strong logistics, and direct links to mainland China advantages that can save time and reduce risks.

The initiative is particularly relevant for sectors such as commodities, fintech, renewable energy, and consumer goods. South African and Rwandan companies are among those targeted in this latest push, but the outreach is expected to extend to other African markets.

This move forms part of Hong Kong’s broader strategy to position itself as a super-connector between Africa and Asia. As African economies grow and seek new trading partners, Hong Kong aims to serve as a trusted middle ground that benefits both sides.

For African entrepreneurs and exporters, the opportunity could open doors to billions of consumers and new investment flows. Success stories of African firms using Hong Kong as a base may encourage more companies to follow.

InvestHK says it will continue engaging with African partners through targeted missions, seminars, and support services. The current visit is expected to generate concrete business discussions and long-term partnerships.

This development reflects increasing interest in building stronger Africa-Asia business bridges, offering fresh opportunities for African companies looking to grow beyond their traditional markets.