International economic and trade centre

Hong Kong is renowned for its economic achievement. In 2005, it ranked top as the freest economy in the world for the 11th consecutive year in a row as revealed by the Index of Economic Freedom conducted by the Heritage Foundation. Besides, being the world's largest exporter of garments, watches and clocks, toys, games and electronic products, Hong Kong is also the world's 11th largest trading city, one of the four largest gold markets, the 6th largest foreign exchange market, the 13th largest banking centre and Asia's 2nd biggest stock market.

Excellent infrastructure

World-class infrastructure includes:

• one of the busiest container port in the world and a spacious harbour ready to receive sizable vessels from all around the globe;
• advanced telecommunication network in Asia; and
• a world class airport with more than 5200 flights taking off and landing per week to some 140 destinations, making Hong Kong a transportation and logistic hub in the region.

To ensure that Hong Kong's infrastructure and services are competitive and ready to meet the demand of the 21st century, the Government is committed to spend an average of $29 billion (US$3.7 billion) per year for the next few years under capital works programme.

Tourist hotspots

Hong Kong, being the most popular tourist destination in Asia, received a total of 21.8 million visitors in 2004. The city stands out with its unique blend of eastern and western cultures. Tourists may enjoy shopping, dining, sightseeing, world-class events and attractions in easily accessible locations. Phase I of the Hong Kong Disneyland, occupying 126 hectares on Lantau Island, opened in September 2005. This development marks the beginning of a new era for Hong Kong as an international tourist destination. Disney's choice of Hong Kong as the site for its third international theme park (after Tokyo and Paris) is a vote of confidence in Hong Kong.

Superb food and accommodation

With thousands of restaurants offering an incredible variety of cuisine and services, Hong Kong has long been regarded as one of the world's best cities for dining out. There is an impressive array of delicacies that everyone loves: staggering buffet, fine desserts, classic Hong Kong dishes and international cuisine. Besides, a wide range of hotels and guesthouses for different budgets can be found in the city.

Free society

Hong Kong is a free and open society, with law protecting both its residents and visitors in respect of freedom of speech, press, assembly, movement, religion and academic research. The freedom we prize is the cornerstone of Hong Kong's status as a hub of international business, finance, trade, transport, communication and tourism.

Safe city

Hong Kong has been ranked one of the safest places for tourists in the world and its crime rate is among the lowest in metropolitan cities. The highly trained and efficient Hong Kong Police Force has extensive links to international law enforcement agencies.

Freedom of religion

Different religions thrive and coexist peacefully in Hong Kong. Among them include Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism and Judaism. All have a considerable number of followers.

Quality Services

Hong Kong is the world's 10th largest exporter of services in 2004, which cover civil aviation, shipping, travel and tourism, trade-related services and financial and banking services. Hong Kong's workforce is well-educated, computer-literate, resilient, flexible and entrepreneurial. English and Chinese are Hong Kong's two official languages and English-speaking visitors will find it very easy to communicate with others in hotels, shopping malls and retail outlets.