Hong Kong and Kuwait Strengthen Ties with Landmark Business Delegation and Bilateral Accords

15 May 2025

Mr Lee (left) meets Amir of the State of Kuwait His Highness Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah (right)

HONG KONG - In a landmark step towards deepening economic and strategic ties, a high-powered delegation of over 50 business leaders from Hong Kong and Mainland China, led by Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) John Lee, concluded a successful visit to Kuwait on May 14. The visit saw the signing of 24 memoranda of understanding (MOUs) and cooperation agreements across various sectors, signaling a new chapter in Hong Kong Middle East collaboration.

Speaking to nearly 300 Kuwaiti business leaders at a luncheon themed “Partnering for Success Hong Kong as a ‘Super Connector’ and ‘Super Value-Adder’,” Mr. Lee emphasized Hong Kong’s pivotal role in connecting Mainland China to global markets. “We are here to better understand the opportunities of Kuwaiti business and investment,” he said. “Together, we can create long-term mutual opportunities.”

Key Highlights from the Visit:

24 MOUs and Agreements Signed: Covering a wide spectrum including economy and trade, investment, finance, technology, legal cooperation, aviation, logistics, education, and sports.

Aviation Boost: A new MOU was signed between the Airport Authority Hong Kong and Kuwait Airways, aimed at enhancing air connectivity between the regions.

Visa-Free Access Expansion: From May 15, the United Arab Emirates will grant Hong Kong passport holders 30-day visa-free access, while Oman will extend its visa-free stay to 14 days.

Trade with GCC Growing Rapidly: Hong Kong’s trade with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) reached nearly US$20 billion in 2023, up 53% over four years. Kuwait currently holds the GCC presidency, and Mr. Lee hinted at a potential free trade agreement between Hong Kong and the GCC in the future.

On May 13, Mr. Lee met with senior Kuwaiti leaders, including:

His Highness Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Amir of the State of Kuwait

Crown Prince His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah

Acting Prime Minister His Excellency Sheikh Fahad Yousuf Saud Al-Sabah

Discussions focused on strengthening cooperation in finance, trade, innovation, and technology, with Mr. Lee reiterating Hong Kong’s unique position under the “one country, two systems” framework.

The delegation also toured major Kuwaiti firms and institutions:

At Bukhamseen Group Holding Company, Mr. Lee showcased Hong Kong’s international business environment and professional services ecosystem.

A visit to Zain Group allowed for exchanges on AI, drones, smart cities, and digital communications.

The Sheikh Abdullah Al Salem Cultural Centre tour highlighted cultural synergies, with Mr. Lee advocating for enhanced cultural exchanges.

Mr. Lee’s visit marks a strategic move to position Hong Kong as a gateway for Chinese and international businesses to tap into the Middle East, especially under the Belt and Road Initiative.

As Hong Kong deepens its footprint in the region, both sides appear poised to unlock fresh economic, technological, and cultural collaborations in the years ahead.