"More than any other city in Asia, Hong Kong has an international character and way of doing business that compares favourably with New York or London. People coming here can feel very comfortable with the familiar customs and regulations, and the fact that Hong Kong is a neutral location in many ways. Basically, virtually anyone who wants to do business here is welcome.

Another very important factor is its geographic location. Hong Kong is really the heart of Asia, within a few hours flying time of all key business centres in the region. Most significant is our proximity to Mainland China, and the big market that represents. With its entry into the WTO, and the future Beijing Olympics, we can see tremendous potential for all types of trade flowing through Hong Kong.

What Hong Kong offers to international traders is unique. We have all the elements to facilitate the trading of goods. Where else can you come face to face with the designer, marketer, promoter, financier and shipper and make and sign deals in a safe legal environment? These are important issues for anyone attending a trade fair, and the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre complements that process by providing some of the best facilities for exhibitors that can be found anywhere in the world.

In terms of overall facilities for business visitors, Hong Kong ranks among the very best for hotels, transport, communications and professional services. And when you're looking for some rest and recreation, it is no fluke that Hong Kong has long been the single most popular destination in Asia, combining a dynamic atmosphere with great sightseeing, shopping and dining experiences.

What we are seeing now is a transformation from those traditional values to a wider appeal, offering a gateway to China, more family-oriented entertainment with a Disneyland opening in 2005, and a move to conserve and open up Hong Kong's rich heritage for visitors to enjoy. Most importantly, the government is taking steps to cut back on pollution and improve the environment.

The HKGCC will continue to play its role in providing objective advice and networking to anyone wanting to trade and do business through Hong Kong. Our subsidiary, Chambers Service Ltd, helps organise international conferences, and would be happy to assist smaller organisations interested in staging trade fairs at the HKCEC."