Our Focus Areas

September 17, 2019

The View: No wonder Hongkongers are frustrated when the system is so unequal, unaffordable and uncaring

Hong Kong’s youth and its middle class no longer believe in upward mobility and see little but more competition ahead. Facing economic insecurity and disconnect from older generations, they turn to protests as a way of belonging. A new social contract is needed to restore faith. By Program Director Janet Pau.

November 19, 2019

The View: Hong Kong protesters have shown they can paralyse businesses. Now can they lead positive change?

Chief Executive Carrie Lam’s strategy of waiting out the protests is not working. Meanwhile, businesses are caught between protesters and pressure from China. Protesters must find creative ways out of the impasse that will not destroy Hong Kong. By Executive Director Mark Clifford.

October 16, 2019

The View: China’s targeting of the NBA shows why it may fail at building soft power – and the Chinese dream

By narrowing the boundaries of commentary, China is gradually alienating outsiders who might see opportunities there. In attacking the NBA, which does not need China and would be difficult to replace, Beijing may have finally gone too far. By Executive Director Mark Clifford.

June 18, 2019

The View: As the US-China trade war bites, Hong Kong’s economic survival rests on its liberal values

Hong Kong needs to trim its dependence on the services sector, accelerate research and development, and open up new growth paths — and key to its economic survival are its fundamental values of personal and judicial freedoms. By Program Director Janet Pau.

April 30, 2019

Hong Kong can make itself a role model in preparing for pandemics

Hong Kong can better prepare for pandemic risks by turning to disruptive technology and financial innovation. By Asia Business Council Program Director Janet Pau.

April 16, 2019

Along with climate change come mosquito-borne diseases. Is Hong Kong ready for a public health emergency?

Climate change is not just an environmental but also a looming public health crisis: expect more cases of heat-related illnesses and mosquito-borne diseases. Asian countries are finding hi-tech solutions and Hong Kong should prepare, too. By Asia Business Council Program Associate Jennifer Lo.

October 17, 2017

China Gets That Going Green Is A Win For Job Creation. Why Doesn’t Trump?

In 2016, China accounted for roughly one quarter of the world’s total $329 billion of new energy investment, according to BNEF. More importantly, China sees the green energy transition as an important source of innovation. By Asia Business Council Adjunct Fellow Jill Baker.

June 13, 2017

As Hong Kong’s chief executive, Carrie Lam must lead the charge against gender barriers in the workplace

Getting more women into jobs by addressing workplace gender discrimination and the pay gap are priority issues for an ageing Hong Kong seeking economic transition. By Asia Business Council Program Director Janet Pau and Princeton in Asia Fellow Joanna Sobolewska.

September 26, 2016

Unleashing the Potential of Women in Asia and the Gulf

This briefing focuses on the opportunities and levers to unleash the potential of women, who present an immediate and sizable opportunity for Asia and the Gulf. Improving the education and workforce participation of women in the region is good for society, productivity, and the economy. Expanding opportunities and breaking barriers for women in Asia and

April 14, 2015

More green jobs in a cleaner China

Asia Business Council Executive Director Mark Clifford spoke to Reuters about green job growth in China.