Chief Executive John Lee will depart for Peru tomorrow to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders' Meeting and other related activities in Lima.

This year, APEC has adopted the theme “Empower. Include. Grow”, with discussions focused on three priorities that include trade and investment for inclusive and interconnected growth, innovation and digitalisation to promote transition to the formal and global economy, and sustainable growth for resilient development.

Apart from attending the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting to be held on November 16, Mr Lee will participate in the APEC Leaders' Informal Dialogue with Guests, the APEC Leaders' Dialogue with the APEC Business Advisory Council, and the Gala Dinner hosted by the organiser for participating leaders on November 15.

Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Algernon Yau will attend the APEC Ministerial Meeting on November 14. 

The Chief Executive will also have bilateral meetings with leaders of the other economies to exchange views on issues of mutual interest.

Mr Lee said: “Hong Kong, as an international trade, financial, and professional services centre, has always adopted a free and open trade policy. Trade between Hong Kong and other APEC member economies accounts for some 80% of Hong Kong's external trade, making them Hong Kong's important trade partners.

“The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government will continue to actively participate in APEC-related matters to promote regional economic development and integration.”

Additionally, Mr Lee and the officials plan to meet local business leaders in Lima to enhance bilateral trade and business co-operation and promote Hong Kong's advantages and development opportunities in various aspects, telling good stories of the city.

Director of the Chief Executive's Office Carol Yip will join the visit.

Mr Lee will return to Hong Kong on November 19. During his absence, Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki will be Acting Chief Executive.

Mr Yau will return to Hong Kong on November 18. During his absence, Under Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Bernard Chan will be Acting Secretary.