Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki today chaired the first meeting of the fourth-term Human Resources Planning Commission, during which the Office of the Government Economist briefed the members on Hong Kong's latest economic performance and labour market situation.

The committee members took note that the economy progressed steadily last year amid a complicated and changing external environment, recording a moderate growth of 2.5%.

The labour market, on the other hand, remained tight with the latest unemployment rate staying low at 3.1%. Looking ahead, Hong Kong’s economy is expected to register further growth of 2 to 3% in 2025 despite a challenging external environment.

The members were also informed about the 2024 highlights and 2025 plans of Hong Kong Talent Engage (HKTE). HKTE organised the inaugural Global Talent Summit · Hong Kong in May last year, which successfully promoted Hong Kong's dual role as an international talent hub and the country's gateway for talent to the international community, while strengthening regional talent co-operation.

To reinforce the city's status as an international hub for high-calibre talent, HKTE will organise the second Global Talent Summit early next year. The committee members discussed HKTE's work strategy for attracting talent and promoting Hong Kong.

The committee was also briefed by the Labour & Welfare Bureau on the outcomes of the latest round of the Talent List update. With the addition of nine new professions, the updated list covers 60 professions with local talent shortages, and would help attract top talent and professionals required for the industries related to the "eight centres" to generate new impetus for growth.

The members were pleased to note that the committee's views and those from local business chambers and industry organisations have been taken on board. They also discussed ways to strengthen external promotion of the Talent List.

Emphasising that the Human Resources Planning Commission is an important policy platform, Mr Chan said that he looks forward to working closely with its members in the future to assist the Government's work in building a vibrant economy and striving for development, ensuring effective human resources planning to promote diversified development of the economy.