Hong Kong Monetary Authority: International Monetary Fund Recognizes the Resilience and Strength of Hong Kong's Economy with Sustained Growth Momentum

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority welcomes the International Monetary Fund's "Article IV Consultation Mission Summary" on the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region in 2026, which affirms the continuous economic recovery in Hong Kong and acknowledges its status as an international financial center and a "super-connector" further strengthened. Norman Chan, Chairman of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, stated that the IMF's assessment once again confirms Hong Kong's resilience and structural advantages as a global financial hub. With a strong economic foundation, sound financial infrastructure, and close connections to global markets, Hong Kong continues to solidify its role as a key gateway for capital flows and international investors entering and exiting the mainland market. The IMF's summary released today points out that Hong Kong's position as a global financial center and a "super-connector" between mainland China and the rest of the world has been reinforced, while maintaining a manageable level of risk in the financial sector, largely due to adequate buffers and prudent regulation. The latest data further validate Hong Kong's strengths: benefiting from increasing demand for bank loans and robust asset quality, the local banking sector has demonstrated resilience, with total loans rising by 4.7% year-on-year in March 2026, and a specific loan ratio of 1.87%. According to government data, private residential prices increased by 7.8% year-on-year in the first quarter, while rents rose by 4.3%, indicating a comprehensive recovery in the residential property market. The IMF's summary notes that the Hong Kong economy continues to recover, with stronger-than-expected growth in 2025, driven by robust performance in technology-related exports, gradual improvement in private demand, and a resurgence in financial market activities. The IMF believes that Hong Kong has favorable conditions to further promote the development of digital finance and sustainable finance. Looking ahead, Hong Kong will consolidate and enhance its status as an international financial center under the guidance of the national "14th Five-Year Plan," strengthening its role as a global offshore RMB business hub, an international asset and wealth management center, and an international risk management center. Additionally, Hong Kong will drive new economic growth engines through financial innovation, closer market connections, and strategic developments in the Greater Bay Area. Overall, these advantages lay a solid foundation for Hong Kong to maintain its position as a leader in the economy and finance, injecting new momentum needed for Hong Kong's long-term development.