John Lee unveils business measures for Hong Kong's Northern Metropolis megaproject

Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu will unveil measures to ease business entry into the Northern Metropolis megaproject and introduce proactive steps to bolster innovation infrastructure when he delivers his policy address on Wednesday, according to sources familiar with the plans.

The South China Morning Post has learned that support for the Northern Metropolis development in the northern New Territories and initiatives backing innovation are set to be the major highlights of Lee's address. The measures are designed to remove hurdles for businesses seeking to establish operations in the area while strengthening innovation hubs, research efforts and technology applications across the city.

Dual presentation on Wednesday

Wednesday's proceedings will mark a significant day for the administration, as Lee will present both his policy address and the city's first five-year plan during the same session. Government sources indicated the chief executive's speech would run no longer than three hours, with time divided equally between the five-year plan and the policy address.

The five-year plan is expected to incorporate both aspirational and binding key performance indicators alongside concrete goals. The binding targets will apply to both the current administration and future governments, establishing long-term commitments for Hong Kong's development trajectory.

Source: South China Morning Post