Hong Kong aims to lead global nature and blue finance hub

A new report released by the ADM Capital Foundation, Blue Bond Accelerator, Hong Kong Green Finance Association, and The Nature Conservancy argues that Hong Kong is positioned to become a leading hub for nature and blue finance. The report, titled ‘Developing Hong Kong as a Nature Financing Hub – A case for advancing nature and blue bonds’, aims to address a global annual funding gap for nature estimated at US$942 billion.

The report identifies the Northern Metropolis, a 30,000-hectare mega-development, as a key driver, offering scalable projects such as wetland parks, coastal protection zones, and revitalized drainage channels. Hong Kong already possesses significant infrastructure in this sector, having raised nearly HK$250 billion (US$32 billion) through its government green bond programme by the end of 2025. Notably, approximately 80% of the city’s green and sustainable bond issuance is led by the private sector.

By aligning its Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan 2035 with national priorities like the ‘Beautiful China’ initiative under the 15th Five-Year Plan, the report suggests Hong Kong can serve as a financial bridge between the Chinese Mainland and ASEAN nations.