Hong Kong unveils inaugural five-year plan and policy address

Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee has unveiled the city’s inaugural five-year plan alongside his final Policy Address. The five-year blueprint is intended to outline strategic directions and priority areas rather than establishing a planned economy, with Lee emphasizing that it will strictly adhere to the city’s capitalist system and the ‘One Country, Two Systems’ principle.

A central component of the strategy is the development of the Northern Metropolis, a 30,000-hectare project near the mainland border designed to serve as a new growth engine. The plan aims to accelerate land release, boost technological integration with the mainland, and provide over 70,000 housing units within the next five years. Infrastructure goals include expanding railway lines and improving medical networks to create a ‘15-minute living circle’ for residents.

The administration also plans to expand the National Security Exhibition Gallery to promote the concept that ‘security brings prosperity.’ Additionally, the Policy Address is expected to include new measures regarding childbirth incentives and pro-family policies to address demographic challenges.