The Hong Kong-French business relationship dates back two centuries, to 1895, and the opening of the Banque Indosuez branch office in Hong Kong. It was, however, the opening up of the Chinese mainland, in the early 1980s, that served as the catalyst for today抯 flourishing trade relations between Hong Kong and France. As opportunities continued to grow between the two economic powers, it became clear that there was a need for a formal promotional organization.

In 2004, Peter Woo, Chairman of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), and Fran蒌is Loos, Minister for Foreign Trade, agreed to move the concept along to reality.

The HKTDC and UBIFRANCE support the operation of the partnership, serving as its secretariat.

The partnership抯 major activity is its annual plenary, which alternates between Hong Kong and France. The first plenary took place in Hong Kong, November 21, 2005, with the second in Paris, November 9, 2006. Hong Kong hosts the third plenary, October 23, 2007.

The partnership抯 mission is to promote trade, investment and business co-operation between Hong Kong and France, as well as between the Chinese mainland and France via Hong Kong. Particular focus is placed on bringing their respective small and medium-sized enterprises together to do business.

The results to date have been encouraging. Between the partnership抯 annual meetings, Hong Kong and French companies have come together in numerous business activities and programmes, particularly in the creative, retail and distribution industries. Many of these events are spotlit in this brochure.