The 19th Asian Financial Forum (AFF), co-organised by the Hong Kong SAR Government and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), will convene on January 26-27, 2026, at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre under the theme "Co-creating New Horizons Amid an Evolving Landscape" with the new tagline "Finance Empowering Business." The forum expects over 3,600 participants from more than 60 countries and regions, featuring over 140 speakers who will address critical financial topics in a rapidly changing global environment. Christopher Hui, Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury of the HKSAR Government, stated that Hong Kong aims to bridge the world and the Chinese Mainland by leveraging its global financial leadership, positioning the city as a crucial intermediary in international finance.
A significant focus of the forum will be on gold market development, including a dedicated discussion session and the signing of a memorandum of understanding to drive the construction of an international gold trading centre in Hong Kong. This initiative underscores Hong Kong's strategic role in commodity markets and its efforts to expand its financial services offerings beyond traditional banking and investment sectors. The event will also launch the inaugural Global Business Summit on its second day, focusing on the integration of finance and the real economy, aligning with China's 15th Five-Year Plan recommendations that emphasize sustainable economic growth and industrial upgrading.
Maggie Ng, Asian Financial Forum Steering Committee Chairperson and HSBC Hong Kong CEO, emphasized Hong Kong's role as China's gateway to the world, supporting mainland firms going global and offering wealth management expertise to international investors seeking access to Chinese markets. Patrick Lau, Deputy Executive Director of HKTDC, noted that the forum's new Global Industry Summit aims to foster deep integration between finance and high-value industries, transforming capital into economic growth and industrial upgrading through strategic partnerships and innovative financial instruments. The forum's agenda includes keynote speeches, policy dialogues, and thematic workshops covering topics such as Global Economic Outlook, Asset & Wealth Management, Fintech, and Gold Exchange, providing comprehensive insights into current financial trends.
Two plenary sessions on the first day will feature financial officials and leaders from institutions like the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank and the Asian Development Bank, discussing regional economic cooperation and infrastructure financing. The keynote luncheon will host Dr. Jose Manuel Barroso, former President of the European Commission, and Paul Polman, a business leader focused on sustainability, highlighting the forum's commitment to addressing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors in financial decision-making. The Global Business Summit on January 27 will explore high-growth sectors like artificial intelligence, biomedicine, and green energy, with sessions on Chinese Mainland enterprises going global and strategic collaboration, featuring leaders from companies such as Zhejiang Geely Holding Group and LONGi Green Energy Technology.
The forum will include exhibition areas like the FutureGreen showcase and FintechHK Start-up Salon, with over 140 exhibitors including major financial institutions demonstrating innovative technologies and sustainable solutions. AFF Deal-making, co-organised with the Hong Kong Venture Capital and Private Equity Association, will facilitate collaboration and investment opportunities between entrepreneurs and investors, supporting the growth of startups and small to medium-sized enterprises. The forum kicks off International Financial Week 2026, featuring partner activities on topics like ASEAN opportunities and artificial intelligence, extending the dialogue beyond the main event. Attendees can access exclusive cultural and dining discounts in Hong Kong, enhancing the overall experience of participants. For more information, visit the official Asian Financial Forum website or view the detailed programme to explore session details and registration options.
