About Us

Overview
Alberta's economic growth results from our ability to export more of our products and services to new global markets, and to attract international investment and visitors to our province.

The Alberta Hong Kong Office (AHKO) is set up with the focus to promote, develop and assist with trade and investment opportunities in Hong Kong and China, which add value to the business initiatives of Alberta companies in the market region. The Office was established in 1980 to co-ordinate the province's trade, investment, education and business immigration related activities in China and Hong Kong.

China, including Hong Kong, is Alberta's second largest export market, after the US. Magnitude of Alberta's exports to China is in excess of over CAD2.2 billion per annum. China is one of Alberta's fastest growing markets. Exports increased by average of 20.3% per year since 2001. Primary exports include antifreeze, sulfur, wheat, polyethylene, and wood pulp.

Hong Kong is an important trade and investment partner for Alberta. Alberta sells annually over CAD110 million of goods to Hong Kong. Alberta's main exports to Hong Kong include antifreeze (ethylene glycol), hides and skins, telecommunication equipment, cigarette filters, wheat, beef and canola. There have been major investments from Hong Kong into Alberta oilsand, oil and gas developments, in excess of a cumulated investment of CAD1 billion. These include investments into Husky Energy and other smaller companies. Other investments have come through the business immigration program.

The signing of the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA) between Hong Kong and China in June 2003 aims to strengthen trade and investment cooperation between the two sides. Economic integration between the two sides is anticipated to be further increased. Through the implementation of new measures such as elimination of tariffs, liberalization of trade and services, will bring substantial benefits to both Hong Kong and China . Beneficiary sectors include manufacturing, innovative service industries, financial services, advertising, exhibition, management consultancy, etc. Based in Hong Kong, the Alberta Hong Kong Office serves as a link for Alberta business to get access to the burgeoning southern China market.

Services of the AHKO

The Alberta Hong Kong Office provides the following services:

• Business introductions, networking, referrals and assisting Alberta companies in identifying potential business partners
• Market studies, market research reports, and market intelligence on opportunities for selected products and services
• Consultation on local business practices, trade regulations and protocols
• Logistics support such as meeting arrangement, hotel bookings and arrangement for interpreters
• Temporary office space and business services (on a cost recovery basis) at the Alberta Hong Kong Office