Hong Kong Unveils Plan to Expand Yuan Use in Gold Trading and Cross‑Border Payments

In a speech on Wednesday, Chief Executive John Lee Ka‑chiu announced that Hong Kong’s first five‑year plan will focus on deepening the use of the Chinese yuan. The policy blueprint calls for the city’s biggest push yet to internationalise the currency, targeting new applications in gold trading and cross‑border payments. Lee also highlighted the creation of a regional intellectual‑property trading centre, positioning Hong Kong as a hub for IP transactions. The plan aims to consolidate the city’s status as a global financial centre by expanding yuan‑based services and attracting greater foreign investment into its markets. The initiative signals a strategic shift toward greater integration with mainland China’s monetary system while maintaining Hong Kong’s role in global trade.