On Wednesday’s Backchat, we’re looking into where the Asian economies are headed, and whether businesses in the region are prepared for a potential return in US tariffs.

Speaking at the Asian Financial Forum, Financial Secretary Paul Chan urged Hong Kong businesses to seize opportunities in emerging markets, citing the Middle East, ASEAN, and the Global South as examples.


Last week, the minister led a 130-strong delegation to Jakarta and met with top ASEAN officials, discussing ways to facilitate trade with the 10-member block.


With looming uncertainties over US President-elect Donald Trump’s policy direction, some argue that now is the time for Asian economies to come together and strengthen multilateral cooperation. Can Hong Kong be the super-connector?


In the last part of the show, we discuss calls by labour groups to better protect industrial workers, following two separate construction accidents in less than 24 hours.

9:05am-9:30am: Asian Financial Forum

9:05am-9:30am: Alan Lung, political analyst and Co-Convenor (International), The Path of Democracy

9:05am-9:30am: George Cautherley, veteran businessman and former Vice-Chairman of the International Chamber of Commerce (Hong Kong)





9:30am-9:50am: Where are Asian economies headed?

9:30am-9:50am: Ong Kian Ming, former Malaysian Deputy Minister of International Trade and Industry (2018-2020) and Pro Vice-Chancellor for External Engagement, Taylor's University


9:50am-10:00am: Construction accidents

9:50am-10:00am: Lam Chun-sing, Lawmaker, The Federation of Hong Kong and Kowloon Labour Unions