With a population of about 7.00 million in mid- 2009, is a small but dynamic city which has earned an international reputation as a leading commercial and financial centre as well as a highly efficient entrepot. Hong Kong has also seen a rapid expansion of its services sector in the past two decades, contributing up to 92 per cent of Hong Kong’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in recent years.

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) was established on July 1, 1997. Under the principle of “One Country, Two Systems”, Hong Kong’s previous capitalist system and way of life shall remain unchanged for 50 years and the HKSAR will be run by Hong Kong people. The HKSAR enjoys a high degree of autonomy except for the foreign and defence affairs.

The Chief Executive (CE) is the head of the HKSAR. According to the Basic Law, the CE shall be selected by election or through consultations held in Hong Kong, and be appointed by the Central People’s Government. At present, the Election Committee which is responsible for selecting the CE is composed of 800 members. Most members of the Election Committee are returned by election.

The success of Hong Kong as a leading trade, finance and business centre stems from a policy of free enterprise and trade, industrious workforce, well-developed infrastructure and excellent telecommunications. Over the past 20 years, the Hong Kong’s GDP has grown by an average annual rate of 3.8 per cent per annum in real terms. In 2009, GDP at current
market prices amounted to $1,633.5 billion, while per capita GDP has reached $233,239.