Hong Kong has a unique window to establish itself as Asia’s premier blue economy hub, according to three studies released by ADM Capital Foundation, the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), and WWF-Hong Kong.
The reports—Port 1.0 to Port 2.0, Blue Finance for a Blue Economy, and Valuing the Invaluable Blue—outline a coordinated roadmap that positions Hong Kong at the forefront of sustainable maritime commerce, aligning global shipping reforms, financial innovation, and ecological preservation.
The findings suggest that sweeping regulatory shifts in the shipping sector, such as the International Maritime Organization’s net-zero targets and carbon pricing, are converging with Hong Kong’s ambitions to revitalize its maritime sector.
These developments are seen as catalysts for significant port upgrades, clean shipping transitions, and a broader integration of environmental and economic planning.
Central to the vision is the concept of “Port 2.0”—a reimagining of Hong Kong’s port infrastructure into a multifunctional maritime interface that bridges commerce, technology, civic engagement, and ecological stewardship.
HKUST’s analysis emphasizes the potential for Hong Kong’s existing maritime assets and strategic geography to serve as test beds for green shipping and urban marine innovation.
Meanwhile, ADM Capital Foundation’s report underlines the city’s potential as a global leader in blue finance.
Leveraging its role as the world’s third-largest capital hub, Hong Kong could deploy financial instruments such as blue bonds to support marine-linked projects including port decarbonisation, sustainable fisheries, and eco-tourism.
The report notes Asia’s dominant role in blue bond issuance in 2023 and 2024, with China leading the region.
WWF-Hong Kong’s commissioned study quantifies the economic value of the Greater Bay Area’s coastal ecosystems at RMB 4.9 trillion—equivalent to over a third of the region’s GDP.
With marine ecosystems contributing 73% of this value, the report argues for integrating ecosystem accounting into policy and investment decisions to reinforce resilience and sustainability.
The reports collectively advocate for a transition that merges conservation with economic development, reflecting China’s broader marine policy trajectory.
The authors warn, however, that the opportunity for Hong Kong to define itself as a leader in blue economy development is time-sensitive.
By leveraging its financial clout, port assets, and environmental data infrastructure, Hong Kong could help shape a maritime future where ocean health and economic prosperity are mutually reinforcing.
Business News Asia