Sophia Chong has been appointed Executive Director of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) with effect from 1 October.
Ms Chong, currently an HKTDC Deputy Executive Director, is succeeding Margaret Fong, who will retire.
Prof Frederick Ma, Chairman of the HKTDC, described Ms Chong as an innovative, resolute and wise leader who has worked closely with SMEs over the years to enhance Hong Kong’s commercial and trade influence with remarkable achievements.
“I firmly believe that she will lead the HKTDC to a new chapter upholding the enterprising spirit of innovation and pragmatism to further consolidate Hong Kong’s advantage as a global trading hub, helping enterprises seize and explore unlimited business opportunities,” he said.
Prof Ma also expressed his gratitude to Ms Fong, the HKTDC’s retiring Executive Director, for her outstanding contributions. He praised Ms Fong for helping companies and industries expand their global reach, deepening international connections and overcoming various challenges to lay a solid foundation for the HKTDC.
Ms Chong, Executive Director (designate), said was honoured by the appointment. She added that she was fully aware of the responsibility on her shoulders, pointing to rapid changes within the global economy.
“Together with the HKTDC team, I will continue to keep pace with the times and leverage Hong Kong’s unique advantages as a global hub, drive transformation through innovation and fully connect the local, mainland and international business communities,” Ms Chong highlighted.
“This will create broader business opportunities for enterprises and inject inexhaustible impetus into Hong Kong’s economy.”
Ms Chong has already served HKTDC for more than 30 years.
She was promoted to Deputy Executive Director in 2022, overseeing exhibitions and digital business.
She has turned several exhibitions into world-leading sourcing and marketing events, while leading the innovation of digital commerce. She has also successfully created opportunities for SMEs, connected global buyers and guided HKTDC to become a leading trade promotion organisation.