Financial Secretary Paul Chan on Friday said Hong Kong would see more opportunities than challenges this year.

Speaking at a forum organised by the Chinese General Chamber of Commerce, Chan said the city's economy saw improvements in the past year in areas like innovation and technology, while attracting enterprises and investment.

The finance chief said the economic performance of Asian countries was strong, which included China recording five percent GDP growth in 2024.

He said Hong Kong should continue to leverage its unique advantages, and reinforce its connectivity with both the mainland and the world.

"While consolidating traditional markets in Europe and the United States that are closely connected to Hong Kong, we have to fully explore new markets and sources of capital at the same time," Chan said.

"Hong Kong not only acts as a bridge for the mainland and advanced economies like Western countries and the United States, but it also serves as a link for the mainland and Global South countries, including in the Middle East, Southeast Asia and Central Asia."

Chan said Hong Kong's economy would still undergo a structural adjustment this year, and the United States' presidential handover would bring uncertainties to the market.

But he stressed that the SAR would have a "better future" through reform and change.