The Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Algernon Yau, says collaboration with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries presents significant business opportunities for Hong Kong.

In an interview with RTHK's "Government and You", Yau said the GCC countries, namely Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, are seeking development opportunities in fields such as professional services, finance, and innovation and technology -- where Hong Kong excels.

Yau stressed that Middle Eastern countries have a strong demand for innovation and technology, citing Saudi Arabia's plans to build a futuristic megacity.

The minister also noted that Hong Kong has assisted in organising roadshows, with two matchmaking sessions connecting 40 companies with various sectors. The Belt and Road Office has also attracted five Middle Eastern companies to establish operations in Hong Kong, demonstrating their confidence in the city.

Yau said a key task for the SAR government moving forward is to connect mainland enterprises with the global market, providing them the necessary knowledge about supply chains and information and enabling them to utilise Hong Kong as a regional headquarters or branch office to manage offshore trade and supply chains.