The chief executive said on Thursday the SAR will strengthen its capital market to fully support the development of new energy vehicle (NEV) companies from the mainland.

Speaking at the International Automotive & Supply Chain Expo at AsiaWorld-Expo, John Lee said that in terms of production and consumption, the nation's NEV market is the largest in the world.

"Hong Kong's international capital market and world-leading professional services can provide financing and overseas promotional services for the mainland's new energy vehicle firms," he said.

"The city can also help foreign companies enter the enormous mainland market."

Hong Kong, Lee said, will fully support the nation's work in promoting global cooperation in the industry's supply and manufacturing chains, as well as building an efficient logistics system.

The government has attracted strategic companies, such as in the artificial intelligence and smart driving technology fields, to set up in Hong Kong over the past two years, and the chief executive said they can collaborate with NEV firms to promote new quality productive forces.

Lee also said the administration will lead the green industries to boost sustainable development.

By fostering the development of NEVs, such as subsidising private enterprises to install quick-charging facilities, he said the government is aiming to put in place sufficient charging facilities for 160,000 electric vehicles. The number of EVs at the end of last year was around 110,000.