Former secretary for commerce and economic development Gregory So died on Saturday at the age of 67 following ill health.

Chief Executive John Lee expressed sorrow over So's passing and extended his deepest condolences to his family.

"Mr So had dedicated years of service to the Hong Kong community through his work in the government and different public offices, contributing to the city's development in the economy, trade, tourism, information technology, telecommunications and creative industries," he said in a statement.

"Mr So had made significant contributions to Hong Kong with his professional knowledge and dedication."

Before serving as the commerce chief from 2011 to 2017, So was the bureau's undersecretary.

He had also served in various advisory and statutory bodies in areas that included public healthcare services and education.

Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development Algernon Yau also expressed deep sorrow over the death of So, and extended his sincere condolences to the family.

"During his tenure, Mr So had made immense contributions to Hong Kong's economic and trade developments by taking forward various policies and measures, and forging co-operation between Hong Kong and other economies," he said in a statement.