Hong Kong's stock exchange operator says its proven track record of dealing with companies from non-common law jurisdictions makes the SAR an ideal location for Central Asian firms to raise funds.

The stock exchange's diversified pool of liquidity, boasting an average daily turnover of HK$276 billion this year, should also attract firms seeking dual or secondary listings overseas, the bourse operator added.

Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing (HKEX) CEO Bonnie Chan will be part of Chief Executive John Lee's upcoming delegation to Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.

Under HKEX's listing regulations, only issuers listed in the 20 recognised stock exchanges around the world may apply for a secondary listing in Hong Kong.

Speaking to the press ahead of her departure on Sunday, Chan was asked if there are plans to recognise stock exchanges in Central Asia as well.

"Definitely. We want to deepen our collaboration with not only stock exchanges and partners in Central Asia, but I would say, you know, broadly across the board," she said.

"We want to make sure that we are a very accessible market when it comes to global companies wanting to explore accessing a deeper capital raising platform."

Johnson Chui, HKEX's Head of Global Issuer Services, revealed he had recently returned from a week-long trip to Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.

He said the dual primary listing last year of mining firm Jiaxin International Resources in Hong Kong and Astana could set the tone for Central Asian enterprises looking to raise funds in the SAR.

"Off the back of that, clearly it was taken notice by relevant parties and stakeholders in Central Asia," he said.

"In my prior trip a couple of weeks ago, various entities have also raised questions and interest and really wanted to just increase their knowledge on the Hong Kong market, and how they could tap the market, whether it's through dim sum bonds or potentially dual listings."

Chan added that while 40 percent of HKEX's daily turnover is attributed to technology shares, the exchange prides itself on its inclusivity and would do its best to connect capital with investment opportunities.



Edited by Aaron Tam