Hong Kong Metropolitan University and Heilbronn University Graduate School are jointly organising a Symposium on “Impactful Innovation and new venture creation: The role of government, industry, and the university” this 6 December 2024, in Hong Kong. The event will delve into the essential collaborations necessary to drive sustainable growth and societal progress, also highlighting the strong economic ties between Germany and Hong Kong that exemplify successful international cooperation.  

Germany, as Hong Kong's largest trading partner in the EU in 2023, EU's second largest export market and largest import market within the region, is continuing to play a key role in Hong Kong’s economy. Furthermore, in 2021, Hong Kong was the fifth largest destination in Asia for German investors, emphasising the depth of their investment relationships. This robust economic interaction was underscored in 2022 when Hong Kong’s trade balance with Germany reached approximately 1.46 billion US dollars, establishing Germany as one of Hong Kong’s top 10 trading partners.  

The Symposium will bring together thought leaders, policymakers, and academics from both regions to exchange ideas and share best practices towards a more innovative and entrepreneurial future. By drawing on the historical and current economic bonds between Germany and Hong Kong, the event aims to explore how such strong connections can further enhance collaboration across government, industry, and universities to foster impactful innovation and new venture creation.