Global Digital Trade Symposium 2026
The Hong Kong Experience
Connecting Trade, Powering Innovation, Shaping the Future
May 19, 2026 | HKCEC
19 May 2026
HKCEC
19 May 2026 (Tue)
2:30 pm – 7:00 pm (Symposium + Networking)
7:00 pm onwards (Banquet Dinner)
Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC)
19 May 2026 (Tue)
2:30 pm – 7:00 pm (Symposium + Networking)
7:00 pm onwards (Banquet Dinner)
Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC)
Elevating Hong Kong as the Gateway to Seamless Global Trade
In an era of evolving global supply chains, geopolitical shifts, and rapid technological advancements, Hong Kong stands at the forefront of digital trade innovation.
The symposium will bring together over 30 senior PAA members from 17 key economies, alongside Hong Kong government officials, chamber and trade association leaders, and approximately 300 representatives from traders, shippers, financial institutions, and supply chain providers.
This premier event offers a unique platform to share Hong Kong’s pioneering experiences in digital trade facilitation, explore cross-boundary opportunities, and forge strategic partnerships that drive global economic growth.
Honourable Speakers
Mr. Algernon Yau, JP
Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development
The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Of the People’s Republic of China
Hong Kong, China
Mr Yau assumed the post of the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development on July 1, 2022. His portfolio covers policy areas from trade, commerce to telecommunications and broadcasting, and from promotion of intellectual property and consumer protection to boosting inward investment.
Before joining the Government, Mr Yau held key managerial positions in the aviation and logistics sector. He was Chief Executive Officer of Greater Bay Airlines, and prior to this, Chief Executive Officer of Cathay Dragon, Executive Director of Cathay Pacific Board, and Director Service Delivery of Cathay Pacific. Mr Yau managed different aspects of business operations throughout his career in the private sector, and also served on various advisory bodies of the Government.
Mr Yau holds a Bachelor of Business degree in Transport and Logistics from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology University. He is also a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport in Hong Kong.
Mr. Howard LEE, JP
Deputy Chief Executive
Hong Kong Monetary Authority
Hong Kong, China
Howard Lee is responsible for reserves management, financial infrastructure and fintech. He is also an Executive Director of the Hong Kong Mortgage Corporation Limited. He joined the HKMA in 2009 as a Division Head and has worked in various areas including monetary management, financial stability surveillance, corporate services and banking policy. He was appointed as a Deputy Chief Executive on 1 January 2018. Prior to joining the HKMA, Mr Lee worked in the Hong Kong SAR Government in areas relating to economic development, financial services and other public policies.
Symposium Focus Hong Kong’s Experience in Advancing Global Digital Trade Ecosystems
As import/export policies adapt to new realities and AI-driven technologies reshape trading ecosystems, Hong Kong emerges as a global hub for innovation and collaboration.
This symposium convenes policymakers, regulators, and industry leaders to examine how Hong Kong’s strategic initiatives, such as the Trade Single Window (TSW), digitization of B2B trade documents, Port Community System (PCS), Commercial Data Interchange (CDI), CargoX, and the Go Global Launchpad for Mainland enterprises, are reinforcing its position as an international trade center.
Participants will gain actionable insights into leveraging Hong Kong as a launchpad for Asia-Pacific expansion and beyond, fostering resilient, efficient, and sustainable trade networks.
Symposium Highlights
Delve into global supply chain opportunities, digital trade facilitation, and policy innovations through expert-led panels.
Network with decision-makers from PAA’s 17 economies, Hong Kong officials, and trade association chairmen to build cross-border collaborations.
an AI-powered platform for compliance, logistics, trade finance and more. 
Culminate the day with high-level interactions and a banquet dinner, honoring Hong Kong’s role in global digital trade.
Organisers
Supporting Organisations
Business Partners
FAQs
What language will the event be conducted in?
The symposium will be conducted primarily in English.
How to go to Global Digital Trade Symposium 2026?
Enter the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre from the Harbour Road entrance.
Note: The Harbour Road entrance to the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre is for passenger pick-up and drop-off only; parking or prolonged stays are not permitted.
Turn left to the underground elevator.
Proceed to Level 4.
Turn left to the venue.
Do I need to register separately for the dinner?
Yes, you are most welcome to join the dinner. Kindly indicate your participation in the enrollment form so that we can make the necessary arrangements for you.
What happens if extreme weather occurs?
| Time | Arrangements |
|---|---|
|
Before 12:00 noon |
If Typhoon Signal No. 8 (or above) or the “Extreme Conditions” alert is issued or in effect, all morning sessions and lunch events will be cancelled. |
|
After 12:00 noon |
If the Typhoon Signal No. 8 (or above) or “Extreme Conditions” remain in effect, the entire symposium will be cancelled. If the warning is lowered before 11:59 a.m., the symposium will reopen at 2:00 p.m., with an adjusted schedule. Exhibitors and staff are requested to return promptly to their positions once the venue reopens. |
Symposium Highlights
(Decription)