Ivanhoe Chang-Hong Kong, Free Trade, Open Markets

Ivanhoe Chang, Director of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, is responsible for promoting and strengthening the business, trade and cultural ties between Hong Kong and 19 western states of the United States.

In his talk, Hong Kong: Exemplifying the Benefits of Free Trade and Open Markets, he will discuss the opportunities and challenges facing Hong Kong and its relevance to California and the United States. The United States is Hong Kong's key trading partner. While for the time being, the impact of the trade friction between China and the United States on Hong Kong's economy is limited, the city must pursue the development of a diversified economy to enhance its capabilities in withstanding external shocks and the fluctuating international trade environment.

Prior to the current appointment, Mr. Chang was Principal Assistant Secretary at the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau responsible for telecommunications policy. He was heavily involved in the promotion of the development of creative industries and the establishment of the Innovation and Technology Bureau. He has also served in various posts within the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government (HKSARG), with policy responsibilities including revenue and taxation, and elections.

The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, San Francisco, is one of the three official offices of the HKSARG in the United States. The other two offices are in Washington D.C. and New York.

This is a weekly membership meeting for The Rotary Club of San Francisco, open to all Rotarians, visiting Rotarians, prospective members, and guests.

Each luncheon ticket includes a three-course lunch. Tickets for Club members are $35 each; $30 if you register online in advance. Non-member tickets are $40 each. Payment by credit card or check is preferred. Tickets available for purchase only at the door.