Hong Kong economy faces external, local challenges but core competitiveness remains: HKSAR chief executive

She said the HKSAR government has rolled out a number of measures to help the small- and medium-sized enterprises, or SMEs, covering a broad range of sectors including logistics, retails, catering, tourism, construction, agriculture and fisheries. Subsidies will also be provided to badly-hit industries such as transportation and tourism.

"All the measures with a total sum of around 64 billion (Hong Kong) dollars are expected to provide a 2-percent impetus to our economy," she said.

Lam reiterated the emphasis on the determination of the HKSAR government to stop violence and its commitment to ensure the comprehensive and effective implementation of the "one country, two systems" principle in Hong Kong.

Despite the difficult external and domestic environment, Hong Kong retains its core strengths as an international financial center with an unrivalled geographical location, the rule of law, an independent judiciary, the free flow of information and a wide pool of professional talents, she said.

Lam appealed to leaders in the business community to stand up against violence and restore social order. Once that is achieved, the HKSAR government will work with relevant organizations to carry out promotional work and other measures to rebuild international confidence in Hong Kong, she said.