Beijing and Hong Kong Condemn US Investment Report as ‘Biased’ Attack on Their Cities

The Chinese foreign ministry’s office in Hong Kong has criticized a recent US report about the local business environment. They claim the US continues to “maliciously smear and make false accusations” about the national security law.

The US State Department released its “2025 Investment Climate Statements” that reviews conditions across over 170 countries. The section on Hong Kong drew sharp reactions from officials in the city, who believe the report regurgitates old claims.

A spokesperson for the foreign ministry highlighted that the US has imposed tariffs and sanctions on various countries, which undermines its credibility. “It has no right to comment on Hong Kong’s business environment,” the spokesperson asserted. They also pointed out that the trade surplus between the US and Hong Kong surpassed $270 billion in the last decade, the highest among America’s trading partners.

Experts argue that ongoing tensions between the US and China can distort perceptions of the business climate. Political scientist Dr. Emma Chen notes that such reports may ignore the actual investment opportunities in Hong Kong, which can still be robust for many businesses.

In 2023, surveys indicated that about 60% of foreign businesses in Hong Kong reported stable or growing operations despite the political climate. This suggests many firms are still committed to the region, highlighting a divide between political narratives and business realities.

Interestingly, social media reactions to the report have been mixed. While some users echo the official stance, others express concern about the challenges foreign companies might face. This conversation reflects a broader debate on the future of business in a politically charged environment.

For more on the impacts of international relations on trade, you can read the World Trade Organization’s latest findings.

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