With Hong Kong leader John Lee set to deliver his annual policy address on September 17, the Post examines key topics the chief executive is expected to focus on, including a mega infrastructure project near the border, new economic drivers and livelihood issues.

In Kai Tak, Hong Kong’s up-and-coming hip hotspot and home to a new 50,000-seat stadium, the tenant mix along a major promenade where residents shop for daily essentials reveals a lot.

Among roughly 40 shops lining the 800-metre pavement, 13 are property agencies – far outnumbering restaurants, pharmacies and convenience stores.

Some property listings feature simplified Chinese characters, catering to a growing number of mainland clientele. One advert promotes a 559 sq ft two-bedroom flat at the Cullinan Sky private development, next to Kai Tak MTR station, for HK$12.8 million (US$1.6 million).

“Nearly 80 per cent of our buyers here are from mainland China, including those admitted under government talent schemes,” veteran property agent Jeffrey Wai Man-chun said.

“Our sector – and actually our economy – has depended on them to stay afloat these few years, especially with weak demand locally.”