Hong Kong will not destroy its “successful DNA” and jeopardise its free-port status by retaliating with counter-tariffs on the US even if geopolitical tensions with China escalate further, the city’s leader has promised.
In an exclusive, wide-ranging interview with the Post to mark the third anniversary of his administration, Lee addressed domestic and external challenges as he likened Hong Kong’s integration with mainland China to “a river flowing into the sea”, with the city maintaining its way of life while benefiting from the closer ties.
Lee has his work cut out for him, mitigating the impact of the tariffs that US President Donald Trump has imposed on China to include Hong Kong, regardless of the “one country, two systems” policy under which the city is governed.
Trump launched his latest and most destructive tariff war against China in April, shortly after starting his second term.
Hong Kong’s chief executive is now grappling with a significant budget deficit as well as a property market downturn driven by high interest rates, among other challenges.
