Dear members,
I am thrilled to share a series of impactful updates and milestones achieved by the Hong Kong Institute of CPAs that underscore our unwavering dedication to advancing the accounting profession and championing Hong Kong’s economic growth. Each achievement reflects our commitment to the three strategic themes of the Strategic Plan 2025: “Building Trust,” “Nurturing Talent,” and “Driving Development and Transformation.”
In early April, I had the privilege of hosting a dynamic luncheon with leading international and local media representatives. During the event, I unveiled the key focus areas of our Strategic Plan 2025. I also highlighted our initiatives to promote sustainability, enhance our international presence, and drive digital transformation across the accounting sector. By sharing our vision and achievements, we aim to reinforce public confidence in the integrity and value of the accounting profession.
One such initiative is a new public affairs professional development series. The inaugural event, Sharing on the Two Sessions 2025, had over 300 participants joining this thought-provoking discussion. Esteemed members shared valuable insights into the implications of the Two Sessions for Hong Kong and the accounting profession. This dialogue showcased the Institute’s dedication to guiding members in understanding and aligning with national priorities.
In another showcase of our commitment to building public trust, I had the honour to speak on the panel titled “The importance of ISSB Standards for Global Sustainability Reporting” at Earth Forum 2025 in mid-April. During the discussion, I underscored how ISSB Standards can lay the groundwork for mandatory reporting with assurance, and shared insights on the Institute’s publication of the HKFRS Sustainability Disclosure Standards last December, our ongoing efforts in capacity building, and addressing key comments raised by stakeholders to facilitate the application of these standards.
In February, we welcomed the government’s inclusion of accounting talent in the updated “Talent List,” effective 1 March 2025. This recognition – advocated by the Institute – addresses critical talent gaps and ensures high-quality accounting services in Hong Kong. Complementing this, the government’s expansion of the Top Talent Pass Scheme will further attract global talent, a vital step toward strengthening the profession’s future.
“Each achievement reflects our commitment to the three strategic themes of the Strategic Plan 2025: ‘Building Trust,’ ‘Nurturing Talent,’ and ‘Driving
Development and Transformation’.”
Our commitment to talent engagement was evident in April when I led a delegation to the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Talent Development Showcase in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. This event, organized by Hong Kong Talent Engage, facilitated meaningful exchanges with Malaysian counterparts and strengthened ties with top talent in the region, advancing Hong Kong’s reputation as a hub for professional excellence.
The Institute remains steadfast in cultivating the next generation of accounting professionals. We were excited to introduce Computer-Based Examinations for the Qualification Programme (QP) in collaboration with the Hong Kong Examinations and Assessment Authority. This innovation delivers a smarter, greener, and more efficient assessment experience, aligning with our vision of modernizing professional development.
Starting this year, we will begin awarding certificates to students who complete certain QP modules to acknowledge their progress. This will encourage continuous learning, and motivate them to complete the QP to obtain their CPA qualification. Individuals from other industries and various positions can also earn this certificate to validate their practical accounting and business knowledge. Stay tuned as we announce new updates.
To support Mainland Chinese enterprises in their global expansion, the Institute launched the List of accounting firms helping Mainland enterprises go global. This comprehensive resource, featuring over 80 Hong Kong accounting firms, highlights their expertise, international experience, and target markets. By connecting Mainland enterprises with Hong Kong’s world-class accounting services, we are fostering cross-border growth and reaffirming Hong Kong’s position as a leading professional services hub.
We also applauded the 2025-26 Budget, which embraced several of our recommendations, including measures to promote green finance, support technological innovation, and advance the megaevent economy to enhance Hong Kong’s global brand. These initiatives align closely with our mission to drive economic transformation while maintaining high standards of fiscal responsibility.
Thank you for your ongoing support. I look forward to sharing more exciting updates with you in the future.
Edward Au
President
