Dear members,
The first few months of 2026 have been both energizing and demanding for our profession. Against a backdrop of economic adjustment, technological acceleration and increasing global interconnection, one message has come through clearly: the accountancy profession has an important role to play in supporting Hong Kong’s long-term development.
Earlier this year, the Institute continued to engage constructively with the broader policy environment facing Hong Kong. Around the time of the 2026-27 Budget, we contributed professional perspectives on fiscal priorities, competitiveness and long-term resilience. Ongoing dialogue between policymakers and the profession remains important, and the Institute will continue to provide our input grounded in professional expertise.
In February, the Institute announced Strategic Plan 2026, setting a clear direction for the years ahead. The plan outlines our priorities in strengthening global engagement, advancing digital transformation and supporting members across diverse career paths. It reflects extensive consultation and a forward-looking view of how the profession must continue to evolve.
This commitment to quality and thoughtful engagement is also reflected in the international recognition received by A Plus, which was awarded Bronze honours at the 2025/26 MERCURY Awards. The recognition reflects the collective effort behind the publication in supporting informed discussion for members and the wider accounting community.
“Ongoing dialogue between policymakers and the profession remains important, and the Institute will continue to provide our input grounded in professional expertise.”
A key highlight during the period was the Institute’s Public Affairs Series event on “The Two Sessions 2026 – Key Takeaways and Implications” in March, which brought together close to 300 participants from across the profession and the wider community. I was honoured, in my capacity as a member of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), to join fellow CPPCC members and an National People’s Congress representative in sharing perspectives on national development priorities and their implications for Hong Kong. The strong turnout and lively exchange reflected the profession’s keen interest in understanding the broader policy context in which we operate, and the value of informed, open dialogue on issues shaping Hong Kong’s future.
Opportunities to reconnect and strengthen ties across sectors also featured during the period. Events such as the Institute’s Spring Cocktail created space for members and stakeholders to come together, reinforcing the sense of community that underpins our profession and our collective ability to navigate change.
April marked an important milestone in our international engagement. As part of a series of engagements with the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC), the Institute welcomed members of IFAC’s Professional Accountants in Business Advisory Group during their visit to Hong Kong. The visit culminated in the HKICPA x IFAC Professional Accountants in Business Conference, where the Financial Secretary attended as Guest of Honour. His participation was instrumental in advancing meaningful dialogue on the evolving role of professional accountants in business as drivers of innovation, resilience and sustainable growth. In particular, his three key observations on navigating this era of change were highly insightful and well received. The HKICPA will continue to work closely with our members in these areas as we collectively strive for excellence.
The Institute also entered a new chapter in leadership with Arthur Lee’s appointment as Chief Executive and Registrar. With extensive experience spanning finance and sustainability, Arthur brings valuable perspective as we continue to strengthen our organizational capabilities and deliver on our strategic priorities. I encourage members to join me in welcoming Arthur and to work closely with him as we take the Institute and the profession forward together.
Stephen Law
President
