Turkish Consul General Kerim Sercan Evcin has called for closer ties and increased trade between Turkey and Hong Kong. Evcin highlighted the potential for more direct flights between the two jurisdictions to meet demand and consolidate Hong Kong's role as a global hub. Currently, there is only one flight a day each way between Hong Kong and Turkey, operated by Turkish Airlines. Evcin has had fruitful dialogue with the Transports and Logistics Bureau and Transport Secretary Lam Sai-hung and hopes to organize consultations between the civil aviation authorities of the two jurisdictions. Increasing the number of direct flights would not only enhance connectivity but also boost trade and tourism between the two regions [5555f276].
In addition to advocating for more flights, Evcin envisions opportunities to increase Turkey's exports of agricultural products, such as organic fruit and vegetables, to Hong Kong. He also appeals to Hong Kong authorities to open an Economic Trade Office in Istanbul to further boost ties between the two jurisdictions. Hong Kong's direct investment in Turkey amounted to about US$40 million by 2022. Evcin is working on arrangements for an official visit between the two jurisdictions in 2025 and mentions a ready-to-sign double-taxation agreement [5555f276].