Budget 2026-27: what can Hongkongers expect from Paul Chan’s financial plans?

South China Morning PostEN 1 min read 100% complete by SCMP ReportersFebruary 25, 2026 at 03:45 AM

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Hong Kong's Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po will release the 2026-27 budget on Wednesday, revealing an unexpected operating surplus after three years of deficits. Driven by a stock market boom, the improved fiscal position has led to calls for more financial sweeteners. However, Chan has emphasized the need to maintain reserves against geopolitical shocks and support long-term growth. The budget is expected to include measures to strengthen Hong Kong's intellectual property economy and aerospace development. It will also allocate substantial funds to a new innovation hub near the border and consolidate Hong Kong's strategic roles in China's 15th five-year plan. The budget aims to balance immediate needs with long-term financial stability and strategic development.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Matthew Cheng 40% Connor Mycroft 40% Natalie Wong 40% Jeffie Lam 40% Denise Tsang 40% Edith Lin 40% Jess Ma 40% Lo Hoi-ying 40% Oscar Liu 40% Hong Kong ×480% Paul Chan Mo-po ×290%

Keywords

budget 2026-27 100% hong kong 90% financial plans 80% paul chan 80% operating surplus 70% economic growth 60% fiscal position 60% aerospace development 50% intellectual property 50% innovation hub 40%

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South China Morning Post

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budget 2026-27 hong kong financial plans paul chan operating surplus economic growth fiscal position aerospace development intellectual property innovation hub

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