|
|
Article: Hong Kong looks to China and WTO.
- Article from:
- United Press International
- Article date:
- December 19, 2001
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 2001 United Press International. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
|
HONG KONG, Dec 19, 2001
After 15 years of persistence, China joined the World Trade Organization this month and while the mainland is sure to benefit, Hong Kong is standing by hoping to reap a few of the rewards.
A possible free-trade zone between Hong Kong and the mainland has been discussed for years and could be the answer to the former British colony's needs. With the Asian financial center's economy in the doldrums and unemployment now at 5.8 percent, Hong Kong is ready for a boost. The events of Sept. 11 have kept many American and European tourists at home, driving down air travel and luxury hotel occupancy. Redundancies in all sectors are adding ...