Hong Kong expects the implementation of the free trade pact it signed with the mainland in June will boost its economic growth. 
 
A senior Hong Kong trade official says the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement, or CEPA, will give the region's products and services more access to the mainland market.

The agreement will also invigorate the region's traditional and rising industries and create more employment opportunities.

He adds that the further implementation of the CEPA will attract more companies to invest in Hong Kong and cement its status as a financial hub in the Asia-Pacific region.

(CRI October 30, 2003)