Edward Yau, GBS, JP, has a long and distinguished career in government. He served as Hong Kong’s Secretary for Environment (2007-2012), Director of the Chief Executive’s Office (2012-2017), and Secretary of Commerce (2017-2022). Preceding his political appointments, he served 26 years in various government positions including Director-General of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Washington DC, Director of Information Services, and Deputy Secretary for Education and Manpower. As Hong Kong’s Commerce Secretary, Yau has successfully accomplished a record number of Free Trade and Investment Protection Agreements between Hong Kong and major partners including ASEAN, Australia, and Georgia. He has also represented Hong Kong at various international forums including the UN Climate Conference, World Trade Organisation and APEC Ministerial Meetings. During his tenure, Yau strove to uphold Hong Kong’s longstanding free trade reputation and promote barrier free trade through bilateral and multilateral trade negotiations. He led business delegations calling on major trading partners especially those along the ‘Belt and Road’ that connect with China through Hong Kong. He frequently speaks with international media as well as at university forums on trade, global economy and international relations.