ABSTRACT
The economic relations of Hong Kong with China and the world have changed, which has introduced uncertainties, in particular for the educated youth. Hong Kong’s traditional role as a bridge between China and the world has altered, while its position within China’s economy is still being weakly defined. This can be shown through examples: Foreign direct investments (FDIs) and international trade; logistics and trading; finance; and tourism (the last three being considered economic “pillars” by the Hong Kong government). All have experienced irregular performances in recent years. The container port is on the decline, while the performances of FDIs and the financial sector have been shadowed by the role of Hong Kong as a tax haven. If tourism has encountered a steady growth, its contribution to the domestic economy is quite limited. These uncertainties over the future of the economy have generated doubts among many Hongkongers, which has translated into a declining support for the liberal economy and globalization. The educated youths, who still have to find their place in the society, have become disenchanted with a system that does not benefit them anymore: Hong Kong is (seen) no longer a land where everybody has a chance to succeed as in the past.
