The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) and the Islamic Financial Services Board organised the Seminar on Islamic Finance today (Jan 15th) to promote discussion of the development of an Islamic financial platform in Hong Kong.

The seminar was attended by over 280 delegates including representatives from central banks, financial regulators, prominent commercial bankers, market professionals and legal practitioners from Hong Kong and the region, and delegates from countries outside the region including Dubai, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain and countries in Europe.

The Chief Executive of the HKMA, Mr Joseph Yam, said, "The importance of Islamic finance is rising in the global Financial market. As an international financial centre, Hong Kong is stepping up its efforts to promote its financial services to major Islamic countries and regions, and developing an Islamic bond market. "

On the first of the one-and-a-half day seminar, speakers with a wide background and experience in the Islamic financial field examined the opportunities and challenges facing the Islamic financial services industry.

The seminar will continue tomorrow at the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, 56/F, Two International Finance Centre, 8 Finance Street, Central, Hong Kong.