HONG KONG, March 17 (Reuters) – Hong Kong’s leader John Lee said he was “very concerned” about the rise in oil prices due to the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran and that the financial hub, along with the rest of Asia, would see shocks and volatility due to the disruption of supply and oil prices.
Lee, speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, said the government was working to ensure stable energy supplies and would increase transparency of information related to supply and energy prices.
“There are, of course, risks because the conflict is creating disruption to the supply of oil,” Lee said, adding that authorities were working to mitigate risks and monitor price fluctuations.
“The government has also been in touch with local airlines and also will be meeting fuel suppliers, petrol fuel suppliers, so as to ensure that they will know their social responsibility,” Lee said.
As the conflict rattles businesses worldwide and drives oil prices higher, concerns over jet fuel costs and supplies are also weighing on airlines, with many raising fuel surcharges and some cutting flights.
Hong Kong’s flag carrier Cathay Pacific Airways has extended its suspension of all flights from Hong Kong to Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, and Riyadh in Saudi Arabia until March 31.
Lee said despite the risks, the conflicts in the Middle East “highlighted the strengths of Hong Kong” and would create new opportunities for the Chinese territory.
“Investors and businesses looking for diversification at the same time looking for investment security will definitely look to Hong Kong.”
(Reporting by Jessie Pang and Clare Jim; Writing by Farah Master; Editing by Tom Hogue and Kate Mayberry)
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