Bei Jing Shang Bao·2025-06-05 14:23Core Viewpoint - The recent implementation plan by Shenzhen aims to promote high-quality development of service trade and digital trade, particularly supporting Hong Kong insurance companies to establish subsidiaries in Shenzhen, which reflects the growing demand for cross-border financial services in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area [1][4][6]. Group 1: Policy Developments - Shenzhen's implementation plan emphasizes the development of cross-border financial insurance services and supports qualified Hong Kong insurance companies in setting up subsidiaries in Shenzhen [3][4]. - The plan aligns with previous policies that lowered entry barriers for Hong Kong financial institutions to invest in mainland insurance companies, indicating a trend towards greater financial integration in the Greater Bay Area [4][5]. - The cancellation of the total asset threshold for Hong Kong and Macao financial institutions investing in mainland insurance companies is a significant step towards enhancing financial openness [4][5]. Group 2: Market Opportunities - The demand for cross-border insurance products is surging, with a reported increase of over 27 times in new individual life insurance policies purchased by mainland visitors in Hong Kong in 2023 compared to 2022 [5]. - The total new premiums from mainland visitors in 2024 are projected to reach 628 billion HKD, marking a 6.5% year-on-year growth and accounting for approximately 28.6% of the total new premiums in personal business [5]. - Hong Kong insurance companies are expected to focus on health insurance and pension insurance, leveraging the favorable market conditions in Shenzhen to expand their business [6][7]. Group 3: Strategic Directions for Hong Kong Insurers - Hong Kong insurance companies are likely to adopt a diversified approach in their mainland strategies, focusing on products that cater to the needs of Greater Bay Area residents, such as cross-border medical insurance and export credit insurance for SMEs [7][8]. - The successful entry into the mainland market will depend on understanding local consumer needs, enhancing brand recognition, and improving service quality [7][9]. - Utilizing fintech resources in mainland China for digital transformation will be crucial for improving operational efficiency and competitiveness [7][9]. Group 4: Trends for Mainland Insurers in Hong Kong - Mainland insurance companies are increasingly establishing a presence in the Hong Kong market, with several firms already setting up subsidiaries or offering services tailored to Hong Kong residents [8][9]. - The trend reflects a strategic response to the growing demand for high-end services, particularly in healthcare and pension sectors, within the Greater Bay Area [8][9]. - Successful market entry for mainland insurers will require a focus on high-end medical resource integration, innovative product design, and compliance with Hong Kong's regulatory environment [9].