Core Viewpoint - Hong Kong's global competitiveness continues to rise, achieving a ranking of third in the world according to the IMD's 2025 World Competitiveness Yearbook, marking its return to the top three since 2019 [1] Group 1: Overall Performance - Hong Kong's total score increased by 7.7 points to 99.2 (out of 100), the highest growth among the top ten economies [1] - The report indicates that various favorable government policies have positively impacted Hong Kong's competitiveness [1] Group 2: Competitiveness Factors - In the four key competitiveness factors, Hong Kong ranked second in both "government efficiency" and "business efficiency," while "economic performance" and "infrastructure" improved to sixth and seventh, respectively [3] - Hong Kong excelled in several sub-factors, ranking first in "tax policy" and "business regulations," second in "international investment," "education," and "finance," and third in "international trade" and "management practices" [3] Group 3: Government Efficiency - Hong Kong's government is recognized for its integrity and efficiency, achieving a second-place ranking in "government efficiency," reflecting the capabilities of civil servants and the leadership of the Chief Executive in fostering a results-oriented government [4] Group 4: Business Efficiency - The "business efficiency" ranking of second highlights Hong Kong's advantageous business environment, characterized by rule of law, independent judiciary, simple tax system, low tax rates, and a transparent market [5] Group 5: Business Regulations - Hong Kong's "business regulations" ranked first globally, benefiting from an independent currency, political and legal systems, and a robust rule of law under the "one country, two systems" principle, which supports its development as an international business hub [7] Group 6: Tax Policy - The "tax policy" also ranked first, with Hong Kong's tax system noted for its simplicity, transparency, and low rates, featuring only three direct taxes and various generous exemptions to alleviate tax burdens [8]