DCO
DCO and HKTDC Sign Landmark MoU to Accelerate Digital Prosperity and Market Access for MSMEs Across Member States and Asia-Pacific

Riyadh, 30th October, 2025 – The Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to foster collaboration in digital trade, e-commerce, innovation, and inclusive economic growth. The signing took place during an exclusive business dinner hosted by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).

The MoU was signed by Hajar El Haddaoui, Director General of the DCO. Representing HKTDC, the document was executed by Anna Cheung, Assistant Executive Director, HKTDC, in the presence of Hon. Mr. Paul Chan, Financial Secretary of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China.

This strategic partnership aims to bridge digital ecosystems between DCO’s 16 Member States – representing over 800 million people across the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Europe – and Hong Kong’s position as a global trade and innovation hub. Key areas of cooperation include market access for startups and MSMEs, digital transformation of women- and youth-led enterprises, private sector engagement, and knowledge sharing.

Highlighting the importance of this MoU, Deemah AlYahya, Secretary-General of the DCO, stated:
“Today we open a new gateway for digital ambition. Hong Kong’s unparalleled connectivity meets the untapped potential of DCO Member States—together, we are not just linking markets, we are igniting a cross-continental wave of digital entrepreneurship that will redefine inclusive prosperity for generations to come.”

Adding to these remarks, Hajar El Haddaoui, Director General of the DCO, stated:
“This MoU marks a pivotal step toward inclusive digital prosperity. By connecting innovative entrepreneurs from our Member States with Hong Kong’s dynamic trade platforms and Asia-Pacific networks, we are empowering MSMEs, women, and youth to thrive in the global digital economy. Together, we will build bridges that drive sustainable growth and opportunity for all.”

Ms. Anna Cheung, Assistant Executive Director, HKTDC, shared: “Hong Kong, recognised as a superconnector and super value-adder, has historically served as a bridge between East and West. Through our partnership with the DCO, we cannot wait to welcome start-ups and digital enterprises from its member states into Hong Kong’s vibrant innovation ecosystem. Alongside HKTDC’s world-class exhibitions and business matching platforms, we aim to create opportunities for cross-regional trade, investment and collaboration.”

 

The collaboration builds on shared priorities highlighted during a high-level joint session on 29 October 2025, where DCO leadership presented its mandate and flagship initiatives to the visiting Hong Kong Business Delegation. Discussions focused on actionable opportunities in e-commerce enablement, startup internationalization, and ecosystem connectivity. Under the MoU, the Parties will:

  • Facilitate participation of DCO startups and MSMEs in HKTDC trade fairs and business-matching events.
  • Support digital transition programs for women- and youth-led businesses.
  • Exchange market intelligence and organize joint workshops on digital economy trends.
  • Promote linkages with leading technology and telecom firms in Hong Kong and the Asia-Pacific region.

This partnership reinforces both organizations’ commitment to enabling Digital Prosperity for All and strengthening HKTDC’s role as a superconnector between DCO Member States, and global markets.

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