How Xinjiang offers Hong Kong a bridge to Central Asia – and what the risks are

Hong Kong businesses can leverage Xinjiang’s connectivity with Central Asia to expand into new markets while the city’s financial, trade and professional services can help businesses in the region enter Southeast Asia, according to political analysts. But an economist and a textile industry veteran have warned of potential risks for Hong Kong businesses building ties with Xinjiang in northwestern China. Western countries have imposed sanctions on officials and entities tied to the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region over alleged suppression of ethnic minority members – accusations Beijing has repeatedly denied. Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu led his largest delegation to date…