In a strategic move to solidify its position as a global cryptocurrency hub, Hong Kong Legislative Council member Johnny Ng has extended an invitation to Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin, seeking to showcase the region's progressive approach to digital asset regulation.
Following Buterin's remarks at the Web3 Transitions Summit in Singapore on September 14, where he cautioned crypto ventures about assessing Hong Kong's regulatory stability, Ng has taken proactive steps to address these concerns through direct dialogue.
Buterin had expressed uncertainty about whether Hong Kong's current crypto-friendly stance could be maintained long-term, particularly given Mainland China's historically adversarial position toward the cryptocurrency industry.
In his response, Ng emphasized the robustness of Hong Kong's policymaking process, highlighting that regulatory changes cannot occur abruptly. "Every policy or legislation in Hong Kong undergoes extensive scrutiny, including government drafting, public consultation, and thorough review by multiple Legislative Council committees," Ng explained.
The lawmaker elaborated on Hong Kong's unique relationship with China under the "one country, two systems" policy, which enables the region to independently develop progressive frameworks for virtual assets while welcoming international compliance companies to establish operations.
Currently, Hong Kong is actively positioning itself as an attractive destination for cryptocurrency businesses, with major exchanges like CoinEx and OKX establishing their presence under the region's clear regulatory guidelines.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has further strengthened this position by encouraging traditional banking institutions to partner with cryptocurrency exchanges and announcing plans to implement comprehensive regulations for stablecoins, signaling a mature approach to digital asset integration.