Hidden Chinese Systemic: Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in the EU

As a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of the PRC, Hong Kong enjoys unique competences to maintain external relations with other sovereign states and international organizations. A key role in Hong Kong’s paradiplomacy is played by Hong Kong Economic and Trade Offices (HKETOs) which serve as the de-facto embassies of the Hong Kong Government. However, the international relations of Hong Kong, known as an interconnected business hub, have been dramatically affected by Beijing’s curtailment of Hong Kong’s autonomy.