Dear Friends and Clients, Warmest greetings and all the best wishes to you.

This month, we are going to celebrate the 7th anniversary of the establishment of our Latin Desk. I am grateful to my enthusiastic team members who have been working very hard with me in the past 7 years. Throughout my Latin Journey, I have gone through many experiences good and bad and the three words (Faith, Service and Community) have been my guidepost. No doubt, the Latin Desk has broadened my exposure far beyond from what I have heard and learnt before. 2012 was a challenging year on the global economic stage. Continuing uncertainty about the prolonged financial crisis worldwide has affected the businesses of many. Fortunately, Asia has remained economically dynamic and Hong Kong is right at its heart and Mainland China still has its economy growing - we count our blessings. Against this background, Hong Kong continues to be an attractive business hub for overseas corporations, including from Latin America and Spain, where there is a growing trend for these overseas businesses to move their operation to Hong Kong, and also to China through Hong Kong, primarily because of our simple and low tax regime, free flow of information and an unrivalled geographic location. .

It is encouraging that our Latin Desk has assisted, at least over 400 overseas corporations, from Latin America and Spain, to set up their business in Hong Kong and Mainland China in the last 7 years (Feb 2006 - Jan 2013). Our Latin Desk has been actively participating in various events all these years, including seminars, exhibitions, overseas visits and business trips. Looking ahead, our Latin Desk will continue to put our resources in Latin America and Spain. We will work hard and sturdy and honest on our "Latin Journey". No doubt, I feel very proud and happy to have a great friend like you who has been so supportive to me all these years. Thank you so much and my gratitude to you for your unwavering support in my endeavours on the Latin American and Spanish markets.

The Chinese New Year is now around. Colourful lights and decorations are found everywhere. Red, the predominant color used in New Year celebrations, is the emblem of joy and symbolizes virtue, truth and sincerity. It is always the time to show our love and thankfulness. Taking this opportunity, may I wish you and your loved ones a very warm and hearty Kung Hei Fat Choy, all the best in the Year of the Snake. ! May you realize your ambitions and all your wishes be fulfilled. With every good wish, Thomas Wong Feb 1, 2013