CASI Convenes Global Sustainability Leaders in Hong Kong to Advance SME Transition Financing, Climate Adaptation, and Resilience

HONG KONG, Sept. 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Capacity-building Alliance of Sustainable Investment (CASI) hosted its flagship CASI Sustainability Forum, themed "Shaping Inclusive Transitions in Asia: Enhancing SMEs' Resilience and Adaptation to Climate Change," alongside the third Hong Kong Green Week. Co-hosted with the HKMA Infrastructure Financing Facilitation Office (IFFO), UNDP, HKU's Faculty of Social Sciences, and CFA Institute, the hybrid event convened over 350 global leaders to accelerate SME transition finance and climate resilience.

Dr. Ma Jun, Chairman of CASI, highlighted Asia's sustainable finance leadership, noting the region contributed 74% of global new renewable additions last year, while Hong Kong facilitated 45% of Asia's cross-border sustainable bond issuances. Calling for urgent focus on SME resilience, Dr. Ma outlined CASI's plans to scale capacity building across its network of 75 member organizations and 10,000+ learners across 100+ jurisdictions.

Mr Darryl Chan, Deputy Chief Executive of the HKMA, stated: "Asia has moved to the very forefront of the global climate transition dialogue. To drive Asia's transition forward, we must build an ecosystem that empowers SMEs — the backbone of Asia's economies. Sustainable finance hubs such as Hong Kong have a critical role to play in making sustainable finance accessible to SMEs and tailored to their real-world operating realities. At the HKMA, we remain committed to convening dialogues like today's, translating global standards and frameworks into practical, decision-useful information for SMEs on the ground."

Keynotes featured Wang Xin (PBOC) detailing China's sustainable finance framework, and Prof. Ming Wen (Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences, HKU), who underscored that climate change, social inequality, and economic transformation are interconnected, requiring an ambitious low-carbon transition that remains fair and inclusive. Additionally, Thomas Beloe (UNDP) urged for practical, investable SME finance, while Paul Moody (CFA Institute) framed adaptation as both an investment opportunity and policy priority.

The Forum featured the Green Accelerator showcase, connecting proven green technologies with users, partners, and financing in emerging markets. Alongside the main event, an afternoon Student Breakout Session drew over 120 students in person, introducing emerging talent to career pathways in Hong Kong's sustainable finance sector.

Dr. Ma closed by confirming the next CASI Forum will convene alongside COP31.

Please find the full version: https://casi.net/news/casi-convenes-global-sustainability-leaders-during-hong-kong-green-week-to-advance-transition-financing-for-smes-climate-adaptation-and-resilience/