The Hong Kong Electronic Industries Association (HKEIA) has publicly called for a reform of the city's financial listing rules, arguing that current requirements are a barrier to growth for early-stage companies. According to Samson Tam Wai-ho, the honorary chairman of the HKEIA, Hong Kong’s current environment is insufficient to foster a robust start-up ecosystem compared to neighboring cities.

Data cited by the association indicates that Hong Kong hosts approximately 100 active angel funds, which are private investment vehicles focused on high-risk, early-stage enterprises. In contrast, Shenzhen reportedly supports around 400 such institutions. The HKEIA suggests that by easing transaction requirements and listing hurdles, Hong Kong could improve its appeal to global investors and provide a more viable path for local start-ups to scale internationally. The proposal highlights a growing concern among local industry leaders that the city's stringent financial regulations may be inadvertently stifling the innovation sector's ability to secure necessary capital.