Intertek Hong Kong Speaks at HKTDC T-Box Workshop 2023

09 Jun 2023

The Upgrade & Transformation of SMEs through ESG

On June 1, Intertek was invited as a guest speaker at the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and Dun & Bradstreet T-Box workshop titled "How SMEs Can Utilize ESG Opportunities to Upgrade and Transform". Held at the HKTDC SME Centre, the workshop provided insights into how small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can better prepare for sustainable development. Over 300 people attended the workshop physically and online, including key industry players ranging from the Banking & Financial sector to Textile Associations.

The HKTDC Transformation Sandbox (T-box) is a SME support programme that helps companies enhance their competitiveness and achieve transformation goals in the areas of branding, digital transformation, manufacturing and supply chain solutions , new markets and sustainability. To help businesses capture the latest sustainability opportunities, T-box recently set up a new environmental, social, and governance (ESG) support stream, offering programmes to help integrate ESG practices into businesses and help them achieve their sustainability transformation goals. Over the past few years, ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) has become an significant factor in evaluating the performance of companies. The standards have become an increasing priority for consumers and investors.

By pursuing eco-friendly and sustainable business practices, such as transitioning to renewable energy, reducing waste and implementing environmentally friendly policies, SMEs can upgrade their operations to meet ESG standards and gain competitive advantage through cost savings, risk mitigation, customer loyalty and employee retention.

Jason Ho, Vice President, Electrical Team shared his expertise in ESG and sustainability development, discussing how SMEs can prepare strategies to face ESG challenges. Jason emphasized the importance of integrating ESG factors into business strategies, highlighting the potential advantages in various aspects of their operations. He also pointed out how they can leverage these opportunities to drive growth and transformation, enhancing their competitiveness in the marketplace, while providing some examples of the good practice from E&E industries.

Says Jason: “Incorporating ESG values into your business approach is crucial for sustained growth and adaptability. By giving importance to sustainable practices, clear communication and ethical actions, SMEs can minimize risks and simultaneously uncover fresh possibilities for innovation, business growth and improved stakeholder relations.”