History

Since its establishment, Hong Kong has been developed into a transport hub of world merchandise. Its excellent location and duty free policy helped it become a centre of entrepot trade in the Far East.

The lack of natural resources in the territory made weaving and rattan knitting the only industries in the early years. In the early 20th century, Hong Kong became the distribution centre of foreign industrial products in S.E. Asia. At the same time, its industries were in bud. 

By early 1933, there were over 100 factories in Hong Kong. An organization was desperately needed to facilitate industrial development. At that time, Hong Kong's industrial products were treated the same way as foreign products by the Chinese government. Heavy tariffs were imposed. 

An organization with strong leadership was therefore needed for negotiating with the Chinese government. In September, 1933, the Nanyang Bros. Tobacco Co., the Wan Kong Lung Fire Cracker Co., and the Salty Fish Mutual Beneficial Society founded the Hong Kong Chinese Products Manufacturers' Association. Chan Shiu Kwai, Chan Yu Shan, Mo Kwun To, Cheung Kwok Kwong, Leung Chik Fun, Lee Shiu Kai, Luk Kai Leung, Chan Lay Heung and Kwan Ti Chao were elected as members of the Preparatory Committee.

On March 28, 1934, the organization was formally named the Chinese Manufacturers' Association of Hong Kong (CMA). The constitution of the Association was also passed on the same day. Members of the first management committee were elected on April 11, 1933, and they authorized Ching Shiu Kwai, Chan Yu Shan, Mo Kwun To and Leung Chik Fun to sign documents and registered with the Secretary for Chinese Affairs.

At 3:30pm, September 1, a founding ceremony was held at the Sze Ho Hotel with Mr. Yip being chairman of the ceremony and Honorary President Dr. Kotewall as officiating guest. In 1934, the CMA had 59 members (factories) and 11 individual members.