Business Research Symposium 2026, themed "Contemporary Issues in Business Research: Chinese Perspective," brought together academics and practitioners. The event, hosted by Rita Tong Liu School of Business and Hospitality Management (SBHM), was opened with a welcome by School Dean Professor Susana Yuen who highlighted the School's commitment to advancing China-focused business research and fostering collaboration among sister universities.
The four keynote presentations addressed important contemporary research themes. Professor Zhao Zheng Tang, from Xiamen University, explored the implications of China's 15th Five-Year Plan for the insurance sector, highlighting both emerging opportunities and structural challenges. Professor Phyllis Mo, from The Hang Seng University of Hong Kong, examined how academic directors contribute to corporate innovation in Chinese firms. Dr Irene Huang, from Hong Kong Metropolitan University, presented insights into online help-seeking behaviour and its implications for human versus AI customer service strategies. Professor Desmond Tsang, from The Chinese University of Hong Kong, analysed mortgage boycotts in China and their broader market effects.
In his concluding remarks, Professor Koon Hung Chan of SBHM reaffirmed the importance of high-quality, China-focused research in strengthening the School's academic impact and its engagement with industry and policymakers.