Hong Kong banks have released newspaper adverts urging for an end to disruption, and international jewellers are attempting to reschedule a high-profile trade fair as protests look set to continue. The protests, which began on Sunday, were sparked by the announcement that China would allow foreign firms greater access into its financial markets. The city's retail sector has been struggling, and the Hong Kong Retail Management Association, which represents over 8,000 businesses, has urged landlords to cut rents by half for the next six months.
Hong Kong banks have released newspaper adverts urging for an end to disruption, and international jewellers are attempting to reschedule a high-profile trade fair as protests look set to continue. The Hong Kong Jewellery and Gem Fair regularly draws over 54,000 visitors, but around 30%-40% of exhibitors were demanding to pull out of the event, which was due to be held in September. The city's retail sector has been struggling, and the Hong Kong Retail Management Association, which represents over 8,000 businesses, has urged landlords to cut rents by half for the next six months.