Distinguished speakers offering fresh perspectives at the Asian Insurance Forum 2025
8 December 2025
The 8th edition of the Asian Insurance Forum organised by the Insurance Authority (IA) took place today (8 December 2025), drawing a record turnout of 4,000 people attending either in person or online to gain insights on key issues shaping the future of insurance.
Before commencement of the proceedings, all participants observed a moment of silence dedicated to victims affected by the tragic fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po.
Mr Stephen Yiu, Chairman of the IA, pointed out in his welcome remarks that the theme of “Navigating Uncertainties and Embracing Innovation” aptly captures the challenge faced by regulators in nurturing development while grappling with uncertainties posed by climate change, demographic shifts, economic volatilities, geopolitical tensions and trade disputes. “It compels us not only to navigate with foresight and agility, but also to embrace innovation with inclusion and governance,” he said.
Mr Xiao Yuanqi, Vice Minister of the National Financial Regulatory Administration, in his keynote speech shared his thoughts on a number of challenges facing the global insurance sector, namely interest rate risk management, climate change, AI application, regulatory issues arising from increasing interconnection between insurers and other non-bank financial assets, and insurers’ business models. Mr Xiao also reiterated the importance of enhanced collaboration between the Chinese Mainland and Hong Kong. He said, “Hong Kong has a highly advanced insurance industry. Its insurance density and penetration remain world-leading. The Mainland insurance industry is moving toward high-quality development. We will continue to strengthen bilateral cooperation with Hong Kong, and support its role as an international financial centre.”
Mr Romain Paserot, Deputy Secretary General and Head of Capital Financial Stability of the International Association of Insurance Supervisors, expounded on latest developments about standard setting and regulatory collaboration in a second keynote speech. “As the risks we face become ever more interconnected and cross-sectoral, collaboration with global policymakers and international fora is more vital than ever,” he said. “Whether it is implementing the Insurance Capital Standard, addressing structural shifts in the life insurance sector, or closing protection gaps, our shared challenges require shared solutions.”
There were also three panel discussions touching upon global supervisory challenges, implications of demographic shifts on health and elderly care as well as AI innovation, offering fresh perspectives on how to navigate through uncertainties in an evolving market landscape.
Please refer to the event website and the IA LinkedIn page for more details.
Ends
Before commencement of AIF 2025, all participants observe a moment of silence dedicated to victims affected by the tragic fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po.
Mr Stephen Yiu, Chairman of the Insurance Authority (IA), delivers the welcome remarks.
Prominent guests and speakers at the AIF 2025 include: (from left) Mr Clement Cheung, Chief Executive Officer of the IA; Dr Fung Hong, Non-Executive Director of the IA; Mr Romain Paserot, Deputy Secretary General and Head of Capital Financial Stability of the International Association of Insurance Supervisors (IAIS); Mr Stephen Yiu, Chairman of the IA; Mr Xiao Yuanqi, Vice Minister of the National Financial Regulatory Administration (NFRA); Mr Benjamin Hung Pi-cheng, Chairman of the Financial Services Development Council and Mr Neil Tan, Founder and Chairman of the Artificial Intelligence Association of Hong Kong.
Mr Xiao Yuanqi, Vice Minister of the NFRA
Mr Romain Paserot, Deputy Secretary General and Head of Capital Financial Stability of the IAIS
More than 4,000 participants attend the AIF 2025 in-person and online from Hong Kong and overseas.