Hong Kong is being considered for a significant role in the global space economy, which has seen rapid growth and investment. This idea was initially met with skepticism by some officials, including Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu. However, many do not recognize how space technologies are already integrated into everyday life, influencing activities like weather checking and online ordering.

A report from McKinsey in 2024 predicted that the space economy would expand significantly, reaching approximately $1.8 trillion by 2035, up from $630 billion in 2023. This growth reflects a shift away from traditional state-led missions to more commercial ventures in space travel and satellite launches.

Private investment in China's aerospace sector is also on the rise, expected to increase from 12% of total investments in 2020 to around 45% by 2025. Factors driving this surge include technological advancements and lower manufacturing costs supported by government initiatives.

Notable private companies contributing to this boom include i-Space, recognized as the first private firm in China to successfully launch a rocket into orbit, and LandSpace, known for developing the Zhuque-2 rocket that uses methane and liquid oxygen as fuel. These developments indicate Hong Kong's potential to lead reforms in legal frameworks surrounding commercial space activities while supporting China's ambitions in this growing sector.

Original article (mckinsey) (china)

This article is mostly about telling a story and sharing information, but it doesn't give you a lot of things you can do with that information. It talks about how space stuff is important and how it might make a lot of money, but it doesn't tell you how to make that money or how to use space technology to help you in your daily life. It also doesn't teach you anything super special or give you secrets that only smart people know. The article is like a big picture of what might happen in the future, but it doesn't help you with your problems right now or tell you how to make a plan for the future. It's more like a fun story about space and money, but it doesn't really help you with your life or give you tools to make things better. It's not trying to trick you or make you buy things, but it might make you feel like you need to know more or do something, even though it doesn't tell you what that something is.

"This idea was initially met with skepticism by some officials, including Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu."

This sentence uses a passive voice construction to downplay the role of Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu in expressing skepticism. It suggests that his opinion is just one among many, rather than highlighting his position of authority. By using the phrase "some officials," it creates a sense of ambiguity and minimizes the impact of his viewpoint. This passive construction hides the fact that the Chief Executive's opinion carries significant weight and could influence decision-making.

The text conveys a range of emotions, primarily excitement and anticipation, as it discusses Hong Kong's potential role in the burgeoning global space economy. These emotions are expressed through the use of words like "significant," "rapid growth," and "surge," which create a sense of momentum and opportunity. The text also hints at a shift in power dynamics, moving away from traditional state-led missions to commercial ventures, which could evoke a sense of optimism and a belief in the potential for progress and innovation.

The mention of private companies, such as i-Space and LandSpace, achieving notable milestones, further enhances this positive emotional tone. The strength of these emotions is moderate, serving to capture the reader's attention and create a sense of intrigue about the potential future of the space economy and Hong Kong's role within it. The text aims to inspire curiosity and a desire to learn more about this evolving industry and its potential impact.

To persuade the reader, the writer employs a strategic use of language, emphasizing the scale of the space economy's growth with specific, impressive figures. For instance, the prediction that the space economy will reach $1.8 trillion by 2035 is a powerful statement, especially when compared to the $630 billion valuation of 2023. This comparison creates a sense of awe and encourages the reader to consider the vast potential of this industry.

Additionally, the writer highlights the increasing private investment in China's aerospace sector, specifically mentioning the expected rise from 12% to 45% by 2025. This not only emphasizes the growth but also suggests a shift in power and control, which can be emotionally compelling for readers who may associate private investment with innovation and progress. By using these emotional cues and persuasive techniques, the text guides the reader towards a positive perception of the space economy's future and Hong Kong's potential involvement.