Bond connect trading link opens

Qualified overseas investors will be able to invest in the Chinese mainland interbank bond market via the mainlandHong Kong bond connect program from Monday, according to the People’s Bank of China and the Hong Kong Monetary Authority.

Laws and regulations have already been determined, while a technical system is also in place, the organizations said in a joint statement on Sunday.

The “northbound” bond connect, which allows qualified overseas investors to buy bonds either with renminbi or foreign currencies, will operate on a trial basis.

The PBOC and the HKMA have reached a consensus on issues involving the principles on cross-border regulatory cooperation, and signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation in strengthening supervision.

According to the agree- ments, the two sides will establish mechanisms for information exchange and assistance in accordance with local laws and their own statutory authority, to combat violations in cross-border trades and ensure effective operation of the program.

Institutions of both sides should organize market players to conduct the trades in an orderly manner, according to the statement.