Li Ka-shing (b.1928) is a Hong Kong billionaire entrepreneur and philanthropist, considered one of Asia’s most influential business figures. His ventures span real estate, ports, telecommunications, and technology, shaping Hong Kong’s economy.
Born in Chaozhou, Guangdong, China, he fled to Hong Kong in 1940 during the Sino-Japanese War. After his father’s death, he left school at 15, working in plastics trading. In 1950, he founded Cheung Kong Industries, initially producing plastic flowers before expanding into real estate.
His business empire grew rapidly, acquiring Hutchison Whampoa (1979,) making him the first Chinese businessman to control a major British-owned company in Hong Kong. Under his leadership, Hutchison became the world’s largest independent port operator and expanded into energy, retail, and telecommunications. His investments include Tom.com, a Chinese internet service, and Husky Energy in Canada.
Despite his vast wealth, Li is known for his frugal lifestyle and philanthropy. Through the Li Ka Shing Foundation, he has donated billions to education, healthcare, and disaster relief. He retired in 2018 but remains an advisor to CK Hutchison Holdings and CK Asset Holdings.
English-language biographies include Anthony B. Chan’s Li Ka-Shing: The Biography (1995) and Yan Qicheng’s Li Ka-Shing and Cheung Kong Holdings: A biography of one of China’s great entrepreneurs (2021.)
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Li Ka-shing
The most challenging issue raised by globalization is how we can all get along with each other in our race against time.
—Li Ka-shing
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