Amnesty International is seeking business support for its mission in China, saying respect for human rights can boost industry.
The group is in Hong Kong for two days to further its cause and release a report on human rights in China.
Spokesman Norma Johnston said: 'We are realistic about this. We know how business people work. Our job is not to put them in danger or to put them in a compromising situation. That would be counter-productive to our objectives.' Jean Haesen, an Amnesty business consultant, said there was a link between business and human rights.
Arbitrary enforcement of laws in countries such as China only hindered the mechanics of industry, he said.
'Business people want to know the framework in which they operate. Human rights violations are in the long term a threat to political stability and a threat to business. Business people want a stable climate.' Mr Haesen said freedom of expression within companies also provided better communication. This helped efficiency and boosted competitiveness.
The group has so far sought meetings with several chambers of commerce, Xinhua (the New China News Agency) and Preparatory Committee members.
