Which markets shall continue to operate freely in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region?

The correct answer identifies that the markets for gold, securities, and futures are expected to operate freely in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). This reflects Hong Kong's commitment to maintaining a free market economy, which has been a fundamental characteristic of the region's economic system since its return to Chinese sovereignty.

The financial services sector, including the markets for gold, securities, and futures, is integral to Hong Kong's role as an international financial hub. The HKSAR has policies designed to uphold the principles of free trade and minimal government intervention, particularly in the context of financial markets, to attract investment and thus bolster economic growth.

While agricultural products, cars, and consumer goods are certainly part of the market framework in Hong Kong, they may be subject to varying levels of regulation or market influences that do not align with the notion of a completely free operation as seen in the financial markets. Hence, the focus is on gold, securities, and futures as the primary areas where the rationale for unrestricted operations is most clearly supported by HKSAR's economic policies.