Month: March 2025

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

Deputy Minister of Economic Affairs Chen Chern-chyi led the delegation to the 14th APEC Energy Ministerial Meeting convened in Lima, Peru, on August 15 and 16, sharing Taiwan’s achievements in renewable energy development, just energy transition experience, and hydrogen energy development goals. All attending member economies and industry representatives agreed that energy transition should be carried out in a just, orderly, and inclusive manner, while also recognizing the importance of clean and low-carbon hydrogen energy to reduction of GHG emissions.

This year’s meeting was chaired by Peru Minister of Energy and Mines Romulo Mucho, and all attending member economies agreed to issue a joint ministerial statement, welcoming the establishment of the “Just Energy Transition Initiative,” and endorsed the “APEC Policy Guidance to Develop and Implement Clean and Low-Carbon Hydrogen Policy Frameworks in the Asia-Pacific.”

In his remark during discussion on “advancing energy transitions across the APEC region,” Deputy Minister Chen shared Taiwan’s recognition of the importance of just energy transition to a net-zero future, and explained the government’s introduction of the innovative Aquavoltaics Development policy due to Taiwan’s limited land resources to promote a green economy and create new job opportunities. Deputy Minister Chen also mentioned that the Sixth Energy Smart Communities Initiative (ESCI) Best Practices Awards Program included “just transition” as an evaluation criterion for the first time this year and recognized cases from member economies like Taiwan, U.S., and Canada, which all incorporated methods of promoting just energy transition. Taiwan’s project received the Gold Medal in the Smart Jobs & Consumers category, and was also highlighted by Ariadne BenAissa, Lead Shepherd of the APEC Energy Working Group (EWG), as a great example in enhancing just energy transition.

Regarding “importance of energy access in promoting sustainable growth,” member economies acknowledged the importance of striking a balance between ensuring energy access and ending energy poverty in the process of promoting clean energy transition. Deputy Minister Chen shared Taiwan’s FiT scheme that encourages renewable energy installation in indigenous and remote areas, while also expressing Taiwan’s willingness to exchange and cooperate with all member economies on energy access policies, technologies, and measures.

When discussing “policies and actions for hydrogen development in APEC economies to promote sustainable growth,” Deputy Minister Chen shared that the manufacturing sector is the focus of Taiwan’s economic development, and using hydrogen in the manufacturing process will help to realize net-zero emissions. He also expressed that international trade is the most optimal path to facilitate the development and application of hydrogen energy, and establishing basic regulations for international hydrogen energy trade is a goal all member economies should strive towards in the future. Deputy Minister Chen also voiced his support for the “APEC Policy Guidance to Develop and Implement Clean and Low-Carbon Hydrogen Policy Frameworks in the Asia-Pacific” proposed by host country Peru, hoping that hydrogen energy trade can be realized as early as possible with advancement in related technology and business model.

Ministry of Economic Affairs noted, during this year’s APEC EMM14, all member economies exchanged and shared concrete methods for energy sustainable development, making this a meaningful multilateral forum where Taiwan was able to demonstrate our dedicated spirit and achievements in promoting net-zero transition.

Spokesperson for Energy Administration, Ministry of Economic Affairs Deputy Director General, Chun-Li Lee
Phone Number: 02-2775-7700, 0936-250-838
Email: chunlee@moeaea.gov.tw

Business Contact: Director, Fang-Ling Liao
Energy Administration, Ministry of Economic Affairs
Phone Number: 02-2775-7710, 0912-089-923
Email: flliao@moeaea.gov.tw

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Chief Executive John Lee, on a visit to Hainan, today met Secretary of the CPC Hainan Provincial Committee Feng Fei and witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation between the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government and the Hainan Provincial People’s Government.

Meeting this morning, Mr Lee and Mr Feng discuss ways of enhancing co-operation between the two places.

Highlighting the close economic and trade ties between Hong Kong and Hainan, Mr Lee said Hong Kong has long been the major source of external investment in Hainan, with many Hong Kong enterprises conducting business in the province. In 2024, more than 700 Hong Kong enterprises were operating in Hainan, and the realised direct investment from Hong Kong was RMB15 billion.

Me Lee said that thanks to customs closure operation of the Hainan Free Trade Port and the implementation of preferential policies, Hong Kong enterprises and professionals will have more development opportunities in Hainan.

After the meeting, Mr Lee and Mr Feng attended a signing ceremony for the Hainan-Hong Kong Memorandum of Cooperation.

Signed by Deputy Chief Secretary Cheuk Wing-hing and Hainan Vice Governor Bater, the memorandum aims to deepen co-operation in five areas – trade and investment, finance, safe flows of data, tourism, and talent exchanges.

Mr Lee said that the Hong Kong SAR Government is fully leveraging the city’s unique advantages under “one country, two systems” of having strong support from the country while maintaining unparalleled connectivity with the world.

Hong Kong, he added, is committed to contributing to the introduction of international projects to Hainan and facilitating Hainan’s capital investments in overseas markets, with a view to jointly venturing into the global market with Hainan.

He stressed that the Hong Kong SAR Government will promote collaborative development and mutual benefits between the Greater Bay Area and the Hainan Free Trade Port, thereby contributing to the country’s high-quality development and high-level opening up.

In the afternoon, the Chief Executive met young people from Hong Kong who are working or starting businesses in Hainan to learn about their experiences. He encouraged them to study the memorandum of co-operation signed today and seize on the opportunities it presents to realise their aspirations.

He also urged them to contribute to fostering mutual engagement and integrated development between citizens of the two places.

In the evening, Mr Lee attended a dinner hosted by the organiser of the Boao Forum for Asia.

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

The Textile Research Institute (TTRI) developed the Mushroom Leather Cultivation System, which received the 2024 R&D 100 Award for its innovation. This system utilizes a non-woven soy protein growing bed, allowing mushroom leather to grow both on the surface and within the bed, unlike traditional cotton beds that limit growth to the surface. This advancement promotes efficient rolled growth.

A key feature is the circulating conveyor belt that ensures a consistent nutrient supply through precise air spraying, preventing nutritional gaps found in other soaking methods.

TTRI’s roll-to-roll growth system can produce up to 5-6 square meters of mushroom leather, significantly more than the 0.05-0.25 square meters yielded by plate-based methods. It also enhances nutrient-to-mycelium conversion efficiency to 25%, compared to the typical 10-20% in the market. This efficient, space-saving system boosts productivity and sustainability, positioning TTRI’s Mushroom Leather as a leading eco-friendly alternative in the leather industry.

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

The AI Self-Learning Fabric Inspecting System developed by the Textile Research Institute (TTRI) is a transformative innovation in fabric inspection. This system employs advanced optical design and comprehensive inspection methods, detecting 99% of fabric defects and accurately marking defect locations on screens and fabrics for precise quality control during production.

Defect data is systematically stored in an AI database, enabling continuous learning and improvement of the inspection process. The AI refines defect detection using collected data, enhancing overall system performance while reducing human error and increasing inspection efficiency.

TTRI also provides suppliers with detailed reports on defect causes, helping them identify specific problem areas across different fabric sectors. This insight empowers suppliers to improve fabric quality and boost shipment success rates, ultimately leading to more reliable and efficient textile production.

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

The Textile Research Institute’s (TTRI) Bionic Mono-Material Leather, awarded the 2024 R&D 100 Award, features advanced SEBS Leather technology. This innovative material, made entirely from polyolefin polymer (SEBS), converts thermoplastic materials into a textile form using non-woven fabric shaping and fiber control techniques. The production process is streamlined from eight steps to four while maintaining excellent breathability and elasticity.

This technology addresses recycling challenges associated with synthetic leather by utilizing a single material. SEBS Leather is 100% recyclable and can be reprocessed at least five times without losing performance, presenting a sustainable option for the industry.

In comparison to traditional leather materials, SEBS Leather reduces carbon emissions by 18% (3.7 kg for SEBS versus 4.4 kg for standard PU). Producing 100 tons of SEBS Leather saves 1,044.6 kilowatt-hours of electricity, cuts carbon emissions by 517.14 kg, and decreases sodium hydroxide solvent use by 20 to 30 tons, making it both eco-friendly and highly marketable.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Financial Secretary Paul Chan

I am delighted to welcome you to the third Wealth for Good in Hong Kong Summit.

Whether you are joining us for the first time or returning, I know you will enjoy your time here in Asia’s world city. And before long, it will feel like your city too.

Family offices play a vital role in preserving family wealth and building a lasting legacy for future generations. The focus extends beyond making investments that provide sustainable, long-term financial returns. You are also visionaries, philanthropists and next-generation leaders committed to creating positive social and environmental impacts that benefit humanity.

We share these values deeply. That is why we launched this summit two years ago, bringing together principals, key decision makers and senior executives of family offices worldwide, to discuss how we could harness wealth for good together.

This year, we are excited to feature another impressive line-up of distinguished speakers from influential families and institutions, who will share insights on subjects ranging from tech and Artifical Intelligence (AI) to philanthropy and culture.

Hong Kong the premier location for family offices

Allow me to take a couple of minutes to tell you why Hong Kong is an ideal place for family offices to realise their objectives and ambitions.

To begin with, Hong Kong is Asia’s premier financial centre, offering a wide range of investment opportunities that are particularly compelling right now.

Notably, the recent boom in the Hong Kong stock market underscores this potential. The Hang Seng index rose by some 20% since the beginning of this year, building on an 18% increase throughout 2024. This surge reflects investor optimism about the future of technology in China and highlights Hong Kong’s essential role in connecting regional opportunities with global investors, showcasing the significant returns our market can deliver.

Beyond securities, Hong Kong boasts a dynamic ecosystem of angel investments, venture capital and private equity. Capital under management by private equity firms exceeded US$230 billion last year, making us the second largest in Asia, only after the Mainland.

Our asset and wealth management industry is thriving, fuelled by the affluent population of the Greater Bay Area and the influx of ultra-high-net-worth individuals into our city. We currently manage about US$4 trillion in assets, with two-thirds of them originating from outside Hong Kong. By 2028, we are on track to become the world’s largest cross-border wealth management centre.

In the latest Global Financial Centres Index published last week, Hong Kong continues to rank third globally. Notably, we secured the top spot worldwide for investment management, insurance and finance, and came third in banking and business environment.

Above all, global capital feels at ease in Hong Kong. For compelling reasons. President Xi and the central authorities have affirmed on multiple occasions that the “one country, two systems” arrangement will remain in place over the long term.

This means Hong Kong will continue to uphold the common law system with a judiciary exercising powers independently; safeguard the free flow of capital, goods, information and people; maintain a freely convertible currency, and keep a simple and low tax system.

And here is the real gem – we have no capital gains tax, no estate tax, and no tax on dividends. In other words, you can freely invest without the usual financial hang-ups.

Then, protection of capital and private property are enshrined in our Basic Law, along with our steadfast commitment to international obligations under the United Nations, in opposition to accepting decisions unilaterally imposed by other countries.

With all these, not surprisingly, more than 2,700 family offices have already chosen Hong Kong as their home, with half of them managing assets of more than US$50 million.

Here, family offices can leverage a robust network of world-class service professionals, including private bankers, legal experts, accountants and investment advisers, to support your endeavours. Our professionals offer a distinctive combination of global perspective and local expertise in everything they do.

This year, in addition to our existing tax concessions for single family offices, we will expand exemptions for funds, enhance concessions for family offices, and boost incentives for private equity.

That, ladies and gentlemen, is an invitation for all of you to join us in shaping a future where wealth creates value for everyone.

Making a real impact

Family offices aspire to achieve more than just financial returns. Through my encounters with many family principals and executives, I have witnessed your profound desire to create a lasting impact and a brighter future for generations to come.

In this city, international foundations, charitable organisations and non-governmental organisations come together to form a vibrant philanthropy network that not only connects funding and meaningful projects, but also amplifies your efforts and fosters collaboration.

More than that, Hong Kong’s value proposition has an additional dimension: innovation and technology.

We are investing heavily in our city’s economic future to propel Hong Kong’s development in innovation and technology. Two years ago, we outlined our vision for Hong Kong to become an international green tech and green finance centre.

That endeavour is progressing well. Alongside our leadership position in green finance, Hong Kong’s green tech community is thriving. In our Science Park and Cyberport, there are some 300 green start-ups specialising in energy-efficient materials, carbon capture, electric vehicle infrastructure, and much more – all keen on addressing the world’s most pressing challenges with their groundbreaking technologies. Many of these start-ups have made successful strides into global markets, creating a significant and positive impact worldwide.

In a world where AI is transforming production, business and consumption models and redefining the economic competitiveness, we have a clear vision to establish AI as a core industry. By applying and integrating AI across the community, we can unlock substantial benefits for humanity.

We possess strong foundational research capabilities and attract some of the brightest talent from around the world. Uniquely positioned as a convergence point for data from both the Mainland and international sources, we leverage our close collaboration with sister cities in the Greater Bay Area to amplify our strengths.

And we have developed a comprehensive strategy to drive the growth of the innovation and technology sector. The Hong Kong Investment Corporation, or HKIC, established with a capital of US$8 billion, plays a vital role in this strategy. This “patient capital” supports tech firms in their nascent stages, covering hard tech, biotech, and new energy. So far, it has invested and co-invested in over 90 of such projects, attracting $4 of long-term capital for every $1 invested. The HKIC looks forward to collaborate with family offices, creating dynamic partnerships that fuel our innovation ecosystem.

Art, sports and lifestyle

Ladies and gentlemen, beyond business and finance, Hong Kong is blessed with a thriving art and culture scene. Consider Art Basel, which has become a hallmark event of this city. Opening this Friday, it will present more than 240 galleries from over 40 countries and regions, showcasing a dazzling array of contemporary art.

Indeed, in 2023, we traded more than US$13 billion in art and antiques, all tax-free. Our airport will soon feature a bespoke art storage facility to support this vibrant market.

Let’s not forget the world-class M+ and Hong Kong Palace Museum, both located in our West Kowloon Cultural District.

If sport is your passion, you will want to be here right through the weekend. The Hong Kong Sevens kicks off this Friday at the spectacular Kai Tak Sports Park, which boasts seating for 50,000 rugby-mad fans. Bigger house. Bigger party. So why not grab your friends and prepare for a weekend of wild tries and even wilder times!

Looking ahead together

Ladies and gentlemen, whatever your passion, Hong Kong is where you want to be.

Hong Kong is of the world: a meeting point for East and West, tradition and innovation. And it is for the world: a city where your ambitions can take flight and flourish, touching lives far beyond our shores.

Financial Secretary Paul Chan gave these remarks at the Wealth for Good in Hong Kong Summit on March 26.

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[Apia, Samoa 11th March 2025] – The Nevada National Guard (NVNG) is proud to announce a Subject Matter Expert Exchange (SMEE) in partnership with the Samoa Prison and Corrections Services, aimed at enhancing the professional skills of law enforcement and corrections personnel. This significant exchange taking place this week is the latest collaboration between the NVNG and the Samoa Prisons and Corrections Services (SPCS) under the Ministry of Police and Prisons.

The SMEE will focus on a comprehensive range of topics critical to the development of effective law enforcement strategies. Participants will explore leadership characteristics and traits, mental health fitness, effective prison operations, and basic defense tactics. The primary goal of this exchange is to share techniques and best practices to foster a deeper understanding of law enforcement techniques in various scenarios, particularly under stressful conditions and with limited resources.

Last September, the first iteration of this exchange included 30 corrections officers, and this time an additional 90 participants are expected to participate. This initiative reflects the commitment of the Deputy Commissioner of SPCS to enhance the capabilities of the Samoa Corrections Services and the continuing friendship between Samoa and the United States.

This engagement comes as part of a broader strategic effort initiated during a country analysis conducted in February 2024, which identified Police, Corrections, and mental health as primary lines of effort. This analysis laid the groundwork for the partnership formed between Nevada and Samoa in July 2024.

Together, the NVNG and SPCS aim to equip law enforcement and corrections personnel with the skills and insights necessary to navigate the complexities of modern public safety challenges.

End Release.

Perelaaroi S. E. Siaosi (Mrs.)

Public Diplomacy Coordinator |United States Embassy Apia, Samoa

Level 5 Accident Compensation Corporation Building| Beach Road, Matafele| Apia, Independent State of Samoa

P.O. Box 3430|Tel: (685) 21631 ext. 2232|Cell: 777-1187|Fax: (685) 22030

Email: siaosipse@state.govWebsite: http://ws.usembassy.gov

Facebook: @samoa.usembassy Twitter: @usembassysamoa

March 26, 2025

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(For Immediate Release March 10, 2025 Apia, Samoa) – The Nevada National Guard (NVNG) is proud to announce a Subject Matter Expert Exchange (SMEE) with the Samoa Disaster Management Office (DMO) and the Nevada Division of Emergency Management (DEM) focused on enhancing disaster response and management capabilities. This important initiative will feature a tabletop exercise centered around a simulated Tropical Cyclone scenario impacting the islands of Samoa.

The tabletop exercise will provide an invaluable opportunity for both Nevada and Samoa to train together and exchange best practices. The primary goal is to identify and refine processes in areas that may be vulnerable, thereby strengthening the overall disaster response framework in Samoa.

“This engagement marks a significant milestone in our ongoing partnership with Samoa’s disaster management agencies,” said Chargé d’Affaires Daniel Tarapacki. “By working together, we aim to enhance our collective capacity to respond effectively to emergencies, ensuring a well-coordinated and efficient approach to disaster management across the Samoa and the region.”

The SMEE represents the first collaborative effort between the NVNG and Samoa’s Disaster Management and Response agencies. Experts from NVNG’s will lend their expertise in areas such as law enforcement, command and control, search and extraction, and hazardous materials (HAZMAT) response.

The partnership was established following a comprehensive country analysis conducted in February 2024, which identified key areas of collaboration. Since then, the NVNG has worked diligently to forge a strong alliance with Samoa, culminating in this significant training exercise.

The insights gained from this tabletop exercise will not only enhance Samoa’s disaster preparedness but also foster the longstanding relationship between Samoa and the United States, ultimately contributing to the safety and resilience of the communities they serve.

End Release.

SOURCE – US Embassy Apia, Samoa

March 26, 2025

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[Apia, Samoa – March 8, 2025] – The United Nations, in partnership with the Government of Samoa and key stakeholders, marked International Women’s Day (IWD) at the Fugalei Market on Friday 7th of March, paying tribute to the vital contributions of all women market vendors in driving economic growth, ensuring food security, and strengthening community resilience.

The event, held under the 2025 IWD theme, “Celebrating the Rights, Equality, and Empowerment of ALL Women and Girls,” recognized the achievements and leadership of women market vendors in Samoa. Through the Markets for Change (M4C) Programme, led by UN Women in partnership with UNDP, women have gained enhanced economic opportunities, access to training, and improved working conditions in marketplaces across Samoa.

Levetti F. Taula, a representative of the Savalalo Market Vendors Association, shared her experience, stating, “One specific example of how the project has helped is through the training programs it offers. I participated in an executive leadership training, which taught me how to contribute positively and productively not only to our association but also in running my own business and managing my workers. This knowledge has improved my interactions with business partners and equipped me to be a better leader.”

Another vendor, Papalii Sanitoa Papalii of the Fugalei Market Vendors Association, highlighted the impact of financial literacy training: “Through these programs, I learned how to manage my finances, create a business plan, and market my products effectively. This knowledge has empowered me to expand my business, increase my income, and provide better opportunities for my family.”

The Fugalei Market, home to a large number of women vendors since its establishment in 1994, has benefitted significantly from the M4C Programme, which has helped implement key infrastructure improvements, including disability ramps, renovated booths and bus shelters, installation of security cameras, and the introduction of QR codes for vendor transactions.

The Australian Government has played a pivotal role in supporting women vendors through its contribution of 5.3 million AUD to the M4C Programme, fostering safer, greener, and more accessible marketplaces.

“The program pays special attention to the needs and dreams of women market vendors. It embodies a goal we all share – to create a world where women and girls can thrive and succeed without limitations,” Deputy High Commissioner of Australia Claire McGeechan remarked.

Karen Ah Poe, a representative from the Salelologa Market Vendors Association, called for continued investment in leadership and advocacy training: “Empowering women to take on leadership roles within the market and the community can drive long-term change and ensure that our voices are heard in decision-making processes.”

Samoa’s commitment to gender equality was also recognized, with notable progress in women’s leadership, economic participation, and social development. The historic election of Hon. Fiame Naomi Mataʻafa as Samoa’s first female Prime Minister in 2021 was cited as a milestone in advancing women’s representation in governance.

The United Nations and its agencies continue to champion women’s economic empowerment in Samoa through various initiatives:

• FAO promotes women’s access to land and finance for sustainable agriculture.

• ILO advocates for equal pay, social protection, and safe working conditions.

• UNESCO supports digital skills development and lifelong learning.

• UNFPA ensures access to reproductive health services to enable full participation in economic and social opportunities.

• UNEP encourages eco-friendly market solutions and climate-smart business practices.

The UN Resident Coordinator a.i Aliona Niculita, emphasized the importance of women’s economic empowerment: “As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we reaffirm our commitment to inclusive policies that prioritize women’s rights, amplify their leadership, and create economic opportunities that drive lasting change. Through the Markets for Change Programme, we have witnessed firsthand how empowering women vendors strengthens families, communities, and the entire nation.”

As the celebrations concluded, a strong call to action was made to continue investing in women’s success. “We are only able to effect change and improve rights, equality, and empowerment for all women and girls when we work together,” Sine Lafaialii Koria, Board Member of the ACC reminded the gathering at the IWD 2025 event.

This year’s event reaffirmed the commitment of the Government of Samoa, the UN , and development partners to building a future where every woman and girl can thrive, lead, and succeed.

The event was jointly supported by the FAO, ILO, UNDP, UNEP, UNESCO, UNFPA and UN Women.

For media inquiries, please contact:

aterina.samasoni@un.org

March 26, 2025

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(IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 5, 2025 Apia, Samoa) – The U.S. Embassy, in partnership with the Nevada National Guard (NVNG), collaborated with the Samoa Ports Authority (SPA) to conduct a four-day exchange focused on cybersecurity.

This training was a first for the Samoa Ports Authority under the NVNG State Partnership Program (SPP), which emphasizes relationship-building and fostering collaboration. Over the course of four days, experts engaged in discussions on critical areas such as cybersecurity, personnel capacity building, and ICT infrastructure. The exchange provided an opportunity to identify strengths, address vulnerabilities, and develop solutions that will enhance security and benefit the people of Samoa.

U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Daniel Tarapacki expressed appreciation for the strong working relationship and underscored the importance of the partnership. “Through the Nevada State Partnership Program, we continue to pave the way for a future defined by a safer, stronger, and more prosperous Pacific region.” He also highlighted the broader significance of the initiative, adding, “Strengthening port security is not only essential for trade and commerce but is also crucial for the safety and well-being of our countries. Building relationships is at the heart of what we do, and this event showcased the commitment from both the NVNG and SPA to work together toward a safer, more secure future for Samoa.”

About the Nevada National Guard and the State Partnership Program

The Nevada National Guard has been engaged in the State Partnership Program with Samoa to enhance cooperation in security, disaster response, and emergency preparedness. Through regular exchanges and training workshops, this partnership strengthens regional stability and fosters mutual understanding between the United States and Samoa.

End Release.

SOURCE – US Embassy Apia, Samoa

March 25, 2025