Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Incoming passenger convicted and jailed for possessing duty-not-paid cigarettes
Customs intercepted an incoming 32-year-old male passenger at the China Ferry Terminal in Tsim Sha Tsui yesterday (May 27) for Customs clearance. Four thousand two hundred sticks of duty-not-paid cigarettes, with an estimated market value of about $17,200 and a duty potential of about $13,900, were seized from a suitcase carried by him. The male passenger was subsequently arrested.
Customs welcomes the sentence. The custodial sentence has imposed a considerable deterrent effect and reflects the seriousness of the offences. Customs reminds members of the public that under the DCO, tobacco products are dutiable goods to which the DCO applies. Any person who deals with, possesses, sells or buys illicit cigarettes commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $1 million and imprisonment for two years.
Members of the public may report any suspected illicit cigarette activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hkIssued at HKT 17:40
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Fraudulent website and internet banking login screen related to China Construction Bank (Asia) Corporation Limited
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Fraudulent website and internet banking login screen related to China Construction Bank (Asia) Corporation Limited
The HKMA wishes to remind the public that banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks which direct them to the banks’ websites to carry out transactions. They will not ask customers for sensitive personal information, such as login passwords or one-time password, by phone, email or SMS (including via embedded hyperlinks).
Anyone who has provided his or her personal information, or who has conducted any financial transactions, through or in response to the website or login screen concerned, should contact the bank using the contact information provided in the press release, and report the matter to the Police by contacting the Crime Wing Information Centre of the Hong Kong Police Force at 2860 5012.
Issued at HKT 17:35
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LCQ14: Handling water mains leakage
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
LCQ14: Handling water mains leakage
Question:
It is learnt that the issue of water mains leakage in Hong Kong has become increasingly serious in recent years. There are views that the Water Supplies Department (WSD) should address this problem promptly to ensure the efficient use of water resources. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
(1) of the total volume of fresh water leaked from private water mains in each of the 18 districts in the territory in the past five years; and the following information on the top 10 private housing courts with the most severe water mains leakage: (i) name; (ii) year of completion; (iii) volume of water leakage involved; (iv) number of Repair Notices (RNs) and Disconnection Notices (DNs) received from the WSD; (v) number of times the water supply was suspended by the WSD; and (vi) repairs to the leaking water mains;
(2) given that according to the WSD’s website, the number of RNs issued by the WSD under Section 16 of the Waterworks Ordinance (Cap. 102) (the Ordinance) was around 700 to 1 000 per year in the past 10 years with no apparent downward trend while the number of DNs issued under Section 11 of the Ordinance and the number of disconnection cases under Section 10 of the Ordinance have shown a decreasing trend, whether the WSD has studied the reasons for this situation;
(3) given that according to the WSD’s website, the leakage rate of government water mains was approximately 13.4 per cent in 2024, and the WSD has also set a target to reduce the leakage rate to 10 per cent or below by 2030, but there are views that the aforesaid rate fails to cover the leakage situation of all water mains (e.g. leakage from non-government water mains), whether the WSD has plans to consolidate and make public the complete statistics concerned, and give an account of the annual amount of water loss from the water mains in the territory and the reasons for such loss in its annual reports; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and
(4) whether the WSD has plans to set up a committee to take full responsibility for and handle water mains leakage, and to expedite the implementation of “smart waterworks” through coordinating work across different departments and introducing new technologies, so as to further implement “smart leakage control”; if so, of the details and the timetable; if not, the reasons for that?
Reply:
President,
The Water Supplies Department (WSD) has been striving to enhance the management and maintenance of water mains and apply new technologies to enable effective operation of the water supply networks.
Regarding government water mains, the WSD implemented a territory-wide water mains replacement and rehabilitation programme between 2000 and 2015 to replace and rehabilitate about 3???000 kilometres long aged water mains (including fresh and salt water mains), thereby raising the operational condition of the water supply networks. Since 2015, the WSD has implemented multi-pronged measures in phases, through establishment of Water Intelligent Network (WIN) and formulation and implementation of risk-based water mains improvement works under a risk-based asset management programme for water mains to continuously maintain the healthiness of the water supply networks and reduce the risks of water main bursts or leaks. Through these measures and efforts over the years, the leakage rate of fresh water mains has dropped from over 25 per cent in 2000 to around 13.4 per cent in 2024.
The replies to various parts of the Hon Yung Hoi-yan’s question are as follows:
(1) Regarding the leakage of private fresh water mains (Note), the WSD calculates the volume of water loss in the communal service of a building by deducting the total fresh water consumption recorded by all water meters of individual units in the building from the master meter reading of the building to help monitor the fresh water leakage in the communal service of the building. The WSD has installed master meters in public housing estates across the territory and is currently installing master meters in private buildings in phases. Since not all buildings have been equipped with master meters, the WSD can currently only estimate the leakage rate and total volume of water loss of private fresh water mains over the past five years by referencing the volume of fresh water loss in buildings with master meters installed. The estimated results are as follows:
| Year As mentioned by the Hon Yung Hoi-yan, the WSD will follow up with the housing estates concerned regarding cases of suspected leakages in private fresh water mains and will issue Repair Notices (RNs) as necessary under section 16 of the Waterworks Ordinance (the Ordinance). If no follow-up action had been taken by the deadline, the WSD will, taking into account the actual circumstances (e.g. larger scale of repair, more complicated pipe connections which require longer time for project planning and repair arrangement, etc), issue Disconnection Notices (DNs) in accordance with section 11 of the Ordinance for non-compliant cases with the RNs, where no valid justification are provided, to arrange for suspension of water supply to reduce fresh water loss. The issuance of RNs or DNs to private housing estates involves case-specific circumstances. To avoid public misinterpretation and doubt, we consider it inappropriate to unilaterally provide the names of the housing estates. (2) In recent years, the WSD has allocated resources to actively follow up the leakage in private fresh water mains. If water loss is identified, the WSD will issue RNs to owners as early as possible, requiring them to properly repair the leaking fresh water mains so as to reduce fresh water wastage. The WSD has also stepped up publicity targeting at property management companies for enabling them to distinguish between the maintenance responsibilities of the inside service in individual flats and that of the communal service in a building. This helps property management companies depict the respective responsibilities to fresh water consumers so that the water mains repair works can be carried out promptly. Also, the WSD actively provides technical support to consumers with difficulties for early compliance of the RNs. According to the WSD’s record, most of the consumers have complied with the RNs and repaired the leaking water mains, resulting in a decrease in the number of DNs issued and the number of water disconnection cases executed by the WSD under sections 11 and 10 of the Ordinance respectively. (3) The WSD has consistently addressed the public concerns on the leakage of government water mains by providing the annual leakage rate of government water mains in its annual reports, and has emphasised the target of reducing the leakage rate of fresh water mains of government network (as a percentage of total water supply) to 10 per cent or below by 2030. As for the leakage of private fresh water mains, since many private housing estates still do not have master meters installed, the WSD is unable to fully grasp accurate data on the volume of water leakage of private housing estates in Hong Kong. As mentioned earlier, the leakage rate (as a percentage of total water supply) in 2024 was estimated to be approximately 11.6 per cent. We understand that the public is concerned about the leakage of private fresh water mains. As more private buildings progressively install master meters, the WSD will publish the leakage rate of private fresh water mains in future annual reports in a timely manner, following the practice adopted for the leakage rate of government water mains. (4) The WSD has set up the Standing Committee on Unaccounted for Water, chaired by the Deputy Director of Water Supplies, with functions including monitoring the leakage situation of government water mains and private fresh water mains, and steering and co-ordinating the water loss management work of different divisions within the WSD, etc. In June 2024, the WSD established the Digital Water Office to drive for digitalisation of water supply services, to formulate and expedite the development of smart water strategy, and to implement a series of digitalisation projects and measures in phases such as the expansion and upgrade of WIN to fully cover the fresh water supply networks and gradually upgrade the sensors for monitoring the water flow and water pressure of water mains to collect real-time data. Advanced Metering Infrastructure systems are also being installed in private buildings to monitor real-time water consumption for early detection of leaking fresh water mains. While the full digitalisation of water supply system is being implemented in a progressive manner, the water loss will be further improved gradually. The WSD will also actively maintain close contact with relevant stakeholders to explore different solutions for facilitating reduction of water loss. Note: According to the WSD, the leakage of private fresh water mains includes the leakage of the communal service in various buildings (private buildings and public housing estates). Issued at HKT 17:32 NNNN Government welcomes passage of Inland Revenue (Amendment) (Minimum Tax for Multinational Enterprise Groups) Bill 2024Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region Government welcomes passage of Inland Revenue (Amendment) (Minimum Tax for Multinational Enterprise Groups) Bill 2024 NNNN HA staff commended for outstanding performanceSource: Hong Kong Government special administrative region HA staff commended for outstanding performance NNNN CEPU bridges research-policy divideSource: Hong Kong Information Services The Government announced today the reappointment of 59 members of the Chief Executive’s Policy Unit (CEPU) Expert Group. Among those reappointed is Prof Naubahar Sharif, Head and Professor of the Division of Public Policy at the Hong Kong University of Science & Technology (HKUST). Prof Sharif hailed the CEPU’s engagement as “extremely valuable” in bridging research and policy-making, highlighting that it helps researchers to understand the requirements of Hong Kong society at large. For his part, CEPU Head Stephen Wong cited a visit by the CEPU to HKUST’s Institute of Public Policy as an example of the body’s mission to engage with university professors and think tanks striving to convert basic research into outcomes with real societal impact. Prof Sharif echoed Mr Wong’s perspective, stressing that it can be difficult for the research community to understand the broader requirements of Hong Kong society without the bridging role performed by the CEPU. He added that this interaction gives all parties an understanding of the level at which the CEPU operates, its vision for strategic long-term policy-making, and how researchers should pitch their work to generate greater impact for Hong Kong, the Greater Bay Area, and the country as a whole. “Without such direction, I think we are doing great work, but that great work may be a little bit unmoored.” The CEPU oversees two funding schemes to support public policy research and knowledge transfer. These are the Public Policy Research Funding Scheme (PPRFS) and the Strategic Public Policy Research Funding Scheme (SPPRFS). Mr Wong praised Prof Sharif’s contributions as a reviewer and his participation in round-table discussions at meetings to kick off or conclude projects under both schemes. Prof Sharif outlined that he sees his role as a reviewer as being about upholding the high integrity of the process and the scientific quality of proposals, in addition to maintaining the utmost impartiality and objectivity. He added that the biggest contribution made by the project meetings is that they bring the projects to life, enabling a qualitative understanding both of the variety of stakeholders and the depth of impact involved. “If we did not have those sessions, we would only know about the PPRFS and the SPPRFS from the websites.” Meanwhile, “Fireside Chat with CEPU Experts” facilitates thematic discussions. Calling these a highlight, Prof Sharif explained that they foster dynamic exchanges among high-level stakeholders. Mr Wong revealed that the topics covered in fireside chats to date have included educational reform in Hong Kong and the future of China’s economy, while the next one will focus on artificial intelligence. Prof Sharif elaborated that these sessions create a spark among experts across different fields, allowing legislators, policy-makers, academics and industry participants to interact and collaborate. “You are bringing together such high-powered individuals and so much intellectual firepower into the same room for one and a half hours or two hours that it is a really powerful process.” Government to take over Tai Lam Tunnel and substantially reduce its tolls on May 31, followed by HKeToll to be implemented from 5am (with photos/video)Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region Government to take over Tai Lam Tunnel and substantially reduce its tolls on May 31, followed by HKeToll to be implemented from 5am (with photos/video)Urban entrances During the temporary closure of the TLT, the bus stops at the toll plaza will be temporarily suspended, affecting a total of three overnight bus routes: KMB Route Nos. N269 (Tin Tsz Estate – Mei Foo) and N368 (Yuen Long (West) – Central (Macau Ferry)) as well as Long Win Bus Route No. NA43 (Fanling (Luen Wo Hui) – Hong Kong Port of Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Public Transport Interchange). They will be diverted via Yuen Long Highway and Tuen Mun Road, and temporary bus stops will be set up at the Tuen Mun Road Bus-Bus Interchange. The TD has informed the bus companies concerned of the arrangements, and passengers should refer to the notices issued by the operators for details. AppealIssued at HKT 16:26 NNNN Fencing test event setSource: Hong Kong Information Services The Challenge Cups Fencing Championships, which is also the 15th National Games (NG) Fencing test event, will be held at Kai Tak Arena, Kai Tak Sports Park this Saturday and Sunday.
With more than 500 athletes participating, the event features open and veteran divisions. The épée competition will be staged on the first day, while the foil and sabre competitions will be held on the next day.
The competition event will start at 9am on both days. Tickets are distributed to people through the Fencing Association of Hong Kong, China. Members of the public may register for tickets online from 9am tomorrow while stocks last.
Moreover, a small number of tickets have been reserved for on-site distribution at the entrance on level UG of Kai Tak Arena at 9am or 2.30pm on the event days for admission.
Radio Television Hong Kong will provide live broadcasts of parts of the events via RTHK TV 32 and webcast. Click here for more details Canadian firms urged to re-domicileSource: Hong Kong Information Services On day two of his Canada visit, Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Christopher Hui urged two Canadadian-based insurance companies to consider re-domiciling their companies to Hong Kong to enjoy the relevant legal and taxation convenience, as well as to lower their compliance costs for satisfying two sets of regulatory requirements.
During yesterday’s duty visit, Mr Hui met Manulife President & Chief Executive Officer Phil Witherington and Chief Financial Officer Colin Simpson, as well as SunLife Executive Vice-President & Chief Financial Officer Tim Deacon and Executive Vice-President & Chief Strategy & Enablement Officer Linda Doughety.
Both companies are Canadian-based and have extended their business to Hong Kong.
Mr Hui introduced them to the newly enacted legislation on re-domiciliation of companies, adding that on the very first day the company re-domiciliation regime came into effect last Friday, an international insurance group immediately announced its plan to re-domicile its company to Hong Kong.
He pointed out that this news was the best testament to the regime’s effectiveness in enhancing companies’ operational efficiency, thereby consolidating Hong Kong’s position as a leading international financial centre.
Under the new regime, non-Hong Kong-incorporated companies may apply to re-domicile to Hong Kong if they fulfil requirements concerning company background, integrity, member and creditor protection, solvency, etc, while maintaining their legal identity as a body corporate to ensure business continuity.
If the company’s actual similar profits are also taxed in Hong Kong after re-domiciliation, the Government will provide the company with unilateral tax credits to eliminate double taxation.
Mr Hui highlighted that Hong Kong has a strong foundation in investment and trade, making it an ideal location for global enterprises to access insurance, reinsurance and risk management services, as well as to establish captive insurers. He also noted that there are vast opportunities for insurance companies in Hong Kong.
Mr Hui then attended a business luncheon organised by the Hong Kong Economic & Trade Office (Toronto), Invest Hong Kong (Canada) and the National Club.
He gave a presentation themed “Hong Kong as an anchor of stability amid the changing world” to showcase to the attending financial leaders the stellar figures recorded in the financial market, and banking and monetary markets.
Mr Hui talked about the Government’s efforts in aligning with international standards and boosting the development of green and sustainable finance and the virtual asset market. He highlighted that with its competitive advantages and proactive measures, as well as the stability and predictability of its financial market, Hong Kong has been earning the confidence of global investors.
Additionally, Mr Hui met Ontario Securities Commission (OSC) Chief Executive Officer Grant Vingoe and both agreed that in today’s shifting global landscape, collaboration with trusted allies would ensure capital markets remain robust and resilient.
The Securities & Futures Commission of Hong Kong entered into a memorandum of understanding with the OSC in mid-May to include Ontario of Canada in its list of acceptable inspection regimes for strengthening the regulatory collaboration and exchange of information between the two regulators.
In the evening, Mr Hui had a dinner meeting with Hong Kong-Canada Business Association (Toronto Chapter) President Joseph Chaung, and the association’s board members to brief them on the latest developments and future direction of Hong Kong’s financial market.
Mr Hui also paid a courtesy call on Consul-General of the People’s Republic of China in Toronto Luo Weidong. Both expressed their anticipation that Hong Kong, with the support of the nation and its solid foundation and forward-looking measures in financial areas, will engage in more co-operation with Canada. LCQ12: Measures to support non-Chinese speaking studentsSource: Hong Kong Government special administrative region LCQ12: Measures to support non-Chinese speaking students
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