Month: September 2025

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

President Lai meets Israel-Taiwan parliamentary friendship group Chair Boaz Toporovsky
On the afternoon of September 16, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Israel-Taiwan parliamentary friendship group Chair Boaz Toporovsky. In remarks, President Lai thanked the Israeli Knesset (parliament) for staunchly backing Taiwan’s international participation. The president expressed hope that the two sides can together deepen collaboration in such areas as semiconductors, ICT, digital security, and emerging defense technologies, and jointly expand their presence in the global market to strengthen supply chain resilience for a more prosperous future.
A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows:
I extend a warm welcome to Chair Toporovsky, who is visiting Taiwan once again. Chair Toporovsky is an important advocate for the deepening of Taiwan-Israel relations. In addition to leading three cross-party delegations to Taiwan, in July he initiated a joint statement in the Knesset backing Taiwan’s international participation. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I would like to thank Chair Toporovsky and the distinguished members of the delegation for taking concrete action to demonstrate their staunch support.
There are many similarities between Taiwan and Israel. In dealing with complex geopolitical environments, we both deeply understand that national security cannot rely on military defense alone; the power of technology and innovation must also be harnessed so as to enhance overall national resilience. Taiwan and Israel hold regular dialogues on the economy, trade, technology, and agriculture. We have also signed 34 cooperation agreements and continue to deepen exchanges. In addition, through the Global Cooperation and Training Framework, Taiwan and Israel have provided further support for the global democratic community in such areas as the prevention of cross-border crime, as well as the digital economy and national security.
This Saturday, the Presidential Office’s Whole-of-Society Defense Resilience Committee will hold an international forum, with Israeli organization Magen David Adom invited to share its experience in combat casualty care. This fully demonstrates how Taiwan and Israel are determined to jointly bolster societal resilience for the protection of people’s lives.
When serving as mayor of Tainan, I was invited to Israel to attend the International Mayors Conference. Israel is known as a nation of start-ups, and the diversity, innovation, and resilience I witnessed there left a lasting impression. As AI and other advanced technologies progress rapidly around the world, I hope Taiwan can utilize its advantage as a global semiconductor hub and learn from Israel’s experiences in start-up research and development. Together, we can deepen collaboration in such areas as semiconductors, ICT, digital security, and emerging defense technologies. Jointly expanding our presence in the global market, we can also strengthen supply chain resilience.
I once again welcome our guests to Taiwan. I look forward to more frequent exchanges and diverse cooperation between Taiwan and Israel as we join hands in building a more prosperous future.
Chair Toporovsky then delivered remarks, stating that it is an honor as the head of the Israel-Taiwan parliamentary friendship group to express the deep gratitude of the Israeli people and present the joint declaration to support democratic Taiwan’s participation in the international arena. He noted that the delegation represents the 72 members that signed the declaration, which is a majority of the members of the Knesset.
Chair Toporovsky continued on to say that he speaks with a painful heart, as 48 Israeli hostages are still being held in Gaza. It has been 708 days since October 7, he said, and the families of the hostages continue to endure endless nights of pain and uncertainty. Saying that he and the delegation carry them in their hearts every moment, the chair stated that they have also come with great gratitude for the people of Taiwan, who have shown Israel the true meaning of friendship.
Chair Toporovsky stated that on October 7, the lives of the survivors were destroyed, and with Taiwan’s help, they are starting to rebuild their lives. One example, he noted, is a resilience center in Kibbutz Palmahim that Taiwan helped build, showing steadfast support. The center has already provided help to over 1000 survivors, he said. This is not only aid, the chair said, but humanity and friendship at their best, showing that Taiwan and Israel share more than mutual interests, but the same values of freedom, democracy, and human dignity.
Chair Toporovsky stated that in a world of uncertainty, we are proof that good people with great courage can stand tall together. He said that he and the delegation are confident that our partnership will only continue to grow stronger, noting that we can cooperate in technology, innovation, humanitarian efforts, and education, above all believing in justice and liberty. To close, the chair thanked Taiwan on behalf of the people of Israel for standing with them and for being a true ally, saying they will always remember their friends and expressing hope that our bond will grow stronger and stronger every day.
The delegation also included Members of the Knesset Michal Shir Segman, Debbie Biton, Shalom Danino, Eli Dallal, and Yael Ron Ben Moshe, and was accompanied to the Presidential Office by Representative of the Israel Economic and Cultural Office in Taipei Maya Yaron.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Chief Executive John Lee today announced in his 2025 Policy Address that the Government will set up the Task Force on Supporting Mainland Enterprises in Going Global (GoGlobal Task Force) to encourage Mainland enterprises to use Hong Kong in expanding their businesses overseas. 

Hong Kong will fully integrate into the overall national development, capitalising on national strategies such as the Greater Bay Area (GBA) and high‑quality co‑operation under the Belt & Road (B&R) Initiative.

The Government will capitalise on the advantages of Hong Kong as an export platform to unlock new areas for economic growth.

Mr Lee said Mainland enterprises going global can establish Corporate Treasury Centres (CTCs) and regional headquarters in Hong Kong for cross‑boundary settlement, remittance, financing and related functions.

They can also tap Hong Kong’s professional high value‑added supply chain services in fields such as accounting and law to help them explore overseas markets. 

In addition, they can leverage Hong Kong’s strengths in marketing to connect with global buyers and build international brands.

The Government will also establish a one‑stop platform by mobilising Hong Kong’s overseas offices, including those under InvestHK and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, as well as Hong Kong offices in the Mainland, and set up the GoGlobal Task Force. 

Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development will steer the work of GoGlobal Task Force and co‑ordinate various bureaus, departments and agencies in formulating proposals for enterprises looking to go global. 

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) will encourage the banking sector, especially banks in the Mainland, to establish regional headquarters in Hong Kong, where Hong Kong’s strengths can help them expand into markets such as Southeast Asia and the Middle East.

To attract more Mainland enterprises to establish CTCs in Hong Kong, the Government will complete a study on tax concessionary measures to be further enhanced in the first half of 2026.

The HKMA has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia to establish a US$1 billion new investment fund, catering to enterprises in Hong Kong and other GBA cities looking to expand into Saudi Arabia.

The HKMA will also collaborate with organisations such as the Hong Kong Association of Banks, the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce and the Federation of Hong Kong Industries to lead delegations of banking representatives and small and medium enterprises to explore business opportunities in Southeast Asian markets such as Vietnam, pooling industry strengths to support the going global platform.

Meanwhile, the Government will leverage the strengths of Hong Kong’s exhibition industry and consolidate the city’s position as the ideal platform for Mainland brands to go global and for bringing in brands from around the world.  It will also support the trade to organise more events conducive to brand development.

Mr Lee added that the Government will promote the development of carbon audit services to assist enterprises going global to meet international requirements and standards on green trade in respect of carbon emission reduction.

Regarding deepening international exchanges and co‑operation, Mr Lee said the Government will actively invite the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank to set up an office in Hong Kong.

The Hong Kong Exchanges & Clearing will deepen co‑operation with Southeast Asian exchanges, attracting Southeast Asian issuers to seek secondary listings in Hong Kong and encouraging asset management companies to issue products in their local markets.

The B&R Office will co‑ordinate local public organisations and institutes to help train the personnel of B&R countries. It will also strive for more opportunities to match commercial projects in B&R markets with Hong Kong professional service sectors.

In addition, Hong Kong supports the country to promote the participation in green co‑operation with B&R countries. The Environmental Protection Department will set up a B&R sustainable green development training centre in Hong Kong next year, providing training courses for the personnel of B&R countries. 

The Government will also invite members of the Silk Road Maritime Association to hold a summit during Hong Kong Maritime Week next year, promoting its participation in the B&R shipping brand.

This year and next, the Government will organise a number of international conferences, forums and exhibitions, establish the Hong Kong International Correctional Services Response Tactics Training Academy, and participate in and promote innovation and technology collaboration with various international and regional organisations.

The Government will also support local universities and professional organisations in their bids to host more international academic and professional conferences and publish influential academic journals. 

The Chief Executive added that the Government will continue to deepen co‑operation with Guangdong and Macau, forging closer convergence of respective rules and mechanisms to enhance the flow of people, goods, data and capital.

The relevant measures include developing the Hong Kong International Airport Dongguan Logistics Park, continuously enhancing the Payment Connect, thereby expanding to use cases for remittance related to people’s livelihood, etc.

Hong Kong will also work with exchanges in the GBA to develop commodity trading, carbon trading and other businesses. 

The Financial Services & the Treasury Bureau is working with Shenzhen and Qianhai to promote digital finance development and support deeper integration of technology and finance between Shenzhen and Hong Kong.  Measures are expected to be announced later this year.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Hongkong Post announced today (September 17) that, as advised by an airline, the import and export cargo handling services and customs clearance previously affected by the relocation of Phnom Penh International Airport has resumed. Mail delivery services to Cambodia have returned to normal.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Government will continue its work on targeted poverty alleviation by directing resources to those most in need with a series of corresponding measures in the 2025 Policy Address delivered by Chief Executive John Lee.

Activities of the Strive & Rise Alumni Club will be enriched, providing young people with training and experience that integrate Hong Kong pop culture and traditional Chinese arts. The Government will inject $180 million into the Child Development Fund to implement projects promoting the long-term development of primary students from disadvantaged communities, and enhance different elements of the projects by drawing on the successful experience of the Strive & Rise Programme with a view to reducing intergenerational poverty.

Six additional Community Living Rooms (CLRs) will be set up. Together with the nine CLRs, they are expected to benefit about 7,000 subdivided unit households.

Meanwhile, time-limited cash incentives will be provided on a pilot basis for households leaving the Comprehensive Social Security Assistance Scheme (CSSA) and eligible for the Working Family Allowance to promote the self-reliance of these households.

The Report on Impact of Targeted Poverty Alleviation Strategy in Hong Kong will be published in mid 2026.

As regards care for the elderly, the Government will provide about 700 new subsidised residential care service places and increase the number of Residential Care Service Vouchers for the Elderly by 1,000 to a total of 7,000. The number of Community Care Service Vouchers for the Elderly will also rise by 4,000 to 16,000. Three new Neighbourhood Elderly Centres will be set up to strengthen support at the district level. 

A pilot scheme will be launched by the end of this year to subsidise elderly CSSA recipients retiring in Guangdong to reside in designated residential care homes for the elderly (RCHEs) in the province. Eligible seniors will each receive a monthly subsidy of $5,000, subject to a quota of 1,000.

The Residential Care Services Scheme in Guangdong will also be expanded. Starting in October, the number of Mainland RCHEs participating in the scheme will increase from 15 to 24, while the number of cities covered will rise from six to eight.

Noting that carers play an important role in supporting the elderly and people with disabilities, the Chief Executive said the Government will earmark an annual recurrent expenditure of $500 million to roll out measures to support them.

Among these measures is the District Services & Community Care Teams – Scheme on Supporting Elderly & Carers, which will continue to be implemented for three years, under which care teams provide support to high-risk families and assist households in installing an emergency alarm system as necessary. The Support for Carers Project will also continue to be implemented for three years.

The Policy Address also outlined measures in support of people in rehabilitation. The Government will collaborate with university teams to formulate guidelines for consumers of rehabilitation products, with electric wheelchairs, electric smart beds and robotic exoskeletons as pilot items, setting out the basic requirements of these products to assist the users and their carers in selecting suitable products.

Moreover, the Government will add places at care homes and hostels for people with special needs, including the extra 80 places for the Bought Place Scheme for Private Residential Care Homes for People with Disabilities, the additional 220 places at special child care centres, the extra 100 places at day activity centres, and the additional 50 places at hostels for severely mentally handicapped persons.

As people with disabilities face additional challenges in their daily life, Mr Lee said that from the second quarter of 2026, the Government will introduce one-stop support and care services at hostels for the severely and moderately mentally handicapped, and increase the number of extended care places at hostels co-located with day activity centres/integrated vocational rehabilitation services centres.

Such measures will release about 700 day rehabilitation training places, providing day training for people with disabilities living in the community and alleviating the burden of carers, he added.

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

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2025-09-12
President Lai receives credentials from new Belize Ambassador Katherine Vanessa Meighan
On the afternoon of September 12, President Lai Ching-te received the credentials of new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Belize to the Republic of China (Taiwan) Katherine Vanessa Meighan. In remarks, President Lai expressed hope that with Ambassador Meighan’s experience and vision, our two countries will achieve further progress in such areas as educational exchanges, gender equality, and economic and trade cooperation, reaching new milestones in our bilateral ties. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: On behalf of the government and people of the Republic of China (Taiwan), I extend my sincerest welcome. Ambassador Meighan is a dear and longstanding friend of Taiwan. She is a distinguished alumna of National Chengchi University, and since completing her studies, she has contributed greatly to Belize’s business community. Her leadership as president of the Rotary Club of Belize and the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry has earned her high regard. In recent years, Ambassador Meighan has engaged closely with the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) in Belize. In addition to regularly participating in embassy events, she has also hosted numerous trade and investment missions from Taiwan, making considerable contributions to the advancement of economic and trade exchanges between our two nations. Ambassador Meighan has also long endeavored to enhance women’s empowerment and promote the development of micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises. These goals align closely with Taiwan’s policy direction. I firmly believe that, with Ambassador Meighan’s experience and vision, our two countries will achieve further progress in such areas as educational exchanges, gender equality, and economic and trade cooperation. Next month, we will mark 36 years of diplomatic relations between our nations. We are delighted to have seen significant growth in economic and trade exchanges since the implementation of the Taiwan-Belize Economic Cooperation Agreement. In July, Taiwan also announced the opening of its market to imports of frozen whiteleg shrimp from Belize. I am confident that, through joint efforts, our economic, trade, and investment ties will continue to strengthen. I have met and engaged with Prime Minister John Briceño on several occasions and greatly admire his leadership and vision. I look forward to the opportunity to visit Belize and witness firsthand the results of our nations’ collaboration across all domains. In closing, I once again extend a warm welcome to Ambassador Meighan. Her return to Taiwan for this post demonstrates the value the Belizean government places upon the diplomatic alliance between our countries. I firmly believe that going forward, we can work hand in hand to usher in new developments, new achievements, and new milestones in our bilateral ties.  Ambassador Meighan then delivered remarks, saying that her pursuit of higher learning in Taiwan 20 years ago reminds her that education is a gift that multiplies opportunities for communities and nations. She added that she is grateful for the continued partnership that Taiwan extends to Belize and Caribbean and Latin American nations, a partnership grounded in shared values, mutual respect, and steadfast commitment to development and human potential. Ambassador Meighan indicated that our bilateral relationship stands as a testament of principled democracy: purposeful, resilient, and anchored in democratic ideals. Taiwan’s investments in Belize, such as those in education, health, infrastructure, and technology, she said, have not only advanced our nations’ development goals, but have strengthened the fabric of our people-to-people ties. The ambassador then stated that her return as Belize’s representative is a renewal of that trust and a pledge to deepen collaboration, adding that she is committed to broadening cooperation beyond policy to the cultural and educational exchanges that nurture understanding and friendship.  Ambassador Meighan affirmed Belize’s unwavering support for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international fora, stating that she invites continued dialogue on how we can translate these shared values into tangible benefits for our families, our businesses, and our nations. The ambassador expressed hope that the friendship between Belize and Taiwan will continue to stand as a beacon, showing that principled collaboration, mutual respect, and enduring goodwill can propel our nations toward a future of peace, prosperity, and shared purpose for generations to come. She then thanked President Lai for his leadership and the enduring friendship between our countries, also expressing hope that together, we can nurture a world in which nations rise by lifting one another up, and where the ties that bind Belize and Taiwan serve as a model for a more cooperative and harmonious global community.  

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2025-09-12
President Lai receives credentials from new Paraguay Ambassador Darío Filártiga Ruiz Díaz
On the morning of September 12, President Lai Ching-te received the credentials of new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Paraguay to the Republic of China (Taiwan) Darío Filártiga Ruiz Díaz. In remarks, President Lai welcomed the ambassador to his new post in Taiwan, noting it marks a new chapter in bilateral relations between Taiwan and Paraguay. The president also emphasized that our two countries have strong bonds and engage in close cooperation in democratic values, economic collaboration, education and culture, as well as social welfare and people’s livelihoods. He expressed hope for renewed momentum in our prosperous partnership, resulting in even more fruitful cooperation and mutual benefits. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: On behalf of the government and people of the Republic of China (Taiwan), I sincerely welcome Ambassador Filártiga to his new post in Taiwan. He has not only been entrusted with this important mission by President Santiago Peña Palacios, but has also received strong bipartisan support from the Paraguayan Senate. This demonstrates the importance that Paraguay attaches to the friendship between our two countries. I am confident that the ambassador’s assignment will mark a new chapter in our bilateral relations. Ambassador Filártiga has longstanding ties with Taiwan. He previously served as a ministerial political advisor to former President Horacio Cartes and accompanied him on three visits to Taiwan. Ambassador Filártiga is also highly knowledgeable in regional affairs. Given his outstanding abilities, I am confident that our bilateral cooperation and friendship will stand as a model for the world. Taiwan and Paraguay are like two beacons of democracy on opposite ends of the globe, illuminating each other. Our two countries have strong bonds and engage in close cooperation in democratic values, economic collaboration, education and culture, as well as social welfare and people’s livelihoods. In education, we jointly established the Taiwan-Paraguay Polytechnic University, which trains professionals in fields like electrical engineering and information technology, providing Paraguay with a stronger foundation for developing its high-tech industries. As for economic and trade cooperation, bilateral trade has accelerated since the Taiwan-Paraguay economic cooperation agreement entered into force in 2018. Taiwan has become an important export market for Paraguayan pork, beef, and sesame, mutually benefiting both countries. Additionally, joint initiatives like the Taiwan-Paraguay Smart Technology Park, our electric bus pilot program, and the Health Information Management Efficiency Enhancement Project have significantly enhanced the quality of life of citizens and are the fruits of our dedicated, long-term collaboration. Once again, I congratulate Ambassador Filártiga on his new assignment and look forward to his service bringing renewed momentum to our prosperous partnership, resulting in even more fruitful cooperation and mutual benefits. I hope to continue working side by side to contribute more to democracy, peace, and prosperity around the world. Ambassador Filártiga then delivered remarks, saying it is an honor to be appointed ambassador of Paraguay to Taiwan, as it carries the expectations and responsibilities of his country, government, people, and family. He noted that the appointment also recognizes his years of dedicated work in fostering Taiwan-Paraguay relations. He extended the regards and greetings of President Peña and former President Cartes, adding that President Peña looks forward to President Lai’s next official visit to Paraguay. Ambassador Filártiga noted that the government of Paraguay aims to strengthen bilateral relations with its allies, and that the Republic of China (Taiwan) and the United States are key partners in jointly addressing important challenges. He said that Taiwan is an important ally and economic partner of Paraguay, as it plays a crucial role in high-tech industries and global development, and occupies a leading position in the semiconductor sector. He also highly commended Taiwan’s quality higher education system and its commitment and achievements in sustainable economic development. Ambassador Filártiga thanked Taiwan for strongly supporting several of Paraguay’s key development initiatives, which have significantly enhanced the quality of life for the people of Paraguay and positioned the country as an innovation hub for the region and beyond. He also emphasized that Paraguay has long advocated in international venues for the international standing of the Republic of China (Taiwan) and its meaningful participation in all organizations. He stated this is a central principle for the government of Paraguay and should be a shared goal of all nations that respect freedom, democracy, and human rights, as it reflects the fundamental values of safeguarding human dignity and advancing development. Ambassador Filártiga noted that Paraguay has abundant natural resources, a favorable climate, fertile land, and abundant water resources. The country also boasts clean renewable energy and produces high-quality livestock and staple crops, such as rice. He expressed hope for further opportunities to increase Paraguayan exports to Taiwan and looked forward to Taiwanese enterprises investing and establishing operations in Paraguay in the spirit of mutual benefit and cooperation. Ambassador Filártiga stated that the brotherly ties between Paraguay and Taiwan are a treasured bond worth protecting and strengthening. He further noted that over the past 68 years, the solid diplomatic relationship between our two countries has become one of mutual trust, respect, and assistance, benefiting the peoples of both nations. In closing, he reiterated the commitment of both the government of Paraguay and President Peña to consolidate bilateral relations. He affirmed their continued support for Taiwan’s participation in international organizations, with the hope of jointly building a prosperous and sustainable future.

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2025-09-09
President Lai receives credentials from new Haiti Ambassador Roudy Stanley Penn  
On the morning of September 9, President Lai Ching-te received the credentials of new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Haiti to the Republic of China (Taiwan) Roudy Stanley Penn. In remarks, President Lai welcomed the ambassador to his new post and thanked the government of Haiti for its longstanding support and advocacy for Taiwan. The president also stated that joint efforts between our two countries have produced increasingly fruitful results across a range of collaborative initiatives. He expressed hope that we will continue to deepen our friendship, building on the strong existing foundation of our cooperation. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: It is a great pleasure to receive the credentials of Ambassador Penn. Next April marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our two countries. On behalf of the government and all people of the Republic of China (Taiwan), I sincerely welcome Ambassador Penn back to Taiwan as we celebrate this milestone together. Ambassador Penn is a young and promising leader with extensive experience in the public and private sectors. He showed exceptional capability during his first term as ambassador to Taiwan. His reappointment reflects the Haitian government’s recognition of his service and its commitment to the bilateral relationship between our countries. With Ambassador Penn’s assistance, I believe that Taiwan and Haiti will continue to deepen our cooperation in various fields. When I met with Ambassador Penn at the Presidential Office last May, he noted that Taiwan and Haiti’s cooperation in agriculture, energy, culture, and technology has brought substantial benefits to our peoples, demonstrating the importance of our bilateral partnership. As Ambassador Penn said, our joint efforts have increasingly produced fruitful results and deepened our friendship. Initiatives including the introduction of solar-powered irrigation pumps, the Rice Production Enhancement Project, and the Vegetable and Fruit Cultivation Development Project have laid the groundwork for lasting food security in Haiti. Furthermore, Taiwan has significantly increased the number of scholarships available to Haitian students this year, hoping to foster even more talent and promote student exchanges between our countries. I want to thank the government of Haiti for its longstanding support and unwavering advocacy for Taiwan. This year, Haiti’s Ministry of Public Health and Population voiced support for Taiwan at the World Health Organization (WHO)’s Executive Board meeting and the World Health Assembly. Minister of Foreign Affairs Jean-Victor Harvel Jean-Baptiste, who visited Taiwan two months ago, also sent a letter to the director-general of the WHO on Taiwan’s behalf, reflecting the spirit of true friendship. Once again, I sincerely welcome Ambassador Penn and wish him all the best in his work. I hope that Taiwan and Haiti will continue to deepen our friendship, building on the strong existing foundation of our cooperation, as well as our bonds of mutual trust and respect. Ambassador Penn then delivered remarks, saying that it is a great honor to present President Lai with his credentials and extending greetings on behalf of the Transitional Presidential Council, the government, and the people of Haiti. He also noted that it is an honor to once again serve as the ambassador of Haiti to Taiwan, and expressed his deep admiration for Taiwan’s journey, history, and bold aspiration. Ambassador Penn reiterated the Haitian government’s strong determination to strengthen and develop friendly and cooperative relations between our two countries. He affirmed that through joint cooperation, bilateral ties can reach new heights and mutually benefit our peoples. Ambassador Penn noted that next year marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Haiti and Taiwan, presenting an excellent opportunity to give renewed momentum to bilateral cooperation and strengthen friendly ties. He expressed hope to work with President Lai and the government of Taiwan to further deepen the friendship between our two countries’ peoples.  

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2025-09-03
President Lai meets delegation led by Saint Lucia Deputy Prime Minister Ernest Hilaire  
On the afternoon of September 3, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Saint Lucia Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism, Investment, Creative Industries, Culture and Information Ernest Hilaire. In remarks, President Lai thanked Saint Lucia for long supporting Taiwan’s international participation. He also expressed hope that the two countries will continue to expand and diversify collaboration to contribute even more to our nations’ prosperous development and to global progress. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I extend a warm welcome to Deputy Prime Minister Hilaire as he leads a delegation to Taiwan once again. Our previous meeting was in 2023, when I was serving as vice president. We had an in-depth discussion on many topics here at the Presidential Office. It is truly a pleasure to see Deputy Prime Minister Hilaire again today. I am also delighted to meet with Minister for Commerce, Manufacturing, Business Development, Cooperatives and Consumer Affairs Emma Hippolyte and Minister for Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment Joachim Andre Henry. I am sure that through this visit, you will gain an even more comprehensive understanding of Taiwan. In recent years, Taiwan and Saint Lucia have cooperated ever more closely in such areas as agriculture, education, public health, and infrastructure. This has further deepened our diplomatic alliance. Since taking office, Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre has focused especially on education, talent cultivation, and youth development. These goals align closely with Taiwan’s policy position. We believe that talent, particularly that of the next generation, is the foundation of national development, and it is the most important investment our nations can make together. Cooperation between Taiwan and Saint Lucia to nurture talent has already yielded fruitful results. In June, I met a PhD graduate from Saint Lucia at Central Police University’s graduation ceremony. I hope that he, along with other international alumni from Taiwanese universities, will be able to make important contributions to their nations’ development. This year, we launched the Taiwan Global Pathfinders Initiative and its Diplomatic Allies Inbound Track. In a few days, three young Taiwanese will travel to your nation for internships in government agencies, and at the end of this month, two young Saint Lucians will come to Taiwan for internships in agriculture and tourism. In addition to education and talent exchange, last month, Taiwan’s International Cooperation and Development Fund and Saint Lucia’s Youth Economy Agency jointly launched an e-commerce platform. This is an important step forward for the digital transition. It will also help boost the entrepreneurial opportunities of Saint Lucian youth as they enter the international market. In areas such as overseas study, internships, professional training, and digital cooperation, Taiwan is willing to share even more experience with Saint Lucia as we embrace the world. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I would like to thank Saint Lucia for long voicing support for Taiwan and its international participation at global venues. Looking ahead, let us continue to expand and diversify our collaboration to contribute even more to our nations’ prosperous development and to global progress. Deputy Prime Minister Hilaire then delivered remarks, first saying that the delegation is most grateful for the welcome they received from the people and government of Taiwan. He said that Saint Lucia considers Taiwan not just a partner, but a true and enduring friend, and that relations have always been grounded in mutual respect, trust, and an unwavering commitment to national development. He emphasized that Saint Lucia remains steadfast in its support of Taiwan’s aspiration for national independence, territorial integrity, and sovereignty, and will continue to raise its voice for the international community to recognize Taiwan’s capacity to contribute meaningfully to the global system and to the building of a better future for all of humanity. Taiwan’s friendship with Saint Lucia, the deputy prime minister said, is not only visible in diplomacy, but also in the everyday lives of Saint Lucia’s people. He went on to say that through small-scale community projects, Taiwan has touched the very fabric of his country’s society – improving livelihoods, enhancing opportunities, and uplifting quality of life in tangible and lasting ways. At the same time, he said, Taiwan has played a central role in Saint Lucia’s national development, most notably for its partnership in Hewanorra International Airport’s redevelopment and the St. Jude Hospital project – projects that will continue to shape the trajectory of Saint Lucia for generations to come. Deputy Prime Minister Hilaire stated that beyond infrastructure and community, Taiwan’s heart has been most evident in its people-to-people connections, and that the bonds forged through education, agriculture, and cultural exchanges are profound, exemplifying the true meaning of partnership. He added that Taiwan’s ambassador is admired across his nation, and has been present at their festivals, engaged in their programs, and has walked side by side with their people. It is through these deep and human connections, he said, that Taiwan shines as an example of friendship that is transformational. Deputy Prime Minister Hilaire brought special greetings from the prime minister of Saint Lucia, and affirmed Saint Lucia’s commitment to walk in this journey with Taiwan, hand in hand, as partners and as friends. Ours, he said, is a bond built not only on shared interests, but on shared values – values of dignity, sovereignty, and human progress. He then expressed hope that our friendship may continue to flourish, and that Taiwan’s light of resilience, innovation, and cultural richness may shine ever brighter on the global stage. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by Saint Lucia Ambassador Robert Kennedy Lewis.  

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2025-09-02
President Lai meets delegation from University of Tokyo cross-strait relations research group
On the afternoon of September 2, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation from the University of Tokyo’s cross-strait relations research group. The president thanked the delegation for its long-time attention to the situation in the Taiwan Strait and peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. He also expressed hope for further strengthening the friendship and cooperation between Taiwan and Japan through exchanges. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I am very pleased to welcome Professor Matsuda Yasuhiro and other friends from the Japanese academic community once again to the Presidential Office. I would like to thank the University of Tokyo’s cross-strait relations research group for its long-time attention to stability in the Taiwan Strait and peace in the Indo-Pacific region. Taiwan and Japan have close ties. The government of Japan has repeatedly reiterated the importance of peace in the Taiwan Strait to the Indo-Pacific region at various international venues. Moreover, when Taiwan was hit by typhoons and torrential rains in recent days, Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru expressed condolences and support. For all of this, I am very thankful. I look forward to further strengthening the friendship and cooperation between Taiwan and Japan through in-depth exchanges with the delegation. Professor Matsuda then delivered remarks, first thanking President Lai for taking the time to meet with his delegation. He noted that the delegation members have long taken a close interest in Taiwan’s political and economic conditions as well as cross-strait relations, observing and studying them, and said that they are very much looking forward to discussing issues relevant to Taiwan and Japan. The delegation also included Senior Research Fellow at the Japan External Trade Organization Institute of Developing Economies Sato Yukihito, Professor Kawakami Momoko of Kanagawa University, Professor Eto Naoko of Gakushuin University, and Professor Momma Rira of Takushoku University.

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2025-08-01
President Lai delivers remarks on US reciprocal tariff policy response
On the morning of August 1, President Lai Ching-te delivered remarks at the Presidential Office on the response to the reciprocal tariff policy of the United States. President Lai explained that technical consultations with the US are finished, but as the final concluding meeting has not yet taken place, 20 percent has been set for Taiwan as an interim tariff rate. The president said that Taiwan will work towards a more favorable and reasonable rate in the subsequent negotiations, and that the US has expressed its willingness to continue talks. He added that a support plan for Taiwan’s export supply chain in response to US tariffs has been proposed to assist small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in responding to the US tariff policy. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: Earlier today, the US government informed our lead negotiator, Vice Premier Cheng Li-chiun (鄭麗君), that an interim tariff rate for Taiwan has been set at 20 percent. Since April 2, when the US introduced its new tariff policy targeting countries worldwide, Taiwan has actively engaged in four in-person rounds of negotiation and multiple discussions over videoconference with the US government. Throughout the process, both sides have negotiated in good faith based on the shared goal of addressing the trade deficit between Taiwan and the US and creating complementary and mutually beneficial outcomes. Although we have achieved an interim reduction in the tariff rate from 32 percent to 20 percent at this point in the negotiations, 20 percent was never our goal. We hope to work towards a more favorable and reasonable rate for Taiwan in the subsequent negotiations, and the US has expressed its willingness to continue talks. We have finished technical consultations, but as the final concluding meeting has not yet taken place, a final tariff rate has not yet been reached. This is the reason for the setting of an interim tariff rate. I extend my sincere gratitude to Vice Premier Cheng and Minister without Portfolio of the Executive Yuan Yang Jen-ni (楊珍妮) for working tirelessly over the past few months leading the negotiation team, remaining on call whether in Taiwan or the US. From here in Taiwan I, along with Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao, National Security Council Secretary-General Joseph Wu (吳釗燮), Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰), and Secretary-General Pan Men-an (潘孟安), have also provided full support to our negotiating team in the US. Regardless of the final tariff rate, Taiwan’s industries will inevitably be impacted. I am deeply grateful to Premier Cho for proposing on April 4 a support plan for Taiwan’s export supply chain in response to US tariffs, and for holding over 20 industry consultation sessions. The special budget has also been increased from NT$88 billion to NT$93 billion. This special act has already been submitted to the Legislative Yuan and passed review. I hope that the Executive Yuan will promptly submit the budget request for legislative review so that the special budget can be implemented as soon as possible to assist SMEs in responding to this new US tariff policy.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

(I) Social Development

Establish a Working Group on Ageing Society Strategies

265. The Government is committed to building an elderly-friendly society. Established following the last Policy Address, the Working Group on Promoting Silver Economy announced 30 measures in May. The Government will collaborate with the Federation of Hong Kong Industries to formulate the “Silver Q-Mark”, and with the trade to consider setting additional GBA Standards for silver products to facilitate the provision of more options for the elderly.

266. Ageing is a global issue. By 2046, people aged 65 and above will account for 36% of our total population. To tackle challenges of an ageing society, the Government will set up a Working Group on Ageing Society Strategies under the steer of the Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration to co-ordinate the efforts of various bureaux in formulating the relevant strategy responses. Aside from covering areas such as elderly care, healthcare, housing, culture and leisure, and gerontechnology, the working group will consider promoting the further development of silver economy. The working group will take into account the views of the Elderly Commission, and submit a report next year.

Promote Women’s Development

267. We will increase the annual funding of the Women Empowerment Fund from $20 million to $30 million to subsidise women’s organisations and NGOs launching projects that promote women’s development. The Government will also host the second Family and Women Development Summit Hong Kong next year.
Promote Fertility

268. On childbirth policy, the current-term Government has shifted from the non-interventionist approach adopted by the Government of the previous terms to the multi-pronged policy approach launched in 2023 to promote fertility. We have introduced various tax concessions, including raising the tax deduction ceiling for home loan interest or domestic rents, introducing a new tax deduction for the medical expenses of assisted reproductive services, and increasing the basic child allowance and additional child allowance in the year of birth. We have also implemented various support measures, including launching the Families with Newborns Allocation Priority Scheme to shorten the waiting time by one year for PRH applicants with newborns, introducing the Families with Newborns Flat Selection Priority Scheme, providing additional places for child care services, extending the After School Care Programme for Pre-primary Children to all 18 districts in Hong Kong, and introducing the Newborn Baby Bonus of $20,000.

269. At the end of August, more than 5 300 PRH applications had their waiting time reduced by one year under the Families with Newborns Allocation Priority Scheme. In the recent HOS sale exercise with flat selection concluded in August, over 800 families with newborns purchased their flats under the Families with Newborns Flat Selection Priority Scheme.

270. The number of newborn babies has decreased for six consecutive years since 2017, but there was an upward trend in 2023 and 2024. In 2024, there was a significant increase in the number of newborns, a year-on-year increase of about 3 500 babies, or about 11%, adding up to 36 700 babies born in total.

271. We will implement further measures under the multi-pronged policy approach to promote fertility. They include:

(i) Extend the claim period of additional child allowance for newborns from one year to two years. Starting from the year of assessment 2026/27, a taxpayer may claim twice the allowance (i.e. $260,000) for each child in the first two years following childbirth. This measure is applicable to all children under the age of two by the end of the year of assessment.

(ii) Further enhance infant and child day care service. Fifteen new aided child care centres (CCCs) will be set up over the next three years to provide about 1 500 day care service places for children between birth and three years old, almost doubling the existing supply. The SWD will also allocate more care-service places for infants and toddlers from birth to two years, as appropriate.

(iii) Enhance the School-based After School Care Service Scheme within this school year by removing the cap on the number of places to make it easier for parents to take up jobs.

(iv) Set up dedicated counters for pregnant women to facilitate their waiting for medical services. The PHC Commission will, together with the Family Planning Association of Hong Kong, the MCHCs under the DH, as well as the Obstetrics and Gynaecology Departments of the HA, enhance health education and services for women during pre-pregnancy, as well as antenatal and postnatal stages, providing them with practical information.

(v) Support assisted reproductive services. The Council on Human Reproductive Technology has made amendments to the legislation, removing the statutory storage periods of gametes and embryos for own use, offering greater flexibility to people who wish to give birth. The amendments will take effect from this December. Moreover, the HA will continue to increase the service quota for assisted reproductive service from 1 100 treatment cycles two years ago to 1 500 treatment cycles in 2025-26.

(vi) Foster a family-friendly culture. We will continue to encourage more employers, through the Good Employer Charter²â�µ, to adopt family-friendly employment practices that are conducive to childcare, such as flexible working hours.

Protect Children and Provide Support for Students

Strengthen Family Cohesion and Safeguard Children

272. The Government will set up an Integrated Family Service Centre in Kwu Tung North NDA in the Northern Metropolis, to support families and children in the area. In addition, we will support and educate divorced/separated parents to collaborate in shouldering continuous and joint parental responsibilities in raising their children. We will also offer transitional support to young people who no longer receive residential child-care services but lack family support.

273. To complement the implementation of the Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse Ordinance, the Government has promulgated the Guide for Mandated Reporters to assist mandated reporters in mastering child protection principles, and will continue to provide training and relevant resources for specified professionals from the social welfare, education and healthcare sectors. The EDB will also step up promotion of positive parenting education.

Enhance Support for Children with Special Needs

274. For children with special needs receiving On-site Pre-school Rehabilitation Services, the Government will provide bridging and support services during their first term in primary school.

Provide Support for Ethnic Minorities

275. Ethnic minorities (EMs) are important members of the Hong Kong community. The Government has been striving to support EMs on various fronts, including Chinese-language learning, daily living and community integration.

Strengthen Support for Ethnic Minorities’ Integration into the Community

276. The HAD will set up one additional EM Care Team under the Support Service Centres, serving the North and Islands Districts respectively. The department will also establish a Youth Network and a Women’s Network at the 10 Support Service Centres for EMs to organise activities specifically for EM youth and women. Moreover, the Government will set up an additional Interpretation and Translation Service Centre for EMs in December. We will also strengthen the promotion of messages and radio programmes related to racial integration. In addition, the Health Bureau will also take forward the pilot project of providing emotional support and counselling services for EMs through a service centre.

Employment of Ethnic Minorities

277. We will continue to implement the government department internship programme for EM post-secondary students and will provide basic workplace Chinese training. Government departments may design their own job-oriented language tests to provide an additional channel for applicants to meet language-proficiency appointments. We will also disseminate government recruitment information to EMs on an ongoing basis, to attract talents from different backgrounds to join the civil service.

Provide Support for Non-Chinese Speaking Students

278. The Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi Chinese Proficiency Test learning materials, tailored for non-Chinese speaking students, will be extended from the upper primary level to the junior secondary level in the 2026/27 school year. We will also continue to provide after-school Chinese language courses and organise cross-school, teacher-learning communities.

Continuously Enhance Care Team Services

279. Care Teams across 18 districts will soon begin their second term of service. Having regard to district needs, we have set up three additional Care Teams and revised the KPIs for the second term of service. To enable Care Teams to continuously enhance their services, the Government has increased the subsidy by 50%, in accordance with last year’s Policy Address, and provided these voluntary Care Teams with additional administrative support, including hiring administrative staff. As for emergency support, we will enhance training so that Care Teams can continue to strengthen ties with government departments, public utilities and district organisations.

Improve Building Management

280. To improve building management, the HAD will implement a number of measures, including establishing working groups under DCs to share experience; expanding the Pilot Scheme on Joint Property Management to other districts based on its effectiveness; and reviewing the Building Management Ordinance.

281. We will enhance the inspection and testing procedures for handling water seepage problems by utilising technology to expedite the identification of the seepage situation and delineate the responsibility, requiring owners to inspect and rectify within a specified time, or else the Government will take further action and recover costs from owners. This will prompt owners to fulfil their obligations in properly maintaining their properties. We will also actively promote mediation to resolve disputes between residents. An Internet of Things fire detection system will also be introduced in old buildings to replace traditional fire service installations and equipment.

Chapter X Closing Remarks

282. Today, Hong Kong is at the critical juncture of advancing from stability to prosperity. We are moving through an irreversible economic transition, but it is an essential process for a stronger and more robust economy in the future.

283. Over the decades, Hong Kong has undergone multiple economic transitions. Once, the bustling Sheung Wan night market (the “Dai-tat-dei”) sold paraffin lamps that were a big business until modern malls made them unnecessary. Bustling factories that once competed for female labour have since relocated their production lines to the Mainland, opening new horizons for the manufacturers. Pagers, once a common sight in every hand, have been replaced by smartphones, leaving behind empty pager shops as relics of a past era. Each change brought about a stronger economy and higher income for the people.

284. These transformations were possible because generations of Hong Kong people have worked hard, stayed flexible, and never given up. That grit is part of our DNA, and it will continue to be the engine that drives us forward.

285. We must not be complacent, nor should we underestimate our own capabilities. In the last three years, Hong Kong has climbed higher thanks to the teamwork of the Government and the community. We have risen one spot to become the world’s third-largest international financial centre, and our overall competitiveness has jumped four places to also rank third globally. In talent competitiveness, we have leapt twelve spots, now sitting at fourth in the world. The number of registered local companies has hit a record high, as has the number of non-local companies setting up operations in Hong Kong. The median household income has also grown by 11%, an increase of $3,000. These numbers tell a clear story: investors around the world trust Hong Kong, and our city is vibrant, stable, and poised for long-term growth under “One Country, Two Systems”.

286. Hong Kong faces challenges and is also presented with continuing opportunities amid the changing world. Our country, the world’s second-largest economy, is our staunchest supporter and the source of our biggest opportunities. Combined with Hong Kong’s international prospects, our opportunities far outweigh the challenges. By working together, innovating, and embracing reform, we will turn our beloved Hong Kong into an even better home for everyone. The Pearl of the Orient will keep shining brighter than ever before.

²â�µ Signatories of the Good Employer Charter have to pledge to be an employee-oriented employer and have adopted the good human resource management practices.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

(G) Labour Support and Protection

247. In the face of accelerated industrial transformation and ever-evolving technological development, our workforce must continuously acquire new skills to stay abreast of economic development and seize emerging opportunities. We will ensure the employment priority of local workers and combat illegal employment rigorously. To enhance the competitiveness of Hong Kong’s workforce and enlarge the talent pool, we will reform the Employees Retraining Board (ERB) and optimise the Re-employment Allowance Pilot Scheme. We will also strengthen labour protection, including protecting digital platform workers, and enhancing occupational safety and health (OSH).

Ensure Employment Priority of Local Workers

248. As our population continues to age, Hong Kong faces a declining labour force. Importing labour on an appropriate scale helps ease manpower shortages and serves Hong Kong’s overall interests. We will launch measures to ensure the employment priority of local workers and combat the abuse of the Enhanced Supplementary Labour Scheme (ESLS). Starting tomorrow, when applying to import waiters/waitresses and junior cooks under the ESLS, employers are required to:

(i) Extend the local recruitment process from four weeks to six weeks, during which they must once a week attend an on-site job fair organised by the Labour Department (LD).

(ii) Implement the manning ratio requirement²³ more stringently such that it is calculated based on posts being applied for, but not on all posts engaged by an employer. In other words, an employer applying to import a waiter/waitress and a junior cook must have already employed two local full-time waiters/waitresses and two local full-time junior cooks.

249. The above measures aim to combat abuse in a targeted manner, focusing on job categories with more imported workers, while ensuring businesses with genuine difficulties in local recruitment are allowed to import supplementary labour in an orderly manner to avoid business closures and collateral damage to existing employees.

250. In addition, the Labour and Welfare Bureau (LWB) has just begun a mid-term update of the Manpower Projection with focus on analysing data of industries with a larger number of imported labour. The update will be completed in 2026. The LWB will accord priority to analysing the relevant data, and provide its findings on relevant parts in advance.

Enhance Actions to Combat Illegal Employment

251. The Government will step up efforts to combat illegal employment, establish a dedicated hotline for reporting illegal workers, and strengthen intelligence collection and inter-departmental joint enforcement operations to safeguard the employment opportunities of local workers.

Reform the Employees Retraining Board and Strengthen Local Skills Training

252. In the last Policy Address, I announced the reform of the ERB. The aim is to assist members of the workforce, from all backgrounds and educational attainments, to enhance their skills and competitiveness on a continuous basis, to meet the needs of economic and industrial development in Hong Kong.

253. Since early this year, the ERB has enhanced such services as training and career planning, and outlined an initial reform roadmap for the next three years. The ERB will strengthen its industry consultative mechanism, and identify demand for and gaps in core skills in a targeted manner to devise a skills-based training framework. It will collaborate with higher education institutions and guide other training bodies in developing courses of various types and levels to fill the skill gaps. In future, the ERB will also launch micro-credential courses recognised by industries to offer greater flexibility to trainees, and make good use of technology to offer diversified and flexible modes of learning. When the ERB finalises the full implementation by the end of this year, the Government will amend the Employees Retraining Ordinance accordingly.

Optimise the Re-employment Allowance Pilot Scheme

254. The LD launched the three-year Re-employment Allowance Pilot Scheme in July last year. The scheme has been well-received, with over 50 000 participants and more than 27 000 placements recorded as of August this year. The LD will continue to collect and collate information and data on the participants and placements of the scheme, conducting a mid term review in the first quarter of next year, along with the Employment Programme for the Elderly and Middle-aged, to explore measures promoting silver employment.

Set the First Minimum Wage Rate According to the New Annual Review Mechanism

255. The Government has agreed to the new mechanism of adopting a formula for implementing the annual review of the Statutory Minimum Wage (SMW) rate proposed by the Minimum Wage Commission. The first SMW rate derived under the new mechanism is expected to take effect on 1 May 2026.

Protect Digital Platform Workers

256. The prevalence of digital platforms, such as those providing food and goods delivery services, has brought convenience to the public and created job opportunities. The Government will improve the work injury compensation mechanism for digital platform workers through legislation, and continue to make good use of the Tripartite Committee for the Digital Platform Industry to discuss issues of concern to the stakeholders.

Enhance Occupational Safety and Health

257. We saw a 30% drop in the number of fatal construction accidents in 2024 compared with 2023. The LD will continue to step up inspection and enforcement, promotion and publicity, as well as education and training, to build a stronger OSH culture and reduce accidents. The department will also make good use of innovative technologies and AI, such as using drones to enhance inspection and evidence collection, and support the industry in developing technology products that enhance OSH.

(H) Social Welfare

Targeted Poverty Alleviation

258. The Government will continue its work on targeted poverty alleviation by directing resources to those most in need. Relevant measures include:

(i) Enrich activities of the Strive and Rise Alumni Club with $10 million funding from the HKJC, providing young people with training and experience that integrate Hong Kong pop culture and traditional Chinese arts; and inject $180 million into the Child Development Fund to continue implementing projects promoting the long-term development of upper primary students from disadvantaged communities, and further enhance different elements of the projects by drawing on the successful experience of the Strive and Rise Programme, with a view to reducing intergenerational poverty.

(ii) Set up six additional Community Living Rooms (CLRs). Together with the nine CLRs already launched, they are expected to benefit about 7 000 SDU households, serving over 1.4 million attendances.

(iii) Enhance the School-based After School Care Service Scheme by uncapping the number of places to expand support for primary students and parents in need.

(iv) Roll out the “Co-build a Caring Society Funding Scheme” to encourage family offices involved in philanthropic endeavours to provide resources implementing projects that benefit the disadvantaged groups.

(v) Provide time-limited cash incentives, on a pilot basis, for households leaving the Comprehensive Social Security Assistance (CSSA) Scheme and eligible for the Working Family Allowance, to promote self-reliance.

(vi) Publish the Report on Impact of Targeted Poverty Alleviation Strategy in Hong Kong in mid-2026.

Care for the Elderly

259. The Government will continue to adhere to the principle of promoting “ageing in place as the core, with institutional care as back-up”. Eleven measures will be introduced:

Ageing in Place

(i) Increase the total number of Community Care Service Vouchers for the Elderly by 4 000 to 16 000.

(ii) Set up three new Neighbourhood Elderly Centres to strengthen support at the district level. They are expected to serve some 3 000 elderly persons annually.

(iii) Lease out newly built government welfare facilities on a pilot basis to allow service operators greater flexibility in offering day care and support services for the elderly under different funding modes.

(iv) Enhance the Integrated Discharge Support Programme for Elderly Patients to provide social welfare service support for discharged elderly persons in need.

Strengthen Residential Care Services

(v) Provide about 700 new subsidised residential care service places.

(vi) Increase the total number of Residential Care Service Vouchers for the Elderly by 1 000 to 7 000.

(vii) Subsidise eligible serving health workers of residential care homes to enrol in the new professional diploma programme for Health&Care Practitioners, nurturing dedicated professionals and promoting the development of the sector.

Enhance Elderly Care Arrangements in the Greater Bay Area

(viii) Launch a pilot scheme by the end of this year to subsidise elderly CSSA recipients choosing to retire in Guangdong to reside in designated residential care homes for the elderly (RCHEs) in the province, thereby enhancing their quality of life. Each eligible elderly person will receive a monthly subsidy of $5,000, subject to a quota of 1 000.

(ix) Expand continuously the Residential Care Services Scheme in Guangdong. Starting from October, the number of Mainland RCHEs participating in the scheme will increase from 15 to 24, while the number of cities covered will increase from six to eight.

(x) Launch a two-year pilot arrangement by the end of this year to share part of the medical expenses that Hong Kong elderly participants of the Residential Care Services Scheme in Guangdong need to bear on their own under the National Basic Medical Insurance Policy.

(xi) Facilitate Hong Kong elderly recipients retiring in Guangdong and Fujian Provinces by providing the option to receive Government assistance directly through their bank accounts with designated Mainland banks²â�´. 

Support Carers

260. Carers play an important role in supporting elderly persons and persons with disabilities (PWDs). When carers are provided with appropriate support to alleviate physical and mental stress, they are better able to take care of elderly persons and PWDs. Current measures include providing allowance for carers from low-income families, enhancing respite services to give carers a break, setting up a 24-hour hotline manned by social workers, launching a one-stop information gateway, and organising large-scale publicity and public education activities.

261. The Government will earmark an annual recurrent expenditure of $500 million to roll out a series of measures to enhance support for carers, including:

(i) The Government has launched the first phase of the Carer Support Data Platform, which initially connects the data of the SWD, the HA and the HKHA, and progressively connect the data of more government departments and public organisations to expand the Carer Support Data Platform.

(ii) Upon learning from the HA that a high-risk carer has been hospitalised, the SWD will arrange outreach to the care recipients and offer emergency support according to their needs.

(iii) We have consolidated the data of the HKHA and the SWD to identify high-risk carers of elderly persons and carers of PWDs, as well as singleton or doubleton elderly households lacking sufficient community support, and deploy Care Teams to conduct visits.

(iv) We will continue implementing the District Services and Community Care Teams – Scheme on Supporting Elderly and Carers for three years by inviting Care Teams to actively provide support for and pay visit to high-risk families, and assisting households referred by Care Teams in installing and using the emergency alarm system as necessary.

(v) We will install an intelligent accident detection system for 300 high-risk households.

(vi) We will continue the implementation of the Support for Carers Project for three years, with a view to providing training for frontline property management personnel in assisting carers in need.

(vii) We will enhance the existing AI chatbot function of the Information Gateway for Carers.

Support Persons in Rehabilitation

Formulate Guidelines on Rehabilitation Products

262. The Government will collaborate with university teams to formulate guidelines for consumers of rehabilitation products, with electric wheelchairs, electric smart beds, and robotic exoskeletons as pilot items. The guidelines will set out basic technical and operational requirements of rehabilitation products, to assist the elderly, PWDs and their carers in selecting suitable products.

Provide Additional Rehabilitation Services for Persons with Disabilities

263. The Government will strengthen rehabilitation services for PWDs by adding 80 places under the Bought Place Scheme for Private Residential Care Homes for PWDs, 220 places at Special Child Care Centres, 100 places at Day Activity Centres (DACs), and 50 places at Hostels for Severely Mentally Handicapped Persons.

Expand Support for Ageing Persons with Disabilities

264. Ageing PWDs face additional challenges in their daily life. The Government will, starting from the second quarter of 2026, progressively introduce one-stop support and care services at hostels for severely and moderately mentally handicapped persons, and increase the number of extended care places at hostels co-located with DACs/integrated vocational rehabilitation services centres. These measures will release about 700 day rehabilitation training places, providing day training for PWDs living in the community and alleviating the pressure on carers.

²³ The ratio of full-time local employees to imported workers is 2:1.
²â�´ The relevant measure is also stipulated under Chapter V “(C) Development of the GBA”.

(To be continued.)

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Government will forge ahead with building a competitive low-altitude economy ecosystem with the formulation of an action plan to advance Hong Kong as a major hub for low-altitude applications.

Chief Executive John Lee made the statement while unveiling innovation and technology (I&T) measures in the 2025 Policy Address today.

He explained that the action plan involves improving the civil aviation legislation and regulatory framework, including dedicated legislation for unconventional aircraft weighing over 150kg to lay the foundation for standardisation of the low-altitude economy.

The plan also comprises the enhancement of core infrastructure facilities by designating spectrum by the end of the year, as well as facilitating early planning and deployment of facilities such as vertiports, air route networks, satellite positioning, three-dimensional spatial data systems and a smart, low-altitude traffic management system.

The Government will roll out “Regulatory Sandbox X” pilot projects to cover application scenarios that are technically more complex such as cross-boundary routes and passenger carrying, low-altitude aircraft, while the Insurance Authority will forge closer ties with the insurance industry which has set up a task force to develop low-altitude economy insurance products for various application scenarios.

On the new industrialisation front, Mr Lee pointed out that the Government plans to expedite the development of the third InnoHK research cluster with the focus on sustainable development, energy, advanced manufacturing and materials.

The application threshold for the New Industrialisation Acceleration Scheme will be relaxed by lowering the minimum total project cost from $300 million to $150 million, and the I&T Industry Oriented Fund will be launched in 2026-27 to channel market capital to invest in emerging and future industries of strategic importance.

The Government also advocates promoting aerospace science and technology, and supporting the space economy in the Policy Address, having set up the Space Robotics & Energy Centre under the InnoHK research clusters to support the country’s Chang’E 8 mission. 

Meanwhile, the Innovation & Technology Support Programme Special Call on Aerospace Technology has allocated over $100 million to support six university research and development projects.

Mr Lee underscored that the Commerce & Economic Development Bureau (CEDB) is exploring how to streamline the vetting of licence applications for Low Earth Orbit satellites and will promote 6G application, while the Investment Corporation Limited is to pursue investment in areas related to commercial aerospace and the space economy.

On the promotion of intellectual property (IP) trading, the CEDB and the Intellectual Property Department will collaborate with the Monetary Authority to launch an IP financing sandbox to assist pilot sectors, particularly the technology sector, in leveraging IPs for financing with the support of the banking, insurance, valuation, legal and other professions.

The Chief Executive noted that the Government will support the Technology & Innovation Support Centre, which will officially operate by the end of this year, to provide local small and medium I&T enterprises with patent evaluation based on national standards, and will launch a two-year pilot programme to subsidise patent valuation as a reference for credit financing.

Following the completion of the consultation on enhancing the Copyright Ordinance regarding the protection for AI technology development last year, the Government will formulate a code of practice in respect of relevant legal principles and prepare a legislative proposal, Mr Lee said.

It is also reviewing the local registered designs regime for consultation by the end of the year, he added.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

(D) Healthcare

226. To address the challenges brought by an ageing society, increasing prevalence of chronic diseases and pressure on healthcare resources, the Government will deepen healthcare system reform, enhancing its sustainability, strengthening primary healthcare and increasing healthcare manpower, while promoting health and medical innovation and encouraging collaboration within the GBA.

Enhance the Public Healthcare System

227. The HA will enhance the safety, quality and efficiency of public healthcare services, uphold the safety-first principle in delivering services, and advance the reform of governance and accountability. Dedicated teams will be established and the electronic systems upgraded to process applications for medical fee waivers to help patients in need. The charges and positioning of non-subsidised services will be reviewed to offer more service options to members of the public who can afford more. Existing public healthcare services will also be enhanced. Relevant measures include establishing, in phases, Stroke Centres and Integrated Cardiovascular Diseases Centres in accordance with national accreditation standards to improve treatment effectiveness; shortening waiting time by 10% (about 10 weeks) for stable new case bookings in the specialty of Surgery; enhancing ophthalmic services by strengthening training for professional personnel, introducing innovative medications and setting up a new high-capacity ambulatory cataract surgery centre; extending the Hospital Accreditation Programme to cover a major acute hospital in each public hospital cluster, while contributing to the internationalisation of national hospital accreditation standards; and comprehensively upgrading the “Degenerative Knee Joint Management Programme” to promote early prevention and avoid progression to late-stage conditions that require surgical treatment.

Healthcare Manpower Development

228. Last year, the Policy Address announced the plan to establish a third medical school. Over the past year, the Task Group on New Medical School has completed an overall assessment of the proposals prepared by expert advisors and is conducting a detailed study of the funding arrangements and financial sustainability of the proposals. The task group will make its final recommendation to the Government by the end of this year.

229. We will support the hosting of national or international medical and healthcare conferences in Hong Kong. The HA will also launch a Talent Chain Project to build a collaborative platform integrating clinical services, teaching and research.

Strengthen Primary Healthcare Services

230. The Government will enhance community healthcare and disease prevention by:

(i) Introduce a bill within next year for the empowerment of the Primary Healthcare Commission (PHC Commission), devising city-wide standards for primary healthcare services, and developing multidisciplinary service networks.

(ii) Enhance the HA’s Family Medicine Out-patient preventive screening and care services, increase their service capacity and regularise their current extended service hours progressively.

(iii) Launch the Chronic Disease Co-care Platform on a pilot basis to conduct hepatitis B screening and promote the community drug formulary and community pharmacy programme, to enhance the management of chronic diseases.

(iv) Prepare to integrate the services of Elderly Health Centres into the district health network in phases and expand the services of three District Health Centre Expresses, to expedite the establishment of District Health Centres (DHCs) across all 18 districts in Hong Kong.

(v) Bolster public and subsidised dental services by enhancing oral health education, oral hygiene instructions and risk assessments in the community through DHCs and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

Enhance Cancer Prevention, Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment

231. The Government will consolidate Hong Kong’s leading position in cancer research, prevention and control, optimising services for cancer patients by:

(i) Collaborate with the National Cancer Center.¹â�µ 

(ii) Support the hosting of the World Cancer Congress 2026 in Hong Kong.

(iii) Enhance cervical cancer screening services and expand the Pilot Scheme on Human Papillomavirus Testing of Self-collected Samples from the Maternal and Child Health Centres (MCHCs) under the Department of Health (DH) to the district health network.

(iv) Enhance cancer screening technologies through commissioning local universities to explore the use of AI-aided lung cancer screening.

(v) Enhance treatment efficacy and reduce side effects by expanding genetic and related testing services.

(vi) Leverage cancer data and biological resources to advance oncology research, accelerate the development and translation of anticancer drugs and related innovative therapies, speed up the evaluation and approval of innovative anticancer drugs under “1+” mechanism, and evaluate and introduce these drugs into the HA Drug Formulary.

(vii) Increase the HA’s capacity of services and acquire additional medical equipment.

Promote the Development of Chinese Medicine

232. The Chinese Medicine Hospital of Hong Kong (CMHHK) and the permanent premises of the Government Chinese Medicines Testing Institute will begin operation in phases from December this year. The Government will boost the promotion of Chinese medicine (CM), contributing to the nation’s promotion of CM internationally. Relevant measures include:

(i) Publish the Chinese Medicine Development Blueprint by the end of the year. The blueprint will cover establishing a governance framework and service system, leveraging strengths and advancing Integrated Chinese Western Medicine (ICWM) services, promoting scientific research and innovation, cultural heritage and more.

(ii) Roll out a range of CM services for special diseases by the CMHHK in its first year, including degenerative diseases, stroke rehabilitation and other common diseases among the elderly.

(iii) Promote the sharing of electronic health records (eHRs) in the CM sector through eHealth, and expand the sharable scope of eHRs on eHealth between CM and western medicine practitioners.

(iv) Develop ICWM services by expanding the HA’s “knee osteoarthritis” programme to all hospital clusters, and commencing the “palliative care” pilot programme.

Strengthen Professional Regulation of Healthcare Services

233. The Government will strengthen the functions of the DH in regulating healthcare facilities and healthcare professionals. It will consult the LegCo in the first half of next year on the implementation of the Private Healthcare Facilities Ordinance to prohibit unauthorised premises from using certain titles or descriptions. It will also step up law enforcement against unlicensed persons.

Mental Health

234. Through a strategy of identification, intervention and treatment, the Government places great importance on the public’s mental health and has introduced a Three-tier School-based Emergency Mechanism. We also place equal emphasis to prevention, which involves building families, friendships and interpersonal networks; focusing on the development of interests and personality; and creating supportive environments in schools and workplaces. All these initiatives require joint efforts, bringing together the Government, the community and families, as well as professional support and treatment when needed. The Government will enhance nine measures in the following aspects:

(i) Regularise the three-tier emergency mechanism in secondary schools and extend it on a trial basis to Primary Four to Six students to strengthen support for those in need.

(ii) Utilise the Dedicated Fund for subvented welfare service organisations, providing training to enhance school social workers’ capabilities in handling students’ mental health issues.

(iii) Step up the promotion of mental health in the community through the 4Rs Mental Health Charter¹â�¶ in primary and secondary schools and the Mental Health Workplace Charter¹â�·, encouraging more school staff to receive training related to mental health first aid. A “special recognition category” will be introduced to commend schools and organisations that arrange a specific number of staff members to receive mental health training (e.g. mental health first aid).

(iv) Launch the Pilot Programme on Training for Mental Health Promotion Ambassador to mobilise and train mental health promotion ambassadors to promote healthy lifestyles, foster resilience and establish care support networks.

(v) Social media has profound impacts on the mental health of children and adolescents. The DH will update relevant guidelines to mitigate the impact of social media on the health of children and adolescents.

(vi) Basic mental health programme has already been made a compulsory subject for first-year students in some tertiary institutions, with related support provided for students in need. The Government will encourage more institutions to promote mental health on campus.

(vii) Currently, three DHCs provide free mental-health assessments and arrange follow-up services under the Healthy Mind Pilot Project, producing satisfactory results. The Government will extend the project in 2026 to cover six more DHCs, with follow-up services to be provided by practitioners with an academic background and training in fields such as psychology or counselling.

(viii) Leverage technologies to enhance mental health services. Initiatives include strengthening telehealth services for psychiatric day hospitals and outreach services to provide suitable patients with more convenient service options, and enhancing the text counselling platform for online emotional support and the Cyber Youth Support Teams of the Social Welfare Department (SWD) by strengthening AI application for more precise identification of high-risk targets in need of support.

(ix) Complete the formulation of the stepped care model on mental health by the end of this year, setting out the roles of mental health professionals and stakeholders, as well as their division of work in mental health services, enhancing training to raise professionals’ awareness of making referrals, and establishing the referral mechanism.

(E) Green and Low -arbon Living Environment

Develop Hong Kong into a Demonstration Base for Green Technology

235. We will promote the commercialisation of green I&T outcomes. Relevant measures include supporting the market development of technologies for battery-swapping EVs and automated battery-swapping stations, encouraging the construction of district cooling systems by non-government entities, and driving the market to accelerate carbon reduction in existing buildings.

Enhance Charging Networks for Electric Vehicles

236. We have launched a $300 million Fast Charger Incentive Scheme, with an additional 3 000 fast chargers to be provided by the end of 2028. The Government also plans to roll out six sites for the provision of fast charging stations, while bus operators will open up their charging facilities for use by other vehicles.
Reduce and Recycle Waste to Achieve “Zero Landfill”

237. The disposal rate of municipal solid waste has been declining for the past three years. The Government will continue to optimise service hours and locations of GREEN@COMMUNITY facilities, support recycling initiatives in residential buildings, and promote waste separation in PRH estates. The Government continues to increase the number of food waste smart recycling bins and collection facilities in residential areas this year, working towards the goal of “one bin per block” in PRH estates.

238. I·PARK1¹â�¸ will progressively begin operation by the end of this year. To expand our waste-to-energy capacity, the Government will seek funding approval from the LegCo next year for the construction of I·PARK2. Hong Kong’s first modern recycled paper-pulping facility, located at EcoPark, will begin trial operation by the end of this year.

Jointly Develop the Greater Bay Area into a Beautiful Bay Area

239. Hong Kong will take part in developing the GBA into an international, first-class beautiful bay area, with Victoria Harbour as the core for development together with Mirs Bay and Port Shelter. We will take forward measures on the prevention and control of nearshore pollution, co-ordinated protection of ecosystems and shoreline remediation to support the initiative of developing Beautiful Bays¹â�¹ advocated in our country’s 14th Five Year Plan.

(F) Support the Local Economy

Support Small and Medium Enterprises

240. Hong Kong is home to some 360 000 SMEs, and they are the pillars of our economic development. To better cope with the city’s economic restructuring, the Government will introduce the following 11 measures to enhance support for SMEs:

(i) Extend the application period for the 80% Guarantee Product under the SME Financing Guarantee Scheme for two years, and further extend the principal moratorium arrangement for one year. The Government will also encourage banks to continue to adopt an accommodating and more flexible approach when processing loans by enterprises with sound repayment ability.

(ii) Provide concessions of fees and charges to alleviate pressure on business operations. The Government will reduce water and sewage charges for non-domestic accounts by 50%, subject to a monthly ceiling of $10,000 and $5,000 respectively per account. About 260 000 non-domestic accounts are expected to benefit from the measure. We will also reduce the trade effluent surcharge by 50%, which is expected to benefit about 35 000 businesses mainly in the catering industry. In addition, fees for the first issue or renewal of licences and permits, including those for hawkers, food businesses, agriculture and fisheries industries and liquor licences²â�° will be waived, which is expected to benefit over 60 000 licensees. The above measures will be implemented for one year.

(iii) Considering that the original estimate for the Government’s average annual capital works expenditure in the coming five years was about $120 billion, we will earmark an additional $30 billion in the next two to three years to increase expenditure on works projects driving sustained economic development, to support the local construction industry.

(iv) In streamlining the restaurant licensing regime, new operators with provisional licences are currently allowed to begin business while seeking to complete their formal licence application. Such arrangement of “licence first, inspection later” has further expedited approval procedures whereas simplified administrative procedures have enabled new operators of restaurants that have changed hands to start business even sooner.

     To further expedite the approval process of applications for outside seating accommodation (OSA) of restaurants, the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department will adopt a new way by proactively co-ordinating various relevant departments to undergo “joint-vetting” to resolve the matter together, and when necessary, escalate the process regarding complicated applications to the relevant Permanent Secretary or even the Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration for steer; at the same time, the procedures will be streamlined, including adopting standardised Government rent for OSA, and allowing some applications to proceed without the requirement for increasing kitchen area and bathroom facilities. As for applications involving walkways with a remaining width of three metres or more after the provision of OSA, they will generally be considered as meeting the basic traffic requirements and do not have to be reviewed case-by-case.

(v) Inject $1.43 billion into the BUD Fund²¹ and expand its geographical scope to cover eight more economies, including B&R countries. We will also enhance promotion and facilitate the participation of companies in exhibitions and export marketing activities through “Easy BUD”.

(vi) Increase financing support for local e-commerce businesses and expanding the coverage of free buyer credit checks through the Hong Kong Export Credit Insurance Corporation.

(vii) Set up the “Economic and Trade Express”, joining the efforts of ETOs and overseas offices of InvestHK and the HKTDC to form a functional platform, encouraging local SMEs and start-ups to conduct more overseas visits exploring business opportunities, while bringing in more enterprises to invest in and establish businesses in Hong Kong.

(viii) Enhance Cyberport’s Digital Transformation Support Pilot Programme to provide SMEs with subsidies, on a matching basis, to empower enterprises to apply AI and cybersecurity solutions, boosting their competitiveness and information security.

(ix) Support the continued organisation of the Hong Kong Shopping Festival, covering the Mainland and ASEAN e-commerce markets over the next three years to promote Hong Kong brands.

(x) Strengthen training and information services through the four SME centres, the Mentorship Programme of the Trade and Industry Department and the E Commerce Express under the HKTDC. We will also implement the “Creativity • Ecommerce – Beyond Limits” programme and provide one-stop business matching and referral services to strengthen the interface between Hong Kong enterprises and e-commerce service providers, enhancing the competitiveness of Hong Kong products on cross-border e-commerce platforms.

(xi) Launch a two-year pilot scheme to support local small and medium I&T enterprises with patent evaluation.²² 

Economic Diversification

Develop the Food Industry

241. As a brand, “Food from Hong Kong” enjoys a good reputation. Apart from facilitating the sale of such food to the Mainland, the Government has also reserved land near the Heung Yuen Wai Boundary Control Point to promote the food industry, including wholesale, processing and trading. In the long run, it may develop into a food industrial park to promote “food production + tourism”.

242. The Government will strengthen the competitiveness of local produce, introducing a unified brand for local agricultural and fisheries products in mid-2026 to enhance product awareness and brand value.

Promote the Development of the Agriculture and Fisheries Industries

243. The marine economy has enormous potential, and fisheries is among its components. The Government will issue culture licenses for new fish culture zones and provide deep-sea cages for rental by the fisheries industry, to increase local mariculture production by tenfold within 15 years. Modernised aquaculture will also be promoted.

244. The Government will facilitate the livestock sector to construct the first environmentally-friendly, multi-storey pig farm, in Lo Wu. It will also take forward the Agricultural Park Phase 2 development, and promote leisure farming and fisheries.

Promote a Pet-friendly Culture

245. According to government statistics, more than 240 000 households in Hong Kong keep more than 400 000 cats and dogs as pets, generating an enormous consumption market, including food and products, healthcare, insurance, grooming, training and more. In recent years, the business sector and transport operators have developed pet-friendly premises and travel arrangements. The Government supports the business sector in offering pet-friendly spaces to create new opportunities.

246. The Government will introduce a licensing arrangement allowing operators to let dogs enter their food premises. Clear signage will be put up by permitted restaurants, so that customers know dogs are allowed. Pet-friendly restaurants will create new business opportunities for the industry.

¹â�µ The Government will sign a co-operation framework agreement with the National Cancer Center to deepen collaboration in basic cancer research, screening, early diagnosis and treatment, big data application, public education outreach and other areas.

¹â�¶ The “4Rs” in the 4Rs Mental Health Charter cover four elements and objectives for promoting mental health, which include

(1) Rest: Help students cultivate healthy habits from an early age including having enough rest, adequate sleep and leisure activities.

(2) Relaxation: Teach students to take the time to relax, take care of their mental health and practise self compassion.

(3) Relationship: Strengthen the relationships among students, teachers and students, as well as parents and children, so as to enhance their sense of connectedness; help students understand their roles and their importance in these relationships, so as to willingly take on responsibilities and make contributions.

(4) Resilience: Equip students to adapt to the inevitable stress and setbacks in life, and teach students to deal with emotions, cope with stress and overcome difficulties with a positive attitude.

¹â�· As part of the “Shall We Talk” initiative on mental health promotion and public education, the Mental Health Workplace Charter aims to promote mental health in workplace, objectives include to promote mental well-being at workplace including a respectful and positive environment; promote active listening and communication, encourage help-seeking, and facilitate early identification of mental distress and timely treatment; and create an inclusive and friendly workplace environment for colleagues with mental distress.

¹â�¸ I·PARK1 and I·PARK2, located on an artificial island off Shek Kwu Chau and at Tsang Tsui, Tuen Mun respectively, are waste-to-energy (electric energy) facilities, generating electricity by processing municipal solid waste.

¹â�¹ The development of Beautiful Bays is an important means of marine ecological environment protection for our country and an integral part of building a Beautiful China in the maritime area. “Pristine water and beaches, thriving marine life, and harmonious co-existence between humans and the sea” is the aim of the overall enhancement in ecological environment quality. It is being realised through actions such as improvements in quality and effectiveness, the rehabilitation of ecosystems and the remediation of effluent discharge outlets, striving to transform 283 marine bays throughout China into beautiful bays by 2035.

²â�° Food business licences, including provisional ones (if applicable), cover the General Restaurant Licence, the Light Refreshment Restaurant Licence, the Marine Restaurant Licence, the Bakery Licence, the Cold Store Licence, the Factory Canteen Licence, the Food Factory Licence, the Fresh Provision Shop Licence, the Frozen Confection Factory Licence, the Milk Factory Licence, the Siu Mei and Lo Mei Shop Licence, the Restricted Food Permit and the Composite Restricted Foods Permit. As for licences related to the agriculture and fisheries industries, they include the Marine Fish Culture Licence and the Livestock Keeping Licence.

²¹ Referring to the Dedicated Fund on Branding, Upgrading and Domestic Sales.

²² The relevant measure is also stipulated under Chapter VII “(C) Regional Intellectual Property Trading Centre”.

(To be continued.)