Month: October 2025

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) announced today (October 29) that the West Kowloon Waste Transfer Station, which was affected by a fire earlier today, has resumed operation at 6pm and is receiving waste under normal operations. The EPD has notified the industry and will maintain close contact with them.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

A fire broke out at the West Kowloon Waste Transfer Station on Stonecutters Island today (October 29). Operation of the facility is currently under temporary suspension.

Upon detecting fire and smoke from waste at the facility at about 1.45pm today, the contractor immediately notified the Fire Services Department (FSD) and evacuated all staff and users on site. The fire was largely put out at about 2.30pm by firefighters upon arrival. No injuries were reported.

FSD’s initial investigation found no suspicious cause of the fire. It is believed that the fire was caused by sparks produced by welding carried out by the contractor. The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) has requested the contractor to submit a report on the fire incident within seven days.

The EPD has temporarily suspended operation of the facility to allow the contractor to carry out cleaning and assess the impact of the incident on the facility. During the suspension, affected users may use other transfer stations or directly deliver waste to landfills for disposal. The EPD has notified the industry about the suspension and will maintain close contact with them.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

     The Transport Department (TD) today (October 29) reminded members of the public that the new licence fee for electric private cars (e-PCs) will take effect from November 1 (Saturday). The new fee structure will apply to newly registered e-PCs while renewal of vehicle licences (VLs) for existing ones will be granted a four-month grace period. Eligible disabled vehicle owners will be offered licence fee concessions.

     A spokesman for the TD said, “Under the new licence fee structure, licence fees will be charged based on the rated power of e-PCs stated on their vehicle registration documents and VLs, and the fee levels will be suitably adjusted. On the one hand, the new licence fee maintains the attractiveness of electric vehicles (EVs) to continue encouraging drivers to switch to EVs to promote environmental protection, while on the other hand, it aligns with the technological advancements and practices in other regions. The licence fee structure and level for other vehicle classes remain unchanged.”

     The new five-tier licence fee structure based on rated power will comprise incremental adjustments in five phases over six years. The annual licence fee (ALF) for e-PCs from November 1, 2025, to February 28, 2027 is tabulated as follows:
 

     Under the new licence fee structure, according to the current distribution of licensed e-PCs, the rated power of 99 per cent of them fall within the first, second and third tiers, while the proportions of e-PCs in the fourth and fifth tiers are only 1 per cent and 0.1 per cent respectively.

Special arrangements for VL renewal during four-month grace period

     Existing e-PC owners should note that, if their VL expires on or before February 28, 2026, and the renewal application is submitted from November 1, 2025, to February 28, 2026, the prevailing licence fee structure and levels will apply.

     As for renewal of VLs expiring on or after March 1, 2026, or applications for first or re-issue of VLs submitted on or after November 1, 2025, the new licence fees will apply.

Provision of licence fee concession to eligible disabled e-PC owners

     The Government will offer licence fee concession to eligible disabled e-PC owners pursuant to the policy objective of social integration. If the rated power of such e-PC does not exceed 75 kW, no licence fee will be charged. If it exceeds 75 kW, the ALF will be charged by deducting an amount equal to the prescribed ALF for an e-PC with a rated power of no more than 75 kW from the ALF of its rated power tier. This arrangement will apply to eligible disabled persons who renew VLs expiring on or after March 1, 2026, or submit applications for first or re-issue of VLs on or after November 1, 2025.

     The TD has issued letters to the automotive trades and vehicle dealers concerned to remind them to take note of the implementation of the new licence fee structure. Notices have been displayed at the TD’s Licensing Offices to introduce the above arrangements. The TD will also put up messages about the new fee structure through the “Electronic Driving Licence” mobile app and the e-Licensing Portal (elicensingportal.td.gov.hk/login).

     Members of the public may refer to the TD’s website or call the hotline at 2804 2600 for details.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

In support of World Stroke Day, the Department of Health (DH) today (October 29) appealed to members of the public to deepen their understanding of the causes and symptoms of stroke in order to prevent stroke and seek prompt medical attention as appropriate. The Government long been adopting a life-course health promotion strategy to promote health, including encouraging the public of different age groups and health statuses to adopt a healthy lifestyle encompassing healthy eating, being physically active, and refraining from smoking and alcohol consumption to guard against non-communicable diseases including stroke. Through the Chronic Disease Co-Care (CDCC) Pilot Scheme, the Government actively promotes convenient screening services for diabetes mellitus (DM) and hypertension (HT), and blood lipid testing to achieve full coverage of the “three highs”.
 
     “Stroke is a leading cause of disability and death worldwide. Globally, one in four adults over the age of 25 will suffer from stroke at some point in their lifetime, and it is not limited to the elderly. Around 60 per cent of strokes occur in individuals under the age of 70, and 16 per cent occur before the age of 50. Stroke is the fourth most common cause of death in Hong Kong, with 2 911 registered deaths (provisional figure) last year. Among them, 7.7 per cent were people aged 55 or below. The theme for World Stroke Day 2025 is ‘Every Minute Counts’. Time is critical in treating stroke. The sooner you recognise stroke symptoms in yourself or others, and the sooner the patient receives treatment, the better the outcome,” said the Controller of the Centre for Health Protection of the DH, Dr Edwin Tsui.
 
　　Members of the public should remember the warning signs of stroke and act “FAST”:

• face drooping: asymmetrical facial expressions;
• arm weakness: limb weakness on one side of the body;
• speech difficulties: difficulties in communicating with others; and
• time: call for immediate medical assistance to save lives.

 
　　Dr Tsui reminded the public that up to 80 per cent of strokes can be prevented through adherence to a healthy lifestyle and proper management of risk factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and obesity. According to the Population Health Survey 2020-22, among those with hypertension, diabetes and hypercholesterolaemia, 41 per cent, 36 per cent and 70 per cent of the patients respectively were not aware of their conditions until attending the health examination provided under the survey.
 
The Primary Healthcare Commission promotes the Life Course Preventive Care Plan through the District Health Centres/District Health Centre Expresses (collectively referred to as DHCs) and family doctors, enhancing public awareness on self-health management and disease prevention. The Government launched the three-year CDCC Pilot Scheme since 2023, subsidising Hong Kong residents aged 45 and above with no known medical history of DM or HT to pair with family doctors for DM and HT screening services in the private healthcare market. In March this year, the CDCC Pilot Scheme was expanded to cover blood lipid testing, achieving full coverage of the “three highs”. Participants diagnosed with prediabetes, DM, HT or hyperlipidaemia after screening can proceed to the treatment phase and will be subsidised by the Government to continue their treatment with a family doctor of their choice, and subject to their health conditions, be provided with prescribed medication, a dedicated nurse clinic and allied health services. The CDCC Pilot Scheme reinforces the “Family Doctor for All” concept and expands the community healthcare network through the DHCs as resource hubs.
 
As of October 8 this year, over 160 000 citizens have already enrolled in the CDCC Pilot Scheme. It is expected that the target of having around 200 000 participants during the pilot period can be achieved earlier than expected. Approximately 99 200 participants (i.e. about 60 per cent) have completed the screenings and around 40 000 participants (i.e. about 40 per cent) have been diagnosed with prediabetes, DM, HT or dyslipidaemia, and have proceeded to the treatment phase. For more details of the CDCC Pilot Scheme, members of the public may visit the dedicated website of the CDCC Pilot Scheme.
 
The Government will continue to promote healthy living and work closely with community partners to foster a supportive environment conducive to healthy living. For more information, please visit the Change for Health website of the DH.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, who is currently visiting Saudi Arabia, attended the Future Investment Initiative  Summit yesterday (October 28, Riyadh time). He spoke at a key thematic discussion session of the Summit and held meetings with senior government officials and business leaders in the region.

    In the morning, Mr Chan attended the opening ceremony of the Summit and spoke at a session titled “Board of Changemakers: Public–Private Powerbrokers”. The session brought together leaders from governments and businesses around the world to share insights on how public-private partnerships (PPPs) can foster economic and social development, energy transition, and the advancement of technological sectors, such as artificial intelligence and biotechnology, within the broader context of geopolitical and technological transformation.

    Mr Chan shared Hong Kong’s experience in promoting various PPP models, including the Build-Operate-Transfer model and the “Rail-plus-Property” model, which have incentivised private sector participation in infrastructure development. He noted that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government is expediting the development of the Northern Metropolis as a new engine for economic diversification, a key base for innovation and technology industries, and a source of quality employment opportunities. Hong Kong is adopting a more flexible and proactive approach in developing the Northern Metropolis, including streamlining land allocation, importing talent and co-investment arrangements, with a view to accelerating planning, construction and industry development.

    Mr Chan also cited the establishment of the Hong Kong Investment Corporation (HKIC) Limited by the HKSAR Government as another example of PPP. As patient capital, the HKIC supports the landing of companies and ecosystem building through co-investment and other means. It also partners with other funds in the market to channel capital into industries of strategic value, helping enhance Hong Kong’s long-term competitiveness and create quality jobs for society.

    Other speakers in the session included the Minister of Investment of Saudi Arabia, H.E. Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al-Falih; the Minister of Planning and Economic Development and Minister of International Cooperation of Egypt, H.E. Dr Rania Al-Mashat; as well as chairpersons and chief executive officers of various multinational corporations.

    Mr Chan also attended other thematic sessions of the Summit, including a keynote speech delivered by the Vice-President of the People’s Republic of China, Mr Han Zheng.

    In addition, Mr Chan held bilateral meetings with a number of local political and business leaders, including the Vice Minister of Finance of Saudi Arabia, Mr Abdulmuhsen bin Saad Alkhalaf; the Group Chief Executive Officer of Diriyah Company, Mr Jerry Inzerillo; the Chief Executive Officer of New Murabba Development Company under the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia, Mr Michael Dyke; and the Chief Financial Officer of Red Sea Global, Mr Martin Greenslade.

    In the evening, Mr Chan attended a business seminar hosted by China Investment Corporation and delivered a keynote speech. He pointed out that the Middle East has set out an ambitious development vision and possesses strong growth momentum. At the same time, China is pursuing high-quality development, including a high-level two-way opening-up. There is vast room for collaboration between the two regions in areas such as capital, technology and industrial connectivity.

    Mr Chan said that Hong Kong, as the world’s freest economy, enjoys distinctive advantages under the “one country, two systems” principle. These include the common law system, free flow of capital, goods and information, a simple and low tax regime, and a linked exchange rate system between the Hong Kong dollar and the US dollar. As the world’s No. 3 international financial centre, Hong Kong is not only an international fundraising and professional services platform for Mainland enterprises going global, but also an ideal gateway for Middle Eastern businesses to access the Mainland market. He noted that around 300 Mainland enterprises are in the pipeline for listing in Hong Kong, many of which plan to expand into the Middle East.

    Mr Chan also highlighted Hong Kong’s leading position in offshore Renminbi (RMB) business, asset and wealth management, as well as the family office sector. Hong Kong is the world’s largest offshore RMB hub. With increasing trade between China and Saudi Arabia settled in local currencies, the demand for RMB-denominated assets and risk management products is expected to grow. Hong Kong is also Asia’s premier centre for asset and wealth management, with assets under management exceeding US$4.5 trillion and a vibrant ecosystem for family offices. He extended a sincere invitation to more enterprises and institutions from Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East to leverage Hong Kong’s platform, and join hands to open a new chapter in cooperation between Asia and the Middle East.

    Mr Chan will continue his visit to Saudi Arabia today (October 29, Riyadh time).

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

On October 29, 2025, the Trade Remedy Commission of the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) made affirmative final determinations in its injury investigations involving two cases: one involving imports of certain flat hot-rolled steel products from China and the other involving imports of beer from China.

The Trade Remedy Commission found that the domestic flat hot-rolled steel products industry and the domestic beer industry in Taiwan (ROC) are materially injured by reason of imports from China that have been found by the Ministry of Finance to be sold in Taiwan (ROC) at less than normal value.

Under the jurisdiction set forth in the Regulations Governing the Implementation of the Imposition of Countervailing and Anti-dumping Duties, the MOEA shall notify the Ministry of Finance of its final determination. As a result of the affirmative final injury determination, the Ministry of Finance shall determine whether to impose an anti-dumping duty within 10 days from the next day of receipt of the foregoing notice from the MOEA.

The public version of the final injury investigation reports in Chinese will be available after November 28, 2025 on the International Trade Administration’s website (https://www.trade.gov.tw/).

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Transport Department today reminded the public that the new licence fee for electric private cars (e-PCs) will take effect from November 1.

The new fee structure will apply to newly registered e-PCs, while renewal of vehicle licences (VLs) for existing ones will be granted during a four-month grace period. Eligible disabled vehicle owners will be offered licence fee concessions.

The department said that under the new structure, licence fees will be charged based on the rated power of e-PCs as stated on their vehicle registration documents and VLs, and the fee levels will be suitably adjusted.

It added that the new licence fee maintains the attractiveness of electric vehicles (EVs) and will continue to encourage drivers to switch to EVs to protect the environment, whilst also aligning with technological advancements and practices in other regions. The licence fee structure and level for other vehicle classes remain unchanged.

The new five-tier licence fee structure, based on rated power, will comprise incremental adjustments in five phases over six years. The annual licence fee for e-PCs will be applied from November 1, 2025, to February 28, 2027.

The department has issued letters to the automotive trade and vehicle dealers to remind them to take note of the new fee structure’s implementation. Notices have been displayed at the department’s Licensing Offices to introduce the arrangements. The department will also post messages on the “Electronic Driving Licence” mobile app and the e-Licensing Portal.

Call 2804 2600 for enquiries.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Secretary for Culture, Sports & Tourism Rosanna Law today congratulated sailor Nicholas Bezy Halliday on winning Hong Kong’s first gold medal at the 15th National Games of the People’s Republic of China, in the Men’s ILCA 7 event.

Miss Law said: “I am very glad that Nicholas Bezy Halliday has, with his persistence and effort, overcome challenges to win Hong Kong’s first gold medal at the 15th NG. This is a demonstration of his strength and perseverance. All Hong Kong people, like myself, are proud of his achievement.

“This is the first time the NG is co-hosted by Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macau, as well as the first time Hong Kong is hosting this national sports event. Nicholas Bezy Halliday’s gold medal victory is especially meaningful.

She encouraged the Hong Kong, China delegation to continue to unleash their potential and achieve success in other events.

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

The Taichung Branch of the Bureau of Industrial Parks (BIP) of the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) held a handover ceremony for its acting and new director on October 15. The ceremony was presided over by BIP Director General Dr. Yang Chih-Ching, with Acting Director Wang Chen-Chuan formally passing the official seal to the newly appointed Director Chen Kao-Shang, in a solemn yet warm atmosphere.
Under the leadership of former Director Chi Shih-Tsung, the Taichung Branch supported organizational restructuring, guided enterprises in pursuing digital transformation and smart innovation, and promoted the upgrading and optimization of park facilities-laying a solid foundation for future development. During Acting Director Wang’s tenure, he successfully completed key transitional missions. Director-General Yang expressed his deep appreciation for their dedicated efforts and conveyed high expectations for the new director.
Director Chen Kao-Shang is known for his humility, diligence, and practical leadership. Having begun his public service career at the grassroots level in the industrial services sector, he previously served as Secretary of the Chung-Kang Branch, Deputy Director of the Taichung Branch, and Deputy Director of the Taipei Branch of the former Export Processing Zone Administration. With comprehensive civil service experience and professional expertise, he has demonstrated outstanding performance in promoting major projects, earning recognition as an Outstanding Civil Servant of the Ministry of Economic Affairs and as an Excellent Employee of the Export Processing Zone Administration. His familiarity with park services, management operations, and industry trends will greatly contribute to advancing park administration, industrial upgrading, and investment promotion.
The Taichung Branch oversees three Technology Industrial Parks and 16 Industrial Parks in central Taiwan. Director General Yang encouraged Director Chen to lead the branch team with dedication to public service, always keeping the needs of the industry in mind. He urged the branch to promote park optimization and innovation, accelerate AI-driven industrial transformation, and develop quality spaces that meet the needs of emerging technologies-advancing industrial growth and sustainability while building smart, safe, and sustainable parks.
The handover ceremony not only symbolizes the passing of responsibility and mission but also represents a commitment and vision for the future development of the Taichung Branch. Director Chen stated that the branch will continue to serve as a key promoter of industrial development by enhancing park environments, facilitating the transformation and upgrading of central Taiwan’s technology and industrial parks, and advancing smart and sustainable management. He pledged to lead his team in providing high-quality and innovative services that inject new momentum into the region’s parks, enabling enterprises to thrive amid global competition and move toward a new chapter of sustainable development.

Spokesman: Mr. Liu Chi-Chuan (Deputy Director General, BIP)
Contact Number: 886-7-3613349, 0911363680
Email: lcc12@bip.gov.tw

Contact Person: Wu, Pei-Huan (Personnel Office, Taichung Branch, BIP)
Contact Number: 886-4-2658-1215 ext. 683
Email: phwu2@bip.gov.tw