Month: October 2025

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

Attention TV/radio announcers:

Please broadcast the following as soon as possible:

Here is an item of interest to swimmers.

The Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced today (October 9) that due to big waves, red flags have been hoisted at Stanley Main Beach in Southern District, Hong Kong Island; and Clear Water Bay Second Beach in Sai Kung District. Beachgoers are advised not to swim at these beaches.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

A new batch of 18 key enterprises were today welcomed to Hong Kong at a ceremony held by the Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises (OASES), with Financial Secretary Paul Chan officiating.

In a speech, Mr Chan said that the new batch of firms brings not only investment and employment but also transformative ideas and technologies that will serve to further enrich Hong Kong’s fast-evolving innovation and technology ecosystem.

“The enterprises joining us today represent a wide spectrum of cutting-edge industries – from leading global pharmaceutical firms to trailblazers in generative AI, autonomous driving, and microelectronics. They also include leading pioneers in new media and Web3 technologies.”

Mr Chan added that the number of strategic enterprises which having been attracted to Hong Kong has now surpassed 100, and that the influx has brought in over $60 billion in investment and created about 22,000 quality jobs.

“Beyond numbers, they also bring transformative ideas, world-class expertise, global perspectives, and a spirit of innovation that will further enrich our fast-evolving innovation and technology ecosystem,” he said.

The Financial Secretary also highlighted that this is the first time for Hong Kong to welcome cultural and creative enterprises that integrate technology with artistry and entertainment.

“This is an initiative announced in this year’s Budget, and I am delighted to see it becoming a reality.”

Director-General of the OASES Peter Yan stressed that the latest batch of strategic enterprises includes three of the world’s top 10 pharmaceutical companies, demonstrating Hong Kong’s strong international appeal in innovation and life and health technology.

He said the presence of leading pharmas aligns with the latest Policy Address and supports the city’s development as a key base for clinical research and drug innovation.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Secretary for Health Prof Lo Chung-mau today chaired the joint meeting of the Chinese Medicine Development Committee and its three subcommittees to discuss the formulation of the Chinese Medicine Development Blueprint, the commissioning of the Chinese Medicine Hospital of Hong Kong (CMHHK) and the permanent premises of the Government Chinese Medicines Testing Institute (GCMTI).

The three subcommittees cover Chinese medicine practice, the Chinese medicines industry and the Chinese medicine development blueprint.

Prof Lo said that 2025 is a notable year for Chinese medicine in Hong Kong, signifying more breakthroughs, reforms and opportunities for its development in the city.

“We will publish Hong Kong’s first blueprint by the end of this year. The two flagship institutions for Chinese medicine development, namely CMHHK and the permanent premises of the GCMTI, will also commence services in phases starting from December this year.”

Preparations for the commissioning of the hospital and the permanent premises of the institute are in full swing. Both will be conducive to Hong Kong’s further development in areas such as Chinese medicine clinical services, talent training, and testing standards.

In the first year, the hospital will provide out-patient and day-patient services, and will roll out Chinese medicine services for special diseases including degenerative diseases, stroke rehabilitation and other common diseases among the elderly.

During the meeting, relevant departments and organisations briefed the committee members on the progress of other major Chinese medicine policy initiatives outlined in the 2025 Policy Address.

They include the promotion of the sharing of electronic health records in the Chinese medicine sector through eHealth, advancing the integrated Chinese-Western medicine services, and hosting the Greater Bay Area Conference on Inheritance, Innovation & Development of Traditional Chinese Medicine in December this year.

Noting that the Chief Executive put forward a number of policy initiatives on Chinese medicine in his Policy Address, Prof Lo said the Government will press ahead with the high-quality and high-standard development of Chinese medicine in Hong Kong on all fronts.

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

Details
2025-10-08
President Lai meets Paraguayan Chamber of Deputies President Raúl Luis Latorre Martínez
On the morning of October 8, President Lai Ching-te met with President of the Chamber of Deputies of Paraguay Raúl Luis Latorre Martínez. In remarks, President Lai thanked Paraguay for its longstanding support for Taiwan’s international participation. The president stated that Taiwan and Paraguay have a brotherly bond and are united by a shared commitment to freedom and democracy. He added that Taiwan and Paraguay have had fruitful collaboration across a wide range of areas, including education, agriculture and animal husbandry, infrastructure, women’s empowerment, healthcare, and technology. He expressed hope of working with Paraguay to meet the challenges of the new era, safeguard democracy and freedom, and contribute even more to global peace and prosperity. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I would like to start by giving a warm welcome to Chamber President Latorre and the cross-party delegation of representatives he is leading to join our National Day celebrations in Taiwan. Your presence demonstrates the Paraguayan Congress’s strong support for Taiwan and further strengthens the friendship between our two countries. In 2023, I attended President Santiago Peña Palacios’s inauguration as special envoy for former President Tsai Ing-wen, during which time I had the opportunity to dine with Chamber President Latorre and Chairman Juan Manuel Añazco Vera of the Chamber of Deputies Foreign Affairs Committee, which left a deep impression on me. Last year, Chamber President Latorre also visited Taiwan to attend the inauguration of myself and Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao. I am very pleased to meet and connect with him again in Taiwan today. I want to thank Chamber President Latorre and all the distinguished guests for their longstanding support of Taiwan. Chamber President Latorre, in particular, has advocated for Taiwan at numerous international venues, and the Paraguayan Congress continues to demonstrate staunch support for Taiwan’s international participation through declarations and other measures, for which the people of Taiwan are deeply moved. Also, in this year’s General Debate at the UN General Assembly, President Peña spoke out in support of Taiwan, emphasizing that doing the right thing is priceless, and that Taiwan must have a place in that forum. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I would like to express our sincere gratitude. In recent years, with the support of the Paraguayan government and Congress, Taiwan and Paraguay have had fruitful collaborations across a wide range of areas, including education, agriculture and animal husbandry, infrastructure, and women’s empowerment. Through our joint efforts, a Health Information System has been implemented in over 1,000 public healthcare facilities in Paraguay to improve the quality of medical services. To date, Taiwan-Paraguay Polytechnic University has trained 174 outstanding young Paraguayans, and the Taiwan-Paraguay Smart Technology Park – recently relaunched and upgraded – has drawn attention from Taiwanese companies, facilitating greater industrial collaboration between our countries. Going forward, we will continue to promote various collaborative initiatives to maximize the well-being of both our peoples. Taiwan and Paraguay have a brotherly bond and are united by the shared values of freedom and democracy. In the early 1990s, both our countries embarked on the path to democratization, ushering in a new chapter through democratic elections. Today, in the face of authoritarian expansion and a rapidly changing international landscape, I look forward to our countries working together to meet the challenges of this new era, safeguard freedom and democracy, and contribute even more to global peace and prosperity. May the friendship between our countries continue to thrive and both nations enjoy lasting prosperity. Chamber President Latorre then delivered remarks, stating that he is leading a 16-member delegation, which is the largest and most representative from Paraguay’s Chamber of Deputies to ever visit Taiwan. He emphasized that the delegation, which includes members from across the political spectrum, sends a clear message: Paraguay will always stand with Taiwan as a friend and an ally because Taiwan is committed to upholding the values of freedom, sovereignty, and democracy, which are principles on which Paraguay will never compromise. He noted that Paraguay will continue to advocate for Taiwan in international venues. Chamber President Latorre said that the friendship and partnership between Paraguay and Taiwan have grown stronger with time, and there remains great potential for further collaboration and development. He highlighted Paraguay’s leading strengths in clean energy and agriculture, noting that Paraguayan pork, now exported to Taiwan tariff-free, has become highly popular among Taiwanese consumers. He added that Paraguay is a nation full of opportunities, with advantages such as a low-tax environment, a young and dynamic population, and strong potential for development in the AI industry. He expressed confidence that future collaboration with Taiwanese industries will open new horizons for both countries. Chamber President Latorre stated that Paraguay, having endured the trials of war, deeply values peace, and it was for this reason that Paraguay was among the first to condemn China’s military incursions in the airspace and waters around Taiwan. Morally and geopolitically, he continued, Paraguay firmly stands alongside like-minded nations in defending the shared values of freedom, democracy, and sovereignty. Although Taiwan and Paraguay sit on opposite sides of the world, he said, the two have never been closer than they are today. Chamber President Latorre emphasized that all the delegation members hope to further deepen the friendship and brotherly ties between our two countries. Also present at the meeting were President of the Paraguayan Parliamentary Commission of Friendship – Republic of China (Taiwan) Rodrigo Daniel Gamarra Krayacich and his wife, members of the Chamber of Deputies of Paraguay including Carlos María Arrechea Ortiz, Marcelo Rafael Salinas González, Daniel Fernando Centurión González, Hilda María Del Rocío Vallejo Ávalos, Miguel Ángel Del Puerto Silva, Rodrigo Daniel Blanco Amarilla, Héctor Rubén Figueredo Notario, María Constancia Benítez de Benítez, Graciela Aguilera Ruiz Díaz, Alejandro Darío Aguilera Elizaur, and Sebastián Emilio Remesowski Squef. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by Paraguay Ambassador Darío Filártiga Ruiz Díaz.

Details
2025-10-08
President Lai names Taiwania Capital Chairman Lin Hsin-i as 2025 APEC envoy
On October 8, Presidential Office Spokesperson Karen Kuo (郭雅慧) announced that President Lai Ching-te, after careful consideration, has invited Lin Hsin-i (林信義), senior advisor to the president and chairman of Taiwania Capital Management Corporation, to once again act as his representative at the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting (AELM), which will be held in Gyeongju, Korea from October 31 to November 1, 2025. Spokesperson Kuo noted that Chairman Lin has previously attended the AELM as our leader’s representative in 2005 and 2024, giving him extensive knowledge of and expertise in APEC’s operations and discussions. This, she explained, makes him the most suitable candidate to represent President Lai at this year’s AELM. The theme for 2025 APEC, hosted by Korea, is Building a Sustainable Tomorrow, Spokesperson Kuo noted, with three major policy priorities: Connect: strengthening connectivity by facilitating trade and investment, and promoting physical, institutional, and people-to-people exchanges; Innovate: fostering digital innovation by bridging the digital divide and enhancing cooperation on Artificial Intelligence; and Prosper: achieving sustainable and inclusive growth and prosperity by addressing pressing global challenges. The two key APEC deliverables for this year, AI and response to demographic changes, align closely with President Lai’s policy direction, which includes transforming Taiwan into an AI island, a vision for a Healthy Taiwan, and efforts to promote AI chips, smart manufacturing, smart medicine, and digital governance. Spokesperson Kuo emphasized that Chairman Lin has extensive experience in industry, and in the formulation and execution aspects of national economic decision-making, as well as a deep understanding of Taiwan’s industrial development and global economic and trade situation. The spokesperson expressed confidence that Chairman Lin will be able to fully convey Taiwan’s policy vision and achievements at APEC, and thereby complete the mission assigned to him by President Lai.

Details
2025-10-07
President Lai interviewed by The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show
President Lai Ching-te recently met with Stephen Yates, senior research fellow at the Heritage Foundation’s Asian Studies Center; Buck Sexton, host of the American radio program The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show; and Mr. Sexton’s brothers Mason and Keats. President Lai was also interviewed by Buck Sexton and responded to questions regarding cross-strait relations, the regional landscape, national defense, the economic and trade partnership between Taiwan and the United States, and Taiwan’s social welfare policies. The interview was broadcast on the early morning of October 7. Following is the text of the questions and the president’s responses: Q: One of the things we’ve noticed that has already gotten some attention back in the States is the sense of civic responsibility here, how respectful and law-biding everyone is, how safe everyone feels on your streets. It is inspiring to tell Americans about this. I also wanted to ask you about the situation right now with your neighbor, China. There’s obviously a lot of global concern about a sense of rhetoric heating up, a sense that there is a pathway now that is becoming more imminent that there could be a crisis. How do you want to describe the situation right now, for specifically an American audience? President Lai: First of all, I am very glad that you have seen a lot of things during your stay in Taiwan and that you are having a fruitful trip so far. I also want to thank you for commending our civil society. In the international community, Taiwan is often lauded as being a place where the most beautiful scenery is actually its people. Recently, due to a typhoon, a barrier lake overflowed in Hualien, causing a significant number of injuries and deaths. Streets and houses were covered in mud. Taiwanese society mobilized to help people affected. We had a long holiday weekend this past weekend. On the first day, 30,000 people traveled to Hualien to offer assistance. And on both the second and third days, another 40,000 went, meaning that over 100,000 people, of their own accord, took their shovels to help those affected. In our society, these people were referred to “superheroes with shovels.” So you can feel that in Taiwan there is a lot of warmth. People are kind. So our streets, at nighttime or daytime, are generally very safe. Your question was about Taiwan’s relations with China. I very much hope that everyone in the world who pays attention to Taiwan-China issues can be clear about several things. Firstly, the Republic of China and the People’s Republic of China are not subordinate to each other. Taiwan is not a part of the PRC. China does not have the right to invade Taiwan. Secondly, China has been holding military exercises in the Taiwan Strait, undermining peace and stability in the region. So it is China – not Taiwan – that is disrupting the cross-strait status quo. The fact that the Taiwanese people seek to protect their sovereignty and pursue a way of life based on democracy, freedom, and human rights should not be seen as a provocation against China. Thirdly, even though Taiwan is facing increasing threats from China, Taiwan has not given up on seeking peace and mutual prosperity across the strait. We understand that peace is priceless and that there are no winners in war. Peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait are essential elements of global security and prosperity. Our pursuit of peace is an ideal, not a fantasy. We believe that to achieve peace, there must be strength. Since taking office, I have implemented the Four Pillars of Peace action plan. The first pillar is strengthening Taiwan’s national defense. Our defense spending, as defined by NATO, will reach 3.32 percent of GDP next year. And this will increase to 5 percent of GDP by 2030. We are procuring arms from the United States and partners across the international community. At the same time, we are promoting indigenous defense capabilities. We will work with the international community to codevelop arms, including R&D, design, and manufacturing. This will allow the domestic defense industry to grow and contribute to Taiwan’s security. Drones, unmanned submarines, and robotics are all areas that Taiwan will prioritize in the future. The second pillar is enhancing our economic resilience. In 2010, 83.8 percent of Taiwan’s outbound investment went to China. But last year, this number was only 7 percent. The United States is now Taiwan’s largest destination for outbound investment. In other words, we are not putting all of our eggs in the same basket. We hope that Taiwan’s industries will be rooted in Taiwan, deploy globally, and market across the world. This will not only strengthen our economy but also make it more resilient, thereby safeguarding Taiwan’s security. The third pillar is standing together with the United States and other free and democratic countries to bolster joint deterrence. This will allow us to prevent war by preparing for one. And fourthly, Taiwan is willing to engage in dialogue with China based on parity and dignity. Through exchanges and cooperation, we can achieve the goal of peace and mutual prosperity. I noticed that US President Donald Trump once said publicly that Xi Jinping actually called him and stated that he would not attack Taiwan during President Trump’s term in office. We hope that Taiwan will continue to enjoy the support of President Trump. If he is able to convince Xi Jinping to permanently renounce the use of force against Taiwan, President Trump will surely win the Nobel Peace Prize. Q: If you could speak directly to President Trump about Taiwan’s situation right now, the security situation more specifically, what would you want him to know?  President Lai: If I had the chance to meet President Trump in person and talk about the current cross-strait situation, I would suggest that he take note of the fact that Xi Jinping is not just holding ever-larger military exercises in the Taiwan Strait but expanding China’s military deployment in the South and East China Seas. China’s military exercises now extend across the Indo-Pacific region. Its aircraft carriers are moving beyond the first island chain and second island chain. And its northern fleet even sailed around Japan for a week. Chinese naval vessels also conducted live-fire exercises in Australia’s exclusive economic zone. The situation in the Indo-Pacific region is changing constantly, and tensions are rising. So the issue is not only a possible annexation of Taiwan. If it is able to annex Taiwan, China will be in a stronger position to compete with the United States and alter the rules-based international order. This would eventually also impact US interests. So we hope that President Trump can continue to maintain peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. Taiwan is determined to ensure its national security. We will fulfill our responsibility and work with free and democratic countries to maintain regional peace and stability. Q: Because America has learned some difficult lessons about foreign policy and foreign policy intervention, there is a focus on partners who will carry their weight for their own defense and have a willingness to fight. If anyone in America, policymaker or citizen, has a question about whether Taiwan is willing to defend its own sovereignty, what would you say to them? President Lai: I would tell them that Taiwan is absolutely determined to ensure its own national security. Peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait are indispensable elements in global security and prosperity. So when Taiwan looks after its own national security, it shows that Taiwan is committed to protecting regional peace and stability as well. That is why, as I mentioned before, we are continuing to increase our national defense budget. So during former President Tsai Ing-wen’s term, the national defense budget was increased from 1.9 percent of GDP to 2.5 percent. Next year, it will reach 3.32 percent. And we hope to increase this to 5 percent by 2030. This would be five years earlier than NATO’s own goal. Also, we have established the Whole-of-Society Defense Resilience Committee under the Office of the President. This committee brings various sectors of Taiwan together and combines the strengths of the public and private sectors to carry out exercises and drills that enhance whole-of-society defense. I also convened a high-level national security meeting in which we defined the Chinese Communist Party regime as a foreign hostile force; and I proposed 17 strategies to address the five major threats we face from China. These will translate into more than a hundred amendments to our national security laws, which will be reviewed by the Legislative Yuan during the current session. This will put Taiwan on a stronger legal footing, bolster its national defense, and allow people to contribute their power toward safeguarding our nation and protecting regional peace and stability. I believe that people help those who help themselves. So I very much agree with your idea that Taiwan and other countries should meet their own responsibilities. Only by helping ourselves can we expect help from others. And when we show unity and work together, that is when deterrence is at its strongest; and that is when we will be able to safeguard peace and stability in the world. Q: Obviously, there’s a tremendous global and American, specifically, interest in artificial intelligence and the future of it. Also very interesting is the incredible facility that TSMC has built and is building out more in Arizona. I would like to ask you to speak to the economic partnership, specifically in advanced technology, microchip manufacturing, and artificial intelligence, and the relationship between Taiwan and America going forward, and how you view that to grow and bring prosperity for both countries. President Lai: So we all know that Taiwan’s technology industry has performed well. This is the result of decades of cooperation among Taiwan’s industries, government, academia, and R&D sector, as well as the support of the Taiwanese people. But I must also note with appropriate humility that TSMC and the Taiwanese semiconductor industry are still only one part of a bigger ecosystem, and do not represent the whole system. So if you look at the entire semiconductor ecosystem, the United States is strong in areas such as innovation, R&D, and design. And it is also the biggest market. Japan is strong in raw materials and related equipment. And the Republic of Korea, they have flash memory. Taiwan’s strength is in wafer manufacturing. And the Netherlands makes the critical equipment that is used to make semiconductors. But in the whole ecosystem, you can see that around 80 percent of profits go to the United States. So for semiconductors, I would say the United States is still the leader in this ecosystem. Looking ahead, as we face the AI era, every nation in the semiconductor ecosystem will be extremely important. And the United States will continue to lead the world in this. So Taiwan is very willing to work with the United States to achieve this goal. We want to help the United States reindustrialize and become a global AI hub. We want the United States to continue to lead the world in this new AI era and we want to help make America great again. So with regard to Taiwan’s semiconductor industry, we see it as an important responsibility in terms of ensuring the world’s future prosperity. That is why the Taiwan government has been very supportive of TSMC’s investments in the United States and Japan, as well as Germany. In the future, when the United States has reindustrialized and become a global AI hub, I am sure that TSMC will continue to play a crucial role. Q: Over the course of meetings with various members of your government, I learned something very interesting that has to do with family formation, a problem we have also started to look at in America. It will be very interesting, I think, to the American audience, to hear of countries that are trying to use policy to address issues like encouraging marriage and encouraging children so that a society can replenish – so that there is replenishment and there is resiliency. Could you please speak to some of the ways that you are encouraging people to have more kids here? What is Taiwan doing and how are those initiatives going so far? President Lai: I am very glad that you look positively at what we have been doing in Taiwan. Actually, Taiwan’s policies were made with reference to what the United States and other countries have been doing. Concerning our strategies: first, the government is supporting families in jointly raising children from birth to six years old by providing monthly subsidies. Tuition is also free for both public and private high schools and vocational schools. We also have a long-term care system for senior citizens. Across Taiwan, there are some 15,000 service centers with around 100,000 long-term care staff who look after seniors over the age of 65 as well as people with disabilities so that they can receive quality care. Young people who want to get married and have children are given priority in applying for social housing. If they want to buy a home, they can get government funding to subsidize the interest on their mortgage. And if they are renting, they can get a rent subsidy from the government. For couples who are having problems conceiving, the government subsidizes fertility treatment. We are also cutting taxes. Taiwan’s government is currently investing more in our society and cutting taxes by more than ever before in our history. These initiatives will help our young people feel confident that they can get married, have children, and will be able to raise them. I note that President Trump is also cutting taxes. We want to reduce the burden on households so that more people can start a family. This will promote social stability, prosperity, development, and continual growth for the country.

Details
2025-09-30
President Lai meets US Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Luke Lindberg
On the afternoon of September 30, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Luke Lindberg, under secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs at the United States Department of Agriculture. In remarks, President Lai stated that Taiwanese businesses plan to purchase US$10 billion of American agricultural products over the next four years, which will boost the efficiency of Taiwan’s livestock industry and enhance its food security. The president expressed hope of utilizing Taiwan’s advantages in the high-tech industry to strengthen cooperation between Taiwan and the US in agricultural technology innovation and food security and resilience, fostering an even more mutually beneficial partnership.  A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: It is a pleasure to once again welcome Under Secretary Lindberg, a good friend of Taiwan, just a year after his previous visit. Taiwan’s agricultural trade goodwill mission just concluded its visit to the US. And now, we are meeting with Under Secretary Lindberg and his delegation of dozens of industry representatives, highlighting the deep friendship and close partnership between Taiwan and the US. I extend a sincere welcome to our guests and applaud this step forward in Taiwan-US trade exchanges. Taiwan is currently the seventh-largest trade partner of the US and its seventh-largest export market for agricultural products. The US has also become Taiwan’s largest investment destination and largest market for agricultural exports. All of this goes to show that, in trade and the agricultural sector, Taiwan and the US are interdependent and enjoy close collaboration. This month, Taiwan’s agricultural mission visited Washington, DC, and several agricultural states, including South Dakota, Under Secretary Lindberg’s home state. This demonstrated that Taiwan is determined to continue elevating the Taiwan-US trade partnership. During the trip, industry representatives from Taiwan and the US signed procurement letters of intent. Taiwanese businesses plan to purchase US$10 billion of American agricultural products, including soybeans, wheat, corn, and beef, over the next four years. We anticipate that importing high-quality raw materials for animal feed will boost the efficiency of Taiwan’s livestock industry. And US agricultural products can also enhance Taiwan’s food security. Taiwan is also a reliable and important partner to the US in technology. Looking forward, we hope to utilize Taiwan’s advantages in the high-tech industry to strengthen cooperation between Taiwan and the US in agricultural technology innovation and food security and resilience. Taiwan faces geopolitical risks and challenges as it is situated on the first island chain in the Indo-Pacific and serves as a crucial hub for global non-red supply chains. I believe that regional neighbors and like-minded countries must join hands to safeguard global peace, stability, and prosperity. This delegation led by Under Secretary Lindberg not only contributes to mutual prosperity in agricultural trade across the public and private sectors, it also symbolizes the firm and steady steps by which we are deepening the strategic and economic partnership between Taiwan and the US. Let us continue to work together to strengthen Taiwan-US relations and contribute even more to global prosperity. Under Secretary Lindberg then delivered remarks, first thanking President Lai for having them here today. He then expressed their sincere best wishes to all of the people in Taiwan who were impacted by Super Typhoon Ragasa. He mentioned that their delegation, consisting of 25 US businesses, is here to help sell US agricultural products and build continued relationships in Taiwan. He also noted that it is a particularly exciting time of year to be here in Taiwan to celebrate the upcoming Mid-Autumn Festival, which is a time of cultural importance here in Taiwan.  Under Secretary Lindberg thanked Taiwanese consumers for continuing to purchase American agricultural products, adding that roughly 25 percent of the food that is imported into Taiwan is from the US, contributing to Taiwan’s food security. As a friend of Taiwan, he said, the US is also committed to Taiwan’s resilience through energy security.  Mentioning the recent goodwill mission that Taiwan’s minister of agriculture led to the US last week, Under Secretary Lindberg said that he comes as well with some goodwill for the Taiwanese people, explaining that they have decided to take the next step in allowing Taiwanese producers of pineapple access to the US market. He expressed hope that this will bring great joy and prosperity to many families here in Taiwan as the mid-autumn season begins. The under secretary said he looks forward to their discussion and expressed hope for continued prosperity and growing relations. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by American Institute in Taiwan Acting Director Karin M. Lang.

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2025-09-30
President Lai meets delegation led by Japanese House of Councillors LDP Members’ General Assembly Chairperson Matsuyama Masaji
On the morning of September 30, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Japanese Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) Members’ General Assembly in the House of Councillors Chairperson Matsuyama Masaji. In remarks, President Lai stated that democratic countries must unite in solidarity in the face of the continued expansion of authoritarian regimes, and expressed hope to further deepen partnerships with Japan in areas such as security, trade, and the economy. He also emphasized jointly establishing democratic non-red supply chains, enhancing economic security, promoting regional peace, contributing even more to the world, and building an even brighter future for the Taiwan-Japan friendship. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I want to sincerely welcome Chairperson Matsuyama and his delegation, who have taken the time to visit Taiwan, and I am grateful for their efforts to further deepen Taiwan-Japan exchanges. I am confident that this visit will help provide a greater understanding of Taiwan’s political and economic situation, as well as the development and achievements of Taiwan-Japan relations. Taiwan and Japan support each other like family. The care and condolences from various groups in Japan regarding the recent disaster in Hualien have been truly moving. Over the years, Taiwan and Japan have worked together to overcome challenges such as earthquakes and the pandemic, and have jointly faced the threat of authoritarian expansion. Japan has not only long remained attentive to the situation in the Taiwan Strait, but has also continued to demonstrate through concrete action its determination to maintain regional peace. Last week, the foreign ministers of the United States, Japan, and Korea convened and issued a joint statement, marking the third time this year that these countries have reaffirmed support for peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. They also opposed any attempts to unilaterally change the status quo and voiced concern for the increasingly frequent destabilizing actions in the region. These firm standpoints represent a consensus among the global democratic community. Democratic countries must unite in solidarity in the face of the continued expansion of authoritarian regimes. Taiwan hopes to continue deepening its partnerships with Japan across areas such as security, trade, and the economy, including collaboration in industries like semiconductors, hydrogen energy, AI, and drones to jointly establish democratic non-red supply chains, enhance economic security, and promote regional peace and stability. In 2021, for the first time, the House of Councillors unanimously passed a resolution calling on countries to support Taiwan’s participation in the World Health Assembly. I want to express my gratitude once again and hope that all House of Councillors members will continue to support Taiwan’s international participation, allowing Taiwan to deepen exchanges on global issues and make even greater contributions to the world. I wish the delegation a successful and fruitful visit. I am sure that through our joint efforts, we will build an even brighter future for the Taiwan-Japan friendship. Chairperson Matsuyama then delivered remarks, noting that he visited Taiwan many times during his tenure as president of Junior Chamber International Japan. However, he said, this visit is his first as chairperson of the LDP Members’ General Assembly in the House of Councillors. He said it is an honor to meet President Lai and thanked him for taking the time to receive the delegation despite the recent typhoon in Hualien. He offered condolences for those who lost their lives, and extended sympathies to the injured, expressing his sincere hope that those affected by the disaster can soon return to their normal lives. Chairperson Matsuyama noted that both Taiwan and Japan frequently face natural disasters and have always extended help to each other in times of need. He expressed hope that our countries can further strengthen collaboration in disaster prevention and mitigation. Chairperson Matsuyama mentioned that the delegation visited Kaohsiung the day before to pay tribute with flowers at the bronze statue of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, and deeply felt the Taiwanese people’s respect for former Prime Minister Abe and their friendship with Japan. He emphasized that Taiwan is very important to Japan, as our countries share universal values. Economic exchanges and mutual visits between our two countries are frequent, he said, making Taiwan a key partner and friend. He expressed hope that Taiwan and Japan continue deepening exchanges and collaboration. Chairperson Matsuyama then presented President Lai with a list of donations from the delegation for those affected by the recent disaster in Hualien. The delegation also included Japanese House of Councillors Members Watanabe Takeyuki, Ueno Michiko, and Horii Iwao, and was accompanied to the Presidential Office by Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Taipei Office Chief Representative Katayama Kazuyuki.

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2025-10-07
President Lai interviewed by The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show
President Lai Ching-te recently met with Stephen Yates, senior research fellow at the Heritage Foundation’s Asian Studies Center; Buck Sexton, host of the American radio program The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show; and Mr. Sexton’s brothers Mason and Keats. President Lai was also interviewed by Buck Sexton and responded to questions regarding cross-strait relations, the regional landscape, national defense, the economic and trade partnership between Taiwan and the United States, and Taiwan’s social welfare policies. The interview was broadcast on the early morning of October 7. Following is the text of the questions and the president’s responses: Q: One of the things we’ve noticed that has already gotten some attention back in the States is the sense of civic responsibility here, how respectful and law-biding everyone is, how safe everyone feels on your streets. It is inspiring to tell Americans about this. I also wanted to ask you about the situation right now with your neighbor, China. There’s obviously a lot of global concern about a sense of rhetoric heating up, a sense that there is a pathway now that is becoming more imminent that there could be a crisis. How do you want to describe the situation right now, for specifically an American audience? President Lai: First of all, I am very glad that you have seen a lot of things during your stay in Taiwan and that you are having a fruitful trip so far. I also want to thank you for commending our civil society. In the international community, Taiwan is often lauded as being a place where the most beautiful scenery is actually its people. Recently, due to a typhoon, a barrier lake overflowed in Hualien, causing a significant number of injuries and deaths. Streets and houses were covered in mud. Taiwanese society mobilized to help people affected. We had a long holiday weekend this past weekend. On the first day, 30,000 people traveled to Hualien to offer assistance. And on both the second and third days, another 40,000 went, meaning that over 100,000 people, of their own accord, took their shovels to help those affected. In our society, these people were referred to “superheroes with shovels.” So you can feel that in Taiwan there is a lot of warmth. People are kind. So our streets, at nighttime or daytime, are generally very safe. Your question was about Taiwan’s relations with China. I very much hope that everyone in the world who pays attention to Taiwan-China issues can be clear about several things. Firstly, the Republic of China and the People’s Republic of China are not subordinate to each other. Taiwan is not a part of the PRC. China does not have the right to invade Taiwan. Secondly, China has been holding military exercises in the Taiwan Strait, undermining peace and stability in the region. So it is China – not Taiwan – that is disrupting the cross-strait status quo. The fact that the Taiwanese people seek to protect their sovereignty and pursue a way of life based on democracy, freedom, and human rights should not be seen as a provocation against China. Thirdly, even though Taiwan is facing increasing threats from China, Taiwan has not given up on seeking peace and mutual prosperity across the strait. We understand that peace is priceless and that there are no winners in war. Peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait are essential elements of global security and prosperity. Our pursuit of peace is an ideal, not a fantasy. We believe that to achieve peace, there must be strength. Since taking office, I have implemented the Four Pillars of Peace action plan. The first pillar is strengthening Taiwan’s national defense. Our defense spending, as defined by NATO, will reach 3.32 percent of GDP next year. And this will increase to 5 percent of GDP by 2030. We are procuring arms from the United States and partners across the international community. At the same time, we are promoting indigenous defense capabilities. We will work with the international community to codevelop arms, including R&D, design, and manufacturing. This will allow the domestic defense industry to grow and contribute to Taiwan’s security. Drones, unmanned submarines, and robotics are all areas that Taiwan will prioritize in the future. The second pillar is enhancing our economic resilience. In 2010, 83.8 percent of Taiwan’s outbound investment went to China. But last year, this number was only 7 percent. The United States is now Taiwan’s largest destination for outbound investment. In other words, we are not putting all of our eggs in the same basket. We hope that Taiwan’s industries will be rooted in Taiwan, deploy globally, and market across the world. This will not only strengthen our economy but also make it more resilient, thereby safeguarding Taiwan’s security. The third pillar is standing together with the United States and other free and democratic countries to bolster joint deterrence. This will allow us to prevent war by preparing for one. And fourthly, Taiwan is willing to engage in dialogue with China based on parity and dignity. Through exchanges and cooperation, we can achieve the goal of peace and mutual prosperity. I noticed that US President Donald Trump once said publicly that Xi Jinping actually called him and stated that he would not attack Taiwan during President Trump’s term in office. We hope that Taiwan will continue to enjoy the support of President Trump. If he is able to convince Xi Jinping to permanently renounce the use of force against Taiwan, President Trump will surely win the Nobel Peace Prize. Q: If you could speak directly to President Trump about Taiwan’s situation right now, the security situation more specifically, what would you want him to know?  President Lai: If I had the chance to meet President Trump in person and talk about the current cross-strait situation, I would suggest that he take note of the fact that Xi Jinping is not just holding ever-larger military exercises in the Taiwan Strait but expanding China’s military deployment in the South and East China Seas. China’s military exercises now extend across the Indo-Pacific region. Its aircraft carriers are moving beyond the first island chain and second island chain. And its northern fleet even sailed around Japan for a week. Chinese naval vessels also conducted live-fire exercises in Australia’s exclusive economic zone. The situation in the Indo-Pacific region is changing constantly, and tensions are rising. So the issue is not only a possible annexation of Taiwan. If it is able to annex Taiwan, China will be in a stronger position to compete with the United States and alter the rules-based international order. This would eventually also impact US interests. So we hope that President Trump can continue to maintain peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. Taiwan is determined to ensure its national security. We will fulfill our responsibility and work with free and democratic countries to maintain regional peace and stability. Q: Because America has learned some difficult lessons about foreign policy and foreign policy intervention, there is a focus on partners who will carry their weight for their own defense and have a willingness to fight. If anyone in America, policymaker or citizen, has a question about whether Taiwan is willing to defend its own sovereignty, what would you say to them? President Lai: I would tell them that Taiwan is absolutely determined to ensure its own national security. Peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait are indispensable elements in global security and prosperity. So when Taiwan looks after its own national security, it shows that Taiwan is committed to protecting regional peace and stability as well. That is why, as I mentioned before, we are continuing to increase our national defense budget. So during former President Tsai Ing-wen’s term, the national defense budget was increased from 1.9 percent of GDP to 2.5 percent. Next year, it will reach 3.32 percent. And we hope to increase this to 5 percent by 2030. This would be five years earlier than NATO’s own goal. Also, we have established the Whole-of-Society Defense Resilience Committee under the Office of the President. This committee brings various sectors of Taiwan together and combines the strengths of the public and private sectors to carry out exercises and drills that enhance whole-of-society defense. I also convened a high-level national security meeting in which we defined the Chinese Communist Party regime as a foreign hostile force; and I proposed 17 strategies to address the five major threats we face from China. These will translate into more than a hundred amendments to our national security laws, which will be reviewed by the Legislative Yuan during the current session. This will put Taiwan on a stronger legal footing, bolster its national defense, and allow people to contribute their power toward safeguarding our nation and protecting regional peace and stability. I believe that people help those who help themselves. So I very much agree with your idea that Taiwan and other countries should meet their own responsibilities. Only by helping ourselves can we expect help from others. And when we show unity and work together, that is when deterrence is at its strongest; and that is when we will be able to safeguard peace and stability in the world. Q: Obviously, there’s a tremendous global and American, specifically, interest in artificial intelligence and the future of it. Also very interesting is the incredible facility that TSMC has built and is building out more in Arizona. I would like to ask you to speak to the economic partnership, specifically in advanced technology, microchip manufacturing, and artificial intelligence, and the relationship between Taiwan and America going forward, and how you view that to grow and bring prosperity for both countries. President Lai: So we all know that Taiwan’s technology industry has performed well. This is the result of decades of cooperation among Taiwan’s industries, government, academia, and R&D sector, as well as the support of the Taiwanese people. But I must also note with appropriate humility that TSMC and the Taiwanese semiconductor industry are still only one part of a bigger ecosystem, and do not represent the whole system. So if you look at the entire semiconductor ecosystem, the United States is strong in areas such as innovation, R&D, and design. And it is also the biggest market. Japan is strong in raw materials and related equipment. And the Republic of Korea, they have flash memory. Taiwan’s strength is in wafer manufacturing. And the Netherlands makes the critical equipment that is used to make semiconductors. But in the whole ecosystem, you can see that around 80 percent of profits go to the United States. So for semiconductors, I would say the United States is still the leader in this ecosystem. Looking ahead, as we face the AI era, every nation in the semiconductor ecosystem will be extremely important. And the United States will continue to lead the world in this. So Taiwan is very willing to work with the United States to achieve this goal. We want to help the United States reindustrialize and become a global AI hub. We want the United States to continue to lead the world in this new AI era and we want to help make America great again. So with regard to Taiwan’s semiconductor industry, we see it as an important responsibility in terms of ensuring the world’s future prosperity. That is why the Taiwan government has been very supportive of TSMC’s investments in the United States and Japan, as well as Germany. In the future, when the United States has reindustrialized and become a global AI hub, I am sure that TSMC will continue to play a crucial role. Q: Over the course of meetings with various members of your government, I learned something very interesting that has to do with family formation, a problem we have also started to look at in America. It will be very interesting, I think, to the American audience, to hear of countries that are trying to use policy to address issues like encouraging marriage and encouraging children so that a society can replenish – so that there is replenishment and there is resiliency. Could you please speak to some of the ways that you are encouraging people to have more kids here? What is Taiwan doing and how are those initiatives going so far? President Lai: I am very glad that you look positively at what we have been doing in Taiwan. Actually, Taiwan’s policies were made with reference to what the United States and other countries have been doing. Concerning our strategies: first, the government is supporting families in jointly raising children from birth to six years old by providing monthly subsidies. Tuition is also free for both public and private high schools and vocational schools. We also have a long-term care system for senior citizens. Across Taiwan, there are some 15,000 service centers with around 100,000 long-term care staff who look after seniors over the age of 65 as well as people with disabilities so that they can receive quality care. Young people who want to get married and have children are given priority in applying for social housing. If they want to buy a home, they can get government funding to subsidize the interest on their mortgage. And if they are renting, they can get a rent subsidy from the government. For couples who are having problems conceiving, the government subsidizes fertility treatment. We are also cutting taxes. Taiwan’s government is currently investing more in our society and cutting taxes by more than ever before in our history. These initiatives will help our young people feel confident that they can get married, have children, and will be able to raise them. I note that President Trump is also cutting taxes. We want to reduce the burden on households so that more people can start a family. This will promote social stability, prosperity, development, and continual growth for the country.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Christopher Hui held a bilateral meeting in Hong Kong today with Rwanda’s Minister of Finance & Economic Planning Yusuf Murangwa, and signed on behalf of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government a comprehensive avoidance of double taxation agreement (CDTA) with the Rwandan government.

Under the CDTA, any tax paid in Rwanda by Hong Kong residents will be allowed as a credit against tax payable in Hong Kong in respect of the same income, subject to the provisions of the Inland Revenue Ordinance.

Moreover, Rwanda’s withholding tax rates for Hong Kong residents on dividends, interest, royalties and fees for technical services, currently at up to 15%, will be reduced to a range of 7.5% to 10%.

At the meeting, Mr Hui outlined to the Rwandan official Hong Kong’s dual strengths as a super connector and a super value-adder. The two men discussed further collaboration to drive high-quality development along the Belt & Road.

Mr Hui commented: “The CDTA demonstrates Hong Kong’s continuous efforts in deepening co-operation with Belt & Road economies, and is also a significant milestone in promoting the financial, economic and trade connections between Hong Kong and Rwanda.”

He also highlighted that the CDTA sets out a clear allocation of taxing rights between Hong Kong and Rwanda, which will enable investors to better assess their potential tax liabilities from cross-border economic activities.

“This will be conducive to creating a more favourable and attractive business environment, thus promoting bilateral trade and investment.”

Additionally, Mr Hui stated that the Hong Kong SAR Government will continue to expand Hong Kong’s CDTA network to enhance the city’s attractiveness as a business and investment hub, and to consolidate its status as an international financial and trade centre.

The Hong Kong-Rwanda CDTA is the 54th such pact that Hong Kong has concluded. It will come into force after completion of ratification procedures by both sides.

In Hong Kong, the Chief Executive in Council will, under the Inland Revenue Ordinance, make an order which will be tabled at the Legislative Council for negative vetting.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Hong Kong Customs today (October 9) detected a drug trafficking case involving baggage concealment at Hong Kong International Airport and seized about 4 kilograms of suspected heroin with an estimated market value of about $2 million.

A female passenger, aged 35, arrived in Hong Kong from Chiang Mai, Thailand, today. During customs clearance, Customs officers found the batch of suspected heroin concealed in the false compartment of her check-in suitcase. She was subsequently arrested.

An investigation is ongoing.

Customs will continue to step up enforcement against drug trafficking activities through intelligence analysis. The department also reminds members of the public to stay alert and not to participate in drug trafficking activities for monetary return. They must not accept hiring or delegation from another party to carry controlled items into and out of Hong Kong. They are also reminded not to carry unknown items for other people.

Customs will continue to apply a risk assessment approach and focus on selecting passengers from high-risk regions for clearance to combat transnational drug trafficking activities.

Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, trafficking in a dangerous drug is a serious offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $5 million and life imprisonment.

Members of the public may report any suspected drug trafficking activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

The Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises (OASES) held a signing ceremony today (October 9) to welcome a new batch of key enterprises establishing or expanding their operations in Hong Kong.

The ceremony was officiated by the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, who welcomed 18 key enterprises to Hong Kong (see Annex). These include three of the world’s top 10 pharmaceutical companies, as well as industry leaders in areas such as large language models for AI, autonomous driving technologies, microelectronics, cross-boundary financial services, and globally influential new media platforms. This new batch of enterprises will not only invest and create employment in Hong Kong but will also set up regional headquarters and launch research and development projects locally, further enhancing Hong Kong’s role as an innovation hub.

With the addition of these enterprises, the total number of strategic enterprise partners attracted by OASES has surpassed 100. Collectively, these companies are expected to bring approximately HK$60 billion in investment and create about 22 000 job opportunities, injecting strong momentum into the city’s economy.

In his speech, Mr Chan noted that this new batch of strategic enterprises brings not only investment and employment but also transformative ideas and technologies that will further enrich Hong Kong’s fast-evolving innovation and technology ecosystem. 

Mr Chan said, “In Hong Kong, strategic enterprises will find the capital, talent, partners, ecosystems and networks that will help them succeed. The deepening collaboration between Hong Kong and the sister cities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) also offers tremendous growth opportunities, particularly for those in sectors such as AI, biotech and new energy. A highlight of this collaboration is the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone, which will serve as a testing ground for innovative policies, including the unimpeded flow of critical factors of production, including people, capital, goods and data.

“Attracting cultural and creative enterprises that integrate technology with artistry and entertainment is an initiative announced in this year’s Budget. The global digital entertainment market is growing rapidly, powered by IPs (intellectual properties), AI and Web3. Hong Kong – with our unique connectivity to both the Chinese Mainland and the world, openness and diversity as an international city, and a vibrant ecosystem in innovation and technology – is an ideal launchpad for these enterprises to grow and scale across Asia and beyond,” he said.

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), a newly onboarded strategic enterprise, stated that Hong Kong’s position in the GBA makes it an ideal base connecting the Chinese Mainland. Leveraging this advantage, GSK aims to expand innovative drug registrations, apply big data to support market access and healthcare policy, and deepen collaboration with local research institutions and universities. Roche, another global top 10 pharmaceutical company included in the new batch, remarked that policy measures such as the arrangement for using Hong Kong registered drugs and medical devices in public hospitals within the GBA, offer favourable market access conditions. The Government is also supporting Roche in exploring collaborative initiatives in the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone, including the development of a laboratory, to further strengthen Hong Kong’s biomedical innovation capabilities.
 
The Director-General of OASES, Mr Peter Yan, said that the latest batch brings the total number of strategic enterprises to over 100, including three of the world’s top 10 pharmaceutical companies, demonstrating Hong Kong’s strong international appeal in innovation and life and health technology. Mr Yan noted that the presence of leading pharmas aligns with the Policy Address and supports Hong Kong’s development as a key base for clinical research and drug innovation. With 40 per cent of the new enterprises from overseas, Hong Kong’s status as a global I&T hub in the GBA continues to strengthen, leveraging its unique role as a “super connector” between the Chinese Mainland and the world.

In addition to keep on proactively attracting more high-potential and representative strategic enterprises to establish and expand their operations in Hong Kong, OASES will strengthen collaboration with relevant government departments to support the development of enterprises in Hong Kong, accelerate economic transformation, and further reinforce Hong Kong’s position as a global innovation hub.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Social Services Department welcomed the Office of The Ombudsman’s direct investigation operation report on respite services for supporting carers of elderly persons and persons with disabilities released today.

The department noted the Ombudsman’s recognition of the Government’s efforts and effectiveness in strengthening support for carers in recent years and expanding the respite service network.

It has accepted all the recommendations made by the Ombudsman and is actively taking follow-up action, of which some have already been implemented or are currently in progress.

The department will also continue to strive for enhancements of respite services provided by non-governmental organisations and private residential care homes for the convenience of people in need.

It has rolled out a number of innovative initiatives in recent years and improvement measures in response to the Ombudsman’s recommendations, adopting a multipronged approach to enable and encourage elderly persons and persons with disabilities to use respite services provided by the service units.

First, the department requested all residential care homes for the elderly, residential care homes for persons with disabilities and day care centres/units to make use of their casual vacancies to provide respite services.

It also reviewed the distribution and utilitisation of respite places across districts in order to reallocate the quota of designated respite places.

Second, it reminded service units to update in a timely manner the information of the Vacancy Enquiry System for Respite Services/Emergency Placement, simplify the application procedures and not to impose additional examination items beyond the basic medical examination.

Service units were requested to enhance training for frontline staff to provide more comprehensive and quality services to applicants.

The department will continue to monitor the utilisation of respite services and take appropriate regulatory actions according to the established mechanism if any situation of non-compliance is noted.

Third, the department organised visits and tasting programmes of respite services, which encourage carers to experience the services in advance, so that they can gain an understanding of the service and build confidence in the service providers, making it easier for the care recipients to become accustomed to the environment and use the services smoothly when needed.

As at end-June, more than 270 visits and tasting programmes of respite services were organised.

Fourth, the department sustained publicity efforts in encouraging carers to make good use of the 24-hour Designated Hotline for Carer Support 182 183 to match day or residential respite services for needy elderly persons and persons with disabilities.

The number of case referrals made by the hotline for respite services has significantly increased from 18 in the first six months of its operation to more than 240 as at end-August this year.

Fifth, the department continuously expanded the respite service network by increasing the number of service points providing day respite services for persons with disabilities from over 40 to 70 in the past two years, and that for day respite service for elderly persons from 50 to over 300 across the city.

The report mentioned that the average annual utilisation rates of designated residential respite places in some service units or districts are relatively low.

The department explained that respite services are of a standby nature, adding that their actual demands are highly volatile and difficult to predict, making them different from general long-term residential care services.

It also noted its rationale for offering more respite placements is to enable carers in matching with appropriate respite services when they have emergency needs.

In the event of emergencies, such as the recent building power outages, typhoons or the evacuation of residents due to a wartime bomb-defusing operation, respite places have served the purpose in a timely manner of providing a temporary accommodation for affected elderly persons or persons with disabilities.

As pointed out in the report, the relatively low utilisation rates of residential respite places for persons with disabilities is due to fewer actual casual vacancies than expected.

Under the existing definition and calculation method, the actual utilisation rates may have been underestimated.

The department said it will consider the report’s recommendation on reviewing the calculation method of casual vacancies of respite places to better reflect the actual demand. 

If members of the public need to use respite services, they can call the 24-hour hotline 182 183, where social workers will immediately refer them to respite service units and assist with applications for transportation subsidies, etc. to alleviate the pressure of carers.