Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Government announces appointments to Chief Executive’s Council of AdvisersChief ExecutiveProfessor Frederick Ma Si-hang
Mr Robert Ng Chee-siong
Mr Andrew Sheng Len-tao
Mr Jack So Chak-kwong
Mr Henry Tang Ying-yen
Mr Jean-Pascal Tricoire
Mr Peter Woo Kwong-ching
Ms Marjorie Yang Mun-tak
Mr John Zhao
Dr Zhu MinMr Shing Chow Shing-yuk
Dr Han Bi-cheng
Professor Nancy Ip Yuk-yu
Dr Lee Kai-fu
Mr Robin Li*
Mr Shan Weijian
Professor Michael Spence
Dr Sun Piaoyang*
Ms Winnie Tam Wan-chi, SC
Mr Joseph Tsai
Mr Wang Xing-xing
Dr Allan Wong Chi-yun
Mr Xu Tao*
Dr Allan Zeman
Mr Zhang Wen*Mr Bernard Charnwut Chan
Dr Jonathan Choi Koon-shum
Mr Victor Chu Lap-lik
Dr Victor Fung Kwok-king
Mr Benjamin Hung Pi-cheng
Mr Colm Kelleher
Dr Peter Lam Kin-ngok
Dr Edmund Tse Sze-wing
Mr Mark Tucker
Mr Andrew Tung Lieh-cheungFinancial Secretary
Secretary for Justice
Director, Chief Executive’s Office
Head, Chief Executive’s Policy Unit (CEPU)Issued at HKT 17:00
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Speech by SITI at Green is Action: GreenTech Hub 1st Anniversary (English only)
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Speech by SITI at Green is Action: GreenTech Hub 1st Anniversary (English only)
Sunny (Chairman of the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation, Dr Sunny Chai), Terry (Chief Executive Officer of the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation, Mr Terry Wong), GreenTech Hub partners and tech ventures, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
Good afternoon. It is my honour to join you today and witness the first anniversary of the GreenTech Hub at InnoCentre.
The National 15th Five-Year Plan indicated clear support for Hong Kong to develop into an international I&T centre. Indeed, with our solid basic research capabilities and the growing awareness of a more green and sustainable future, Hong Kong possesses unique advantages in fostering the development of green technology. As a 2025-26 Budget initiative, the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTPC) has developed the InnoCentre into a GreenTech Hub. There are over 230 green tech start-ups in the HKSTPC’s ecosystem at present, with some equipped with globally competitive technologies and that have successfully tapped into Mainland and overseas markets. Over the past year, there were also plenty of business matching, networking activities and visits organised to facilitate green technology commercialisation and exchanges of thoughts.
I wish to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to the HKSTPC and our academic, corporate and industry partners for your support of the GreenTech Hub, making it an effective platform to advance regional and global collaboration on green technology. With the joint efforts by all of us, I believe the GreenTech Hub will continue to support green tech enterprises and accelerate the transfer of innovative R&D breakthroughs into impactful solutions, thereby driving us towards a more sustainable future.
Being one of the I&T flagships in Hong Kong, the HKSTPC has long been providing comprehensive support for start-ups. Through the Incubation Programme, the HKSTPC provides each I&T start-up, including those in the green technology sector, with up to $1.29 million in funding. Apart from financial subsidy, the Programme also offers a range of practical support which is essential to the growth of start-ups, such as R&D guidance, mentorship, and investor matching services. Through building a vibrant ecosystem for green tech, we not only address environmental challenges but also create new job opportunities and drive economic growth.
Ladies and gentlemen, the anniversary of the GreenTech Hub today is just the beginning. In collaboration with our three major I&T parks, the Government will continue to invest in I&T infrastructure and foster the development of strategic industries, with a view to enhancing the overall I&T ecosystem and promoting interactive development of the upstream, midstream and downstream sectors
Green is action. Together, let us propel Hong Kong into a greener, more sustainable future. Thank you.
Issued at HKT 16:16
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Speech by CE at Global Free Trade Ports Development Forum of Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2026 in Hainan (English only)
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
Following is the speech by the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, at the Global Free Trade Ports Development Forum of the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2026 in Hainan today (March 24):
Honourable Vice Chairman Mu Hong (Vice Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and Vice Chairman of the Boao Forum for Asia), honourable Secretary Feng Fei (Secretary of the CPC Hainan Provincial Committee), honourable Governor Liu Xiaoming (Governor of Hainan), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
Good afternoon. I would like to address this forum in English to reflect Hong Kong’s status as an international city under “one country, two systems”. And bilingualism is a part of everyday life in Hong Kong. It is my great pleasure to join you today, in Hainan, at the Global Free Trade Ports Development Forum of the Boao Forum for Asia.
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Boao Forum for Asia. Over the past quarter of a century, the Forum has become a premier platform for dialogue on economic co-operation, bringing together leaders, policymakers and business pioneers from across the region. Together, we foster mutual understanding and advance regional co-operation. The Boao Forum has made significant contributions to Asia’s remarkable rise on the global stage. I extend my warmest congratulations to the Boao Forum for Asia on this milestone occasion.
This year also marks a new chapter for China, our country. Two weeks ago, the fourth session of the 14th National People’s Congress approved the Outline of the 15th Five-Year Plan for National Economic and Social Development of the People’s Republic of China. The 15th Five-Year Plan sets out the indicators for the main objectives, major strategic tasks, and major projects for the country’s development for the next five years.
The high-standard development of the Hainan Free Trade Port is a highlight of the Plan. The Port began its island-wide special customs operations four months ago. The Plan supports the continuous enhancement of liberalisation in trade, investment and the flow of production factors in the free trade port.
I congratulate Hainan on her remarkable progress in the development of the free trade port policy, which is now firmly in place. It allows for more open and free entry of overseas goods, expands zero-tariff coverage, and includes a host of business-friendly measures. Hainan is fast rising as a popular destination for global business and innovative industries. I have every confidence that this scenic island will soon become a powerful showcase for our country’s dedication to free trade and high-quality opening up.
At a time of mounting geopolitical tensions and rampant protectionism, China’s unwavering commitment to an open, and inclusive, economic order and multilateral trade gives this volatile world the reassurance it needs. And we are not alone in this. Much like the theme of this year’s Boao Forum for Asia, “Shaping a Shared Future: New Dynamics, New Opportunities, New Cooperation”, economies in the region are working together to ensure we remain a driver of global growth and an anchor of stability.
Ladies and gentlemen, Hong Kong is no stranger to free trade and co-operation. For more than a century, Hong Kong has been a free port and a champion of free and unfettered trade. Hong Kong is the world’s No.1 in economic freedom, topping the ranking in “freedom to trade internationally”. The International Institute for Management Development ranked Hong Kong among the world’s top three most competitive economies. Our “business legislation” and “tax policy” ranked No. 1, globally.
Under the unique “one country, two systems” principle, Hong Kong enjoys the strong support of China, our country, while maintaining unparalleled connectivity with the world. We treasure our long tradition of the rule of law, and our common law legal system is shared by many global financial hubs. Capital, goods, talent and information flow freely in Hong Kong. Our tax system is simple and invitingly low.
A city of just over 1 100 square kilometres in land area, Hong Kong is the world’s seventh-largest merchandise trading entity. We are also the world’s third-largest foreign direct investment destination. Hong Kong is a founding member of the World Trade Organisation, and has signed free trade agreements with 21 economies and investment agreements with 33 economies.
These are not just numbers or trophies. They reflect the trust, and confidence, the global business community places in Hong Kong. It’s a hard-earned accomplishment built on decades of integrity, the respect for the rule of law, and an unwavering commitment to free trade and multilateralism.
If the events of the first three months of 2026 are any lesson to learn, it is that no economy can thrive in isolation. Stability requires a regional framework that is open and inclusive for everyone. At this important platform for dialogue, I would like to share with you the three directions Hong Kong is pursuing to promote growth opportunities for all.
First, we will continue to expand our global trade network. At a time when some are drawing battle lines, Hong Kong is drawing trade routes. We choose connection over confrontation, and we value co-operation over conflict. Hong Kong actively seeks to co-operate with trading partners, including economies with strong trade relations with Hong Kong, as well as emerging markets with development potential or at strategic locations.
We have recently concluded investment agreement negotiations with Qatar, Bangladesh and Peru. And we are exploring the signing of new investment agreements with Saudi Arabia and Egypt.
Forging more free trade agreements is also a priority. We are committed to joining the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, the world’s largest free trade agreement. We maintain close communication with the Partnership’s member economies, and will continue to rally their support for Hong Kong’s early accession. We look forward to contributing to the Partnership, to working with member economies in promoting regional economic integration.
Second, we will leverage our network to connect investors with opportunities. Hong Kong has 16 offices and liaison units on the Mainland, and 15 overseas Economic and Trade Offices. Together with the offices of Invest Hong Kong and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, we have a presence in 68 cities and cover 129 countries.
The HKSAR Government has set up a GoGlobal Task Force (Task Force on Supporting Mainland Enterprises in Going Global) by drawing these offices and other stakeholders together, to support the overseas expansion of Mainland enterprises. Last week, we launched a cross-sector professional services platform, under the GoGlobal initiative, to connect the expansion needs of Mainland Chinese enterprises, the demand of global buyers and investors, and Hong Kong’s world-class professional services. We offer a rich pool of multilingual talent, and a premier platform for financing and asset management.
Meanwhile, our Economic and Trade Express, set up last year, is also strengthening the co-ordination among Hong Kong’s global network of offices. It supports small and medium enterprises and start-ups, organising overseas business missions and providing companies with one-stop services like business matching, to help Hong Kong enterprises in exploring foreign markets.
Third, we will promote regional economic development and prosperity. China, our country, is the host economy of APEC, the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, in 2026. Under the theme of “Building an Asia-Pacific Community to Prosper Together”, this year’s APEC meetings will be held in cities across the country. We are honoured that the APEC Finance Ministers’ Meeting will be held in Hong Kong this October.
Hong Kong has been a member of APEC since 1991. We participate in different aspects of APEC’s work, promoting regional macroeconomic co-operation and the real economy.
The APEC Finance Ministers’ Meeting will bring together finance ministers from across the region to exchange views on the regional and global economic outlook, and promote sustainable development, financial stability and greater economic co-operation.
The HKSAR Government, let me add, will spare no effort in making comprehensive preparations to support our country’s successful hosting of APEC 2026. That includes taking full advantage of Hong Kong’s strengths as an international financial centre, and organising the meeting to deepen international exchanges and co-operation. In turn, we will help promote harmony and the region’s sustainable development, playing our part in maintaining multilateral exchanges.
Ladies and gentlemen, with the world in a heightened period of turbulence, Hong Kong is committed to navigating uncertainties with openness, not in isolation. I am confident that the Free Trade Port of Hainan and Hong Kong will complement each other in building a powerful engine for free trade. Hong Kong endeavours to work with Hainan, as well as our friends from the Mainland and around the world that value free trade, to build a prosperous global community with a shared future for humanity.
Let’s join hands in shaping this shared future of prosperity, and embrace its new dynamics, new opportunities and new co-operation. On that note, I wish the Boao Forum for Asia every success in the next 25 years and beyond, and all of you a fruitful and healthy year. Thank you.
CE arrives in Hainan to attend Boao Forum for Asia annual conference
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
CE arrives in Hainan to attend Boao Forum for Asia annual conference (with photo/video)
Addressing the Forum, Mr Lee said that this year marks the 25th anniversary of the Boao Forum for Asia. The Forum has long fostered regional co-operation and become a premier platform for Asia’s economic co-operation. This year is the opening year of the National 15th Five-Year Plan, which fully supports the high-quality development of the Hainan Free Trade Port. He congratulated the Hainan Free Trade Port on the smooth implementation of island-wide special customs operations and the swift rollout of a number of business-friendly policies, noting that these represent an important showcase in the country’s efforts to promote free trade and advance high-standard opening up. He expressed confidence that Hong Kong, as a global trading hub, will continue to complement the Hainan Free Trade Port and pursue mutual benefits, working together to promote free trade.
Mr Lee said that Hong Kong is ranked No. 1 in the world in economic freedom. Under the “one country, two systems” principle, Hong Kong enjoys the unique advantages of having the strong support of the motherland and being closely connected to the world. Hong Kong’s common law system is aligned with major global financial hubs, its tax system is simple and low, and capital, goods, talent and information all flow freely. Hong Kong remains steadfastly committed to free trade and multilateralism and will continue to expand its global trade network, leverage its network to connect investors with opportunities, and further promote regional economic development and prosperity.
Mr Lee said that China is the host of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) in 2026. The APEC Finance Ministers’ Meeting will be held in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) for the first time in October 2026. The HKSAR Government will spare no effort to ensure the full success of the meeting and leverage Hong Kong’s unique advantages under the “one country, two systems” principle in connecting the Mainland and the world to deepen international exchanges and co-operation.
In the evening, Mr Lee attended the Boao Forum for Asia 25th Anniversary Gala Dinner to exchange views with key guests from various countries.
Mr Lee will continue his visit to Hainan tomorrow (March 25).
Issued at HKT 19:00
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DH marks 20th anniversary of promoting Joyful Fruit & Veg in schools and launches Joyful Fruit & Veg Month in April to further strengthen promotion and education
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
DH marks 20th anniversary of promoting Joyful Fruit & Veg in schools and launches Joyful Fruit & Veg Month in April to further strengthen promotion and education
Officiating at the ceremony, the Director of Health, Dr Ronald Lam, said, “Strong scientific evidence shows that consuming an adequate amount of fruit and vegetables helps reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke and cancer. A healthy, balanced diet also helps reduce being overweight and obesity, and improves the health of the public. However, the DH’s Student Health Service Annual Health Report for 2024/25 School Year
Since the 2006/07 school year, the DH has held the annual Joyful Fruit Day to encourage students to eat enough fruit every day. In the 2012/13 school year, the event was upgraded, and April was designated as Joyful Fruit Month each year. This year marked the 20th anniversary of the event. A total of 286 schools have participated in the event for 20 consecutive years. To recognise these schools for their long-term commitment to and support of the event, commendations and awards were presented to them.
Building on past success, starting from April 1, the DH will organise various publicity activities in collaboration with schools and community stakeholders. A variety of resources and teaching materials will also be provided to schools to encourage them to organise systematic promotional activities throughout the school year, with a view to enhancing students’ awareness of having sufficient fruit and vegetables and a healthy diet, and encouraging them to put this into practice.
The DH expresses its sincere gratitude to schools, parents and all sectors of the community for their continuous support for the “EatSmart@school.hk” Campaign and Joyful Fruit & Veg Month, which have contributed to the balanced physical and mental development of students and to the overall public health of Hong Kong. To tie in with this year’s Joyful Fruit & Veg Month, the DH earlier organised the A Sufficient Intake of Fruit and Vegetables Colouring Competition 2026, inviting participation from kindergarten, child care centre and primary school students. The competition received over 1 600 entries from more than 240 schools. Through colours and creativity, participating students expressed their love for fruit and vegetables and their support for a healthy diet.
Other officiating guests at the ceremony included the Controller of the Centre for Health Protection of the DH, Dr Edwin Tsui; the Principal Assistant Secretary (Education Infrastructure) of the Education Bureau, Ms Katharine Choi; the Head of the Health Promotion Branch of the DH, Dr Kellie So; the Project Director of the Hong Kong College of Cardiology, Ms Lee Shuk-ling; member of the Committee on Home-School Co-operation Ms Rebecca Ng; and the Head of Business and Communications of Hong Kong Education City, Ms Michelle Lee.
Members of the public who wish to obtain more information about Joyful Fruit & Veg Month and the list of commended schools may visit the Joyful Fruit & Veg Month thematic websiteIssued at HKT 19:00
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Entries invited for MiMEP Infinity Awards
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Entries invited for MiMEP Infinity Awards
With the Development Bureau and the Department of Housing and Urban-Rural Development of Guangdong Province as advisors, the competition aims to promote the application of innovative technologies in E&M engineering to enhance construction efficiency, as well as to recognise the contributions of industry stakeholders in advancing high productivity construction. The Multi-trade integrated Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MiMEP) approach strengthens collaboration among engineering project stakeholders by integrating design, manufacturing, and assembly processes, thereby enhancing construction efficiency and achieving the goals of high-quality and sustainable development.
Speaking at the launching ceremony today (March 24), the Permanent Secretary for Development (Works), Mr Ricky Lau, said that the innovative technologies developed by the Development Bureau and its departments have garnered multiple international awards, showcasing Hong Kong’s achievements in innovation. Guided by the National 15th Five-Year Plan, the Government will focus on high-quality development and promote the development of new quality productive forces. By leveraging innovative technologies such as MiMEP, the Government will accelerate the transformation and upgrading of the construction industry, further enhancing its overall competitiveness.
The launching ceremony was attended by over 300 industry stakeholders and government representatives both online and in person.
The competition features four major award categories: New Construction Project, Under Construction Project, Repair, Maintenance, Alteration and Addition (RMAA), and Factory/Manufacturer, as well as three special award categories to recognise innovative practices and outstanding performance in different fields of the industry. For details of the competition, please visit mimep-infinity-awards.com.hk/index_en.htmlIssued at HKT 17:56
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Kwai Chung Hospital new blocks to commence services in phases
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Kwai Chung Hospital new blocks to commence services in phases
Kwai Chung Hospital (KCH) announced today (March 24) that the new blocks under the phase 2 redevelopment of the hospital, including the Main Block and the Child and Adolescent Block, will commence services in phases starting from March 30. Clinical services of KCH will be progressively relocated to the new blocks, further enhancing the environment of mental health services and patient experience.
In the initial phase, the Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Specialist Out-patient Clinic and the Perinatal Mental Health Clinic will be relocated to the Child and Adolescent Block to commence services starting from March 30. In the second phase, the Adult Psychiatric Specialist Out-patient Clinic and Psychogeriatric Specialist Out-patient Clinic services will be relocated to the Main Block in the second quarter of this year. In-patient services will also be gradually relocated to the new blocks.
The Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services and the Perinatal Mental Health Clinic, which will be relocated to the new block in the initial phase, are currently operating separately at the Specialist Out-patient Clinics of Queen Elizabeth Hospital and Princess Margaret Hospital. Starting from March 30, these clinical services will be consolidated at the Child and Adolescent Block to provide patients with enhanced and more efficient mental health services. The Adult Psychiatric Specialist Out-patient Clinic and Psychogeriatric Specialist Out-patient Clinic services, which will be relocated to the new block in the second phase, are currently situated at the Specialist Out-patient Clinics of Princess Margaret Hospital and Ha Kwai Chung Polyclinic. They will be relocated to the Main Block within the second quarter of this year. Services at the East Kowloon Psychiatric Centre located in Diamond Hill will remain unchanged.
The Hospital Chief Executive of KCH, Dr Cheng Koi-man, stated, “The new hospital blocks are designed with the vision of a ‘therapeutic village’. It will provide 1,000 psychiatric beds and aims to offer patients a more comfortable therapeutic environment, personalised treatment plans, and community integration services, accompanying patients and carers on their journey of recovery. The hospital will commence subsequent follow-up project works to demolish the old block and construct a therapeutic/rehabilitation garden, providing more outdoor activity space to support patients’ recoveries.”
Following the commissioning of the new blocks of KCH, a new general enquiry hotline at 2752 3000 will be activated simultaneously, while the existing hotline at 2959 8111 will remain in use until the completion of all service relocations. The enquiry hotlines and addresses of various Specialist Out-patient Clinics have also been updated (details are appended as Annex 1). To facilitate patients and visitors travelling to and from the KCH new blocks, designated stops for a green minibus and taxi stand will be set up at the main entrance of the KCH Main Block (detailed location is appended as Annex 2). The lift tower on Lai King Hill Road will be opened shortly to provide convenient access for the public.
KCH has informed the public of the service relocation through multiple channels, including direct phone calls to patients, distribution of appointment slips or relocation notices, placement of roll-up banners, and posting of posters and notices at the relevant hospitals and clinics. These measures aim to ensure that patients and their carers are well informed of the service relocation arrangements. For more information about KCH services, please visit the hospital’s website (https://www3.ha.org.hk/kch/en/index_default.htmIssued at HKT 17:50
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Interest rate of fifth interest payment for series of retail green bonds due 2026
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Interest rate of fifth interest payment for series of retail green bonds due 2026
According to the Issue Circular dated September 18, 2023 for the Retail Green Bonds, the fifth interest payment of the Retail Green Bonds is scheduled to be made on April 10, 2026, and the relevant interest rate is scheduled to be determined and announced on March 24, 2026 as the higher of the prevailing Floating Rate and Fixed Rate.
On March 24, 2026, the Floating Rate and Fixed Rate are as follows:-
Floating Rate: +1.28 per cent (Annex)
Fixed Rate: +4.75 per cent
Based on the Floating Rate and Fixed Rate set out above, the relevant interest rate for the fifth interest payment is determined and announced as 4.75 per cent per annum.
Issued at HKT 17:20
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Interest rate of first interest payment for Silver Bond Series due 2028
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Interest rate of first interest payment for Silver Bond Series due 2028
According to the Issue Circular dated September 15, 2025 for the Bonds, the first interest payment of the Bonds is scheduled to be made on April 10, 2026, and the relevant interest rate is scheduled to be determined and announced on March 24, 2026 as the higher of the prevailing Floating Rate and Fixed Rate.
On March 24, 2026, the Floating Rate and Fixed Rate are as follows:
Floating Rate: +1.28 per cent (Annex)
Fixed Rate: +3.85 per cent
Based on the Floating Rate and Fixed Rate set out above, the relevant interest rate for the first interest payment is determined and announced as 3.85 per cent per annum.
Issued at HKT 17:20
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FEHD releases fourth batch of gravidtrap indexes for Aedes albopictus in March
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
FEHD releases fourth batch of gravidtrap indexes for Aedes albopictus in March
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