Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
Following is a question by Dr the Hon Hoey Simon Lee and a reply by the Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Mr Tse Chin-wan, in the Legislative Council today (June 24):
Question:
There are views pointing out that the transformation of the energy structure is the foundation for Hong Kong’s economic transformation and industrial upgrading, helps nurture new economic growth points, and that enhancing regional co-operation is an integral part of this process. Moreover, Hong Kong’s Climate Action Plan 2050 proposes increasing the share of zero-carbon energy in the fuel mix for electricity generation to around 60 per cent to 70 per cent before 2035, and the Government has indicated that it will try out the use of new energy and enhance co-operation with neighbouring regions. Regarding the enhancement of regional co-operation to promote the transformation of the energy structure, will the Government inform this Council:
(1) as it is learnt that, to meet Hong Kong’s future demand for zero-carbon energy, the Government keeps planning ahead for the construction of electricity facilities to receive and process increased electricity transmitted to Hong Kong from other regions, whether the Government has engaged in regional co-operation with relevant energy departments in the Mainland and with other cities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area on matters such as zero-carbon energy, cross-boundary power exchange, and the use of the country’s Green Electricity Certificates;
(2) whether it has established a collaboration mechanism with neighbouring regions for the authentication of the origin of zero-carbon energy supply, carbon emission audits, infrastructure co-ordination and regulatory standards; if so, of the details and the progress; and
(3) whether it has established a mechanism to facilitate Mainland low-carbon energy and hydrogen enterprises to invest in Hong Kong, supply products or participate in local projects, such as by enhancing regulatory information sharing between the Mainland and Hong Kong and, where risks are controllable, streamlining the approval procedures?
Reply:
President,
Based on the four energy policy objectives of safety, reliability, affordability and environmental performance, the Government progressively promotes the transition of the energy mix and reduces carbon emissions, so as to achieve the medium- and long-term goals of “net-zero electricity generation” as set out in Hong Kong’s Climate Action Plan 2050, i.e. to increase the share of zero-carbon energy to about 60-70 per cent by 2035, and achieve “net-zero electricity generation” and carbon neutrality by 2050.
Through gradually replacing coal with natural gas as fuel in electricity generation and importing more nuclear energy, carbon emissions in Hong Kong peaked in 2014, and reduced by more than a quarter in 2024 compared to the peak level. Currently, Hong Kong’s overall fuel mix of electricity generation comprises less than 20 per cent of coal, about 28 per cent of zero-carbon energy (including nuclear energy and renewable energy), and over 50 per cent of natural gas.
In response to the question raised by Dr the Hon Hoey Simon Lee, our reply is as follows:
(1) and (2) Hong Kong is a mountainous and small city, which limits the development of nuclear, hydro, solar and wind energy. Nevertheless, Hong Kong has brought the share of nuclear energy in the fuel mix to the current level of nearly 30 per cent by importation of energy. Increasing the importation of zero-carbon energy will help stabilise electricity prices, enhance the resilience and stability of the electricity system, and facilitate the sustainable and high-quality development of the industries.
To further increase the share of zero-carbon energy in the fuel mix of electricity generation, the Government will focus on strengthening regional energy co-operation for importing more zero-carbon energy from the Chinese Mainland in an orderly manner.
Currently, CLP Power Hong Kong Limited imports zero-carbon energy through its Clean Energy Transmission System (CETS) connected to the Daya Bay Nuclear Power Station and the power network of the China Southern Power Grid. With the enhancement of the CETS completed in March 2026, Hong Kong will be able to gradually raise the share of zero-carbon energy in the fuel mix of electricity generation to about 35 per cent.
Meanwhile, the Government is making forward-looking plans to deepen regional energy co-operation and to actively align with our country’s efforts to accelerate the development of a new type of energy system, with a view to achieving the long-term goals of “net-zero electricity generation” and carbon neutrality. The major work includes:
Aligning with the national policy by importation of diversified zero-carbon energy: The 15th Five-Year Plan clearly states the requirement of accelerating the comprehensive green transition for the economy and the society, and upholding the development of multiple energy sources such as wind, solar, hydro and nuclear energy. The First Five-Year Plan for Economic and Social Development of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (2026-2030) Public Consultation Document also puts forward the objectives of green and low-carbon transition, as well as ceasing the use of coal for daily electricity generation progressively. The Government will endeavour to implement the abovementioned strategy to import diversified zero-carbon energy from the Chinese Mainland, with a view to enhancing the resilience of local electricity supply while stabilising electricity prices.
Continuously planning infrastructure and facilities for transmitting electricity to Hong Kong: To further enhance the capacity for receiving zero-carbon energy, the Government has reserved land in Tseung Kwan O Area 132 for the construction of strategic electricity facilities. Relevant government departments and the two power companies are discussing the plan to implement the relevant project.
Establishing collaboration mechanism with relevant Chinese Mainland counterparts: We are liaising closely with the relevant Chinese Mainland counterparts to discuss a collaboration mechanism for promoting regional energy co-operation, and to jointly explore options of transmitting electricity to Hong Kong that best serve its overall interests. Since the electricity transmission proposal is still under discussion, the Government will make an announcement at an appropriate juncture.
Furthermore, the country has made considerable progress in terms of the source certification of renewable energy supply and carbon emissions accounting. China’s Green Electricity Certificates (GECs), issued by the National Energy Administration (NEA), are the valid proof of the renewable energy attributes (such as solar, hydro and wind energy). Each GEC unit corresponds to 1 000 kilowatt hours of electricity generated by renewable energy and is valid for two years. To ensure that GECs would not be double-counted, the NEA updates relevant information in real time and simultaneously with various trading platforms through the National GEC Issuing and Trading System in order to record and store data related to the issuance, trading, and write-off of GECs.
As for carbon emissions accounting, it is a mechanism for calculating greenhouse gas emissions in a uniform manner. The country’s 15th Five-Year Plan also sets out work such as formulating the rules and standards for carbon footprint accounting of products, and promoting international mutual recognition of the rules and standards on carbon footprint.
Hong Kong is also actively exploring relevant initiatives to promote the GEC development within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. Looking ahead, the Government will examine the ways to support national energy-related enterprises and the GEC market to expand application scenarios in the international market, thereby putting green energy transition into practice on multiple fronts.
(3) The Government set up the Inter-departmental Working Group on Using Hydrogen as Fuel in 2022 to co-ordinate preparation works of bureaux and departments for using hydrogen as fuel locally, with a view to encouraging local application of hydrogen energy. The Working Group reviews applications of trial projects on hydrogen as fuel, advises on aspects such as safety and planning, and facilitates hydrogen energy enterprises to commence their hydrogen energy trials. The Working Group has given an agreement-in-principle to a total of 40 applications of hydrogen energy trial projects, a number of which have adopted the products and technologies from the Chinese Mainland.
Besides, the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department and the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) signed the Cooperation Arrangement on Quality and Safety Management in December 2024 to formally establish a co-operation framework that covers five domains, namely, standard metering and conformity assessment, gas-related special equipment, machinery such as hydrogen-powered pressure vessels, household products, and energy efficiency labelling. There has been substantive progress, including:
facilitating the application of a number of national standards in Hong Kong, thus laying the foundation for the recognition of Chinese Mainland’s technical guidelines on hydrogen energy and related products in Hong Kong;
designating hydrogen energy as a pilot area for deepened co-operation, with joint efforts on formulating national and international standards;
promoting the application in Hong Kong of safety monitoring platforms for hydrogen energy equipment independently developed in the Chinese Mainland, with a view to enhancing the safety regulatory standards of hydrogen-powered facilities in both Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland; and
exploring data sharing and mutual recognition of hydrogen pressure vessel approvals between Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland in order to streamline the cross-boundary approval process, provided that the risks are manageable.
The SAMR indicated clearly, at the International Hydrogen Development Symposium 2026 held in Hong Kong in May 2026, that further deepening of co-operation between the Chinese Mainland and Hong Kong (i.e. from “joining hands in pilot projects” to “joint system development”) would be promoted in the next stage of collaboration.
The Government will continue to deepen co-operation with the Chinese Mainland in the areas of low-carbon energy and hydrogen, and by leveraging the unique advantage of connectivity with the Chinese Mainland and the world, provide relevant enterprises with financing support and services for the alignment with international standards, thus enabling their technology and products to go global.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Following is a question by the Hon Steven Ho and a reply by the Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Mr Tse Chin-wan, in the Legislative Council today (June 24):
Question:
The Government has been actively promoting the application of innovation and technology in recent years, yet there are views pointing out that there is a significant gap between Hong Kong and the Mainland in terms of the level of application of unmanned cleansing technologies. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
(1) of the use of innovative cleansing technologies by the Government in the past five years; with a breakdown by: (i) date of introduction, (ii) duration of testing, (iii) scope of application, (iv) expenditure involved, and (v) manpower and expenditure saved following the use of such technologies;
(2) some members of the sector have relayed that automated cleaning equipment, such as unmanned sweepers, may require supporting infrastructure such as charging facilities and network base stations which involve lengthy interdepartmental vetting and approval processes, whereas the duration of most existing government outsourcing contracts is just three years, making it difficult to recover the costs; whether the Government will consider extending the contract duration or directly providing the infrastructure, and setting up an interdepartmental coordination task force to establish a one-stop green lane for vetting and approving recognized new technologies; and
(3) as it is learnt that currently, street cleansing service tenders are subject to minimum staffing requirements, and some members of the sector have relayed that this will lead to high manpower costs, which will in effect discourage bidders from introducing technologies; whether the Government will consider adopting an output-based or performance-based model for tender evaluations, and suitably relaxing or abolishing the minimum staffing requirements for such service tenders?
Reply:
President,
Various government departments have applied innovative cleansing technologies. In respect of public cleansing services, the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) has actively introduced innovative technologies, including unmanned cleansing technologies, to enhance the efficiency and quality of street cleansing work and to safeguard the occupational safety and health protection for staff. In response to the question raised by the Hon Steven Ho, the reply is as follows:
(1) Over the past five years, the FEHD has introduced or applied the following cleansing technologies:
Pressure washer surface cleaners
Since 2018, the FEHD has tested mini street washing vehicles equipped with high pressure hot water cleaners and pressure washer surface cleaners. The pressure washer surface cleaners can quickly remove stubborn stains, streamline manual scrubbing work, save time and energy, and reduce disturbances to pedestrians. The FEHD has now deployed the mini street washing vehicles across the territory, in areas of high footfall and frequent activities and are easily fouled. As the use of pressure washer surface cleaners has been incorporated into street cleansing service contracts and is provided by contractors, the associated procurement and operating costs are subsumed under the overall contract value, and the FEHD does not maintain separate expenditure figures.
Autonomous street cleaning robots
Since last year, the FEHD has been testing the use of autonomous street cleaning robots for street cleansing, at a cost of about HK$580,000. These robots integrate multiple functions, including automated sweeping, refuse disposal, charging, and intelligent obstacle avoidance, making them particularly suited to broad, flat pavements and waterfront areas. As the initial trial results were satisfactory, the FEHD has commissioned the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) to procure two additional robots, with the next phase of trials expected by the end of this year.
Industrial grade robot dogs
Since last year, the FEHD has been testing the use of industrial grade robot dogs to assist in transporting refuse at remote and rural locations (such as hillside paths, slopes, and stairways), at a cost of about HK$670,000. The robot dogs can navigate slopes and autonomously traverse rugged terrain, improving the efficiency of refuse transport and reducing the risk of injury to workers from heavy lifting. The FEHD is actively exploring the addition of functions such as automatic navigation and full automation, so that the robot dogs can better meet practical operational needs.
Electrically-assisted trolleys
To reduce the physical burden on frontline workers when transporting refuse and other heavy loads, the FEHD has been testing the use of electrically-assisted trolleys since last year, at a cost of about HK$220,000. The trolleys are foldable and suitable for use on pavements. The FEHD has further optimised the functions of the trolleys and is conducting field trials, strengthening the occupational safety and health protection for staff.
Except for the pressure washer surface cleaners, the above three technologies remain at the trial stage, and the FEHD is not yet able to estimate the resources that may be saved. Any manpower and resources saved in future will be flexibly redeployed on a priority basis to other environmental hygiene duties. First, the FEHD has been proactively collaborating with the EMSD and other departments to conduct market research and arrange field trials for suitable projects to assess their operating conditions and effectiveness. Taking autonomous street cleaning robots as an example, the FEHD also assessed the supporting infrastructure and operational requirements required, such as charging stations, etc, during the trial phase. Should the FEHD decides to incorporate the use of such robots into future street cleansing service contracts, it will first assess whether the supporting infrastructure is sufficient and how much additional resources contractors would need to invest, to ensure that the contract duration and terms are reasonable and practicable and the services are cost‑effective.
On the other hand, in line with the government procurement principles to support innovation, the FEHD encourages tenderers to propose feasible innovative solutions beyond the basic requirements stipulated in contracts. In the assessment of street cleansing service tenders, marks will be awarded under that criterion if tenderers provide innovative suggestions for adopting technology or other means that help enhance service efficiency, effectiveness or productivity, thereby incentivising tenderers to introduce innovative technologies. Where a contractor submits an innovative proposal in its tender and is successfully awarded the contract, the FEHD will require the contractor to implement the proposal. If the innovative proposal is proven feasible and effective, the FEHD will incorporate such technologies or equipment into future contract requirements to promote wider adoption. Vehicles equipped with automatic on-board refuse bin cleaner, which are widely used by the the FEHD’s contractors at present, were introduced and put into application through this approach.
In determining contract duration, a range of factors must be carefully balanced, including the need to maintain market competition, service stability, and the upfront capital investment required of contractors. In accordance with prevailing government procurement guidelines, for services like street cleansing which involve the employment of a large number of non-skilled workers, the FEHD generally sets a contract term of three years. For certain contracts where contractors require a longer period to recoup their investment, such as those involving a substantial number of specialised vehicles, the contract term would be set at five years.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
LCQ11: Management of stablecoins Question:
There are views that as an emerging digital financial instrument, the widespread use of stablecoins will deal potential blows to the liquidity of the traditional banking system and involve multiple risks such as cross-boundary capital flows and the protection of retail investors. As such, robust risk management and cross-boundary precautionary mechanisms are the key bottom lines of maintaining the resilience of Hong Kong’s financial system and safeguarding national financial security. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
(1) in view of the potential impact of the widespread use of licensed stablecoins in the local market, whether the authorities have assessed if such developments will lead to a significant outflow of capital from the traditional banking system (i.e. “financial disintermediation”), thereby dealing blows to the deposit and lending base of Hong Kong’s banks, their liquidity ratios and the stability of the financial system; if an assessment has been made, of the specific measures put in place by the authorities to guard against such risks and the details of these measures; if not, whether an assessment will be made;
(2) given the current complex geopolitical environment, whether the authorities have any long-term plans to establish more resilient cross-boundary stablecoin payment channels, and to safeguard the security of cross-boundary physical trade under the Belt and Road Initiative by enhancing settlement speeds and reducing currency exchange costs, thereby deepening the synergies between “digital Renminbi and Hong Kong stablecoins”; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and
(3) as it is learnt that at present, retail investors can still easily access and trade offshore fiat-referenced stablecoins not licensed by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority through various channels, of the specific means of enforcement and cross-boundary regulatory collaboration mechanisms put in place by the authorities to combat and prohibit unlicensed institutions or platforms from carrying out promotional, marketing or soliciting activities locally to members of the public; if so, the progress of the relevant work; if not, the reasons for that; apart from existing promotional measures, whether the authorities have plans to step up public education to prevent members of the public from inadvertently falling into stablecoin investment traps; if so, the details; if not, the reasons for that?
Reply:
President,
The Stablecoins Ordinance (Cap. 656) (the Ordinance), which came into effect in August 2025, has established a regulatory regime for stablecoin issuers, with a view to fostering Hong Kong’s monetary and financial stability, protecting stablecoin users, as well as encouraging financial innovation to support real economic activities and financial market developments. Subsequently, in April 2026, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) granted stablecoin issuer licenses to two institutions with banking background. Based on the current business plans of those two institutions, regulated stablecoins in Hong Kong are expected to be launched between the middle and the second half of this year.
The Government and financial regulators will continue to be guided by the risk-based principle of “same activity, same risks, same regulation”, and continue to monitor the market and take appropriate enforcement actions as necessary under the regulatory framework established by the relevant legislation, including the Ordinance and the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing Ordinance (AMLO). The goal is to ensure that stablecoin-related activities are conducted in an orderly manner in Hong Kong, thereby maintaining financial stability and protecting users. We also actively carry out relevant publicity and public education work to deepen the understanding of stablecoins and the Ordinance among both the public and the industry.
Having consulted the HKMA and the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC), the reply to the three parts of the question is as follows:
(1) In formulating the regulatory regime, the HKMA has thoroughly considered the potential risks that stablecoins may pose to the financial system, and has set out clear requirements for licensed stablecoin issuers to implement relevant risk management measures, including holding reserve assets in the form of eligible assets such as bank deposits as well as high-quality and highly liquid debt securities, and placing these eligible assets with banks in Hong Kong. If needed, the HKMA may impose additional regulatory requirements on licensees depending on the situation to ensure financial stability.
Upon the launch of regulated stablecoins, the HKMA will carry out effective ongoing supervision to ensure the licensees’ compliance with relevant regulatory requirements. Meanwhile, the HKMA will closely monitor the operations of the licensees, continuously assessing the impact of stablecoin issuance and circulation on Hong Kong’s financial system.
Furthermore, relevant international organisations (such as the Bank for International Settlements) are conducting further studies on the impact of the widespread use of stablecoins on the traditional banking system. The HKMA is actively participating in these studies to ensure that the risk management under Hong Kong’s regulatory regime aligns with international standards.
(2) The HKMA has been testing out various emerging payment options through pilot projects, including central bank digital currency networks, tokenised deposits, and the interlinkage of fast payment systems across different jurisdictions. The two licensed stablecoin issuers are also actively involved in such testing. Each of these payment options has its own merits, and their growth potential will be largely determined by market demand across different use cases.
The HKMA will continue to maintain close communication with the two licensed stablecoin issuers and encourage them to further explore the synergies and connectivity of regulated stablecoins with other emerging payment options, with a view to creating value for real economic and financial activities.
(3) Currently, the Ordinance stipulates that only regulated entities specified under the Ordinance may engage in the sale (i.e. “offering” in the Ordinance) of stablecoins to the public. Since the commencement of the Ordinance, the HKMA has issued letters to non-regulated entities operating stablecoin offering businesses in the market to explain the provisions and requirements under the law, and has kept following up as part of the HKMA’s daily work to ensure that the relevant entities have made improvements. Subject to the nature of individual cases, the HKMA may refer them to the Police or the Department of Justice for follow-up as necessary. Meanwhile, if the SFC identifies active marketing activities involving unregulated stablecoins during its monitoring of suspected unlicensed activities according to the AMLO (including instances where relevant persons actively market their services to the Hong Kong public), it will also transfer the relevant information to the HKMA for follow-up via the established information sharing mechanism.
In sum, the financial regulators safeguard users by deterring illegal or improper activities through effective market monitoring and taking appropriate actions. The financial regulators also work closely with law enforcement agencies to establish reporting mechanisms and ensure that unlawful activities are properly handled. For cases involving overseas entities actively marketing their stablecoin offering to the Hong Kong public, the HKMA can engage relevant authorities in other jurisdictions via existing regulatory co-operation mechanisms.
The public should also note that protection under the Ordinance applies only to the acquisition of regulated stablecoins through regulated entities. Individuals acquiring unregulated stablecoins via unregulated channels would have to take their own risk.
In addition, the Government and the SFC will introduce a bill to the Legislative Council this year to establish regulatory regimes for virtual asset dealing, custodian, advisory and management service providers, with a view to regulating dealing and other activities of virtual assets (including stablecoins) involving different modes of operation in a more comprehensive manner.
On publicity and public education, the Government, together with the HKMA, the SFC and others, have been committed to deepening the understanding of the Ordinance, stablecoins and other digital assets among the public and the industry, as well as enhancing the public’s anti-fraud awareness. These efforts include publishing articles, press releases and social media posts to remind citizens to stay vigilant to the marketing of unlicensed stablecoins, as well as to reiterate that stablecoins are not an investment or speculative instrument, but a type of blockchain-based payment means. In response to the abrupt market movements linked to the stablecoin concept earlier, financial regulators have also urged the public to exercise caution, conduct thorough analysis of the relevant information, and refrain from making irrational investment decisions based solely on market hype or price momentum. Furthermore, through television interviews and speeches delivered at forums, the SFC has increased public awareness of the risks of engaging in virtual asset-related transactions with entities not licensed by the SFC, such as the fact that such unregulated entities carry high potential risks, including a lack of transparency, potentially unstable operations, and the lack of investor protection.
The Government and the financial regulators will continue to step up relevant publicity and public education efforts, and will publish updated lists of licensed stablecoin issuers and other specified regulated entities on the websites of the financial regulators, with a view to helping the public make informed decisions. Issued at HKT 12:33
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
LCQ12: Control of illegal feeding of feral pigeons Question:
The Wild Animals Protection (Amendment) Ordinance 2024 (the Amendment Ordinance), which came into operation on August 1, 2024, has expanded the prohibition on feeding wild animals to cover feral pigeons. According to the information on the Estimates of Expenditure 2026-2027 provided by the authorities in reply to my question, the preliminary findings of the next phase of the territory-wide feral pigeon population surveys are expected to be available in the second quarter of this year. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
(1) of the detailed findings of the latest feral pigeon population surveys; if the relevant statistics are not yet available, of the reasons for that;
(2) whether the authorities have formulated any objective standards for assessing if the control of feral pigeons and the enforcement work against the illegal feeding of feral pigeons have achieved satisfactory effects; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;
(3) of the current number and locations of illegal feral pigeon feeding blackspots in the 18 districts of Hong Kong; whether the current numbers of such blackspots and locations have dropped when compared with those before the measure to prohibit the feeding of feral pigeons came into operation;
(4) as it has been reported that the Government has commenced the trial use of a monitoring system equipped with AI technology to identify feral pigeon congregation spots and illegal feeding behaviour, and will study the application of the system and related technologies to other illegal feeding blackspots, of the relevant implementation progress and outcome;
(5) as it has been reported that the number of fixed penalty notices issued by the authorities during inspections and enforcement operations is on the low side, whether the authorities have encountered any difficulties in law enforcement; if so, whether they have formulated any response plans; and
(6) given that according to the information on the Estimates of Expenditure 2026-2027 provided by the authorities in reply to my question, the feral pigeon population in Hong Kong declined during the initial commencement of the Amendment Ordinance, and as pointed out by the authorities, the problems concerning the feral pigeon population and the nuisance caused by them will probably show some improvement after the foraging habits of feral pigeons are restored to their natural state, whether the authorities have analysed if the decline in the feral pigeon population is attributable to the return of some feral pigeons to the natural environment for foraging; whether the authorities will introduce other ancillary measures to further guide feral pigeons to return to their natural habitats?
Reply:
President,
The Government has been adopting a multi-pronged approach to address illegal feeding of feral pigeons, including the passage of the Wild Animals Protection (Amendment) Ordinance 2024 (Amendment Ordinance) which expands the prohibition on feeding of wild animals to cover feral pigeons and thus increases the maximum penalty for illegal feeding to a fine of $100,000 and imprisonment for one year, and introducing a fixed penalty of $5,000, so as to step up efforts in combatting illegal feeding activities. Also, the Government has enhanced the publicity and education initiatives to remind the public not to feed feral pigeons.
In addition, the Amendment Ordinance expanded the scope of the Government’s enforcement officers to include appointed officers from the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD), the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) and the Housing Department (HD), in addition to existing officers of the Agricultural, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) and police officers, to enhance effectiveness of law enforcement.
The AFCD, in collaboration with the FEHD, the LCSD and the HD, has established the Inter-departmental Working Group on Feeding Ban Enforcement to review and enhance the enforcement strategies and implementation of the feeding ban through regular meetings. By adopting a risk-based enforcement strategy, relevant departments will conduct routine patrols and enforcement under their managed venues or public places, and arrange special patrols and enforcement operations based on intelligence and reports.
The reply to the various parts of the question raised by the Hon Cheung Pui-kong is as follows:
(1) to (3) Since the Amendment Ordinance came into effect on August 1, 2024, the AFCD has been commissioning consultants to conduct territory-wide feral pigeon population surveys regularly, covering about 140 survey points. Results of the surveys are tabulated as follows:
Year/Quarter* Aside from the aforementioned surveys, the AFCD have also listed 42 locations across all districts as monitoring points of feral pigeon congregation for indicative reference to objectively assess the situation. The distribution of the monitoring points is tabulated as follows:
District At the initial period of the Amendment Ordinance being effective, only less than 40 per cent of the 42 monitoring points recorded low levels of feral pigeon congregations (i.e. fewer than 10). However, according to the on-site inspection conducted in April 2026, more than 60 per cent of the monitoring points had low feral pigeon numbers, and their overall hygiene conditions were generally satisfactory, demonstrating satisfactory effectiveness of combatting measures against illegal feeding activities.
The AFCD will continue to work closely with relevant departments to regularly review the latest conditions at all monitoring points of feral pigeon congregations, and will adjust management strategies and strengthen enforcement efforts as necessary to combat illegal feeding activities.
(4) The AFCD has been stepping up the application of technology to curb illegal feeding activities. Since September 2025, the Department has piloted a monitoring system equipped with AI technology to identify feral pigeon congregations and illegal feeding, collecting information to enhance enforcement effectiveness. The pilot trial is being carried out at the feeding black spot near the Hang Hau MTR Station. In the fourth quarter of 2025, the Department was able to arrange enforcement operations using information gathered by the system and issued Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) to two persons for illegal feeding of feral pigeons. In March 2026, the Department further extended the monitoring system to selected private premises affected by feral pigeons in the Southern District and Sai Kung District. The Department is also piloting AI patrol robot at designated location. The robot is capable of self-moving remotely and equipped with broadcasting function, helping to reinforce publicity on feeding bans in surrounding areas. The AFCD will continue to review the effectiveness of technology application in combatting illegal feeding activities, make adjustments or extend relevant measures further as appropriate.
(5) Illegal feeding of feral pigeons is often carried out covertly, with varying times, locations and methods. To strengthen law enforcement effectiveness, the Government has adopted a multi-pronged strategy, including conducting targeted inspections at specific feeding blackspots, enhancing interdepartmental collaboration, utilising technology to assist evidence collection, as well as complementing with publicity and education to raise public awareness of compliance with the law. From the commencement of the Amendment Ordinance in August 2024 to May 2026, the relevant departments issued a total of 289 FPNs for illegal feeding of feral pigeons.
(6) Human feeding of feral pigeons will disrupt their foraging and behavioral patterns, weaken their survival abilities, resulting in overpopulation and ecological imbalance, as well as potentially increasing the risk of disease transmission. Feral pigeons do not need to rely on human feeding, and stopping such practices helps restore the natural ecological balance by allowing feral pigeons to return to their natural habitat. According to AFCD’s survey data, illegal feeding activities and feral pigeon congregation situations have improved since the Amendment Ordinance came into effect. Enforcement actions and monitoring will continue. Issued at HKT 12:25
The Bureau of Industrial Parks (BIP), Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) announced on April 22 that its Tainan Branch has actively supported industrial upgrading through smart technologies. Through dedicated guidance, Chia Yi Steel Co., Ltd., located in the Minxiong Industrial Park, successfully implemented an AI-powered management system. By integrating digital supply chain connectivity and intelligent melting process analytics, the company increased its product yield rate from 85% to 95%, improved Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) from 55% to 77%, and reduced electricity consumption by approximately 1.04 million kWh. These improvements translated into production cost savings of approximately NT$52 million, demonstrating the tangible benefits of smart manufacturing and net-zero transformation for traditional industries.
BIP has been actively promoting the “Industrial Park Smart Technology Value-Added Innovation and Cross-Domain Development Program,” assisting enterprises within industrial parks in adopting digital tools and smart applications. Through technical support provided by the Metal Industries Research&Development Centre (MIRDC), Chia Yi Steel Co., Ltd. successfully prepared and secured a subsidy of NT$16 million under the MOEA’s “Smart Machinery-Digital Supply Chain Integration and AI Applications for Industrial Clusters” Program administered by the Industrial Development Administration (IDA). Through AI implementation and information integration with supply chain partners, the project has accelerated the transformation of the entire supply chain toward smart manufacturing.
According to BIP, Chia Yi Steel Co., Ltd.’s successful transformation demonstrates that traditional industries can significantly enhance productivity, reduce energy consumption and operating costs, and strengthen international competitiveness through the effective adoption of AI-enabled technologies. Amid rapidly changing global markets and increasing customer demands for flexible production, stable quality, and efficient delivery schedules, AI applications have become a critical enabler for overcoming production bottlenecks and enhancing operational resilience.
The company’s transformation centered on building a next-generation smart production line. By introducing an AI management system-often regarded as the “digital brain” of a factory-Chia Yi Steel improved manufacturing processes that previously relied heavily on human experience and judgment. Through real-time data monitoring, intelligent melting analysis, and predictive process control, the company further enhanced operational stability and product quality. In addition, Chia Yi Steel established a comprehensive production and operational big-data platform, enabling management personnel to make data-driven decisions regarding workforce allocation, inventory management, and production scheduling. This has laid the foundation for predictive maintenance and early quality anomaly detection, significantly reducing the risk of product defects.
This year, Chia Yi Steel Co., Ltd. was invited to participate in the Net Zero City Expo, where it showcased its AI-driven smart manufacturing achievements and collaborated with five upstream and downstream supply chain partners to promote a new model of green net-zero supply chain development. Looking ahead, BIP will continue to facilitate the adoption of smart technologies within industrial parks through cross-sector collaboration and technical guidance, helping more traditional industries seize AI transformation opportunities and enhance their global competitiveness.
Spokesman: Mr. Liu Chi-Chuan (Deputy Director General, BIP)
Contact Number: 886-7-3613349, 0911363680
Email: lcc12@bip.gov.tw
Contact Person: Kuo, Chung-Wen Deputy Director of Tainan Branch, BIP)
Contact Number: 886-6-3842980 ext.6312
Email: kuo1224@bip.gov.tw
To recognize the long-standing dedication and outstanding contributions of workers in industrial parks, the Bureau of Industrial Parks (BIP), Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) held the “2026 Labor Day Awards Ceremony” on April 27, honoring one National Model Worker and 107 Model Workers from industrial parks across Taiwan. The award recipients represent northern, central, southern, and eastern Taiwan and come from a wide range of industries, highlighting the solid foundation that supports the steady development of the nation’s industrial parks.
BIP Director General Yang Chih-Ching stated that the achievements of industrial parks are the result of the collective efforts of workers and enterprises alike. He noted that the awards ceremony serves not only as recognition of excellence but also as an important source of motivation for continuous improvement. Looking ahead, BIP will continue enhancing labor environments and service mechanisms to foster a more attractive industrial ecosystem. This year’s National Model Worker, Liu Yen-Hung of Asia Optical Co., Inc., was recognized for obtaining multiple patents through his professional expertise and actively participating in process optimization initiatives, significantly improving efficiency and reducing costs, thereby setting an exemplary standard for industrial park workers.
According to BIP, the awards ceremony not only recognizes individual workers but also honors enterprises with outstanding labor-management relations, exemplary labor unions, and distinguished union personnel, reflecting the collective efforts of diverse stakeholders within the industrial sector. Through public recognition and the promotion of role models, BIP aims to enhance workers’ sense of pride while encouraging enterprises to strengthen management systems and workplace practices, thereby fostering harmonious labor-management relations and improving overall industrial competitiveness. These efforts also contribute to the sustainable development of industrial parks.
In addition, the Work-Life Integration Friendly Enterprise Award was presented to FSP Technology Group, Daxin Materials Corporation, and Asia Optical Co., Inc. in recognition of their efforts to promote gender equality, family-friendly policies, and flexible working arrangements. The Community Service Contribution Award was granted to 27 enterprises, including Futaba Taiwan, NXP Semiconductors, Brogent Technologies Inc., and Canon Taiwan, for their long-term commitment to labor-management communication, workplace improvement, and corporate social responsibility. These enterprises have become an important force supporting stable business operations and reflect the industry’s gradual transformation toward people-centered and sustainable development.
BIP emphasized that this awards program not only showcases the outstanding achievements of workers and enterprises but also strengthens industrial cohesion, enhances workplace pride, and promotes team solidarity. Going forward, BIP will continue advancing its “Happy Industrial Parks” policy initiatives, improving the quality of employment environments, and fostering an industrial development model that balances competitiveness with human-centered values, thereby providing sustainable and long-term momentum for Taiwan’s industrial growth.
Spokesman: Mr. Liu Chi-Chuan (Deputy Director General, BIP)
Contact Number: 886-7-3613349, 0911363680
Email: lcc12@bip.gov.tw
The Registration & Electoral Office (REO) will hold an Electoral Information Centre Open Day on July 1 to celebrate the 29th anniversary of the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region with members of the public.
The open day will feature talks on electoral matters, along with various interactive games. These will cover topics such as voter registration, the different stages of an election, the counting process, and clean elections, all with a view to deepening public knowledge of elections.
Participants can take photos with the Ballot Box Family mascots and will have a chance to win souvenirs.
Located at 7/F, Treasury Building, 3 Tonkin Street West, Cheung Sha Wan, Kowloon, the Electoral Information Centre will be open to visitors from 2pm to 6pm during the open day. Entry will be free of charge and on a first-come, first-served basis.
For enquiries, call the REO hotline on 2891 1001 between 8.45am and 6pm from today until June 30.
24 June 2026 – From 1 July 2026, the National Environment Agency (NEA) will strengthen regulations to enable consumers and businesses to make more informed choices and advance Singapore’s decarbonisation efforts. The Mandatory Energy Labelling Scheme (MELS) and Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) will introduce registration requirements for regulated goods [1] imported for own use and tighten advertising rules for regulated goods.
Extension of MELS and MEPS
2. Currently, regulated goods imported for sale in Singapore must meet the requirements of the MELS and MEPS (more information of MELS and MEPS in Annex A). Similar goods that are imported by end users, including businesses and households, for their own use are not covered. The volume of such own use imports is small, but this could grow over time as online marketplaces have made it increasingly easy for consumers to directly import goods, which are often inefficient. Some businesses have also been directly importing commercial storage refrigerators for their own use.
3. Businesses and households who import regulated goods that are energy inefficient and do not comply with the MELS and MEPS could lock themselves into higher lifecycle energy costs and carbon footprints. To ensure that Regulated Goods imported by end users for own use are MELS and MEPS compliant, the Energy Conservation Act was amended on 8 April 2026 to extend these requirements to such regulated goods.
Registration requirements
4. From 1 July 2026, end users importing regulated goods for their own use need to register such goods with NEA on https://go.gov.sg/elsportal before importing them into Singapore. This will help ensure that regulated goods that are imported for own use are energy efficient. Upon NEA’s approval, a Certificate of Registration (COR) will be issued, which is valid for three years and is renewable. The registration of the regulated goods and renewal of the COR are free, and the applications will be processed within seven working days.
5. Prior to registration, individuals and businesses should ensure that the regulated goods to be imported into Singapore meet the Minimum Energy Performance Standard requirements (refer to Annex B for detailed requirements and registration requirements).
Tighten Advertising Rules for Regulated Goods
6. From 1 July 2026, advertisements of non-compliant regulated goods, including those on online platforms, are not allowed. This regulation will ensure that non-compliant products are not offered to end users in Singapore. Visual advertisements must feature an Energy Label next to the product image or description. Where space is limited, the product’s energy efficiency rating (tick rating) and Certificate of Registration (COR) number must be prominently displayed.
Support for Business and Households
7. Businesses and households can take advantage of government schemes to support the upfront cost of energy efficient regulated goods while benefiting from long-term energy savings. Eligible Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in the Food Services and Manufacturing sectors can also apply for the EnterpriseSG’s Energy Efficiency Grant to support the adoption of pre-approved energy-efficient regulated goods.
8. Singaporean and Permanent Resident HDB households, as well as Singapore Citizen households living in private residential properties, can use the Climate Vouchers under the enhanced Climate Friendly Households Programme to purchase eligible energy-efficient regulated goods.
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For more information, please submit your enquiries electronically via the Online Feedback Form or myENV mobile application.
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[1] The six regulated goods are air-conditioners, refrigerators, clothes dryers, televisions, household water heaters and three-phase induction motors.
Annex A
ABOUT ENERGY EFFICIENCY STANDARDS: MELS AND MEPS
Energy Efficiency standards
MELS and MEPS drive the supply and adoption of more energy efficient products in support of the Singapore Green Plan 2030’s decarbonisation targets.
Mandatory Energy Labelling Scheme (MELS)
The MELS was introduced in 2008 to help consumers make informed, energy efficient purchasing decisions for major energy consuming household appliances through clear visual indicators such as the tick rating. This requires suppliers of household appliances covered under the MELS to prominently affix their products with energy labels. These labels carry information on the energy consumption and energy cost of operating the appliance.
End users that buy energy efficient appliances enjoy cost savings over the lifespan of the appliances. For example, the energy cost of operating a typical 5-tick air-conditioner is about 30 per cent less than that of a 2-tick model. The lifecycle cost of energy efficient appliances is generally lower than that of energy inefficient products, notwithstanding higher upfront costs, due to energy savings over the product lifecycle.
Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS)
The MEPS was introduced in 2011 to raise the energy efficiency of household appliances by removing the least energy efficient appliances from the market. This protects end users from being locked into the high energy costs of operating energy inefficient appliances. MEPS increases the number of energy efficient models in the market, where the distribution of regulated goods gradually shifts towards higher energy efficiency models over time.
Since the introduction of the MEPS and MELS, the average energy efficiency of air-conditioners and refrigerators has improved by 61% and 45% respectively, and this translates to annual energy savings of more than $560 million [2] across all households which is equivalent to the annual energy consumption of about 447,000 4-room housing units.
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[2] Based on the energy efficiency improvement of air-conditioners and refrigerators sold between 2015 and 2024.
Annex B
MELS AND MEPS REQUIREMENTS FOR REGULATED GOODS IMPORTED FOR OWN USE
Scope of MELS and MEPS
The following regulated goods are subject to the MEPS and MELS requirements:
(b) Refrigerators: Household refrigerators and commercial storage refrigerators
(c) Clothes dryers
(d) Televisions
(e) Household water heaters
(f) Three-phase induction motors
MELS and MEPS requirements
3. Regulated goods imported by end users for own use will be required to comply with the same MEPS and MELS requirements as with current requirement for supply of regulated goods. Once regulated goods have met the MEPS, they will be assigned tick ratings and Energy Labels, where required, upon approval of the registration.
5. For details on tick ratings and Energy Labels for respective regulated goods, please refer to the following websites:
Registration of regulated goods with NEA
6. End users intending to import regulated goods for own use are required to register at https://go.gov.sg/elsportal. There are no registration and/or renewal fees for registering with NEA.
7. The following documents are required for registration at ELS Portal:
• CorpPass (For companies importing regulated goods for own use)
• SingPass (For individuals importing regulated goods for own use)
• Test report (Please refer to Paragraph 9) for model to be registered
• Any other documents (e.g. In-principal approval from SCDF for usage of flammable refrigerant in equipment)
8. A Certificate of Registration (COR) will be issued upon the approval of the registration and is valid for 3 years. End users who wish to extend the validity of the registered model (e.g. intention to import the same registered model after its 3 years validity) will be required to renew the COR at least 2 weeks, but not earlier than 90 days, before it expires.
Test reports and prescribed test standards
9. A test report of a test carried out in accordance with the prescribed test standards is mandatory. End users may rely on test reports from suppliers and manufacturers when registering their model of regulated goods with NEA.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Following is the speech by the Acting Financial Secretary, Mr Michael Wong, at Greenway 2026 – Closing and Sharing of Business Recommendations today (June 23):
Ambassador Rouse (Ambassador and Head of Office of the European Union to Hong Kong and Macao, Mr Harvey Rouse), Mr Hack (Chair of the European Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong, Mr Johannes Hack), Professor Wong (Chairman of Environment and Sustainability Committee of Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce, Professor Steve Wong), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
Apart from hydrogen, we are working on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and green maritime fuels. We have started building a SAF value chain in the Greater Bay Area, and we aim to achieve a 1 per cent to 2 per cent SAF usage for flights departing from Hong Kong by the year 2030.
I would like to start by thanking the European Union Office and the European Chamber of Commerce for co-organising this marvellous event.
We are excited to unveil the Greenway 2026 Industry Recommendations just presented to me. They provide a collaborative roadmap for our partnership on green transition. They also highlight the power of open exchange between Hong Kong and our international business partners, including the vibrant community of over 1 780 European companies in Hong Kong.
It is highly encouraging to see how the Green Way insights closely align with Hong Kong’s approach. In the next few minutes, I would like to share with you how we are tackling the challenges involved through policies and new initiatives in four areas.
Firstly, new sources of energy and their efficient use. We are transforming our fuel mix and phasing out coal. Specifically, for electricity generation, we will progressively increase the use of zero-carbon energy to about 60 per cent to 70 per cent by 2035, up from 25 per cent last year. And we aim to achieve the target of “net-zero electricity generation” by 2050.
We are also working on hydrogen, which we see as a promising source of new energy. We believe hydrogen can help particularly to decarbonise heavy-duty vehicles. In this regard, we announced our strategy regarding hydrogen development back in June 2024, and are progressively establishing the relevant comprehensive safety standards and codes of practice. Currently, we are formulating a green and low-carbon hydrogen certification framework, and we aim to get it ready next year or even earlier.
Apart from hydrogen, we are working on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and green maritime fuels. We have started building a SAF value chain in the Greater Bay Area, and we aim to achieve a 1 per cent to 2 per cent SAF usage for flights departing from Hong Kong by the year 2030.
In parallel, we are gearing up to develop Hong Kong into a pre-eminent green maritime fuel bunkering and trading centre. In 2025 alone, over 220 000 tonnes of green maritime fuels were bunkered in Hong Kong. This March, we performed our first green methanol bunkering operations at anchorage and at our container terminals. Both were highly successful.
Secondly, our work regarding waste reduction and the promotion of biodiversity. Our first modern waste-to-energy facility for treating municipal solid waste, I‧PARK 1, commenced its first phase of trial operation in December last year, and we will soon seek funding for the construction of I‧PARK 2. Furthermore, a recycling facility for EV (electric vehicle) batteries will commence operation in our EcoPark very soon.
As regards biodiversity, we updated the relevant Strategy and Action Plan, the so-called BSAP (Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan), in December last year. It will help align with the relevant national and global frameworks well into the next decade.
Thirdly – I think that was mentioned by Chairman Hack and Professor Wong – green tech and green finance. We see them as indispensable elements supporting our green transformation. We have established a HK$400 million Green Tech Fund. It has already approved 39 R&D (research and development) projects covering decarbonisation technologies ranging from hydrogen energy to advanced waste upcycling.
As regards green finance, we will continue to leverage our strengths as an international financial centre to connect international capital with green projects. In 2025, the total green and sustainable debt issued in Hong Kong exceeded US$76 billion. Within this amount, the volume of green and sustainable bonds arranged in Hong Kong was about US$38 billion, and this accounted for about 40 per cent of the regional total, and we ranked first in the Asian market for eight consecutive years since 2018.
My fourth and last sharing this afternoon relates to public education. Sustainable development cannot succeed without an environmentally conscious public. We have therefore included in our primary and secondary school curricula relevant content ranging from carbon neutrality to waste reduction. At the community level, we have recently launched a new campaign to let members of the public know how they can help reduce carbon through green living.
Ladies and gentlemen, the European Union business community is a critically important partner for Hong Kong. We deeply value the European Union’s pioneering contributions to green technologies and to the development of robust international standards. And I must thank our European partners again for bringing to Hong Kong their vision, their world-leading techs, and their environmentally friendly culture. Hong Kong has much to learn, and Hong Kong will do our part in contributing towards a more resilient, more sustainable world in collaboration with all like-minded partners in the European Union. Thank you all very much.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Following is the speech by the Deputy Financial Secretary, Mr Michael Wong, at the United States of America (US) Independence Day reception today (June 23):
Consul General Eadeh (Consul General of the US in Hong Kong and Macau, Ms Julie Eadeh), Deputy Commissioner Hua (Deputy Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Mr Hau You), Assistant Secretary Burke (Assistant Secretary of the US Department of the Treasury Mr Jonathan Burke), former Chief Executive Mr Donald Tsang, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
It is my great pleasure to join you to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Independence of the United States of America. This year also marks the 183rd anniversary of the United States’ diplomatic presence in Hong Kong. So we indeed have a long history of partnership and friendship that is worth celebrating and nurturing.
I would also like to pay tribute to the longstanding and growing ties between the peoples of the United States and Hong Kong. Apart from our strong bilateral business and trade relations, there have always been deep-rooted cultural and people-to-people connections between us.
Hong Kong is home to around 80 000 US citizens. Last year, the number of American companies in Hong Kong increased from nearly 1 400 to 1 550, reflecting a year-on-year increase of over 11 per cent. Also last year, Invest Hong Kong, which is the business promotion arm of our Government, assisted over 40 US enterprises to establish or expand their operations in Hong Kong. It is noteworthy in the arena of trade that the United State has consistently enjoyed a significant trade surplus with Hong Kong – over US$250 billion in total in the last 10 years. So Consul General, I think that is good news to you. And I understand that this is actually one of the highest among the trading partners of the United States.
Another development in trade that is noteworthy is that Hong Kong’s exports of goods to the United States have continued to enjoy very substantial growth despite geopolitics and headwinds. It grew by 80 per cent year on year this March. This April, it grew by another 37 per cent. When I mentioned these figures at a recent gathering hosted by a leading American financial institution in Hong Kong, some members in the audience were surprised. And I said to them that the very healthy growth in our bilateral trade is a testament to the ingenuity and dedication of businesses and enterprises both in Hong Kong and in the United States. Somehow, in an environment of considerable uncertainty, they are able to grasp new business opportunities and forge new partnerships. And what they do bring benefits not only to the business communities of the two places but to the peoples of the two economies. I salute them for their wonderful work and contributions.
On the global stage, Hong Kong’s strengths as a vibrant and open economy and an international financial centre are increasingly recognised by all major players. The Global Wealth Report 2026, published this May, ranked Hong Kong as the world’s largest cross-boundary wealth management centre. The World Competitiveness Yearbook this year ranked Hong Kong as the second economy in the world in terms of our competitiveness.
These very positive international assessments are echoed by the business community in Hong Kong. The latest Business Sentiment Survey conducted by AmCham (American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong) released this February reflected a substantive improvement in sentiment. Eighty-six per cent of respondents viewed Hong Kong as highly competitive or competitive as an international business hub, up from 75 per cent last year. So last year was good but this year was even better. Also, an overwhelming 92 per cent of the respondents planned to maintain their regional headquarters in Hong Kong for the next three years. And they cited efficiency, stability and the very safe business environment in Hong Kong as reasons to continue to base their regional operations in this lovely city.
The Consul General mentioned the visit to China by the President of the United States early in May. It was historic. It was a landmark. The two leaders expressed support for a constructive relationship of strategic stability. And they reached important understanding on keeping economic and trade ties stable, on expanding practical co-operation in different fields, and on properly addressing each other’s concerns. We believe that the certainty and stability that follow their meeting are beneficial not just to Hong Kong, but to the entire world.
Ladies and gentlemen, the longstanding ties between the United States and Hong Kong are the result of years of hard work and goodwill by the peoples of the two economies. These ties have been built on a foundation of mutual respect and constructive dialogue. We look forward to their continued growth and positive developments in the years to come.