Month: July 2026

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Hong Kong Customs conducts interdepartmental anti-illicit cigarette publicity campaigns in Tai Po

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

Hong Kong Customs today (July 15) conducted joint anti-illicit cigarette publicity campaigns with members of the District Council, the Tobacco and Alcohol Control Office (TACO) of the Department of Health, the Hong Kong Police Force and the Housing Department (HD) at Tai Yuen Estate and Fu Heng Estate in Tai Po. Customs also publicised the Duty Stamp System. 

Customs officers patrolled the housing estates, introduced to residents Customs’ enforcement actions against illicit cigarettes, and reminded them that the maximum penalty for offences related to duty-not-paid cigarettes had been increased to a fine of $2 million and seven-years’ imprisonment. Customs also explained to estate security personnel how to deal with suspected illicit cigarette activities.

Customs officers also introduced to the members of the District Council, residents and cigarette retailers the Duty Stamp System to be implemented in Hong Kong. The three-month Pilot Run for the Duty Stamp System launched by Customs concluded early this year. The department will continue to maintain close communication with all stakeholders and optimise the design and implementation details of the system. Customs expects the Duty Stamp System to achieve the ultimate goal of effective distinguishing of duty-paid cigarettes from duty-not-paid ones, and to combat “cheap whites”.

Customs will continue to strengthen publicity and education to raise the public awareness of anti-illicit cigarettes. If public rental housing units are found to be involved in illicit cigarette crimes, Customs will notify the HD for follow-up action after the conclusion of court proceedings. Customs reminds members of the public not to buy or sell illicit cigarettes or distribute illicit cigarette leaflets to avoid creating a criminal record that could affect their future. 

Under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance (Cap. 109), anyone involved in dealing with, possession of, selling or buying illicit cigarettes commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years. Members of the public are urged to report any suspected illicit cigarette activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080, its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002). 

In accordance with the Smoking (Public Health) Ordinance (Cap. 371), no person shall distribute any smoking product advertisement (including any promotional leaflet). Any person who contravenes the regulation is liable to a maximum fine of $50,000. Members of the public are also urged to report any suspected activities of illicit cigarette leaflet distribution to TACO’s hotline 2961 8823.

        

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Members of International Advisory Board on Hong Kong Chinese Materia Medica Standards visit GCMTI, endorse reference standards for 16 types of commonly used Chinese Materia Medica

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Members of International Advisory Board on Hong Kong Chinese Materia Medica Standards visit GCMTI, endorse reference standards for 16 types of commonly used Chinese Materia Medica       
     Equipped with advanced technologies and state-of-the-art equipment, the permanent GCMTI building will further enhance capabilities in developing CMs testing methods and standards, fostering comprehensive, high-quality, and high-level development of CM in Hong Kong. The GCMTI will leverage frontier testing technology and indicators, explore the feasibility of further developing HKCMMS into an international quality evaluation standard for Chinese materia medica (CMM), thereby fostering cross-regional and international trade development for CMM, bringing benefits to related CMs enterprises and the testing and certification industry.
      
     The IAB members commended the GCMTI for conducting numerous rigorous research projects on CM based on the technical foundation of the HKCMMS project. These efforts have made a significant contribution to the scientific identification of CM, and have led to the development of several innovative testing methods. Furthermore, through technology transfer, the GCMTI has strengthened the capabilities of CM and testing industries in quality control and identification.
      
     To date the GCMTI has completed multiple globally leading thematic projects utilising cutting-edge technologies, such as versatile testing methods for chemical markers in proprietary CM, micro-morphological identifications of CM, and the establishment of a three-dimensional image database for traceable CMM through photogrammetry, etc. The results of GCMTI projects have been uploaded to the website      
     Meanwhile, the 14th Meeting of the IAB on HKCMMS, organised by the DH, concluded successfully today. Experts from various countries completed a review of the safety and quality standards for 16 types of CMM, as well as an examination of the safety testing requirements for CMM.
      
     During the two-day meeting, the IAB reviewed the standards for a total of 16 CMM, namely Bambusae Caulis in Taenias, Pyrolae Herba, Natrii Sulfas, Dichroae Radix, Dioscoreae Hypoglaucae Rhizoma, Cynanchi Atrati Radix et Rhizoma, Jasmini Flos, Tinosporae Caulis, Inulae Flos, Haematitum, Lasiosphaera seu Calvatia, Vespae Nidus, Dioscoreae Rhizoma, Aconiti Kusnezoffii Folium, Meliae Cortex and Tripterygii Wilfordii Radix. Following deliberations, the IAB selected 32 CMM as targets for the next phase of standard development.
      
     At the meeting, the experts also reviewed the safety testing requirements for CMM, covering the maximum residue limits for heavy metals, pesticide residues, aflatoxins and sulphur dioxide. The experts are from the Chinese Mainland, Australia, Austria, Canada, Germany, Japan, Thailand, the United Kingdom and the United States, etc.
      
     The GCMTI will continue to integrate into and serve the overall development of the country, promote the internationalisation and standardisation of CM through the HKCMMS, thereby further consolidating Hong Kong’s position as an international CM testing and quality control centre.
Issued at HKT 18:35

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HKPL introduces e-resources at book fair

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

HKPL introduces e-resources at book fair  
     The booth is located at B28 in Hall 1C on 1/F. Touchscreen displays and tablets are available for visitors to experience the online services and e-resources of the HKPL, including listening to e-audiobooks, the HKPL podcast channel “24/7 Story Pavilion”, and selected narrated articles from the “Total Wellness” e-book collection. The narrated articles form part of the online reading activity titled “Happiness with Words”, which is a collaboration with Radio Television Hong Kong Radio 5. The booth also features a designated “photo spot” where visitors can take pictures. After uploading the photos to social media and following the HKPL’s “Reading in Joyful” social media page, they can redeem souvenirs on-site, while stocks last.
 
     Diverse e-resources are provided by the HKPL for the public to enjoy the happiness of reading and listening to books anytime, including “Jin Yong Martial Arts Novels Audio Collection”, which immerses patrons in the world of martial arts, as well as “Naxos Spoken Word Library”, which provides e-audiobooks of literature, drama, philosophy, history and more.
 
     Readers of different ages can also read various kinds of Chinese e-books through the SUEP e-Book platform, including the novels, comics, children e-books and others in the SUEP “Hong Kong Renowned Writers” series, and the trending works recommended in the “Popular Good Reads@SUEP”. Other locally published e-book collections include “JoyReadClub”, which features works of popular authors, “Total Wellness”, which includes titles on lifestyle and health, and “Scholar World”, which provides scholarly e-books.
 
     In addition, there are a trove of English e-books on information technology and business-related subjects in the e-book collection “O’Reilly for Public Libraries”. Readers can also search through extensive collections of journals and scholarly dissertations on business and economics in the e-database “ProQuest Business Collection”, or read e-magazines or e-books of wide-ranging subjects through “Kono Libraries”, “Flipster” and “OverDrive”. Specifically for children, the Chinese e-book collection “FunPark” enables parents to enjoy fun-filled reading time with them through its interactive interfaces and games, nurturing their reading interest and language skills.
 
     With selections updated every quarter, the Pop-up e-Book page of the HKPL website (www.hkpl.gov.hk/en/collections/pop-up-e-book.html 
     The HKPL provides over 600 000 e-books and over 70 e-databases. Members of the public can log into their library accounts to read online or download them to computers and mobile devices for e-reading. Hong Kong residents who have never applied for a library card or HKPL e-account can visit the HKPL’s website to apply for an e-account to enjoy immediate access to the diverse e-resources.
 
     Please visit the HKPL’s booth at the book fair or visit www.hkpl.gov.hk/en/e-resources/index.htmlIssued at HKT 18:02

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Young persons in custody sit for HKDSE Examination for self-enhancement

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

     The results of the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) Examination were released today (July 15). Young persons in custody (PICs) obtained satisfactory results in the examination this year.

     A total of 14 young PICs from Sha Tsui Correctional Institution (STCI), Pik Uk Correctional Institution and Lai King Correctional Institution enrolled in the HKDSE Examination this year. They took a total of 83 examination papers and obtained level 2/”Attained” or above in 66 papers, or 79.5 per cent of all papers taken. Four of them met the general entrance requirements for local universities, among whom one candidate at STCI scored the highest 22 marks in the best five subjects and obtained an “Attained” in Citizenship and Social Development, with level 5* in Chinese Language and Tourism and Hospitality Studies.

     The examinations sat included the four core subjects of Chinese Language, English Language, Mathematics, and Citizenship and Social Development, as well as two electives of Economics and Tourism and Hospitality Studies.

     The Superintendent of STCI, Mr Poon Ho-lam, said, “The Correctional Services Department (CSD) has been committed to providing up-to-date and diversified rehabilitation programmes, supporting PICs to turn over a new leaf. The Department assists young PICs to pursue educational courses and sit for public examinations, enabling them to achieve self-enhancement and make contributions to the society in the future.”

     Mr Poon added that taking the HKDSE Examination not only enabled young PICs to regain their self-confidence, but also helped them to find a clear direction in life. He encouraged PICs to maintain a proactive and earnest attitude to determinedly meet various challenges ahead. He called on the public to give rehabilitated persons fair opportunities and accept and support their reintegration into society.
 
     The CSD has provided education to help young PICs below 21 years of age to gain accredited qualifications and develop positive values, hoping that they can further their studies, take up employment and reintegrate into society after release. 

                 

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LCQ16: Creation of a commodity trading ecosystem

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

LCQ16: Creation of a commodity trading ecosystem 
Question:
 
     The Outline of the National 15th Five-Year Plan clearly states, for the first time, that it supports the creation of a commodity trading ecosystem in Hong Kong. While Hong Kong currently has 15 approved warehouses by the London Metal Exchange (LME), a subsidiary of the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX), with a total storage capacity of 25 000 tonnes, this is reportedly only one-tenth of the average storage capacity of similar warehouses in other parts of Asia. There are views suggesting that the Government should further expand the commodity market to enhance its competitiveness comprehensively. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
 
(1) of (i) the locations, (ii) the storage capacity and (iii) the types of metals currently stored at each of the 15 LME-approved warehouses;
 
(2) as it has been reported that LME permits the delivery of seven metals (copper, aluminium, zinc, lead, tin, nickel and aluminium alloys) in Hong Kong, whether the Government has compiled statistics on (i) the respective stockpiles of the aforesaid seven metals in Hong Kong; if it has, set out the relevant figures; (ii) which of these metals is the most actively delivered in Hong Kong, and the relevant details; (iii) whether the Government will co-ordinate further with HKEX and LME to regularly publish commodity storage and trading data to help the industry accurately gauge market demand and developments in the industrial chain;
 
(3) as it has been reported that LME may approve the establishment of warehouses at any location within Hong Kong, not limited to sites near the port, whether the Government will proactively identify and plan for the use of more non-port land for storing commodities; whether the Government is aware of the specific requirements for warehousing facilities, including security, floor space, and transport and logistics infrastructure; if so, of the details;
 
(4) given the extremely high demands placed on warehouse loading capacity by commodities (particularly non-ferrous metals), and the current restrictions on land use, whether the Government will remove barriers to the provision of land for commodity warehouses, relax lease conditions, and streamline the approval process;
 
(5) as it has been reported that the authorities plan to earmark approximately 32 hectares of land south of the Hung Shui Kiu Industry Park for the development of a modern logistics cluster, and this land may also be considered for use as commodities warehouses, whether the authorities will set phased targets for establishing commodities warehouses in the Northern Metropolis and assisting the industry in expanding other high-value precious metals businesses (such as silver and platinum); and
 
(6) of the progress of the Government’s efforts to attract relevant leading enterprises engaged in commodities (such as state-owned enterprises and central enterprises, as well as international metal industry giants) to establish their headquarters or offices in Hong Kong; and the specific measures the authorities have put in place to support and assist warehouse operators?
 
Reply:
 
President,
 
     The Outline of the National 15th Five-Year Plan explicitly supports Hong Kong in developing a commodity trading ecosystem. As an international financial, trade and shipping centre, Hong Kong will leverage its unique advantages of connecting the Chinese Mainland and the world under “one country, two systems” and proactively align with the Outline of the 15th Five-Year Plan to develop an efficient and internationally competitive commodity trading ecosystem, seizing the opportunities arising from our country being the largest consumer of industrial metals in the world.
      
     In consultation with the Development Bureau (DEVB), the Transport and Logistics Bureau, the Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises (OASES), Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) and Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX), the reply to the six parts of the question is as follows:
 
(1) and (2) Since January 2025, the London Metal Exchange (LME), a wholly-owned subsidiary of HKEX, has included Hong Kong as an LME-approved delivery location and begun accepting applications from warehouse operators. As of end-June 2026, a total warehousing area of over 52 000 square metres has commenced operation in Hong Kong, with storage exceeding 24 000 tonnes. The locations, total storage areas, and types of metals permitted for storage across the 18 approved warehouses are set out in Annex.
 
     Among the seven types of metals currently permitted by the LME for delivery in Hong Kong, copper and zinc are the most actively traded in terms of physical delivery. Their inventory levels in Hong Kong stand at 10 700 tonnes and 8 650 tonnes, accounting for 44 per cent and 35 per cent of the total storage respectively.
      
     In accordance with international market practice, the LME publishes daily to the global market, through its official channels and designated financial information platforms, detailed inventory reports and trading data, including specific warrant and data categorised by delivery location (including Hong Kong) and metal type, enabling the industry and market participants to monitor physical metal dynamics and supply chain trends in Hong Kong and global markets. The Government and HKEX will continue to maintain close communication with the LME to ensure the transparent flow of relevant market information, thereby assisting the commodity industry in capitalising the development opportunities.
 
(3) to (5) The Government is leveraging the development of an international gold trading market as an entry point to develop a commodity trading ecosystem. Relevant efforts have yielded phased achievements, including the commencement of the trial operation of the central clearing and settlement system for gold in July this year. The Airport Authority Hong Kong has also launched a thousand-tonne-class warehousing facility project. At the same time, several private institutions (including banks) are actively expanding their storage capacity. Building on the foundation of strengthening our advantages in the gold trading market, we will progressively extend the relevant trading and warehousing infrastructure experience to other precious metals businesses, with a view to establishing a complete a commodity industry chain.
 
     With the continuous development of the commodity trading ecosystem, we anticipate that the demand for relevant warehousing facilities and logistics land will continue to rise. Adopting an industry-led planning approach, the Government has reserved industry land including those for industrial, logistics, and storage uses across various New Development Areas (NDAs) in the Northern Metropolis, which can satisfy the demand for commodity warehousing land. For example, to meet the logistics sector’s demand for land, the Government has reserved 32 hectares of land in the Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen NDA within the Northern Metropolis for the development of a modern logistics cluster. The Government plans to invite expressions of interest within this year from the logistics industry (including operators interested in developing commodity warehousing facilities in Hong Kong) for the first parcel of land within the cluster, thereby enabling the Government to formulate a development model that meets with industry needs.
      
     As another example, the permissible land uses of the 23-hectare Hung Shui Kiu Industry Park have been widened to encompass various industries, and can accommodate the development of commodity warehouses or ancillary facilities, and the statutory plot ratio restrictions have been removed to afford greater development flexibility. The Hung Shui Kiu Industry Park Company Limited has commenced operations and is formulating concrete development plans and approaching enterprises that might be keen to establish their operations in the Industry Park with a view to accelerating industry introduction. In addition, the Northern Metropolis Development Bill, which was introduced into the Legislative Council for First Reading on July 8 this year, will facilitate the planning and construction of commodity warehouses or ancillary facilities. This includes facilitating the adoption of innovative designs, materials, and construction techniques in relevant projects, or enhancing the quality, functionality, or sustainability of their design and construction. Should rezoning be required to accommodate commodity trading, streamlined town planning procedures can be applied, effectively shortening the processing time from at least nine months to two months. The DEVB has also introduced administrative measures to facilitate industry development, setting time limits for critical approval processes and strengthening internal monitoring and co-ordination. These measures will accelerate the approval and construction of industry structures.
 
(6) The Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau (FSTB), in collaboration with the OASES and InvestHK, has been promoting Hong Kong’s strategic direction and specific measures for developing a commodity trading ecosystem through various meetings, visits and major events (such as industry conferences, exhibitions, and seminars) to attract relevant leading enterprises to establish a presence in Hong Kong. With the support of InvestHK, a number of commodity warehousing and logistics companies have established delivery warehouses for the LME and the Chicago Mercantile Exchange in Hong Kong, actively integrating into the city’s commodity ecosystem.
 
     In selecting suitable sites for the warehouses, the operators have to hold in-depth discussions with the relevant warehousing industry players and landowners, which mainly involve the circumstances of individual facilities (such as loading capacity and infrastructure requirements) and other business considerations. In the course of discussion, technical issues involving planning permissions, lease conditions, etc, may also arise. The FSTB, in collaboration with relevant bureaux and departments, has been maintaining communication with relevant industry players, and held meetings to provide relevant information and guidance.
Issued at HKT 12:30

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Hongkong Post to issue “Biodiversity II” special stamps

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Hongkong Post to issue “Biodiversity II” special stamps       
     Located in a subtropical region, Hong Kong enjoys notable geographical features – mountainous terrain and extensive coastline – and distinct seasons. They together nurture a rich variety of natural habitats, providing homes for a wide range of flora and fauna. Hong Kong’s abundant biodiversity not only stems from its unique natural environment but also relies on relentless conservation efforts from all walks of life. Following the release of the “Biodiversity” special stamps in 2010, Hongkong Post will issue a set of four stamps on the theme of “Biodiversity II” to showcase the city’s distinctive biodiversity, with a view to raising the public’s awareness of ecological conservation and inspiring their collaboration in protecting Hong Kong’s natural treasures.
      
     Official first day covers for “Biodiversity II” will be on sale at all post offices and on Hongkong Post’s online shopping platform ShopThruPost (shopthrupost.hongkongpost.hk      
     A hand-back date-stamping service will be provided on July 30 at all post offices for official first day covers/souvenir covers/privately made covers bearing the first day of issue indication and a local address.
      
     Information about this set of special stamps and associated philatelic products is available on the Hongkong Post Stamps website (stamps.hongkongpost.hkIssued at HKT 12:28

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LCQ19: Development of charging-enabling infrastructure for electric commercial vehicles

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     Following is a question by the Hon Erik Yim and a written reply by the Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Mr Tse Chin-wan, in the Legislative Council today (July 15):
 
Question:
 
     The Updated Version of the Hong Kong Roadmap on Popularisation of Electric Vehicles, announced by the SAR Government in February 2026, proposed the establishment of an electric vehicle (EV) charging network underpinned by fast chargers. Moreover, given that the Northern Metropolis (NM) will be planned and developed to include a modern logistics cluster and a smart cross-boundary transport and logistics hub, it is learnt that the industry is highly concerned about the planning of charging-enabling infrastructure for electric commercial vehicles (ECVs). In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
 
(1) of the Government’s specific planning and development plans regarding the various measures for developing fast charging facilities for ECVs mentioned in the Updated Version of the Hong Kong Roadmap on Popularisation of Electric Vehicles, including whether it will announce the implementation details and timetable;
 
(2) whether efforts to popularise EVs in Hong Kong have already begun to cover the light, medium and heavy goods vehicles commonly used by logistics enterprises; how the development of fast charging facilities for ECVs will be integrated with NM’s modern logistics cluster and smart cross-boundary transport and logistics hub, so as to align with NM’s overall smart city and infrastructure planning; and
 
(3) of the model to be adopted by the Government to develop public charging facilities for new energy commercial vehicles, including whether it will consider attracting enterprises’ investment in the development of relevant facilities through public-private partnership?
 
Reply:
 
President,

     In order to achieve zero vehicular emissions before 2050, in line with Hong Kong’s commitment to strive for carbon neutrality in the same timeframe, the Government has actively promoted the popularisation of electric vehicles (EVs) in recent years, with remarkable results. There are currently over 170 000 EVs in Hong Kong, approximately six times the number in 2021. Of these, more than seven out of every 10 first registered private cars are EVs, the growth rate of which ranks among the top in the world. In terms of charging infrastructure, the number of parking spaces with charging-enabling infrastructure has increased from around 28 000 in 2021 to over 160 000 at present, representing a growth of more than 4.9 times; the number of public chargers has risen from around 4 700 to approximately 16 900, an increase of more than 2.5 times. The overall charging infrastructure is sufficient to support over 240 000 EVs.
      
     In February this year, the Government announced the Updated Version of the Hong Kong Roadmap on Popularisation of Electric Vehicles (the Updated Roadmap), setting out a number of schemes and initiatives to continue promoting the development of EVs. Going forward, we will adopt fast chargers (FCs) as the backbone of our public charging network, with the aim of increasing the number of FCs to 4 000 by 2030 and expecting to reach approximately 10 000 by 2035, capable of supporting around 500 000 EVs, providing greater convenience for private car owners whilst also supporting the popularisation of electric commercial vehicles (e-CVs).
      
     Having consulted the Development Bureau and the Transport and Logistics Bureau, my response to the question raised by the Hon Erik Yim is as follows: 
     As mentioned above, we are developing a public charging network with FCs as the backbone. The Government has established a high-level inter-bureaux/departmental working group to co-ordinate the effort of various bureaux and departments on the development of the charging network, and to provide guidance on the planning of the charging network, difficulties encountered in project implementation, and the piloting of new initiatives, thereby accelerating the electrification of vehicles and the establishment of a comprehensive charging network. In addition to traditional charging methods, we noted that charging service providers in the market also offer diverse charging solutions such as “Megawatt Flash Charge”, battery swapping and battery energy storage systems. These solutions are particularly helpful for the rapid charging of e-CVs. We are actively promoting the adoption of these diverse charging solutions in Hong Kong, and are providing policy support and co-ordination for charging service providers wishing to establish a presence here.
 
Development of green transport in Northern Metropolis
 
     The Northern Metropolis (NM) is a strategic development area for Hong Kong, offering immense economic value and development potential. The NM’s infrastructure, various new development areas, and large-scale projects such as the smart green mass transit system and the cross-boundary green logistics hub all provide excellent testing and application scenarios for new energy transport. In line with the development of the NM, the Government is committed to promoting zero-carbon, smart and sustainable mobility through appropriate land-use planning and the provision of corresponding infrastructure and facilities. This includes setting aside land for FCSs and providing EV charging facilities in car parks. The Government is also formulating the Generalised Green Framework for the Planning of New Development Areas to serve as guidance and a reference for various bureaux and departments when planning new development areas, including the NM.
 
     With regard to the development of logistics clusters, during the planning study for the Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen Modern Logistics Cluster, the trade highlighted that the construction of commercial vehicle charging facilities would help drive the long-term green transition of the logistics sector and create synergies with the long-term development of the logistics cluster. The Government will invite the industry to submit expressions of interest for the first plot of land within the Hung Shui Kiu Modern Logistics Hub later this year. At the same time, it will invite the industry to provide feedback on the infrastructure required to support future logistics operations within the hub, including green logistics facilities such as charging facilities for commercial vehicles, in order to understand the industry’s practical needs and development direction. After considering the trade’s feedback, the Government will formulate the terms and development model for the relevant plots to meet the industry’s development needs.
      
     The Government will continue to closely monitor technological developments in the field of green transport, fully capitalise on the development opportunities presented by the NM, promote new energy transport, and achieve a green and low-carbon transition.

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LCQ15: Attracting students from Belt and Road countries to study and work in Hong Kong

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

LCQ15: Attracting students from Belt and Road countries to study and work in Hong Kong 

Sub-types of
B&R Scholarship

DisciplineB&R Scholarship (Other Countries)

DisciplineB&R Scholarship (Research Postgraduate)

Discipline(2) and (3) Hong Kong’s post-secondary institutions have been, through different channels, assisting students in planning their future development according to their abilities, strengths and aspirations, and encouraging non-local students (including the B&R Scholarship awardees) to stay in Hong Kong for development after graduation. For instance, the faculties and student affairs offices of the institutions have been providing information related to further studies and employment, as well as diversified support services such as employment and internship opportunities, recruitment seminars, and career counselling and consultation services. Meanwhile, the Government and the institutions have introduced the following measures to encourage non-local students (including the B&R Scholarship awardees) to stay in Hong Kong for development after graduation:

(i) The Government introduced the Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates in 2008 and further relaxed the limit of stay under the arrangements from 12 months to 24 months in 2022, so that non-local students can apply to stay in Hong Kong to seek development opportunities upon graduation. Moreover, the Government has temporarily exempted full-time non-local postgraduate students from the restrictions on taking up part-time jobs starting from November 2023, and has extended the exemption to cover non-local undergraduate students starting from November 2024, with a view to enhancing their experience and understanding of working in Hong Kong, and providing them with a stronger incentive to stay in Hong Kong after graduation.      Currently, the Government and the institutions have put in place various measures to address students’ needs and encourage non-local students (including the B&R Scholarship awardees) to stay in Hong Kong for development after graduation. The effectiveness of these measures will be kept under review. The Government has no plan to introduce dedicated job-matching arrangements for student groups from particular places of origin.
Issued at HKT 12:20

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LCQ21: Ancillary transport services in new development areas

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

LCQ21: Ancillary transport services in new development areas 
(1) of the annual passenger trips of each franchised and non-franchised bus route plying to and from So Kwun Wat (including but not limited to Route No. 252 of The Kowloon Motor Bus Company (1933) Limited and Route No. K53 of MTR Corporation Limited) in the past five years, and set out the relevant information in tabular form;
 
(2) given the growing population in the vicinity of So Kwun Wat, whether the authorities have any plans to introduce bus routes primarily connecting So Kwun Wat to Tsuen Wan or other Kowloon districts; if so, of the details and timetable; if not, the reasons for that; and
 
(3) given that new public housing projects (including a large-scale Light Public Housing project) will be completed in Tuen Mun Area 54, whether the authorities have any plans to introduce brand new franchised bus routes connecting Tuen Mun Area 54 to various districts in Kowloon or Hong Kong, so as to cope with the transport demand arising from the additional population upon the completion of the new housing estates; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?
        
Reply: 
     In response to the question raised by the Member, the reply is as follows:
 
(1) The Transport Department (TD) conducts on-site surveys from time to time to monitor the operation of franchised bus and green minibus (GMB) services. According to the data recorded during on-site surveys conducted by the TD in June 2026, the overall service levels of bus and GMB routes serving So Kwun Wat are adequate to meet the passenger demand, whilst the average peak-hour occupancy rates (including special departures) recorded at bus stops or GMB stops in So Kwun Wat ranged from around 10 per cent to 65 per cent. The routes and their respective occupancy rates are set out in Annex.
 
(2) The TD has been continuously monitoring and reviewing the overall demand for transport services in So Kwun Wat. In response to the travelling needs of local residents, franchised bus operators (operators) have introduced special bus services to 10 existing bus routes during weekday peak hours, heading to North District, Tsuen Wan District, Kwun Tong District, Sham Shui Po District, Yau Tsim Mong District, Central and Western District, Wan Chai District, and Eastern District respectively. The TD also introduced Route No. 252S at the end of last year to provide direct bus services to and from Kowloon Bay Business Area during weekday peak hours. Residents of So Kwun Wat can also take Route No. 252 to and from the Tuen Mun Road Bus-Bus Interchange (BBI) and interchange with around 40 franchised bus routes heading to various districts in Hong Kong, Kowloon, and the New Territories. Fare concessions are offered by the Operators for interchanging passengers as well. In addition, MTR Bus Route Nos. K51A and K53 provide services between So Kwun Wat and MTR Tuen Mun Station, facilitating residents’ interchange with the MTR.
 
(3) In response to the population growth in Tuen Mun Area 54, the TD has introduced 9 new bus routes since July 2022 connecting the area with various locations within and outside Tuen Mun District, and has subsequently enhanced the service level of those routes. Furthermore, in conjunction with the development of Area 54, the TD has directed 3 inter-district bus routes to add en-route stops within Area 54. Currently, the area is served by a total of 12 bus routes, which travel within the district and to North District, Islands District, Tsuen Wan District, Kwai Tsing District, Kwun Tong District, Wong Tai Sin District, Sham Shui Po District, Yau Tsim Mong District, Central and Western District, Wan Chai District, and Eastern District, comprehensively catering to the travelling needs of local as well as Light Public Housing (LPH) residents. Additionally, residents in Tuen Mun Area 54 can take bus to the BBI and interchange with around 40 franchised bus routes heading to various districts across Hong Kong. The settled Bus Route Planning Programme (RPP) 2026-27 of Tuen Mun District includes amalgamating Route Nos. 67A and 67M, as well as enhancing the bus routing and extending it to Po Tin bus terminus, offering residents in Area 54 a more frequent service, and facilitating their commute to and from the BBI and other districts, offering residents in Area 54 a more frequent service, and facilitating their commute to and from the BBI and other districts. Moreover, the TD anticipates GMB Route No. 40A (Tsz Lun Road to Tuen Mun Town Centre) to be put into service in Q3 2026, facilitating the travelling needs of LPH residents.
 
     The TD will continue to monitor the development and population changes in Tuen Mun Area 54, and discuss with operators on service adjustment and improvement as appropriate so as to meet the public transport demand arising from the growing population.
Issued at HKT 12:00

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LCQ14: Regulation and enforcement work in relation to online shopping

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

     Following is a question by Dr the Hon Elvin Lee and a written reply by the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau, in the Legislative Council today (July 15):

Question:

     The Consumer Council (Council) announced at the beginning of this year that the overall number of complaints received in 2025 has ended the three-consecutive-year upward trend, falling back to 38 187, a decrease of 6 per cent compared with 2024. However, there were 18 913 online shopping complaints in the same year, representing a year-on-year increase of 12 per cent and accounting for about 50 per cent of the overall complaints, up from 42 per cent in the preceding year. The total amount involved also increased substantially by 45 per cent to nearly $93 million. In addition, complaints lodged by Hong Kong consumers against Mainland merchants concerning online shopping and non-online shopping have also risen by over 40 per cent respectively, a situation which is a cause for concern. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

(1) of the numbers of reports concerning unfair trade practices in online shopping received by the authorities and the relevant enforcement figures in 2024 and 2025, as well as the year-on-year increases in the relevant figures; whether the authorities will introduce further measures to step up inspections and enforcement against unfair trade practices in online shopping; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;

(2) whether the authorities will conduct a dedicated study on reports and complaints about unfair trade practices, so as to ascertain the main categories of goods or industries to which the increased reports and complaints relate; whether the authorities will further review whether the existing legislation, such as the Trade Descriptions Ordinance (Cap. 362) and the Sale of Goods Ordinance (Cap. 26), is adequate to regulate online shopping services, and whether the authorities will consider enacting dedicated legislation to strengthen regulation (in particular targeting cross-boundary online shopping); if so, of the details and implementation timetable; if not, the reasons for that;

(3) given that the Council has joined the “Online Shopping Consumer Protection Express Platform” scheme established by the China Consumers’ Association, and has signed a Memorandum of Understanding to further establish a collaboration mechanism for consumer protection with the Guangdong Consumer Council, whether the Government is aware of whether the Council has assessed the effectiveness of these mechanisms in handling complaints involving Mainland e-commerce traders in recent years, and whether the Council will step up promotion to the public of the channels for lodging complaints about cross-boundary online shopping services; and

(4) given that there are views pointing out that consumers lack understanding of differences in product standards and legal liability in cross-boundary online shopping, whether the Government will step up public education, such as publicising online-shopping “anti-scam tips” and risk reminders for cross-boundary consumption through various media, so as to enhance public vigilance?

Reply:

President,

     As online shopping has become increasingly popular in recent years, consumer habits are gradually shifting from brick-and-mortar models to online channels, and many traders are selling goods or services through online shopping platforms. In view of the changing market landscape, the Consumer Council (Council) has noted a recent increase in complaints regarding goods or services purchased online, as well as a rise in the proportion of such complaints relative to the total. In 2025, complaints regarding online shopping accounted for 50 per cent of the Council’s total complaints, up from 42 per cent in 2024. This rise is primarily due to the increased frequency of transactions conducted online for specific types of goods or services, such as hotel reservations and event ticket purchases. The Government has been committed to considering how to enhance consumer protection, ensuring that transactions take place in an environment that is fair and safeguards the rights and interests of both consumers and traders, regardless of whether goods or services are provided online. In view of the prevalence of online shopping, the Government is also actively strengthening its efforts to protect consumers in this area.

     In response to Dr the Hon Elvin Lee’s question, our reply is as follows:

(1) and (2) The Government is committed to safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of consumers. Currently, various laws in Hong Kong regulate consumer activities conducted through both physical and online channels. For example, the Sale of Goods Ordinance (Cap. 26), the Control of Exemption Clauses Ordinance (Cap. 71), the Supply of Services (Implied Terms) Ordinance (Cap. 457) and the Unconscionable Contracts Ordinance (Cap. 458) have laid down provisions to regulate relevant consumer contracts, including stipulating implied conditions in the contract of sale of goods (for example, the goods supplied are of merchantable quality and that a buyer has the right to reject defective goods unless he or she has a reasonable opportunity to examine the goods); a supplier of a service is obliged to carry out the service with reasonable care and skill and within a reasonable time; and the courts are empowered to refuse to enforce, or to revise unconscionable terms in consumer contracts for the sale of goods or supply of services.

     On the other hand, the Trade Descriptions Ordinance (Cap. 362) (TDO) prohibits traders from engaging in unfair trade practices against consumers, including false trade descriptions, misleading omissions, aggressive commercial practices, bait advertising, bait and switch, and wrongly accepting payment. The TDO covers both goods and services, and is applicable to both physical and online traders.

     As the principal enforcement agency of the TDO, the Customs and Excise Department (C&ED) is committed to combatting unfair trade practices at source, and adopts a three-pronged approach, including compliance promotion targeting traders, enforcement actions, and publicity and public education.

     Regardless of whether sales or transactions are conducted online, the C&ED will take resolute enforcement action if there is any suspected unfair trade practice. Regarding online shopping, the C&ED received 3 602 and 2 526 complaints concerning suspected unfair trade practices in 2024 and 2025 respectively. During the same period, the C&ED successfully prosecuted four cases involving unfair trade practices in online shopping. The C&ED has been closely monitoring complaint figures and trends, including the sectors most frequently associated with unfair trade practices, the goods and services involved, and sales channels, and adjusting its enforcement strategies in light of actual circumstances. To address unfair trade practices associated with online shopping, in addition to following up on reported cases, the C&ED will monitor different types of illegal online activities by using tools for evidence collection and investigation, and initiate follow-up actions and prosecutions where appropriate. If local or overseas websites are found to be conducting illegal activities, the C&ED may demand such websites to remove the relevant contents or links. Depending on the circumstances, joint operations with overseas enforcement agencies will also be mounted as and when required. If the cases involve offences falling outside the purview of the C&ED (such as the offence of fraud), the C&ED will refer such cases to other relevant law enforcement agencies for immediate follow-up.

     In addition, the C&ED has proactively engaged with major online Mainland shopping platforms to establish communication mechanisms, facilitate exchanges, and strengthen compliance promotion. Earlier this year, the C&ED signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with two cross-border e-commerce platforms, Taobao Tmall Hong Kong and Jingdong Group, to establish closer communication and collaboration mechanisms, strengthen compliance promotion, thereby providing more comprehensive protection of consumers’ rights and interests.

     The Government will continue to keep a close watch on relevant complaint and enforcement figures, and review trends in unfair trade practices so as to formulate appropriate response strategies in protecting consumers’ rights and interests.

(3) and (4) The Council endeavours to study and promote the protection of consumers’ rights and interests, and carries out its statutory functions in accordance with the Consumer Council Ordinance (Cap. 216), including the handling of complaints relating to goods and services of and the provision of advice to consumers, conducting surveys and studies on issues of consumers’ interest, as well as disseminating consumer information through CHOICE articles.

     The Council has actively strengthened the protection of consumers’ rights and interests in cross-border online shopping. In addition to participating on a trial basis in the “Online Shopping Consumer Protection Express Platform” established by the China Consumers’ Association, the Council signed an MOU to further establish a collaboration mechanism for consumer protection with the Guangdong Consumer Council in 2024, to strengthen co-operation between Guangdong and Hong Kong in safeguarding consumer rights and interests through cross-boundary complaint referrals, sharing of consumer information and regular exchanges, enhance the efficiency of resolving cross-boundary consumer disputes, and promote the integrated development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area’s consumer markets.

     In addition, the Council has been actively seeking to sign MOUs with consumer protection organisations in various places to establish a mechanism for referring cross-border complaints, including Macao and more than 30 Mainland provinces and municipalities. When the Council receives complaints regarding cross-border online shopping that involve non-local traders, the Council handles and follows up on these cases in an orderly and effective manner in accordance with established complaint handling mechanisms, through case referrals and information exchange with relevant consumer protection organisations. The Council will continue to handle cross-border online shopping complaints along the above direction and encourage consumers to seek assistance when needed.

     To more effectively safeguard consumer rights and interests in cross-border online shopping, in October 2025, the Council established the Working Group on Cross-border Consumer Protection and E-commerce Development, comprising representatives from local and Mainland e-commerce enterprises and other stakeholders to provide professional advice on relevant standards development, industry best practices and trends in cross-border consumer complaints etc, thereby strengthening the protection of consumers’ rights and interests in respect of cross-border online shopping activities and reducing consumer disputes. To address cross-border consumer issues arising from differences in laws and standards between Hong Kong and other places concerning various goods, the Council will remind consumers from time to time of the potential risks associated with cross-border consumer activities. For example, last year, the Council issued a consumer alert jointly with the Guangdong Consumer Council and Macao Special Administrative Region Government Consumer Council, appealing to consumers to pay careful attention to the differences in policies, logistics arrangements and product standards among the three places, and has published relevant CHOICE articles on relevant topics from time to time.