Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Major Sports Events Committee awards “M” Mark status to four events
The Major Sports Events Committee (MSEC) has awarded “M” Mark status to the FIDE World Team Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships 2026 (June 17 to 21), the 2026 Sun Life Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races (June 27 and 28), the Volleyball Nations League Hong Kong 2026 presented by China Life (Overseas) (July 8 to 12) and the Kerry Fencing World Championships 2026 Hong Kong, China (July 22 to 30).
The Chairman of the MSEC, Mr Wilfred Ng, said today (June 15), “We are very pleased to award the ‘M’ Mark status to these four distinct events. The chess championships and dragon boat races held in June represent a perfect blend of stillness and motion – one featuring a deep sense of intellectual competition, and the other showcasing rich traditional Chinese culture and team spirit. In July, top-tier women’s national volleyball teams from around the world will once again engage in fierce battles at the Kai Tak Arena, and the first-ever Fencing World Championships will also be held in Hong Kong. The public and tourists will be able to witness the peak showdowns of world-class athletes up close. These four events will not only bring a diverse spectating experience to the public and visitors, but also fully demonstrate Hong Kong’s unique charm and capability as a centre for major international sports events.”
For details of “M” Mark events, please visit www.mevents.org.hkIssued at HKT 11:00
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Coverage and statistics of “Total Domestic Expenditure on Innovation Activities” announced
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Coverage and statistics of “Total Domestic Expenditure on Innovation Activities” announced
Under the 15th Five-Year Plan, the Country has clearly supported Hong Kong’s development into an international innovation and technology (I&T) centre. Promoting I&T development has been one of the key policy areas of the current-term Government. To more comprehensively reflect the development trends and future strategic directions of Hong Kong’s I&T sector, the Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau (ITIB), with reference to statistical methodologies adopted by other economies and after consulting the Census and Statistics Department (C&SD), has announced the coverage and statistics of “Total Domestic Expenditure on Innovation Activities”. “Total Domestic Expenditure on Innovation Activities” covers: (i) Gross Domestic Expenditure on Research and Development (R&D) (Note), which includes basic research, applied research and experimental development activities; and (ii) expenditure on application development and other innovation activities by local enterprises, mainly covering economic activities that transform R&D outcomes into products or services, such as product design, software development, process validation, pilot testing, product testing, and applications for intellectual property registration. According to the latest figures from the C&SD, Hong Kong’s “Total Domestic Expenditure on Innovation Activities” amounted to $51.714 billion in 2024, representing an increase of 9 per cent over 2023, with its ratio to Gross Domestic Product at 1.63 per cent.
The Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, said, “Both the 14th and 15th Five-Year Plans of the country clearly support Hong Kong’s development into an international I&T centre. The 2025 Policy Address has set out a clearer vision and roadmap for I&T development. While the Government continues to increase investment in I&T, it also actively encourages enterprises to serve as the main drivers of innovation, jointly promoting the deep integration of technological and industrial innovation. At present, building on the research capabilities of existing universities, Hong Kong’s I&T sector has basically formed a development framework underpinned by three major I&T parks and five major R&D institutions. In the next five years, the Government will align closely with the key technology areas prioritised by the country, strengthen research capabilities, and further encourage enterprises to invest in innovation activities, so as to empower economic transformation through technology, develop new quality productive forces, and realise the vision of developing Hong Kong into an international I&T centre.”
A spokesman for the C&SD said, “The C&SD will continue to keep abreast of relevant international guidelines and provide professional statistical advice to the ITIB and other stakeholders, with a view to compiling appropriate statistics that reflect the latest situation of innovation activities in Hong Kong.”
Note: Gross domestic expenditure on R&D refers to the total expenditure on in-house R&D activities performed in Hong Kong during the reference year. It includes expenditure on R&D activities performed within Hong Kong and funded from abroad but excludes payments made abroad for R&D activities.
Issued at HKT 10:13
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Director of Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of CPC Central Committee and Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of State Council Mr Xia Baolong to visit Hong Kong for inspection
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
The Director of the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council, Mr Xia Baolong, will visit Hong Kong on June 16 and 17, to inspect Hong Kong’s alignment with the National 15th Five-Year Plan and the advancement of the Northern Metropolis.
The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, expressed gratitude to Mr Xia for his continued concern and support for Hong Kong. He enthusiastically looked forward to and extended his warmest welcome to Mr Xia for visiting Hong Kong for the inspection. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government endeavours to support and facilitate the inspection to ensure a smooth visit.
HKSAR LegCo strongly condemns untruthful Washington Post editorial on Subsidiary Legislation safeguarding national security
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
HKSAR LegCo strongly condemns untruthful Washington Post editorial on Subsidiary Legislation safeguarding national security
The Legislative Council (LegCo) spokesperson today (June 14) strongly condemned the untruthful editorial by the Washington Post regarding the enactment of the Safeguarding National Security (Procedural Matters) Regulation (Procedural Matters Regulation) by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). LegCo also fully supported the HKSAR Government to strongly condemn the Washington Post for upholding double standards, as well as its wanton smearing and slandering, which was made to serve its anti-China purposes, against the HKSAR’s safeguarding national security law and relevant mechanism established in accordance with the law.
National security is the foundation of a nation’s existence and a crucial cornerstone for its stability. Enacting laws to safeguard national security is the inherent right of every sovereign state and an international practice. Safeguarding national security is not Hong Kong’s nightmare, but rather a constitutional responsibility and an inherent duty of the HKSAR. The United States (US), for example, has at least 21 pieces of legislation on safeguarding national security. The Washington Post, however, deliberately targeted and pointed fingers at the HKSAR’s continuous efforts in improving its legal system to fulfil a constitutional duty to safeguard national security. That fully displayed their unreasonable anti-China stance and double standards, and clearly violated the professional ethics of journalists.Issued at HKT 19:32
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Labour import scheme enhanced
Source: Hong Kong Information Services
The Government today announced the implementation of a tiered vetting mechanism for labour importation starting from tomorrow, introducing enhanced measures under the Enhanced Supplementary Labour Scheme.
The basic vetting parameters under Tier 1 maintain a manning ratio of two full-time local employees to one imported worker, alongside a four-week local recruitment period. Applications vetted under Tier 2 will face more stringent restrictions.
For the food and beverage services sector, specific posts in the production and table service sections will fall under the Tier 2 mechanism. These include cooks, junior cooks, barbecue cooks, drink makers and bar supervisors, as well as waiters, waitresses, restaurant supervisors, receptionists and cashiers.
Employers applying for these specific roles must observe a tighter manning ratio of 3:1. The calculation basis will also switch to cover all posts within that respective section.
Additionally, the local recruitment period for these food and beverage positions will extend to six weeks. Employers will be required to attend an assigned Labour Department (LD) job centre fair once every two weeks during this period.
To encourage the employment of people with disabilities, a special 1:1 manning ratio will apply if employers hire them for full-time roles while applying for imported workers.
The Government will also raise the deductible ceiling for accommodation costs from 10% to 20% of an imported worker’s wages, or the actual cost, whichever is lower, while maintaining median wage requirements.
Workplace restrictions will be relaxed to let employers deploy imported workers across a maximum of five administrative districts. Employers must list vacancies in those designated districts during the initial local recruitment drive.
Administrative sanctions will be strengthened for employers who commit serious breaches. Barring periods for multiple offenses will be counted cumulatively up to a maximum of five years, and the LD will also publish the names of sanctioned employers to enhance deterrence.
The new measures follow a comprehensive implementation review of the scheme, taking into account national manpower projections and stakeholder feedback. The Government reiterated that the changes strike a balance between securing employment priority for local workers and supporting economic development by addressing genuine manpower shortages.
MOEA Leads Delegation to Europe’s EuCNC & 6G Summit Taiwan’s 6GIF and Europe’s 6G IA Sign 6G Industry Cooperation MoU to Advance a Global 6G Ecosystem
Source: Republic of China Taiwan
The Department of Industrial Technology (DoIT), Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA), led a Taiwan delegation comprising representatives from industry, academia, and research institutes to participate in the 2026 EuCNC & 6G Summit, held in Malaga, Spain, from June 2-5. As Europe’s flagship event for advanced communications research, the summit serves as an important international platform for collaboration on future network technologies and global 6G development.
The delegation brought together the Taiwan 6G Industry Forum (6GIF), MediaTek, Compal Electronics, TMYTEK, G REIGNS, Auden Techno Corp., Atayalan Inc., Launchip Inc., National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, National Tsing Hua University, Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI), and the Institute for Information Industry (III). Together, the delegation showcased Taiwan’s achievements in 6G and satellite communications technologies, demonstrating the nation’s R&D capabilities and industrial strengths in next-generation communications.
During the summit, the Taiwan delegation hosted a “Taiwan Special Session” to facilitate technical exchange between industry, academia, and research organizations from Taiwan and Europe. The session highlighted emerging 6G technologies, including non-terrestrial networks (NTN), integrated sensing and communications (ISAC), and AI-RAN, while identifying future opportunities for Taiwan-Europe cooperation.
A key milestone was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the European 6G Smart Networks and Services Industry Association (6G-IA) and the Taiwan 6G Industry Forum (6GIF). The signing was witnessed by Man-Tieh Chen, Section Chief of DoIT, MOEA, and Miguel Gonzalez-Sancho, Head of Unit for Future Connectivity Systems at the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Communications Networks, Content and Technology (DG CONNECT). The MoU will advance collaboration in 6G technology development and standards alignment, further connecting the Taiwanese and European cooperation and connectivity across the global 6G ecosystems.
In addition, ITRI signed a Cooperation Agreement with the Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research (TNO) as part of the Future Network Services (FNS) program to advance joint research and development on ISAC for selected use cases. The agreement will support technical validation and future standards contributions, strengthening Taiwan-Europe collaboration in key 6G enabling technologies.
To support Taiwan’s long-term competitiveness, MOEA has been investing in key 6G technologies, including 6G base station chipsets, ISAC, NTN, intelligent network management, and 6G experimental platforms. With global 6G standards expected to be released in 2029, Taiwan will continue leveraging its semiconductor and ICT supply chain strengths to accelerate international validation, standards participation, and ecosystem collaboration, positioning itself as a key partner in the global 6G landscape.
Five-Year Plan consultation begins
Source: Hong Kong Information Services
The Government today launched a two-month public consultation on “The First Five-Year Plan for Economic & Social Development of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (2026-2030)”.
The consultation for the city’s five-year plan will run until August 14.
In a statement, the Government said the plan will outline the city’s development vision and strategic directions for the next five years. It will cover key areas including the economy, industries, spatial planning, infrastructure and green transformation, as well as livelihood sectors such as healthcare, education, housing, welfare and elderly care.
Speaking to the media this morning, Secretary for Constitutional & Mainland Affairs Janice Tse said the country has launched its National 15th Five-Year Plan this year and Hong Kong is following its lead by rolling out the city’s very first five-year plan.
“Through this, we will better align ourselves with and serve national development, as well as seize the new opportunities,” she added.
“The Hong Kong Five-Year Plan is strategic, forward-looking and operable. It lays out our goals for the next five years. We will focus on Hong Kong’s unique advantages under the ‘one country, two systems’ (principle), and strengthen our position as an international financial, maritime and trade centre.
“We will strive to speed up progress on our international innovation and technology centre and the Northern Metropolis. We will also help drive growth for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area,” she said.
Miss Tse highlighted that the plan carries profound significance for all Hong Kong residents. She stated that the Government looks forward to receiving ideas from all sectors of the community to build a shared vision for the city’s future.
The public consultation document is available on the thematic website. Copies can also be collected at the Home Affairs Enquiry Centres across the 18 districts. Members of the public can submit their views through the website or via email.
The Government will organise multiple consultation sessions over the next two months. The sessions will gather input from Legislative Council members, sectoral representatives and the general public.
The Government aims to publish the official blueprint for Hong Kong’s Five-Year Plan within the third quarter of the year.
Taiwan FDI Statistics Summary Analysis (May 2026)
Source: Republic of China Taiwan
According to the statistics, from January to May 2026, 979 foreign direct investment (FDI) projects with a total approved amount of US$ 8,433,161,000 were recorded. This represents a 19.54% increase in the number of cases, and a 53.82% increase in the FDI amount compared with the same period in 2025.
Regarding inward investment from Mainland China, 8 cases with a total approved amount of US$1,131,000 were recorded from January to May 2026. This reflects no change in the number of cases and a 98.83% decrease in the investment amount compared with the same period in 2025.
In terms of Taiwan’s outbound investment (excluding Mainland China), 271 projects were registered from January to May 2026, with a total amount of US$ 35,611,090,000. This represents a 18.62% decrease in the number of cases, but a 133.94% increase in the investment amount, compared with the same period in 2025.
As for Taiwan’s outward investment to Mainland China, 96 applications were approved from January to May 2026, marking a 28% increase compared with the same period in 2025. The approved investment amount totaled US$ 310,298,000, representing a 32.3% decline compared with the same period in 2025.
eTraffic Ticket Platform enhanced
Source: Hong Kong Information Services
The Police Force today launched new features on its e-Traffic Ticket Platform (eTTP) to make handling electronic traffic fixed penalty notices (FPNs) more efficient for the public and the transport sector.
Fleet management upgrades
To enhance fleet management, the updated platform introduces multiple user roles, including Agents, Agency Companies and Designated Employees. Registered vehicle owners and corporate account holders can authorise these designated representatives to track and manage parking-related FPNs.
Vehicle-specific QR Code
Fleet operators and drivers can now generate and download Vehicle-specific QR Codes via the platform. On-duty drivers scanning the code with the eTTP mobile app can log their driving hours.
If an illegal parking FPN is issued during those hours, the driver will receive an immediate push notification. They can then view the infraction details and settle the fine directly through the app.
The system also integrates with the Transport Department’s HKeToll Commercial Vehicle Driver mobile app. Drivers can activate both tracking systems simultaneously with a single scan.
Evidence and disputes
The update adds two major self-service features for all users. Via the eTTP, users can apply through the platform to view illegal parking photos taken by offices.
In addition to existing channels, users can dispute any traffic FPN through the eTTP and upload supporting documents.
President Lai attends opening of 2026 Rotary International Convention
Source: Republic of China Taiwan
On the morning of June 14, President Lai Ching-te attended the opening ceremony of the 2026 Rotary International Convention. In remarks, President Lai stated that Taipei is hosting this convention for the first time in 32 years, and that the event affirms that the international community sees Taiwan as an enduring force for humanitarian care, public welfare, and world peace. He noted that Taiwan’s 12 Rotary districts and more than 36,000 members have partnered with Rotarians worldwide to make significant contributions across all seven of the organization’s areas of focus, including peacebuilding and conflict prevention, as well as disease prevention and treatment. The president pointed out that peace and stability are the greatest hope of people everywhere, and stated that in the future, Taiwan will continue to walk hand in hand with Rotarians worldwide in our commitment to peace, public health, environmental sustainability, humanitarian aid, and beyond, fostering a more connected world through goodwill and shaping the future through action.
A transcript of President Lai’s remarks follows:
The Rotary International Convention is one of the most influential global NGO events. On behalf of the government and people of Taiwan, I want to welcome [Rotary International] President [Francesco] Arezzo and Mrs. Arezzo, and Rotarians from around the world.
Taipei is hosting this convention for the first time in 32 years. Rotary members from over 140 countries are joining us today, making it a truly momentous occasion.
Special thanks go to Taiwan Rotary members for bringing the world to Taiwan, and to Rotary International leaders for their support. This event affirms that the international community sees Taiwan as an enduring force for humanitarian care, public [welfare], and world peace.
The theme for this general session, “Planting Peace, Growing Hope,” captures the spirit of Taiwan’s Rotarians. For many years, Taiwan’s 12 Rotary districts and more than 36,000 members have partnered with Rotarians worldwide. Together, they have brought change and hope to communities across all seven areas of focus, including peacebuilding and conflict prevention, and disease prevention and treatment.
Through Rotary International’s more than 40 years of efforts, polio cases worldwide have been reduced by 99.9 percent. Yesterday, many people took part in the End Polio Now 3K and 12.5K Run in Taipei, united in the push toward zero cases.
We will achieve this goal. I can say this with confidence because of Taiwan’s outstanding track record. Taiwan successfully met the WHO’s 2030 target for eliminating hepatitis C – five years ahead of schedule. This is thanks in part to the support of our Rotary clubs. I want to extend my deepest appreciation to everyone for making this possible.
This is another new milestone for Taiwan in global public health. It follows the COVID-19 outbreak, when our successful prevention strategies enabled us to help others around the world. I’m confident that in the future, cooperation between Taiwan and Rotary International will lead to even more achievements.
Another goal we share is to strive for peace. At the convention in Calgary last year, President Arezzo noted that Rotary International is a great, immense machine. It has been working for peace for more than a century.
Everything Rotarians do worldwide is in the name of peace. This includes promoting cultural understanding, improving living environments, and providing economic aid.
Today’s global community faces many challenges, from geopolitical changes to extreme climate events and supply chain restructuring. At this very moment, peace and stability are the greatest hope of people everywhere.
Taiwan stands on the frontlines of defense against authoritarian expansion. As a cornerstone of global supply chain security, Taiwan will shoulder its responsibility, and will maintain the status quo across the Taiwan Strait. With our strength in technology, we will also expand cooperation with our democratic partners. Together, we will boost supply chain and economic resilience. We will uphold regional peace and stability, and promote global prosperity and development.
Early this month, tech companies from around the world gathered for COMPUTEX. Today, the Rotary International Convention celebrates another grand opening. Both of these events prove that democratic Taiwan is an important platform for global exchange. They also show that Taiwan is a force for good in the world’s development.
Let’s work together to “Do Good in the World!” In our commitment to peace, public health, environmental sustainability, humanitarian aid, and beyond, Taiwan will continue to walk hand in hand with Rotarians worldwide. Together, we will foster a more connected world through goodwill, and shape the future through action.
Once again, welcome to everyone who has traveled from afar. I invite you to take this opportunity to explore Taiwan. I hope you can personally experience what makes Taiwan so free, open, and diverse. I wish this convention great success, and hope you all make lasting memories. Thank you.
Also in attendance at the event were Rotary Foundation Chair Holger Knaack and Rotary International Convention Committee Chair Andreas von Möller.