Author: MIL-OSI Publisher

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

     The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, met with the Secretary of the Party Leadership Group and Prosecutor General of the Supreme People’s Procuratorate, Mr Ying Yong, at Government House today (September 22) to exchange views on issues of mutual concern. The Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC, also attended the meeting.
 
     Mr Lee welcomed Mr Ying and his delegation to Hong Kong to attend the 15th China-ASEAN Prosecutors-General Conference. He expressed gratitude to the Central Government and the Supreme People’s Procuratorate for supporting Hong Kong in organising this high-level conference for the first time, which further consolidates Hong Kong’s role as a regional hub for legal exchanges and fully demonstrates the unique position and advantages of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) under the “one country, two systems” principle, having the strong support of the country while maintaining unparalleled connectivity with the world.
 
     Mr Lee noted that the theme of this year’s conference is “Combatting Money Laundering and Corruption, and Recovering Assets in the Technological Age”. As an international financial, shipping, and trade centre, Hong Kong is the only common law jurisdiction within the country, with its legal system aligned with most major financial centres around the world. While maintaining a highly open international market, Hong Kong attaches great importance to safeguarding the integrity of its financial system and has consistently adhered to international standards in its anti-money laundering systems and measures. The Department of Justice has also established a dedicated sub-division to handle technology crimes and digital evidence, proactively addressing the challenges brought by technological advancements.
 
     Mr Lee said that Hong Kong has been integrating into the overall national development. The Department of Justice is committed to promoting “soft connectivity” between local prosecutors and representatives of procuratorates across the Mainland, deepening co-operation in areas such as mutual legal assistance in criminal matters, training of prosecutorial personnel, and expert exchanges, to effectively combat cross-border crimes. The HKSAR Government will continue to deepen co-operation with the Mainland in prosecution, contributing to the country’s construction of the rule of law.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

     The Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau, will depart for Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, tomorrow morning (September 23).
 
     Mr Yau will attend the ninth Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Economic Ministers – Hong Kong, China (HKC) Consultation meeting to discuss with the participating economic ministers of ASEAN member states (AMS) the implementation of the ASEAN-HKC Free Trade Agreement and the ASEAN-HKC Investment Agreement, and exchange views on other issues such as the future direction of ASEAN-HKC economic co-operation. On the sidelines of the meeting, he will hold bilateral meetings with economic ministers of the AMS to exchange views on issues of mutual interest.
 
     During his stay in Kuala Lumpur, Mr Yau will also meet with representatives of the business sector to promote Hong Kong’s advantages and business opportunities, and visit enterprises to learn about their development, particularly e-commerce.
 
     Mr Yau will return to Hong Kong on September 27. The Under Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Dr Bernard Chan, will be the Acting Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development during Mr Yau’s absence.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

The Census and Statistics Department (C&SD) released today (September 22) the Consumer Price Index (CPI) figures for August 2025. According to the Composite CPI, overall consumer prices rose by 1.1% in August 2025 over the same month a year earlier, slightly larger than the corresponding increase (1.0%) in July 2025. Netting out the effects of all Government’s one-off relief measures, the year-on-year rate of increase in the Composite CPI (i.e. the underlying inflation rate) in August 2025 was 1.1%, also slightly larger than that in July 2025 (1.0%).

On a seasonally adjusted basis, the average monthly rate of increase in the Composite CPI for the 3-month period ending August 2025 was 0.3%, and that for the 3-month period ending July 2025 was 0.2%. Netting out the effects of all Government’s one-off relief measures, the corresponding rates of increase were 0.2% and 0.1%.

Analysed by sub-index, the year-on-year rates of increase in the CPI(A), CPI(B) and CPI(C) were 1.5%, 1.0% and 0.9% respectively in August 2025, as compared to 1.5%, 0.9% and 0.6% respectively in July 2025. Netting out the effects of all Government’s one-off relief measures, the year-on-year rates of increase in the CPI(A), CPI(B) and CPI(C) were 1.4%, 1.0% and 0.9% respectively in August 2025, as compared to 1.4%, 0.9% and 0.6% respectively in July 2025.

On a seasonally adjusted basis, for the 3-month period ending August 2025, the average monthly rates of change in the CPI(A), CPI(B) and CPI(C) were 0.4%, 0.3% and 0.3% respectively. The corresponding rates of change for the 3-month period ending July 2025 were 0.4%, 0.2% and 0.1% respectively. Netting out the effects of all Government’s one-off relief measures, the average monthly rates of change in the seasonally adjusted CPI(A), CPI(B) and CPI(C) for the 3-month period ending August 2025 were all 0.2%, and the corresponding rates of change for the 3-month period ending July 2025 were 0.1%, 0.1% and 0.0% respectively.

Amongst the various components of the Composite CPI, year-on-year increases in prices were recorded in August 2025 for transport (2.5%), alcoholic drinks and tobacco (1.8%), housing (1.7%), miscellaneous services (1.5%), meals out and takeaway food (1.3%), electricity, gas and water (0.6%), and miscellaneous goods (0.1%).

On the other hand, year-on-year decreases in the components of the Composite CPI were recorded in August 2025 for durable goods (-3.1%), clothing and footwear (-2.8%), and basic food (-0.1%).

Taking the first 8 months of 2025 together, the Composite CPI rose by 1.5% over a year earlier. The respective increases in the CPI(A), CPI(B) and CPI(C) were 2.1%, 1.4% and 1.1% respectively. The corresponding increases after netting out the effects of all Government’s one-off relief measures were 1.1%, 1.5%, 1.0% and 0.9% respectively.

For the 3 months ending August 2025, the Composite CPI rose by 1.2% over a year earlier, while the CPI(A), CPI(B) and CPI(C) rose by 1.6%, 1.1% and 0.8% respectively. The corresponding increases after netting out the effects of all Government’s one-off relief measures were 1.0%, 1.4%, 0.9% and 0.8% respectively.

For the 12 months ending August 2025, the Composite CPI was on average 1.5% higher than that in the preceding 12-month period. The respective increases in the CPI(A), CPI(B) and CPI(C) were 2.0%, 1.4% and 1.2% respectively. The corresponding increases after netting out the effects of all Government’s one-off relief measures were 1.1%, 1.4%, 1.0% and 0.9% respectively.

Commentary

A Government spokesman said that consumer price inflation stayed modest in August. The underlying Composite CPI increased by 1.1% over a year earlier, edging up from 1.0% in the preceding month. Price pressures on various major components remained generally contained.

Looking ahead, pressures from domestic costs and external prices should stay broadly in check. Overall inflation should remain modest in the near term.

Further information

The CPIs and year-on-year rates of change at section level for August 2025 are shown in Table 1. The time series on the year-on-year rates of change in the CPIs before and after netting out the effects of all Government’s one-off relief measures are shown in Table 2. For discerning the latest trend in consumer prices, it is also useful to look at the changes in the seasonally adjusted CPIs. The time series on the average monthly rates of change during the latest 3 months for the seasonally adjusted CPIs are shown in Table 3. The rates of change in the original and the seasonally adjusted Composite CPI and the underlying inflation rate are presented graphically in Chart 1.

More detailed statistics are given in the “Monthly Report on the Consumer Price Index”. Users can browse and download this publication at the website of the C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/EIndexbySubject.html?pcode=B1060001&scode=270).

For enquiries about the CPIs, please contact the Consumer Price Index Section of the C&SD (Tel: 3903 7374 or email: cpi@censtatd.gov.hk).

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

The steering committee on handling extreme weather, led by the Chief Secretary for Administration, released the following information today (September 22) in response to the latest assessment and forecast on Super Typhoon Ragasa by the Hong Kong Observatory.

According to the current forecast by the Observatory, the local weather is expected to deteriorate rapidly later tomorrow (September 23). The Observatory will consider issuing the Gale or Storm Signal No. 8 between 1pm and 4pm tomorrow. The weather will be persistently adverse on Wednesday (September 24). Gale to storm force winds will prevail locally, and winds may reach hurricane force offshore and on high ground. There will be frequent heavy squally showers and thunderstorms. Under the influence of significant storm surge, the sea level over coastal areas by then may be similar to that during Hato in 2017 and Mangkhut in 2018. Members of the public are advised to prepare immediately for high winds and flooding.

Considering the aforementioned forecast by the Observatory, to ensure students’ safety and to avoid students leaving the school when the weather may rapidly deteriorate, the Education Bureau (EDB) announces that classes in all schools, including secondary schools, primary schools, special schools, kindergartens, kindergarten-cum-child care centres and evening schools, will be suspended tomorrow and the following day (September 24). During the class suspension period, schools will not accept paper applications for discretionary places under the Primary One Admission (POA) 2026. The deadline for submitting paper applications has been extended to September 30 (Tuesday). Parents may also choose to submit e-applications via the POA e-Platform (epoa.edb.gov.hk) on or before September 26 (Friday). Details are available on the EDB’s website.

In view of the forecast by the Observatory that the Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 3 will be issued tonight, the Social Welfare Department (SWD) advises members of the public not to take their children or family members to units providing child care centre services, services under the Neighbourhood Support Child Care Project, and after-school care programmes for pre-primary or primary school children, elderly services centres, day pre-school rehabilitation service units or day rehabilitation units including sheltered workshops, integrated vocational rehabilitation services centres, integrated vocational training centres and day activity centres. These centres and services units will, however, remain open during their normal operating hours to serve those whose families cannot provide alternative care for them. Members of the public who have the need for the services mentioned may contact the centres or services units concerned in advance. When the Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 8 or above is hoisted, the aforementioned day child care services units, centres providing after-school care programmes, day rehabilitation units, elderly day services centres and SWD welfare services units will not open.

District Offices have initiated relevant response measures. In view of the possible threats that Ragasa may pose to Hong Kong, District Offices will advance the opening of temporary shelters at 8am tomorrow for people in need. District Offices will closely monitor the situation, and if necessary, individual temporary shelters will commence operation earlier today. The Home Affairs Department has also activated a round-the-clock hotline (2572 8427) at noon today for public enquiries on the relevant information and will continue to release information on the operation of temporary shelters through different channels.

In addition, District Offices have co-ordinated with relevant departments and organisations to enhance preparedness, setting up sandbags and water-stop boards, among others. District Council members, members of “the three committees” and Care Teams are mobilised to disseminate the latest weather information to residents in flood-prone areas, reminding them to make necessary preparations. Residents in flood-prone areas are advised to stay away from their homes or stay at temporary shelters.

The Emergency Monitoring and Support Centre (EMSC) under the Security Bureau was fully activated at 10.30am today, more than 24 hours earlier than normal, in order to achieve the objective of “early planning and early intervention”. Utilising the Common Operational Picture, directorate officers of relevant departments at the EMSC conduct real-time citywide monitoring and integrate updates from various departments to swiftly assess risks and formulate response plans and measures. 

Various emergency response teams, including the Fire Services Department, the Hong Kong Police Force, the Civil Aid Service and the Auxiliary Medical Service, are on standby and have completed all necessary preparatory work. Sufficient manpower has been deployed to handle possible emergencies during heavy rainstorms and high winds, and to provide assistance to those in need.

The Government will closely monitor the situation in the city to assess whether to initiate the Government-wide Mobilisation mechanism after the typhoon for providing emergency support. The Civil Service Bureau has reminded all 77 bureaux and departments (B/Ds) to remain highly vigilant and stand ready to form quick response units at any time to provide support. Each B/D has also drawn up their lists of designated personnel for mobilisation and made duty rotation arrangements in advance.

It is expected that Ragasa may pose serious threats to Hong Kong, Members of the public should be well prepared for the continued severe weather conditions over the next two days, including implementing emergency, wind and flooding prevention measures, with a view to reducing the risk of property damage and casualties. The Government also reminds residents in flood-prone areas and those who are staying in temporary structures, such as rooftop houses and squatter huts near slopes, to stay away from their homes or stay at temporary shelters. It also recommends that vehicles parked outdoors be parked indoors.

Under the cross-departmental co-ordination by the steering committee, various government departments have completed all necessary preparatory work and response plans, served with their dedication to duty, and combined efforts to safeguard the lives and property of the public as well as public safety, with a view to minimising the threats and impact of the storm. The public is urged to stay alert and continue to pay attention to the latest news released by the Government.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:

The Hong Kong Institute for Monetary and Financial Research (HKIMR), the research arm of the Hong Kong Academy of Finance (AoF), today (September 22) released a new Applied Research report, titled “Long-term Investing in Hong Kong: Developments and Opportunities in a Digital Economy”.
 
The report, building upon the HKIMR’s prior research on demographic changes and long-term asset markets, provides a comprehensive and updated analysis of Hong Kong’s long-term investing landscape and opportunities within the context of an evolving digital economy. The report covers two surveys that were commissioned by the HKIMR. The first survey, carried out in collaboration with the Investor and Financial Education Council, explored Hong Kong residents’ long-term investment decisions. The second survey, administered in collaboration with a consulting firm, focused on local market participants to gain insight into their perspectives on product development, distribution strategies, and the adoption of technology.  
 
The study highlights that while Hong Kong residents exhibit a strong foundation for basic financial knowledge, there is a need for greater awareness of specific financial products, particularly those related to long-term investing and financial planning. As for products, Hong Kong already possesses a diverse suite of globally competitive accumulation products. However, 67 per cent of the surveyed market participants saw the crucial need to increase the supply of decumulation product options to accommodate their customers’ demand for long-term financial planning.
 
The study also reflects that digital adoption among both survey groups is high. In the study, 72 per cent of surveyed residents reported using digital financial services in the past year, and about 70 per cent of the surveyed market participants reported they are currently adopting or plan to adopt mobile and web platforms to distribute long-term financial products. Based on these survey findings, the study suggests some considerations to foster a healthy long-term investment ecosystem in Hong Kong. Among those, embracing frontier technologies is key to drive innovative product and services, increase cost efficiency, and further enhance product distribution to support more effective long-term investing and financial planning.
 
     “The trend of population ageing continues, making it imperative to prioritise long-term investing. The insights of this report can be helpful for market participants as they navigate existing challenges and foster business opportunities that contribute to developing a more comprehensive and healthy long-term investment ecosystem in Hong Kong,” said the Chief Executive Officer of the AoF and Executive Director of the HKIMR, Mr Enoch Fung.
 
The report is available on the AoF/HKIMR website.
  
About the AoF

The AoF is set up with full collaboration amongst the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, the Securities and Futures Commission, the Insurance Authority and the Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority. By bringing together the strengths of the industry, the regulatory community, professional bodies and the academia, it aims to serve as (i) a centre of excellence for developing financial leadership; and (ii) a repository of knowledge in monetary and financial research, including applied research.
 
About the HKIMR

The HKIMR is the research arm of the AoF. Its main remit is to conduct research in the fields of monetary policy, banking and finance that are of strategic importance to Hong Kong and the Asia region. The Applied Research studies undertaken by the HKIMR are on topics that are highly relevant to the financial industry and regulators in Hong Kong, and they aim to provide insights on the long-term development strategy and direction of Hong Kong’s financial industry.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

     Associate Director-General of Investment Promotion at Invest Hong Kong Mr Arnold Lau will visit South America from today (September 22) to September 26, covering Buenos Aires, Argentina, and Lima, Peru. During the visit, Mr Lau will meet with representatives of governments, leading enterprises, and industry organisations to promote Hong Kong’s role as a “super connector” and “super value-adder” between the Chinese Mainland and Asian markets, and to deepen trade and business ties with the South American region.
      
     “The South America market has strong growth potential, and its local enterprises are actively seeking opportunities to enter the Asian market,” said Mr Lau. “As the freest economy in the world, Hong Kong offers an open and mature market, a highly international talent pool, and a robust legal system – making it an ideal springboard for South American enterprises to expand into Asia, especially the Chinese Mainland and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. Through this visit, we aim to foster pragmatic exchanges and collaboration, strengthen bilateral ties with Argentina and Peru, and make use of our business advantages to promote the development of the Global South.”
      
     During his visit to Argentina, Mr Lau will meet with the Argentine Investment and International Trade Agency to gain insights into the local business environment and explore collaboration opportunities. He will promote Hong Kong’s strengths in finance, regulations, innovation and technology, and as being a preferred location for setting up international or regional headquarters. In Peru, Mr Lau will hold discussions with PromPerú (the Commission for the Promotion of Peruvian Exports and Tourism), attend the Expoalimentaria 2025 international food trade fair organised by the Association of Exporters from Peru and participate in a conference. He will meet with local food exporters to introduce Hong Kong’s unique business advantages and the wealth of opportunities available.
      
     Mr Lau will also meet with representatives of a number of South American enterprises interested in establishing a presence in Hong Kong. These enterprises span sectors including food trading, agricultural exports, technology, e-commerce, brand development, and retail, with the aim of exploring potential business opportunities and promoting cross-regional co-operation.
      
     Hong Kong has close economic ties with both Argentina and Peru. In 2024, the total value of bilateral merchandise trade between Hong Kong and Argentina and Peru reached HK$3 billion and HK$6 billion, respectively. Peru is a participating country in the Belt and Road Initiative. Since 2020, bilateral trade between Hong Kong and Peru has grown by nearly 10 per cent annually on average. In 2024, the two sides signed a Free Trade Agreement, further enhancing bilateral investment flows to bring about economic growth in the two sides.

Source:

KEYNOTE ADDRESS by the Minister of Finance Hon. Mulipola Anarosa Ale Molioo

Members of the Council of Deputies and o outou Faletua,

Honourable Ministers,

Chief Justice and Members of the Judiciary,

Honourable Speaker, Members of Parliament,

Your Excellency Ambassador Fei Mingxing and Madame Li Wenjun,

Members of the Diplomatic Corps,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Talofa and a very good evening.

On behalf of the Prime Minister, the Government, and the people of Samoa, I extend our warmest congratulations to the Government and people of the People’s Republic of China as you celebrate the 76th Anniversary of your National Day.

This day honours the founding of the People’s Republic in 1949 and the extraordinary journey of resilience, growth, and leadership that has followed. It also reminds us of the strength of the friendship Samoa and China have shared for 50 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1975.

Over these five decades, Samoa and China have nurtured a relationship built on respect and cooperation – from infrastructure and agriculture, to health, education, culture, and people-to-people exchanges. We remain deeply grateful for China’s

enduring support, which has touched the lives of our families and communities.

As China celebrates 76 years since the founding of the People’s Republic, we are reminded of the wisdoms that guide nations.

In China, there is a saying:

“”- Zhòng rén shí chái huo yàn gão – when everyone adds firewood, the flames rise high.

In Samoa, we say: “E so’o le fau i le fau” – one fiber is bound to another.

Both teach us that when we are joined in respect and love, unity makes our flame burn brighter. This is the spirit of Samoa and China walking together in friendship.

China also teaches:

“+•” – Shí nián shù mù, bải nián shù rén – it takes ten years to grow a tree, but a hundred years to nurture a person. It reminds us that while nature grows quickly, shaping people of wisdom and character is the most important and lasting work of a nation. In Samoa, we affirm the same truth:

“E leai se mea e sili atu i lo le aiga” – there is nothing greater than family. We see these shared values alive in our Su’i Alofa – Stitched with Love Project, where over a thousand Samoans – women and men – are weaving not only garments but also futures, strengthening families and the fabric of our nation.

These wisdoms remind us that women, children, and families are the foundation of our shared future. As China marks 76 years of resilience and progress, and Samoa celebrates 50 years of friendship with China, we look not only to the past we have built together but also to the future we will shape together – one of peace, prosperity, and solidarity for generations to come.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen – before I invite you to raise your glasses, may I express my heartfelt thanks to Your Excellency Ambassador Fei Mingxing, Madame Li Wenjun, and the Embassy of China in Samoa for hosting us so warmly this evening. Your hospitality reflects the spirit of the friendship we celebrate tonight.

Please join me in a toast: To the 76th Anniversary of the People’s Republic of China, and to the enduring flame of friendship between Samoa and China – may it continue to burn brightly, guiding us forward in unity and shared hopе.

Soifua.

September 22, 2025

Source:

HON. LA’AULIALEMALIETOA POLĀTA’IVAO LEUATEA FOSI SCHMIDT: PRIME MINISTER OF SAMOA

MINISTER:

• Ministry of the Prime Minister and Cabinet

• Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade

• Ministry of Police & Prison

• Office of the Attorney General

• Samoa Law Reform Commission

• Office of the Ombudsman

• Public Service Commission

• NEOC

Associate Minister: Vui Iiga Sione Iiga

HON. TOELUPE MAOIAUTELE POUMULINUKU ONESEMO:

DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER OF SAMOA

[SEPTEMBER 2025 – MARCH 2028]

Minister:

• Ministry of Works, Transport & Infrastructure

• Land Transport Authority

• Samoa Airport Authority

• Samoa Port Authority

• Samoa Shipping Corporation

Associate Minister: Taitu’ave Lafaitele Valoaga Ta’aititi Iona

HON. MULIPOLA ANAROSA ‘ALE – MOLIO’O: DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER OF SAMOA [COMMENCE APRIL 2028 – SEPTEMBER 2030]

Minister:

• Ministry of Finance

• Ministry for Public Enterprises

• Electric Power Corporation

• Samoa Water Authority

• Deputy Minister for MWCSD

• Central Bank of Samoa

• National Provident Fund

• Samoa International Finance Authority

• Unit Trust of Samoa

Associate Minister: Asiata Tavui Tafu Salevao

HON. AIONO DR. ALEC EKEROMA

Minister

• Ministry of Education and Culture

• National University of Samoa

• Samoa Qualification Authority

Associate Minister: Leatigaga Matāfai Lauina Iiga

HON. FESOLA’I APULU TUSIUPU TUIGAMALA

Minister:

• Ministry of Justice and Courts Administration

• Office of the Electoral Commission

Associate Minister: Salā Paulo Tuala Poto

HON. AGASEATA TANUVASA VALELIO TANUVASA PETO

Minister:

• Ministry of Communications and Information Technology

• Office of the Regulator

• Samoa Post Office

Associate Minister: Leilua Sagato Karene

HON. MASINALUPE LEATUAVAO MAKESI PISI

Minister:

• Ministry of Customs

Associate Minister: Lavea Solomona Paulo

Hon. Seve Tei Fuimaono

Minister:

• Ministry of Environment

• Legislative Assembly Office

• Fire and Emergency Services Authority

Associate Minister: Taufua Edmund Taufua

HON. FUIMAONO MAIAVA TITO ASAFO

Minister:

• Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries

• Scientific Research Organization of Samoa

• Development Bank of Samoa

Associate Minister: Aiolupotea Misa Tony Aiolupo

HON. FOISALA LILO TUU IOANE

Minister:

• Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources

Associate Minister: Tea To’oala Peato

HON. SEUAMULI LETUUGA FASI TOMA

Minister:

• Ministry of Sports and Recreation

• Samoa Shipping Services

Associate Minister: Fiu Fa’aolatane Ponifasio Vasa

HON. MOEFA’AUOUO JULIUS AH KUI TAFUNA’I

Minister:

• Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development

• Samoa Bureau of Statistics

• Samoa Housing Corporation

Associate Minister: Tilafono David Hunter

HON. FATA RYAN SCHUSTER

Minister:

• Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Labour

• Commerce Commission

• Labour

• Labour Mobility

• Samoa Export Authority

• Samoa Air

Associate Minister: Amituana’i Malolo Tautofi Roma

HON. VA’AAOAO ALOFIPO

Minister:

• Ministry of Health

• Accident Compensation Corporation Samoa

Associate Minister: Ale Vena Ale

HON. PAUGA TEOMATAVUI TALALELEI PAUGA

Minister:

• Ministry of Revenue

• Audit Office

September 22, 2025

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

The Director of Food and Environmental Hygiene has ordered a fresh provision shop in Sheung Shui to suspend business for 14 days, as the licensee repeatedly breached the Food Business Regulation (FBR) by extending the business area illegally.

The shop, located at Shop 17 on level one of Lung Fung Garden on 33 Lung Sum Avenue, was ordered to suspend business from today (September 21) to October 4.

     “Two convictions for the above-mentioned breach were recorded against the shop licensee in July this year. A total fine of $3,000 was levied by the court, and 30 demerit points were registered against the licensee under the department’s demerit points system. The contraventions resulted in the 14-day licence suspension,” a spokesman for the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) said.

The licensee concerned had a record of two convictions for the same offence in April this year. A total fine of $10,000 was levied, and 30 demerit points were also registered, leading to a seven-day licence suspension between June and July this year.

The spokesman reminded licensees of food premises to comply with the FBR, or their licences could be suspended or cancelled.

Licensed food premises are required to exhibit their licence and a sign at a conspicuous place of the premises, indicating that the premises has been licensed. A list of licensed food premises is available on the FEHD website (www.fehd.gov.hk/english/licensing/licence-foodPremises-search.html).

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     The third Asia+ Festival commenced last Friday (September 19) with the opening programme of the box-office hit “The Cherry Orchard” at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre for three consecutive nights. The Festival, presented by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau and organised by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department, is held annually from September to November with an aim to create a sustainable platform for arts and cultural exchanges.
 
     The Korean theatre production of “The Cherry Orchard” by internationally renowned director Simon Stone, starring Cannes Best Actress Jeon Do-yeon and globally recognised actor Park Hae-soo from “Squid Game”, brings striking originality to Russian master dramatist Anton Chekhov’s classic. Stone, Jeon and Park also attended meet-the-artist sessions after the performances and shared their thoughts on their participation in the production.
 
     Stone said that he was very excited as “The Cherry Orchard” marked the first time his work had been physically performed in Hong Kong, serving as the first stop of the play’s world tour. Park, Jeon and actor Son Sang-kyu mentioned that before the show they were concerned that the language barrier would affect the viewing experience, but soon found out onstage that the audience was fully engaged, responding actively to the plot’s developments and enjoying the entire performance. Jeon added that this performance in Hong Kong, bringing together an Australian director, Korean actors, and a Russian classic, was an amazing experience for her.
 
     While focusing on Asia, the Asia+ Festival also connects with Belt and Road countries and regions. This year, the Festival is bringing together outstanding artists from over 30 countries and regions, of which 12 are new participating countries including South Africa, North Macedonia and Argentina, which are presenting respectively the dance performance “We wear our wheels with pride”, the folk concert “Makedonissimo”, “Tango After Dark”, and more. Please visit www.asiaplus.gov.hk for more details on the programme line-ups.
 
     Tickets are now available at URBTIX counters, self-service ticketing kiosks, online (www.urbtix.hk), mobile ticketing app URBTIX, and by telephone booking (hotline: 3166 1288). For programme enquiries and other discount schemes, please call 2370 1044 or visit the website.