Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
FEHD releases fourth batch of gravidtrap indexes for Aedes albopictus in January
District
District Among the fourth batch of First Phase Gravidtrap Indexes covering 21 survey areas and Area Gravidtrap Indexes covering five survey areas in January, all were below 10 per cent.
The FEHD has so far released four batches of gravidtrap indexes for Aedes albopictus in January 2026, covering 59 survey areas; most of the areas recorded 0 per cent, indicating that the distribution of Aedes albopictus mosquitoes was not extensive. Starting in August 2025, following the completion of the surveillance of individual survey areas, and once the latest gravidtrap index and the density index are available, the FEHD has been disseminating relevant information through press releases, its website and social media. It aims to allow members of the public to quickly grasp the mosquito infestation situation and strengthen mosquito control efforts, thereby reducing the risk of chikungunya fever (CF) transmission.
Following recommendations from the World Health Organization and taking into account the local situation in Hong Kong, the FEHD sets up gravidtraps in districts where mosquito-borne diseases have been recorded in the past, as well as in densely populated places such as housing estates, hospitals and schools to monitor the breeding and distribution of Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, which can transmit CF and dengue fever (DF). After reviewing the present DF and CF vector surveillance programme, the FEHD has expanded the coverage for monitoring Aedes albopictus mosquitoes starting from 2026. The number of survey areas set up in the community has been revised to 62, with some survey areas renamed. Additional gravidtraps will also be set up at different locations across the territory to strengthen the monitoring of the breeding of mosquitoes. Under the present surveillance mechanism, the FEHD has set up gravidtraps in survey areas of the community, with a surveillance period of two weeks. During the surveillance period, the FEHD will collect the gravidtraps once a week. After the first week of surveillance, the FEHD will immediately examine the glue boards inside the retrieved gravidtraps for the presence of adult Aedine mosquitoes to compile the Gravidtrap Index (First Phase) and Density Index (First Phase). At the end of the second week of surveillance, the FEHD will instantly check the glue boards for the presence of adult Aedine mosquitoes. Data from the two weeks of surveillance will be combined to obtain the Area Gravidtrap Index and the Area Density Index. The gravidtrap and density indexes for Aedes albopictus in different survey areas, as well as information on mosquito prevention and control measures, are available on the department’s webpage (www.fehd.gov.hk/english/pestcontrol/dengue_fever/Dengue_Fever_Gravidtrap_Index_Update.html#Issued at HKT 17:00
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
HKMA and PCPD strengthen collaboration to combat fraud and safeguard personal data (with photo) In view of the increasing sophistication of fraud, the HKMA and the PCPD have strengthened their co-operation to ensure that banks’ systems and safeguards against these risks are robust, and that best practices are shared with banks on a timely basis. These efforts will include joint risk-based examinations of selected banks’ anti-fraud systems and controls, in which the HKMA will focus on assessing the effective implementation of anti-fraud measures set out in circulars issued in December 2024 and April 2025, whilst the PCPD will review the banks’ data security measures and access controls that are designed to safeguard personal data against misuse and leakage.
Moreover, the HKMA and the PCPD will strengthen joint publicity and educational efforts, and work closely with other key stakeholders including the Hong Kong Police Force (HKPF), The Hong Kong Association of Banks and the industry, to raise public awareness of the latest scam tactics and the importance of protecting personal data, including bank account information. These efforts will include outreach activities targeting members of the public and specific segments of society.
Given the evolving nature of deception tactics, it is essential for the public to remain vigilant when providing personal data, including bank account information and login credentials, to prevent such data from being misused for deception or money laundering. Members of the public are also encouraged to stay informed about the latest fraud prevention information published by the HKMA, the PCPD and the HKPF.
The Chief Executive of the HKMA, Mr Eddie Yue, said, “Anti-fraud work has been a priority for the HKMA as it helps to uphold public confidence in the financial system of Hong Kong. The collaboration with the PCPD marks a significant milestone in enhancing the ecosystem approach in the fight against the abuse of our banking system for fraudulent purposes.”
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Development Office holds seminar in Shenzhen to explore cross-boundary applications of low-altitude economy Delivering a pre-recorded speech at the opening session, the Commissioner for the Development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, Ms Maisie Chan, said that the 15th Five-Year Plan clearly identified the low-altitude economy as one of the nation’s strategic emerging industrial clusters for accelerated development, establishing it as an important engine for economic growth. The GBA, with its solid industrial foundation and strong economic vitality, not only provides fertile ground for the development of the low-altitude economy but is also well-positioned to be a global pioneer and pilot demonstration area in the low-altitude economy. The GBA covers three administrative regions, which offers abundant scenarios for cross-boundary applications of the low-altitude economy. As a core city and key driving engine of the GBA, Hong Kong is contributing proactively to the low-altitude economy area. Following the launch of the Regulatory Sandbox X scheme, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government will issue the Action Plan on Developing Low-Altitude Economy this year to promote Hong Kong as a hub for low-altitude innovation and applications through institutional innovation and technological advancement.
The Acting Chief Business Development Officer of the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP), Mr Oscar Wong, said that the HKSTP is a member of the Greater Bay Area Low Altitude Economy Alliance to support the development of the low-altitude economy, and has been actively collaborating and communicating closely with the HKSAR Government and various stakeholders. This has enabled the successful launch of the first batch of pilot projects under the low-altitude economy regulatory sandbox, including food delivery via drones over Science Park and pharmaceutical delivery trials by another park company. The HKSTP looks forward to seeing more outcomes in the future.
The seminar was co-organised by the GBA Office and the HKSTP. Industry leaders and think tank representatives were invited to share their insights on the opportunities and challenges of cross-boundary applications of the low-altitude economy. The panel discussions were lively, with guests actively exchanging views and offering forward-looking suggestions that provided practical references for the audience, reflecting the sector’s keen anticipation on cross-boundary operations in the low-altitude economy. Issued at HKT 17:14
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
CE meets Prime Minister of Vanuatu (with photo) Mr Lee said that Hong Kong will further leverage its advantages of connecting with both the Mainland and the world and its role as a functional platform for the Belt and Road Initiative, and will further strengthen economic and trade collaborations with Belt and Road economies and promote participation in green co-operation. Hong Kong and Vanuatu will together seize the opportunities presented by the Belt and Road Initiative. Hong Kong is the world’s freest economy. Mr Lee welcomed enterprises from Vanuatu to leverage Hong Kong’s unique advantages, such as its highly internationalised business environment and its pool of professional services talent, to explore overseas and Mainland markets, to further strengthen co-operation and exchanges across different areas between the two places, and to jointly explore more opportunities. Issued at HKT 18:00
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Hong Kong Police Force and Ministry of Public Security of Vietnam sign MOU to strengthen co-operation The MOU was signed by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations), Mr Yip Wan-lung, and the Deputy Director of Foreign Relations Department under the Ministry of Public Security of Vietnam, Senior Colonel Nguyen Minh Hieu, in the presence of the Commissioner of Police, Mr Chow Yat-ming, and the Director General of Office of Investigation Police Agency under the Ministry of Public Security of Vietnam, Lieutenant General Tran Minh Tien.
Mr Chow stated that amid an increasingly complex international crime landscape, such as threats from cybercrimes, cross-border scams and terrorism, the HKPF would continue to leverage Hong Kong’s role as a “super connector” through various international policing platforms, including INTERPOL, to proactively strengthen collaboration with law enforcement agencies across countries and regions, working together to combat crimes and safeguard global and regional security.
The MOU sets out a framework for co-operation in combating cross-boundary crimes, fosters professional and policing development, and reinforces the commitment of the both police authorities to strengthen collaboration and exchanges in key areas, such as criminal investigations, intelligence sharing and police training. Issued at HKT 18:02
(To watch the full media session with sign language interpretation, click here.)
Chief Executive John Lee said today the new seat belt mandate might cause inconvenience at first, but is essential to enhancing passenger safety.
Starting from January 25, all seated passengers on public transport and in commercial vehicles must now wear seat belts.
Outlining that the measure will require a change of behaviour, Mr Lee said that this small modification can potentially reduce serious injuries by 70%, and also reduce deaths.
He remarked that, when enforcing the new laws, the Government will handle each case based on “law, reason and compassion”.
“The primary focus of the initial phase will be on public education, advice and changing habits,” he said. “The law allows for a reasonable excuse, such as emergency or sudden special need, and those people will be exempted from liability.”
Mr Lee added that the Transport & Logistics Bureau will require public transport operators to properly manage the cleanliness, functionality and regulatory compliance of seat belt installations.
(To watch the full media session with sign language interpretation, click here.)
The Central People’s Government announced today that – in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Basic Law – it has, upon the recommendation of Chief Executive John Lee, approved the removal of Erick Tsang from the post of Secretary for Constitutional & Mainland Affairs.
Ahead of today’s Executive Council meeting, Mr Lee said Mr Tsang had earlier tendered his resignation due to health reasons. Following discussions with Mr Tsang, Mr Lee recommended to the central authorities that Mr Tsang be removed from his post.
Mr Tsang has served the Government for nearly 40 years. As Secretary for Constitutional & Mainland Affairs, he was responsible for liaison and co-operation between the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the Mainland. He also handled policy matters concerning human rights in the Hong Kong SAR, among other duties.
In addition, Mr Tsang supervised the Registration & Electoral Office in working with the Electoral Affairs Commission to organise a number of important elections in the city.
“I am thankful for Mr Tsang’s contributions over the years and wish him the best of health and luck in future endeavours,” Mr Lee said.
The Chief Executive also highlighted that principal officials’ jobs are very demanding.
“Not only the workload is heavy, but the pressure is also heavy. So, I can understand why Erick, under the present health condition, would like to take a rest so as to take care of his health problems.”
The Chief Executive said he will work to identify a suitable candidate to succeed Mr Tsang as Secretary for Constitutional & Mainland Affairs. During this period, Under Secretary for Constitutional & Mainland Affairs Clement Woo will be Acting Secretary.
“I have also said that there will be no further change of principal officials, particularly now we have so many things to do, and they are all doing as I require them to do, sharing my governance philosophy,” Mr Lee added.
The Social Welfare Department announced today that two additional residential care homes for the elderly (RCHEs) in Guangzhou and Dongguan will become Recognised Service Providers under the Residential Care Services Scheme in Guangdong.
Effective February 1, these homes will offer subsidised residential care for eligible seniors.
With the addition of these two homes, the scheme will now feature 26 RCHEs, achieving full coverage across all nine Mainland cities of the Greater Bay Area. This expansion offers a broader range of choices for Hong Kong seniors wishing to retire within the bay area.
Separately, a new application round is open for RCHEs wishing to join the scheme. Hong Kong operators planning to apply within this year should ensure their applications are filed on or before April 30.
Click here for details on the Residential Care Services Scheme in Guangdong.
Hong Kong hosted 11,070 companies with parent companies located elsewhere in 2025, a record high number and an 11% increase on the previous year, according to an annual survey.
The survey was jointly conducted by Invest Hong Kong and the Census & Statistics Department. Analysed by parent company location, the top five sources of firms from outside Hong Kong last year were the Chinese Mainland, the US, Japan, the UK and Singapore. Moreover, the top 10 locations all recorded increases.
Director-General of Investment Promotion Alpha Lau said all of the companies from the top countries of origin have shown a healthy growth over the previous year.
“This shows that despite the general economic situation around the world and despite geopolitics, Hong Kong is a prime destination to do business and to manage your regional business out of.”
The survey looked at companies that either have their regional headquarters in Hong Kong or have a regional or local office here. In all three categories, there were increases.
Notably, the number of registered regional headquarters increased by 7% in 2025, marking a second consecutive year of growth.
A global Swiss precious metals firm opened its new regional headquarters in Hong Kong in October last year, seeking to leverage the city’s position as a premier international gold trading centre to expand its footprint in the Asia-Pacific region.
The firm’s Chief Executive Officer James Emmett explained why they believed Hong Kong was the best place for their regional base.
“Hong Kong provided us with that accessibility, with the support, the focus from a government policy perspective.
“But really importantly it is a dynamic forward-looking city that we genuinely believe has the opportunity to be the hub for gold and for gold trading in this region.
Meanwhile, a world-leading digital bank founded in Shenzhen has sited the headquarters of its technology subsidiary in Hong Kong and plans to create high-skilled technology jobs in the city.
The general manager of the bank’s technology affiliate Chen Jing said the firm chose Hong Kong on the basis of trust.
He said Hong Kong is a major international financial centre whose unique advantages – such as its strategic location, vast market potential and favourable policies – make it the preferred platform for Mainland companies seeking to go global.
Mr Chen added that in recent years the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government has strengthened the city’s role as a “super connector” and a “super value-adder”.
Remarking that Hong Kong is backed by the Chinese Mainland and located within the Greater Bay Area, whilst also being closely integrated with the international community, he said the city’s interconnectedness was a major reason for setting up here.
The Bureau of Industrial Parks (BIP) of the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) held the “2025 Industrial Park and Technology Industrial Park Project Assessments Awards and Experience-Sharing Conference” on December 4, 2025, at the Nangang International Exhibition Center. By recognizing high-performing park service units and facilitating the exchange of practical experience, the event encouraged industrial parks to further refine management practices, comprehensively enhance operational and service quality, and help enterprises build a more favorable business environment.
In the opening remarks, BIP Director General Yan Chih-Ching stated that the project assessment system serves as a comprehensive mechanism for reviewing the service performance of industrial parks. Through evaluation panels composed of experts and scholars, the process not only provides concrete improvement recommendations but also helps individual units identify directions for continuous optimization. He emphasized that sharing experience and interacting across parks promotes resource exchange and strategic learning, thereby raising overall service standards across parks and injecting fresh momentum into industrial development.
This year’s evaluation selected 8 industrial park service centers from the jurisdictions of BIP’s Taipei, Taichung, Tainan and Kaohsiung-Pingtung branches. Following professional review, the Guanying Industrial Park Service Center and the Linyuan Industrial Park Service Center stood out for their outstanding performance and were honored as top-performing units. Representatives from both centers also shared their management practices and service achievements at the event, providing exemplary models for peer learning among industrial parks.
The project assessment focused on 5 key dimensions: promoting smart transformation and net-zero transformation of parks, optimizing public and support facilities, optimizing land use, promoting business support services and industry-academia cooperation, and disaster response and public security audits. It comprehensively presents the overall performance of each park in implementing policies and managing its operations.
BIP emphasized that institutionalized evaluation and experience-sharing mechanisms not only support self-assessment and continuous improvement among service units but also help build consensus and boost team morale. Looking ahead, BIP will continue to promote mutual learning and collective advancement among industrial parks, further enhancing overall service efficiency and steadily advancing toward the goal of smart, safe, and sustainable industrial parks.
Spokesman: Mr. Liu Chi-Chuan (Deputy Director General, BIP)
Contact Number: 886-7-3613349, 0911363680
Email: lcc12@bip.gov.tw