Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Latest Christmas mail posting date for local delivery
To ensure that greetings sent by air mail are delivered before Christmas, members of the public are reminded to post their mail on or before the latest dates of posting. A complete list of the latest dates of posting for this year’s Christmas mail by air is displayed at all post offices. Customers may also find the information on Hongkong Post’s website at www.hongkongpost.hkIssued at HKT 10:42
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Speech by SITI at 2nd International Cerebro-cardiovascular Medical Innovation Summit (English only)
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Following is a speech by the Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, at the 2nd International Cerebro-cardiovascular Medical Innovation Summit (ICMIS) today (December 8):
Professor Yang (Senior Vice-President (Innovation and Enterprise) of the City University of Hong Kong (CityU), Professor Michael Yang), Professor Noble (Technikos Professor of Biomedical Engineering and Professorial Fellow of St Hilda’s College of the University of Oxford Professor Alison Noble), Professor Shum (Vice-President (Research) of CityU, Professor Anderson Shum), Professor Chan (Director of the Hong Kong Centre for Cerebro-Cardiovascular Health Engineering, Professor Kannie Chan), Terry (Chief Executive Officer of the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation, Mr Terry Wong), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
Good morning. It is my great pleasure to join you all today at the 2nd International Cerebro-cardiovascular Medical Innovation Summit organised by the Hong Kong Centre for Cerebro-Cardiovascular Health Engineering, COCHE in short.
Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death globally. Today’s Summit provides a vital platform for interdisciplinary exchange and dialogue among world-class experts. We are happy to see the gathering of experts from different disciplines dedicated to addressing critical challenges and advancing medical innovation in cerebro-cardiovascular health – a domain that directly impacts millions of lives worldwide.
Pursuant to the country’s 14th Five-Year Plan and the 15th Five-Year Plan proposal to develop Hong Kong as an international innovation and technology (I&T) centre, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government is committed to building a vibrant I&T ecosystem. Amongst our efforts, InnoHK stands out as a flagship I&T initiative that has successfully established a total of 30 research centres in Hong Kong, collaborating with more than 30 world-renowned universities and research institutes from 12 economies, pooling more than 3 000 researchers locally and from all over the world.
The COCHE, one of the InnoHK centres in the area of life and health sciences and the organiser of this Summit, specialises in developing innovative technologies for the early prediction and intervention of cardiovascular diseases. With strategic partnerships with world-leading institutions including the University of Oxford and the Karolinska Institutet, the Centre has made significant advancements in AI-powered imaging, biosensing, and drug delivery systems by strategic partnership since its establishment in December 2020. This shows us how breakthroughs can be achieved through global research collaboration. Through shared datasets and cross-border clinical validation, the participating institutions integrated the Centre’s technical innovation and clinical applications. Besides, students from the University of Oxford visited the COCHE in 2024 with an aim of strengthening academic exchange and cultivating future talent. Such exchanges of talents lay a fertile ground for Hong Kong to develop an international research hub.
Building on the successes of the first two InnoHK clusters which focus on life and health sciences as well as AI and robotics, we are expediting the establishment of the third InnoHK research cluster which focus on sustainable development, energy, advanced manufacturing, and materials. This cluster aims to drive the development of new industrialisation in Hong Kong and promote the development of advanced technologies and the related industries.
Ladies and gentlemen, innovation does not happen in isolation. It thrives through collaboration. As we gather here today, let us reaffirm our commitment to working together for the betterment of humanity. With the concerted efforts of the Government, academia, research institutions and industry partners, I am confident that our I&T ecosystem will not only thrive, but also strengthen Hong Kong’s competitive edge. May I wish the 2nd ICMIS every success. Thank you.
Tenders invited for tenancy of shop premises at Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Hong Kong Port
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The Government Property Agency (GPA) is inviting tenders for the government property at Shop No. 316FB (comprising Unit Nos. 315, 316, 326 and 327) on the Ground Floor, Passenger Clearance Building, 33 Shun Fai Road, Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Hong Kong Port, Lantau, Hong Kong, for a three-year tenancy subject to the provisions for renewal for a further term of two years.
The premises should only be used for the operation of a restaurant that supplies meals, light refreshments, beverages (excluding alcoholic beverages) and other food commodities, and for such other ancillary uses as may be approved in writing by the landlord, provided that:
(1) the seating areas as shown coloured pink hatched black on the plan (Plan No. GPA N22654) annexed to the Form of Tenancy Agreement shall be used as seating areas only and shall be limited to the placing of tables, chairs and furniture, all being readily removable from the seating areas; and
(2) the store rooms as shown coloured pink cross-hatched black on the plan (Plan No. GPA N22654) annexed to the Form of Tenancy Agreement shall only be used as store rooms for storage purposes.
Details are available in the respective tender notice and Form of Tenancy Agreement.
The tender notice was uploaded today (December 8) to the GPA Property Portal: www.gpaproperty.gov.hk/en/index.html. Tender documents are available for collection at the GPA, 9/F, South Tower, West Kowloon Government Offices, 11 Hoi Ting Road, Yau Ma Tei, Kowloon, during 9am to 6pm from Monday to Friday, except public holidays. The documents can also be downloaded from the GPA Property Portal.
Interested tenderers who wish to conduct a site inspection of the premises should make a prior appointment with the GPA by calling 3842 6916 or 3842 6915 by December 15.
Tenderers must submit their tenders by placing them in the Government Logistics Department Tender Box located on the Ground Floor, North Point Government Offices, 333 Java Road, North Point, Hong Kong, before noon on December 30. Late tenders will not be accepted.
Poll arrangements ran smoothly: EAC
Source: Hong Kong Information Services
A total of 1,317,682 electors cast geographical constituency votes in yesterday’s 2025 Legislative Council General Election, representing a turnout rate of 31.9%, the Electoral Affairs Commission announced today.
Polling closed at 11.30pm last night and the counting of votes was completed at around 6am today.
In addition to geographical constituency votes, there were about 76,940 functional constituencies ballot papers and 1,458 Election Committee constituency ballot papers.
The commission said the polling and counting processes had proceeded smoothly, with all electoral arrangements upholding the principles of openness, honesty and fairness.
It added that it is thankful to various bureaus and departments for their support in holding the election. It is also thanked all electors who cast their sacred votes to elect the new-term Legislative Council.
As prescribed by the law, the commission will review arrangements for the election and submit a report to the Chief Executive within three months.
Click here for the overall results of the 2025 Legislative Council General Election.
Govt to work together with legislators
Source: Hong Kong Information Services
Chief Executive John Lee, on behalf of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, today extended his congratulations to the Legislative Council members returned in the eighth Legislative Council General Election.
The results for all 90 seats in yesterday’s election have been announced. Congratulating the legislators elected, Mr Lee also thanked all 161 candidates, representing different sectors, professions and backgrounds, as well as all sectors of the community, for their participation.
“The smooth and successful conduct of the election at a time when the Hong Kong community is collectively facing a difficult period carries profound significance,” he said.
“It demonstrates electors’ support for the Government’s commitment to recovery and reform following the tragedy, and for electing capable and committed LegCo Members to drive institutional reform. It showcases the spirit of unity, mutual care and support among the people of Hong Kong.”
He said the holding of the LegCo election – only the second election to the legislature following implementation of the principle of “patriots administering Hong Kong” and of an improved electoral system – as scheduled reflects the city’s adherence to and respect for the constitutional order and the rule of law.
The Chief Executive highlighted that candidates participated in 39 open election forums, engaging in high-standard and healthy competition based on the principles of broad representation, balanced participation and fair competition.
“I thank every one of the electors who have cast their vote for actively exercising their civic rights and responsibilities. Their passion for the election at this crucial time of recovery showed their unity in the face of challenges.
“They have elected an eighth-term LegCo composed of patriots who love Hong Kong and possess both integrity and capability, who will work with the Government in building a better Hong Kong – a home for us all.”
Stressing that the community has gone through a difficult period in the wake of the fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po last month, Mr Lee said he expects the newly-elected LegCo members to join hands with the Hong Kong SAR Government to undertake support and recovery work following the tragedy.
“Through initiating debates, promoting the review and updating of legislation, and driving systemic reforms, we will make Hong Kong a safer city where citizens could live with greater peace of mind.”
Mr Lee added that the executive and the legislature will continue to engage with and complement one another with a view to opening up new ground for Hong Kong.
“I am confident the new-term LegCo members will actively engage with the community and various sectors, better understand public opinion, proffer their views and advice, and lead the deepening reforms of Hong Kong together with the Hong Kong SAR Government to create a shared future together.”
1.3m vote in LegCo election
Source: Hong Kong Information Services
A total of 1,317,682 electors cast their vote in the geographical constituencies in the 2025 Legislative Council election, for a turnout rate of 31.9%. The corresponding figures for the functional constituencies are 76,942 and 40.09%.
The turnout rate for the Election Committee constituency is 99.45% with the voter turnout at 1,458.
Click here for details.
Deepening Bilateral Partnership: Taiwan and Florida Jointly Advance Economic Cooperation
Source: Republic of China Taiwan
On October 21, 2025, Director General William Liu of Taiwan’s International Trade Administration (TITA) under the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA), met with Florida Secretary of State Cord Byrd and Florida Commerce Secretary J. Alex Kelly to advance cooperation under the Taiwan-Florida Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that was signed in January 2025.
During the meeting, both sides reviewed progress made since the signing of the MOU and exchanged views on further deepening partnership and supporting the development of the high-tech industry.
The discussions noted that Florida’s unique industrial environment positions it as an ideal partner for Taiwan in such sectors as aerospace and aviation, defense, advanced air mobility (including unmanned aircraft systems), life sciences, and energy R&D.
The meeting reaffirmed continued cooperation through trade shows, delegation exchanges, and seminars to leverage the complementary strengths and advance a stronger long-term partnership.
In 2024, the total bilateral merchandise trade between Florida and Taiwan was US$1.2 billion, making Taiwan Florida’s 9th largest bilateral merchandise trading partner in the Asia–Pacific region. Taiwan is one of Florida’s most significant markets. In 2024, Taiwan imported US$266 million in goods from Florida.
The MOEA and Tennessee Conclude MOU, Deepening Taiwan-U.S. Partnership
Source: Republic of China Taiwan
On October 20, 2025, Minister of Economic Affairs Kung Ming-Hsin and Tennessee Governor Bill Lee signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Economic and Trade Cooperation, marking a new milestone in strengthening bilateral cooperation.
This MOU sets the stage for collaboration across various sectors, such as artificial intelligence, computing servers, and advanced manufacturing, thereby laying the foundation for deeper trade, investment, and industrial partnerships between the two sides.
Minister Kung emphasized that Tennessee, renowned for its robust automotive sector and its emergence as an important AI hub in the United States, is a key partner for Taiwan in advancing its industrial capabilities and strengthening supply chain resilience.
He further welcomed Tennessee’s plan to establish a representative office in Taiwan, which Governor Lee highlighted would be Tennessee’s 13th global presence, providing a direct channel for Taiwanese companies and facilitating closer ties between both sides.
Bilateral trade has grown substantially, rising from US$4.59 billion in 2022 to US$7.76 billion in 2024. With this MOU, both sides reaffirm their commitments to intensifying their industrial cooperation and advancing mutually beneficial win-win partnerships.
224 buildings remove scaffold nets
Source: Hong Kong Information Services
Following the order to remove scaffold nets issued by the Buildings Department (BD), as of 6pm today, 224 private buildings have had their scaffold nets removed from external walls.
Four cases undergoing removal work have requested an extension of time which the BD has accepted. It is expected that the work will be finished within this week.
The removal work of scaffold nets from the remaining two private buildings has been affected by ongoing contractual disputes between the contractors and the incorporated owners. The BD has arranged for government contractors to carry out the work and will recover the costs later.
Additionally, the Architectural Services Department has completed the removal of scaffold nets at the government buildings under its purview before the deadline.
Financial support
As of 1pm today, donations received for the Support Fund for Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po have reached about $3 billion, on top of the $300 million startup capital from the Government, taking the fund’s total to around $3.3 billion.
The Government earlier announced that the fund will provide a living allowance to each affected household. As of today, 1,273 cases have been processed. The living allowance is increased from $50,000 to $100,000 and will be disbursed in phases.
The fund will also provide families of each deceased victim with a token of solidarity of $200,000, as well as $50,000 to cover funeral costs. As of today, a total of 90 cases have been processed.
The Government has so far disbursed an emergency subsidy of $10,000 to 1,931 households.
Social workers from the Social Welfare Department have been in contact with more than 1,970 affected households, and more than 4,900 residents have been registered for the “one social worker per household” follow-up service.
Accommodation arrangements
As of this morning, a total of 1,408 residents have been accommodated through the co-ordination of the Home & Youth Affairs Bureau, in youth hostels, camps or hotel rooms. Another 2,702 residents have moved into transitional housing units provided by the Housing Bureau or units from the Hong Kong Housing Society.
Relief supplies
On the supplies donation online platform, the Government has so far received about 1,600 registrations, of which approximately 30% were submitted by organisations. Over 4,800 pieces of donation items covering various categories have been distributed to different places.
Regulation work
As of 4pm today, the Labour Department has inspected 332 construction sites, issued a total of 170 written warnings and 95 improvement notices, and taken out 25 prosecutions.
Polling stations’ operation smooth
Source: Hong Kong Information Services
Electoral Affairs Commission (EAC) Chairman David Lok said the commission observed that the operation of 2025 Legislative Council General Election polling stations is smooth.
Mr Lok, along with EAC members Prof Daniel Shek and Bernard Man, visited the election’s Central Command Centre and Statistical Information Centre today. They also inspected the Near Boundary Polling Station at Hong Kong International Airport Terminal 2, and the Ordinary Polling Stations located in different districts.
Noting that the EAC, like all Hong Kong citizens, was deeply saddened by the fire in Tai Po, Mr Lok said: “Yet, we believe that in this difficult time, it is even more important that electors should cast their votes in the Legislative Council General Election to fulfil their civic responsibility in a serious manner and elect a new term of Legislative Council members for them to carry out their crucial functions and meet the overall interests of Hong Kong.
“I appeal to all electors across Hong Kong to make use of their sacred votes to elect the new Legislative Council and build a better Hong Kong that we call home together.”
As at 12.30pm, 536,527 electors for geographical constituencies have voted, bringing the accumulative turnout rate to 12.99%.
The Registration & Electoral Office’s hotline at 2891 1001 will be in service until midnight to answer enquiries relating to the election.
Meanwhile, the complaints hotline at 2827 7251 will also operate until midnight to handle cases about breaches of electoral rules and guidelines.