SITI congratulates Hong Kong delegation on its remarkable achievements at 51st International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

SITI congratulates Hong Kong delegation on its remarkable achievements at 51st International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva      The Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, today (March 15), congratulated the Hong Kong delegation on their remarkable achievements at the 51st International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva. He said, “I would like to extend my warmest congratulations to the Hong Kong representatives for shining on the global innovation and technology (I&T) stage. Hong Kong’s remarkable achievements in scientific research depend on our profound I&T capabilities and talent advantages. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government will continue to deploy resources to enhance talent training and encourage R&D. To align with the country’s 15th Five Year Plan, the HKSAR Government will proactively integrate with the country’s strategic directions by developing Hong Kong into an international I&T centre, contributing to high-level technological self-reliance of our country.”
Issued at HKT 21:52

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CEDD achieves four top accolades of gold medals with congratulations of jury at International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

CEDD achieves four top accolades of gold medals with congratulations of jury at International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva       
     The Director of Civil Engineering and Development, Mr Michael Fong, today (March 15) was encouraged by the department’s remarkable achievements at the Exhibition this year. He said, “The department has been actively engaging in research and development and applying innovative technologies to enhance work efficiency and quality, as well as improving site safety. This achievement affirms the professionalism and innovative spirit of our colleagues.”

     In the field of disaster prevention, the in-house team of the CEDD developed the fifth-generation AI Landslip Warning System, applying artificial intelligence and big data technology to analyse the rainfall and landslide data in Hong Kong. This significantly improves the accuracy of risk assessment and issuance of warning signals. In addition, the department also developed a number of intelligent safety management systems, including the occupational health and safety management and monitoring system for confined spaces that can achieve instant alerts and closed-loop management; the CANOPUS – Smart Safety Harness monitoring system focusing on safety for working-at-height which can ensure that safety harnesses are securely attached; and the pioneering multi-channel certification mechanism that can enable real-time tracking and predictive alerts of personnel and equipment. The above inventions all received the gold medals with the congratulations of jury at this Exhibition.• Intelligent occupational health and safety management and monitoring system for confined spaces
• CANOPUS – Smart Safety Harness
• Personnel real-name system and equipment tracking intelligent software• IntelliGuard OS• Heavy machinery and hazardous area monitoring system
• TAMAGO – Smart Falsework Monitoring SystemIssued at HKT 23:30

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Tuen Mun Hospital achieves accreditation under China’s International Hospital Accreditation Standards (2021 Version)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Tuen Mun Hospital achieves accreditation under China’s International Hospital Accreditation Standards (2021 Version)  
     The Chief Executive of the HA, Dr Libby Lee, said, “TMH has become the fourth public hospital accredited under the national hospital accreditation standards, further reaffirming that the service quality and management standards of Hong Kong’s public hospitals have aligned with national systems and reached international levels. The HA will continue to co-ordinate and encourage more public hospitals to participate in accreditation, continually enhancing the quality and safety of public healthcare services to international standards.”
 
     Dr Lee stated that hospital accreditation is a significant opportunity for hospitals to thoroughly review and enhance their overall services. The HA expresses gratitude to the expert team from the Shenzhen Hospital Accreditation Research Center and local experts for providing valuable suggestions during the on-site survey. The suggestions are valuable for strengthening the quality of public healthcare.
 
     The Research Center earlier sent experts to conduct on-site accreditation surveys at TMH. The expert team praised the hospital for actively applying new diagnostic and treatment technologies and commended its commitment to public education, medical-community collaboration, and community engagement, all of which were crucial for obtaining accreditation. The expert team recognised that the hospital has a robust management structure and efficient oversight and investigation systems, and a dedication to providing patient-centred healthcare services, as well as continuous innovation in healthcare technology and service models. These factors were recognised as essential foundations for a hospital seeking international standards.
 
     The Director (Cluster Services) of the HA, Dr Wong Yiu-chung, who was also the former Hospital Chief Executive of TMH leading the hospital’s accreditation preparation work, thanked the Health Bureau for its support. Dr Wong remarked, “The successful accreditation of TMH is the best affirmation to the hospital’s long-standing commitment to patient safety and high-quality service. It also proves that the healthcare quality, management and service levels of the hospital have reached international standards and align with national systems, laying a significant foundation for its future development.”
 
     The Hospital Chief Executive of TMH, Dr Deacons Yeung, expressed gratitude to the hospital team for their dedication to the accreditation process over the past year, noting that the hospital conducted a comprehensive review of its existing services through the accreditation process. Dr Yeung stated, “TMH will continue to uphold the value of people-centred care, maintain community connections, and continuously improve and enhance services to provide high-quality healthcare for patients and safeguard public health.”
Issued at HKT 17:25

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Singapore ETO holds Chinese New Year dinner in Vietnam to promote closer relationship

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Singapore ETO holds Chinese New Year dinner in Vietnam to promote closer relationship      
     Jointly organised with the Hong Kong Business Association Vietnam (HKBAV) and supported by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the dinner welcomed over 100 guests, including the Consul-General of the People’s Republic of China in HCMC, Mr Tang Li; the Chairman of the HKBAV, Mr Michael Chiu; the Director of Indochina of the HKTDC, Ms Tina Phan; and representatives from government and business sectors, chambers of commerce, and Hong Kong communities in Vietnam. During the dinner, cultural performances were presented, including lion dance performances and live renditions of Chinese and Vietnamese music by a band and performers.
     
     Speaking at the dinner, the Director of the Singapore ETO, Ms Elsa Hung, recapped the multi-front work and achievements of Hong Kong and Vietnam collaborative efforts. Last December, the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, met with the visiting Deputy Prime Minister of Vietnam Mr Ho Duc Phoc in Hong Kong to exchange views on deepening co-operation between the two places. In the same month, the Commissioner for Belt and Road, Mr Nicholas Ho, led a delegation to Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi to explore business opportunities.
     
     Ms Hung highlighted the growing economic and trade ties between Hong Kong and Vietnam. In 2025, Vietnam became Hong Kong’s third-largest merchandise trading partner, with a total trade volume increasing by an average of 25 per cent annually since 2021. Among the 11 ASEAN member states, Vietnam has risen to become Hong Kong’s largest trading partner in terms of merchandise trade. In addition, exchanges between people of the two places have intensified. For instance, in terms of tourism, the number of Vietnamese visitors to Hong Kong increased by 35 per cent last year compared with 2024.
 
     Ms Hung concluded that Hong Kong will continue to leverage its unique advantages under the “one country, two systems” framework to serve as a “super connector” and “super value-adder” linking the Chinese Mainland with the rest of the world. The Singapore ETO will align with and support Hong Kong’s strategic directions, such as promoting the one-stop Economic and Trade Express (ETE) platform, through the collective efforts of the global network of ETOs, Invest Hong Kong, and the HKTDC, to assist enterprises in going global while attracting more enterprises to invest and establish operations in Hong Kong.
 
     The Singapore ETO held two Chinese New Year dinners – one in Singapore on February 25 and another in Manila, the Philippines, on February 27 – to further strengthen ties and exchanges with local communities.
Issued at HKT 2:09

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Inland Revenue (Amendment) (Tax Concessions, Concessionary Deductions and Allowances) Bill 2026 to be introduced into LegCo for First Reading and Second Reading

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Inland Revenue (Amendment) (Tax Concessions, Concessionary Deductions and Allowances) Bill 2026 to be introduced into LegCo for First Reading and Second Reading 
     The Legislative Council (LegCo) will hold a meeting on Wednesday (March 18) at 11am in the Chamber of the LegCo Complex.  During the meeting, the Inland Revenue (Amendment) (Tax Concessions, Concessionary Deductions and Allowances) Bill 2026 will be introduced into the Council for the First Reading and the Second Reading. The Second Reading debate on the Bill will be adjourned.
 
     Meanwhile, the Stamp Duty (Amendment) Bill 2026 will also be introduced into the Council for the First Reading and the Second Reading. The Second Reading debate on the Bill will be adjourned.
 
     On Government motion, the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury will move a proposed resolution under the Public Finance Ordinance. The proposed resolution is set out in Appendix 1.
 
     On Members’ motions, Reverend Canon Peter Douglas Koon will move a motion on “Formulating a comprehensive ‘homeless-friendly policy’ to build a caring and inclusive society”. The motion is set out in Appendix 2. Ms Ginny Man will move an amendment to Reverend Canon Peter Douglas Koon’s motion.
 
     Dr Johnny Ng will move a motion on “Better aligning with the national development strategy for promoting high-standard opening up”. The motion is set out in Appendix 3. Mr Lee Chun-keung, Mr Kenneth Fok, Mr Tommy Chung, Mr Lau Ka-keung, Mr Nick Chan, Mr Robert Lee, Mr Erik Yim and Professor Priscilla Leung will move separate amendments to Dr Johnny Ng’s motion.
 
     In addition, Mr Chan Chun-ying will move a motion under Rule 49E(2) of the Rules of Procedure to take note of a report of the House Committee on consideration of subsidiary legislation and other instruments. The motion is set out in Appendix 4.
 
     Members will also ask the Government 22 questions on various policy areas, six of which require oral replies.
 
     The agenda of the above meeting is available on the LegCo Website (www.legco.gov.hkIssued at HKT 19:02

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Disciplined and auxiliary services to hold open days to promote National Security Education Day

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Disciplined and auxiliary services to hold open days to promote National Security Education Day 

      Open day venues on April 11 (Saturday):
 

   Open day venues on April 12 (Sunday):
 

   Open day venues on April 18 (Saturday):
   Open day venue on April 19 (Sunday):
 

 Issued at HKT 11:05

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Import of poultry meat and products from areas in France, Germany, Italy, Poland and Argentina suspended

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (March 16) that in view of notifications from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) about outbreaks of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in areas in Eure Department in France, the District of Harz of the State of Sachsen-Anhalt in Germany, the Province of Perugia of Umbria Region in Italy and the Nowy Tomyśl District of Wielkopolskie Region in Poland, and an outbreak of highly pathogenic H5 avian influenza in Bolivar Partido of the Province of Buenos Aires in Argentina, the CFS has instructed the trade to suspend the import of poultry meat and products (including poultry eggs) from the above-mentioned areas with immediate effect to protect public health in Hong Kong.

A CFS spokesman said that according to the Census and Statistics Department, Hong Kong imported about 1 050 tonnes of chilled and frozen poultry meat and about 290 000 poultry eggs from France; about 180 tonnes of frozen poultry meat from Germany; about 90 tonnes of frozen poultry meat and about 10 000 poultry eggs from Italy; about 2 890 tonnes of frozen poultry meat from Poland; and about 2 080 tonnes of frozen poultry meat from Argentina last year.

“The CFS has contacted the French, German, Italian, Polish and Argentinian authorities over the issues and will closely monitor information issued by the WOAH and the relevant authorities on the avian influenza outbreaks. Appropriate action will be taken in response to the development of the situation,” the spokesman said.

InvestHK and FEHD collaborate to support Mainland enterprise in launching Hong Kong’s first smart catering robot

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

InvestHK and FEHD collaborate to support Mainland enterprise in launching Hong Kong’s first smart catering robot       
     The Director-General of Investment Promotion of InvestHK, Ms Alpha Lau, said, “InvestHK has always maintained close communication and collaboration with government bureaux and departments to continuously enhance Hong Kong’s business environment. The latest Budget emphasises on promoting the industrialisation of AI and encouraging its wider adoption. We are very pleased to see these technologies being adopted in the catering industry, opening up new directions for smart retail. This project also fully demonstrates the result of cross-departmental collaboration in facilitating the successful implementation of innovative technologies while ensuring compliance with local regulations and food safety requirements. I look forward to seeing more companies leverage Hong Kong’s business advantages to further expand its presence in the city and across the Asia-Pacific region.”
      
     The Director of Food and Environmental Hygiene, Mr Donald Ng, said, “The FEHD has always encouraged and facilitated innovation in the catering industry to bring more diverse dining experiences to the public, while safeguarding food safety and public hygiene. For this project, the FEHD maintained close communication with the relevant companies, providing guidance on legal requirements and hygiene standards to facilitate their acquisition of the necessary food business licences. I am pleased to see the smooth implementation of this project and look forward to more technological applications in the catering industry in the future to continuously elevate service standards.”
      
     Deputy General Manager of CREP Mr Zhang Linjun said, “CREP is committed to building a one-stop overseas expansion service platform to help Mainland brands establish a presence in Hong Kong and explore business opportunities. Leveraging our two decades of resources and experiences in Hong Kong’s commercial market, we have assisted Mainland companies in establishing their technological and business operations in Hong Kong. We have also developed a deep partnership with InvestHK to promote the application of innovative technologies in the catering sector, while tackling daily challenges in the industry. This initiative will offer Hong Kong residents more diverse dining options in various scenarios, including remote areas, busy districts and late-night hours. Going forward, we will further expand the scope of co-operation to help the smart catering business form a scaled operational network.”
      
     Named the “Hey Food Smart Catering Robot”, the initiative is officially launched in Hong Kong by CREP, integrating innovative technological solutions from the Mainland with local business expertise. Founded in 2000, CREP currently owns a portfolio of commercial properties in core business districts and community neighbourhoods in Hong Kong. The company has continuously optimised its property portfolio and has actively explored investment and operational opportunities in retail real estate. In recent years, by building a one-stop overseas expansion service platform, CREP has assisted Mainland enterprise brands and products in going global, while providing higher quality services and products for Hong Kong.
      
     For more information about the smart catering robot, please visit CREP at: www.crep.com.hkIssued at HKT 15:54

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Hong Kong innovations shine at international exhibition of inventions in Geneva

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Hong Kong innovations shine at international exhibition of inventions in Geneva       
     Speaking at the reception, the Director of HKETO Berlin, Mr Indiana Wong, highlighted that the Government placed top priority on promoting innovation and technology (I&T) development, and is moving at full steam to build Hong Kong into an international I&T centre. 
      
     “To accelerate this development, we are strengthening our ecosystem from upstream research and development, through midstream technology transfers and commercialisation, to downstream new industrialisation development. We are also enhancing international collaboration through our InnoHK platform, partnering with world-renowned universities and research institutes to establish research laboratories, including universities in Switzerland. Our progress is recognised internationally. The Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Guangzhou innovation cluster ranked first worldwide in the Global Innovation Index 2025,” Mr Wong said.
      
     Mr Wong also highlighted the new I&T initiatives in the 2026-27 Budget, including earmarking HK$10 billion to accelerate the development of the Hong Kong Park of the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone, and another HK$10 billion to take forward the development of the San Tin Technopole, located adjacent to the Shenzhen’s I&T zone.
      
     Founded in 1972, the International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva is one of the largest global events dedicated exclusively to inventions and new technologies. This year, Hong Kong representatives won nearly 300 prizes.

About HKETO Berlin
      
     HKETO Berlin is the official representative of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government in commercial relations and other economic and trade matters in Germany as well as Austria, the Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Poland, the Slovak Republic, Slovenia and Switzerland.
Issued at HKT 20:10

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DEVB teams and its departments achieve outstanding results at International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

DEVB teams and its departments achieve outstanding results at International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva       
     The Crawler-type all-terrain survey robot “T300”, which was jointly developed by the DSD and a professional team from the Chinese Mainland, won the Saudi Innovation Excellence Prize – Ministry of Education, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This marks the first time a Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government department has received this prestigious award. Equipped with a zoomable high-resolution camera, LiDAR, and an adaptive lighting system, this robot can capture comprehensive visual and spatial data. Its novel transformable tracked structure allows it to navigate complex and challenging terrain. The robot can simultaneously collect photogrammetric information and point cloud data, enabling the automatic construction of detailed three-dimensional (3D) models of the drainage facilities. Its modular design can also accommodate other sensors, such as the gas detector for monitoring air quality in confined spaces. Inspection data can be automatically uploaded to an AI-powered online condition assessment platform for real-time analysis and rapid generation of inspection reports.
      
     The winning projects of the gold medals with the congratulations of jury are as follows:
      
     1. “FireCheck 4D – A BIM Fire Safety Checker” developed by the BD: This project integrates Building Information Modelling (BIM) automated checking to reform building design and regulatory processes for fire safety compliance, and enables precise spatial analysis and fire protection material tracking.
      
     2. “AI Landslip Warning System” developed by the CEDD: The system applies AI for big data analytics to enhance the accuracy of the predicted number of reported landslides during heavy rainstorms, thereby enhancing its capability for landslide risk assessment and optimising the issuance of Landslip Warning.
      
     3. “CANOPUS – Smart Safety Harness” developed by the CEDD: By integrating Internet of Things (IoT) and worker identification, this system monitors in real-time the behaviour of those who work at height and the environmental conditions, to ensure the workers using the harness properly.
      
     4. “Intelligent occupational health and safety management and monitoring system for confined spaces” developed by the CEDD: This system designed for confined spaces integrates AI vision, gas sensing, ultra-wideband positioning, vital sign monitoring and cloud analytics to deliver continuous detection and instant alerts for abnormal situations.
      
     5. “Personnel real-name system and equipment tracking intelligent software” developed by the CEDD: This software features deep integration of identity verification, high-precision ultra-wideband personnel and equipment tracking, multi-sensor data fusion, electronic permits-to-work (e-PTW), and blockchain-based audit trails. Powered by modular AI technology, the platform enables predictive safety alerts and collaborative emergency response.
      
     6. “i-STAR: Intelligent smart trap analysing robot” developed by the DSD: This robot mainly helps check and verify the structural safety of cover plates. i-STAR integrates artificial intelligence and multiple sensing technologies to monitor in real-time the conditions of cover plates.
      
     7. “AquaMend Rover” developed by the WSD: The robotic crawler designed for urgent water pipeline repairs can navigate inside the pipes to perform welding and maintenance, drastically reducing the working hours of the welders working in the confined spaces.
      
     In addition, the “SmartAERO”, a smart drone management platform, which was jointly developed by the DEVB and the CEDD, won a gold medal. The “SmartAERO” enables AI-driven operations to control a fully autonomous drone dock, ensuring smooth, precise and swift drone deployment across diverse environments and in emergency situations.
      
     The International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva is one of the most significant global annual events on inventions. This year, the Exhibition was held from March 11 to 15 in Geneva, Switzerland. About 1 000 inventions from 35 countries and regions were evaluated by the international jury of specialists.
Issued at HKT 16:30

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