Category: MIL-OSI

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Secretary for Culture, Sports & Tourism Rosanna Law congratulated Hong Kong athletes on winning three silver and six bronze medals today at the 5th Asian Para Games – in fencing, table tennis and swimming.

Miss Law said the nine-medal haul for the Hong Kong, China Delegation was truly exhilarating.

Fencers Chung Yuen-ping, Lam Ka-man, Tong Nga-ting and Yu Chui-yee won silver in the Women’s Foil Team event. Miss Law commended them for their excellent teamwork and determination.

She also congratulated swimmer Chan Yui-lam on winning a bronze medal in the Women’s 100m Backstroke S14 event, highlighting that she had fought hard to bring Hong Kong’s swimming team its third medal at the games.

Hong Kong, China also had a great day in the table tennis events. Chiu Kan-shan and Wong Ting-ting won silver medals in the Women’s Singles – Class 7 and Class 11 events, respectively, while Wong Hon-lam and Wong Chi-yin both won bronze in the Men’s Singles – Class 9 event. Pang Wing-ka, Wong Yue-ching and Lam Yan-yu won bronze medals in the Women’s Singles – Class 6, Class 7 and Class 10 events, respectively.

Miss Law praised the table tennis team for delivering an outstanding performance, adding that the athletes’ perseverance and fighting spirit merit applause from Hongkongers.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Following is the speech by the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, at the APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation) Finance Ministers’ Meeting 2026 Welcome Dinner today (October 20):

Honourable Minister Lan Fo’an (Minister of Finance), honourable ministers and officials, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

Good evening. It is my great pleasure to welcome you all to Hong Kong, this year’s APEC Finance Ministers’ Meeting and tonight’s welcome dinner.

This is a historic occasion for Hong Kong. The APEC Finance Ministers’ Meeting – part of APEC China 2026 – is taking place in our city for the very first time. We are honoured to support this significant international event, which brings together the member economies of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, representing some three billion people and accounting for over 60 per cent of global GDP.

For more than three decades, APEC has demonstrated the power of dialogue and co-operation, promoting economic growth and improving people’s lives across the region.

The Finance Ministers’ Meeting holds a special place within that mission.

Whether it’s financing the infrastructure of the future, expanding access to financial services, or helping younger generations thrive in a rapidly changing global economy, these are issues that transcend boundaries – that call for collective solutions.

Together, we seek to build economies that are more resilient, innovative and inclusive, to create continuing opportunities for our businesses, communities and future generations.

These aspirations reflect Hong Kong’s own goals.

Under the unique “one country, two systems” principle, Hong Kong enjoys both the China advantage and the global advantage. We are the only common law jurisdiction in China, our country, and have a legal and regulatory regime similar to most of the world’s top financial hubs.

For those of you who are familiar with the Chinese language, you may know that our city’s name, Hong Kong, literally means “fragrant harbour”. And what a harbour we are, with our world-class shipping services and over a century’s experience as a free port.

A founding member of the World Trade Organization, Hong Kong champions free trade and maintains a zero-tariff policy, a simple and low tax regime, and a stable, secure, fair and predictable business environment for a world of investors and professionals.

These contribute to Hong Kong’s status as a global financial centre. And we are committed to strengthening Hong Kong’s roles as a global offshore Renminbi business hub, an international asset and wealth management centre, and an international risk management centre.

We are also advancing our development of commodity trading and high value-added supply chain services, while promoting green, digital and other financial services.

All thanks to Hong Kong’s resilient and multi-talented professionals, who are well versed in the business language and practice of both our country and the world. Their professionalism helps to put Hong Kong in the fourth place, globally, and first in Asia, in the World Talent Ranking of the International Institute for Management Development.

Hong Kong is proud to be the only city in the world that counts as many as five universities in the global top 100. And our institutions will continue to nurture our leaders of tomorrow.

Talking about the future, a highlight in our development is the Northern Metropolis, which is fast becoming Hong Kong’s new economic engine.

The Northern Metropolis is connected to the enterprising and innovative Mainland city of Shenzhen, where the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting is set to take place next month. The Northern Metropolis will become an innovation and technology hub, and home to three university towns, integrating education, technology and talent.

No less important, it will help to deepen collaboration in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, a cluster city development that brings together Hong Kong, Shenzhen and nine southern cities, and has a combined GDP that rivals the world’s 10th largest economy.

Ladies and gentlemen, Hong Kong has long been a meeting point of cultures, ideas and traditions, where East and West come together to create a distinctive and dynamic global city.

This evening offers a glimpse of that cultural spirit – in the authentic local flavours featured in tonight’s dinner and drinks. And in this evening’s entertainment, which presents a resplendent taste of Chinese culture, from the harmony of Chinese martial arts, to the melody of our folk music.

We are also pleased to give you a delicious taste of Hong Kong, beyond this dining room, with our visit programmes featuring a wealth of arts and culture, technology and our storied Victoria Harbour.

On that note, I wish the APEC community continued prosperity with ever-growing openness, innovation and co-operation. And I wish you all a rewarding Finance Ministers’ Meeting, and a memorable stay in Hong Kong.

Thank you.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Following is the speech by the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, at the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed) 1st Anniversary Celebration today (October 20):

Secretary-General Professor Teresa Cheng (Secretary-General of the IOMed), Commissioner Cui Jianchun (Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR)), Chief Justice Andrew Cheung (Chief Justice of the Court of Final Appeal), Consuls-General, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

     I am delighted to join you today, to celebrate the first anniversary of the International Organization for Mediation.

A year ago today, I officiated at the International Organization for Mediation’s Inauguration Ceremony, together with members of IOMed’s Governing Council and representatives of the Contracting States. Today, we are here to congratulate the IOMed on its welcome progress under the leadership of Secretary-General Professor Teresa Cheng.

The response, internationally, has been equally encouraging. Over this past year, the number of signatory states to the IOMed Convention has increased from the original 33 to 48, while the number of Contracting States has more than doubled, from eight to 18.

Just a few months after its inauguration, the IOMed settled an international commercial dispute. More good news: the mediator was an experienced maritime lawyer from Hong Kong. I am pleased to add that the IOMed has already handled multiple cases, and global interest is growing, with more potential cases in the pipeline.

In-person and online training for IOMed member states was held in Hong Kong in May and June, respectively. More in-person training for IOMed member states, in both state-to-state mediation and investor-state mediation, will take place next month.

And the first IOMed Forum, under the theme “Mediation for Peace and Prosperity – the New Frontier”, will be held this December in Hong Kong.

In short, IOMed is fast emerging as a trusted intergovernmental body, committed to resolving international disputes through mediation. And doing so based on mutual respect and understanding.

The IOMed is a vital platform for promoting global peace and prosperity. And the HKSAR Government will continue to support the IOMed, in keeping with the National 15th Five-Year Plan and Hong Kong’s First Five-Year Plan. Hong Kong, after all, is the world’s only Chinese‑English, bilingual common law jurisdiction. And our status as an international legal and dispute resolution services centre is internationally recognised.

In last month’s Policy Address, I set out a set of initiatives to support and collaborate with the IOMed, promoting Hong Kong as a global hub for mediation.

Building on the Government’s “Mediate First” policy, we will include IOMed mediation as a dispute resolution option in government contracts and agreements to which Hong Kong is a party.

I also welcome the IOMed’s involvement in settling disputes in emerging industries. And we are considering the establishment of a special panel of mediators in commodity trading.

I hope, too, to see our talented young professionals contribute to international peace and co-operation. And I look forward to working with the IOMed in creating opportunities for young people in its wide-ranging affairs.

Ladies and gentlemen, IOMed’s headquarters was converted from our historic Old Wan Chai Police Station. Its design theme was rooted in a proverb borrowed from Chinese porcelain, and I quote “一色入窯，萬彩出窯” which I will translate as “Entering the kiln as one, emerging as a kaleidoscope of colours”.

That reflects the value of international mediation, in which parties begin with a dispute and, ideally, leave with diverse solutions and new opportunities.

Mediation embodies respect, mutual trust, fairness and harmony. And I am confident that the International Organization for Mediation will continue to serve, and shine, as a beacon of hope for the world.

I wish you all a memorable evening.

Thank you.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

The Department of Health (DH) announced today (October 20) that it has conducted a series of raids over the past few days in an effort to crack down on premises suspected of providing injection treatments involving unregistered pharmaceutical products. Four premises offering beauty services in Tsim Sha Tsui, Mong Kok, Tsuen Wan and Yuen Long were searched. Among them, over 100 vials/ampoules of suspected Part 1 poisons for injection and more than 70 vials/ampoules of suspected unregistered pharmaceutical products for injection were seized from the two premises in Tsim Sha Tsui and Mong Kok. These included a product called Elravie Re2O, which was packaged in Korean, indicating that it is for injection and claiming to contain human tissue. A 38-year-old woman was arrested.

The DH raided the above four premises on October 16 and today. At the premises located in Tsim Sha Tsui and Mong Kok, the DH seized a total of more than 100 vials/ampoules of suspected Part 1 poisons and more than 70 vials/ampoules of suspected unregistered pharmaceutical products. Among the seized products, 20 vials/ampoules were Elravie Re2O. During a joint operation with the Police in the Mong Kok premises, a 38-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of unlawful possession of Part 1 poisons and unregistered pharmaceutical products, and suspected unlawful commercial dealing in human organs.

“The Elravie Re2O seized in the operation is claimed on its packaging to contain human tissue. It is classified as a ‘regulated product’ under the Human Organ Transplant Ordinance (Cap. 465) and also as a ‘pharmaceutical product’ under the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance (Cap. 138). The DH previously received an application for exemption in respect of the ‘regulated product’ concerned and is processing the application. No exemption has been granted for the product to date. The DH has not received any application for registration of the product as a pharmaceutical product. The DH will continue to follow up on the case and trace the source of the unregistered pharmaceutical products,” the Controller for Regulatory Affairs of the DH, Dr Fung Ying, said.

“The product concerned lacks clinical safety data and poses potential public health risks. The DH has previously written to all doctors and private healthcare institutions in Hong Kong reminding them of the need to comply with relevant legislation. The sale or possession of unregistered pharmaceutical products in Hong Kong is illegal,” she added.

Products manufactured from human tissue are classified as “regulated products” under the Human Organ Transplant Ordinance. Before such products may be sold in Hong Kong, an application for exemption must be submitted to and approved by the Director of Health. Any person convicted of an offence under the Ordinance is liable, on first conviction, to a fine of $50,000 and imprisonment for three months and, on any subsequent conviction, to a fine of $100,000 and imprisonment for one year. Apart from the above-mentioned operation at the Mong Kok premises, the DH has also referred other cases involving the alleged sale of non-exempted “regulated products” in contravention of the Human Organ Transplant Ordinance to the Police for follow-up.

Under the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance, any product that meets the definition of a pharmaceutical product must satisfy the relevant standards of safety, efficacy and quality, and must be registered with the Pharmacy and Poisons Board of Hong Kong before it may be sold in Hong Kong. The unlawful supply or possession of unregistered pharmaceutical products or Part 1 poisons is a criminal offence. Upon conviction, offenders are liable to a maximum penalty of a fine of $100,000 and imprisonment for two years for each offence.

The DH has been taking stringent enforcement action against the illegal supply and/or possession of unregistered pharmaceutical products to safeguard public safety. From 2023 to September 2026, the DH’s Drug Office handled 108 convicted cases involving the sale and/or possession of unregistered pharmaceutical products. The heaviest sentence imposed was 10 months’ imprisonment (for all offences taken together), while the highest fine imposed was $242,000 (for all offences taken together).

The DH has an established mechanism to closely monitor the sale of pharmaceutical products and “regulated products” in the market, whether through online or physical sales channels. Upon discovering any suspected illegal supply and/or possession of unapproved “regulated products” or unregistered pharmaceutical products, the DH will immediately commence investigations and take enforcement action. Where necessary, the DH will conduct joint operations with other law enforcement agencies or refer cases to the relevant enforcement authorities for follow-up. Cases involving healthcare professionals will be referred to the relevant professional regulatory bodies for follow-up.

Dr Fung reminded members of the public that injection procedures are medical procedures and should only be performed by registered medical practitioners or registered dentists. Before undergoing any injection procedure, members of the public should ascertain the full name of the doctor concerned and check the List of Registered Medical Practitioners maintained by the Medical Council of Hong Kong or the List of Registered Dentists maintained by the Dental Council of Hong Kong to verify his or her professional qualifications. Members of the public should not assume that an injection procedure is risk-free simply because it is marketed as a cosmetic treatment or provided at premises offering beauty services. Furthermore, persons with questions about the prevention or treatment of disease should consult a registered doctor, who can provide professional advice based on the individual’s health condition and the latest medical evidence. Members of the public should not place reliance on unsubstantiated medical claims and should take steps to protect their own health and safety.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Finance Ministers’ Meeting (FMM) 2026 commenced today (October 20) for the first time in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). Representatives from the APEC member economies and international organisations gathered for the two-day meeting to discuss key issues including the global and regional macroeconomic and financial outlook, fiscal policy supporting households, digital infrastructure financing, financial access and opportunity for all, and young financial talent dialogue, with a view to strengthening economic and financial co-operation in the Asia-Pacific region.

The Minister of Finance, Mr Lan Fo’an, said at the opening ceremony that a new round of technological revolution and industrial transformation is accelerating with breakthroughs, and new development momentum is gathering. As the engine of global economic growth, the Asia-Pacific region bears greater responsibility. All parties should firmly implement the consensus reached at the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting and contribute to regional prosperity. First, strengthen macroeconomic policy dialogue and maintain regional economic and financial stability. Given the current highly uncertain international economic environment, all economies should enhance the soundness of their own macroeconomic policies while strengthening policy communication and co-ordination to prevent negative spillover effects from policy adjustments. Second, accelerate economic transformation and enhance economic resilience. All economies should seize the opportunities of digital and green transformation, promote innovative co-operation in areas such as artificial intelligence, the digital economy, and green and low-carbon development, and cultivate new growth drivers. Third, uphold development as a priority and promote shared prosperity. All economies should deepen practical co-operation in fiscal and financial fields, foster an open regional economic environment, maintain the stability and smooth flow of industrial and supply chains, and advance regional economic integration.

The agenda of the FMM today covered discussions on the global and regional macroeconomic and financial outlook, fiscal policies supporting households, and digital infrastructure financing. Speaking during the discussion sessions, the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, said that amid geopolitical tensions and uncertainties over trade policies, Asia-Pacific economies should strengthen co-operation to maintain the smooth flow of trade and investment, while guarding against financial risks and nurturing long-term growth drivers. He noted that economies should step up investment in technology, digital infrastructure and talent training, and promote the wider application of artificial intelligence, enabling small and medium-sized enterprises and the public to share in the benefits of technological advances. On infrastructure development, governments should provide a clear, stable and predictable policy environment and make effective use of public resources. They should also work with the business sector and multilateral development banks, leveraging financing tools such as asset securitisation to channel long-term capital into productive infrastructure projects.

Mr Chan said that Hong Kong would leverage its unique advantages under the “one country, two systems” principle, and make full use of its diverse financing channels and professional services as an international financial centre to serve as a “super connector” and “super value-adder”. By connecting capital, technology and projects across the region, Hong Kong would work with other economies to foster more resilient, sustainable and inclusive growth, ensuring that the benefits of development translate into better livelihoods.

In the morning, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority and the APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC) held two thematic seminars on “Fostering a digitalised, inclusive and sustainable supply chain ecosystem through finance” and “Mobilising capital for nature: scaling finance and regional cooperation across APEC” respectively. Delivering welcoming remarks at the seminars, the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, said that the seminars have brought together regulators, business leaders and experts from across the Asia-Pacific region to share their practical experience and market insights for meaningful exchanges on ways to unlock new opportunities, strengthen financial resilience, and drive sustainable growth for all. The speakers and attendants of the seminars also held in-depth discussions on the relevant topics.

To allow delegates to further appreciate Hong Kong’s cultural heritage and unique charm as an international metropolis, a diverse range of experiential and cultural activities and visits, incorporating elements of Chinese culture and Hong Kong’s distinct character, were arranged for members of delegations from participating economies and international organisations, with an aim of telling good stories of both the country and Hong Kong. Members of some participating delegations boarded a sightseeing bus arranged by the meeting organiser yesterday (October 19) evening, to visit the Xiqu Centre and enjoy cultural performances, experiencing first-hand the essence of Chinese culture and the vitality of Hong Kong society.

A series of study visits and tours were arranged for delegates today for members of the delegations from participating economies and international organisations, offering them an opportunity to experience Hong Kong’s diverse appeal, where natural and urban landscapes converge and tradition blends with modernity. The itineraries included the Peak, the Chinese Culinary Institute and Ocean Park.

In the evening today, the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, and Mr Lan, jointly officiated at a welcome dinner for representatives of the APEC member economies and international organisations.

The FMM will continue tomorrow (October 21).

China is the host of APEC 2026. The FMM, being hosted by the Ministry of Finance and held in Hong Kong under the arrangements and organisation of the HKSAR Government, is a key component among a series of APEC meetings this year. Through the FMM, Hong Kong has demonstrated to participating economies and the international community its comprehensive development across economic, financial, and social sectors, leveraging its distinctive advantages of enjoying strong support of the motherland and being closely connected to the world. The FMM has also deepened co-operation with other APEC members, fully showcasing Hong Kong’s role as a “super connector”.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

The Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, today (October 20) extended her congratulations to fencing athletes Chung Yuen-ping, Lam Ka-man, Tong Nga-ting and Yu Chui-yee on winning a silver medal in Women’s Foil Team; and table tennis athletes Chiu Kan-shan and Wong Ting-ting on winning silver medals in Women’s Singles – Class 7 and Class 11 respectively at the 5th Asian Para Games.

Miss Law also congratulated swimming athlete Chan Yui-lam on winning a bronze medal in Women’s 100m Backstroke S14; table tennis athletes Wong Hon-lam and Wong Chi-yin on each winning a bronze medal in Men’s Singles – Class 9; as well as Pang Wing-ka, Wong Yue-ching and Lam Yan-yu on winning their bronze medal in Women’s Singles – Class 6, Class 7 and Class 10 respectively.

​Miss Law said, “It was truly exhilarating that the Hong Kong, China Delegation today achieved remarkable results, winning nine medals in a single day. The four female fencers Chung Yuen-ping, Lam Ka-man, Tong Nga-ting and Yu Chui-yee displayed excellent teamwork and determination to win the silver medal. Chan Yui-lam fought hard and won the bronze medal, bringing the swimming team its third medal at the Games. The table tennis team delivered an outstanding performance today, winning seven medals in one go. Chiu Kan-shan and Wong Ting-ting both fought five tight sets against the opponents, eventually claiming silver medals. Wong Hon-lam, Wong Chi-yin, Pang Wing-ka, Wong Yue-ching and Lam Yan-yu also delivered impressive performances in the competitions, each claiming a bronze medal. The athletes’ perseverance and fighting spirit deserve the applause of Hong Kong people.

The Hong Kong, China Delegation has so far won 12 medals, namely four silver and eight bronze medals, at the Asian Para Games. The newly added nine medals are as follows:

Silver medals
—————

Fencing: Women’s Foil Team
Chung Yuen-ping, Lam Ka-man, Tong Nga-ting, Yu Chui-yee

Table Tennis: Women’s Singles – Class 7
Chiu Kan-shan

Table Tennis: Women’s Singles – Class 11
Wong Ting-ting

Bronze medals
—————

Swimming: Women’s 100m Backstroke S14
Chan Yui-lam

Table Tennis: Men’s Singles – Class 9
Wong Hon-lam
Wong Chi-yin

Table Tennis: Women’s Singles – Class 6
Pang Wing-ka

Table Tennis: Women’s Singles – Class 7
Wong Yue-ching

Table Tennis: Women’s Singles – Class 10
Lam Yan-yu

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Accountancy  Designated body No. of nomination forms received from designated bodies today Cumulative total Sports Federation & Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China 0 1 (3 nominees in total) China Federation of Literary and Art Circles Hong Kong Member Association Limited 0 1 (9 nominees in total) Hong Kong Publishing Federation Limited 0 1 (3 nominees in total)   Technology and innovation Designated body No. of nomination forms received from designated bodies today Cumulative total The Greater Bay Area Association of Academicians 0 1 (15 nominees in total)   Religious Designated body No. of nomination forms received from designated bodies today Cumulative total Catholic Diocese of Hong Kong 0 1 (13 nominees in total) Chinese Muslim Cultural and Fraternal Association 0 1 (10 nominees in total) Hong Kong Christian Council 0 1 (12 nominees in total) The Hong Kong Taoist Association 0 1 (10 nominees in total) The Confucian Academy 0 1 (10 nominees in total) The Hong Kong Buddhist Association 0 1 (10 nominees in total)   Representatives of associations of Hong Kong residents in the Mainland Designated body No. of nomination forms received from designated bodies today Cumulative total Mainland China (Shenzhen) Consultant Services Centre, The Hong Kong Federation of Trade Unions 0 1 (1 nominee in total) Mainland China (Guangzhou) Consultant Services Centre, The Hong Kong Federation of Trade Unions 0 1 (1 nominee in total) Mainland China (Dongguan) Consultant Services Centre, The Hong Kong Federation of Trade Unions 0 1 (1 nominee in total) Mainland China (Zhongshan) Consultant Services Centre, The Hong Kong Federation of Trade Unions 0 1 (1 nominee in total) Mainland China (Huizhou) Consultant Services Centre, The Hong Kong Federation of Trade Unions 0 1 (1 nominee in total) Mainland China (Fujian, Xiamen) Consultant Services Centre, The Hong Kong Federation of Trade Unions 0 1 (1 nominee in total) Hong Kong Chamber of Commerce in China 0 1 (1 nominee in total) Hong Kong Chamber of Commerce in China—Tianjin 0 1 (1 nominee in total) Hong Kong Chamber of Commerce in China—Shanghai 0 1 (1 nominee in total) Hong Kong Chamber of Commerce in China—Zhejiang 0 1 (1 nominee in total) Hong Kong Chamber of Commerce in China—Guangdong 0 1 (1 nominee in total) Hong Kong Chamber of Commerce in China—Fujian 0 1 (1 nominee in total) Hong Kong Chamber of Commerce in China—Guangxi 0 1 (1 nominee in total) Hong Kong Chamber of Commerce in China—Sichuan 0 1 (1 nominee in total) Hong Kong Chamber of Commerce in China—Wuhan 0 1 (1 nominee in total) Hong Kong Chamber of Commerce in China—Liaoning 0 1 (1 nominee in total) Hong Kong Chamber of Commerce in China—Shandong 0 1 (1 nominee in total) Hong Kong Professionals (Beijing) Association 0 1 (1 nominee in total) Shanghai Hong Kong Association 0 1 (1 nominee in total) Guangzhou Tianhe Hong Kong and Macau Youth Association 0 1 (1 nominee in total) Hong Kong Association of China Business 0 1 (1 nominee in total) Hong Kong Chamber of Commerce, Qianhai, Shenzhen 0 1 (1 nominee in total) Hong Kong and Macau Entrepreneurs Branch, Chongqing Overseas Association 0 1 (1 nominee in total) Fujian Federation of Overseas Chinese Entrepreneurs 0 1 (1 nominee in total) Hong Kong and Macao Youth Innovation and Entrepreneurship Federation in Zhongkai Huizhou 0 1 (1 nominee in total) The Hong Kong Fellowship in Huadu Guangzhou 0 1 (1 nominee in total) The Hong Kong Fellowship in Chancheng Foshan 0 1 (1 nominee in total)   Total: 0 40 (161 nominees in total)

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Department of Health is investigating a case involving a registered Chinese medicine practitioner (CMP) who allegedly issued sick leave certificates without conducting patient consultations.

In response to media reports, the department today confirmed it has referred the matter to the Chinese Medicine Council of Hong Kong (CMCHK) and the Hong Kong Police Force for investigation and follow-up.

The department emphasised that CMPs must adhere to the “Reference Guide on Issuance of Sick Leave Certificate and Certificate of Attendance by Registered Chinese Medicine Practitioners”. Such documents should only be issued where justified, based on the practitioner’s professional judgment and the individual circumstances of each patient.

If a CMP engages in conduct that falls short of expected professional standards, the CMCHK will handle the matter in accordance with relevant statutory regulations. The department noted that in previous cases, CMPs who issued misleading or false sick leave certificates were found guilty of professional misconduct and removed from the register following CMCHK disciplinary inquiries.

Members of the public who are dissatisfied with the practice or conduct of a CMP are urged to lodge a written complaint with the Chinese Medicine Practitioners Board.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The two-day Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Finance Ministers’ Meeting 2026 opened in Hong Kong today, marking the first time the city has hosted the event.  

Aiming to strengthen regional economic and financial co-operation, participants are discussing the global and regional macroeconomic outlook, fiscal policies supporting households, digital infrastructure financing, financial inclusion and dialogue with financial talent.

Speaking at the opening ceremony this morning, Minister of Finance Lan Fo’an noted that a new wave of breakthroughs in technological innovation and industrial transformation is accelerating, gathering new development momentum. He added that as the engine of global economic growth, the Asia-Pacific region bears greater responsibility.

Mr Lan said all parties should firmly implement the consensus reached at the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting to contribute to regional prosperity. He urged member economies to strengthen macroeconomic policy dialogue and maintain stability.

Given the highly uncertain international economic environment, he advised economies to enhance the soundness of their own policies while boosting communication and co-ordination to prevent negative spillover effects from policy adjustments. He also stressed the need to accelerate economic transformation and enhance resilience by seizing opportunities in digital and green transformation, promoting innovative co-operation in artificial intelligence, the digital economy and green and low-carbon development, and cultivating new growth drivers.

Furthermore, he noted that development must remain a priority to promote shared prosperity. Mr Lan urged all economies to deepen practical co-operation in fiscal and financial fields, foster an open regional economic environment, maintain stable supply chains, and advance regional economic integration.

Addressing the discussion sessions, Financial Secretary Paul Chan said Hong Kong would leverage its unique advantages under the “one country, two systems” principle. He emphasised that the city will make full use of its diverse financing channels and professional services as an international financial centre to serve as a “super connector” and “super value-adder”. 

He highlighted that by connecting capital, technology and projects across the region, Hong Kong will work with other economies to foster resilient, sustainable and inclusive growth.

Chief Executive John Lee officiated at a welcome dinner for delegates this evening. 

“Together, we seek to build economies that are more resilient, innovative and inclusive to create continuing opportunities for our businesses, communities and future generations,” he said. 

He noted that as a founding member of the World Trade Organization, Hong Kong champions free trade and maintains a zero-tariff policy, a simple and low tax regime, and a predictable business environment, contributing to the city’s status as a global financial centre. Mr Lee reiterated the Government’s commitment to strengthening Hong Kong’s roles as a global offshore renminbi business hub, an international asset and wealth management centre, and a risk management centre, while advancing commodity trading and green financial services.

The Chief Executive pointed out that the Northern Metropolis is fast becoming Hong Kong’s new economic engine.

“The Northern Metropolis is connected to the enterprising and innovative Mainland city of Shenzhen, where the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Economic Leaders’ Meeting is set to take place next month. It will become an innovation and technology hub and home to three university towns, integrating education, technology and talent,” he said.

Mr Lee added that the Northern Metropolis will deepen collaboration within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area – a cluster city development that brings together Hong Kong, Shenzhen and nine southern cities with a combined gross domestic product that rivals the world’s 10th largest economy.