Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
Following is a question by the Hon Maggie Chan and a written reply by the Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC, in the Legislative Council today (June 24):
Question:
The SAR (Special Administrative Region) Government is committed to developing Hong Kong into a leading international arbitration centre in the Asia-Pacific region and has been actively welcoming international and mainland arbitration institutions to establish their bases in Hong Kong. Currently, there are at least nine arbitration institutions in Hong Kong. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
(1) whether the Government has provided any direct financial assistance, manpower resources or facilities to those arbitration institutions to support their daily operation in the past three years; if so, of the beneficiary institutions, forms of support and the amount involved each year; if not, the reasons for that;
(2) how the Government assesses the effectiveness of its work in promoting Hong Kong as an international arbitration centre in the past three years, and whether it has set relevant performance indicators for this purpose; and
(3) in the face of strong competition from international arbitration centres such as Singapore and London, of the Government’s medium- to long-term positioning for Hong Kong as an international arbitration hub; and of the new measures it will introduce to further encourage and consolidate Hong Kong’s status as an arbitration centre, so as to enhance its arbitration efficiency?
Reply:
President,
In response to the questions raised by the Hon Maggie Chan, the reply is as follows:
(1) Currently, all arbitration institutions in Hong Kong operate entirely independently. With the exception of eBRAM International Online Dispute Resolution Centre Limited (eBRAM), the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government has not provided any direct financial assistance or human resources to support the day-to-day operations of these institutions in the past three years. These institutions primarily finance their operation through case management fees, membership fees and administrative fees to ensure their independence and neutrality.
In response to the COVID-19 Online Dispute Resolution Scheme established under the second round of the Anti-epidemic Fund, in 2020, the Government allocated $70 million to and appointed eBRAM as the service provider of the Scheme. The Scheme ended on September 30, 2023, and the mediator and arbitrator fees ($20 million) covered by the allocation were refunded to the Government upon the conclusion of the Scheme. In January 2021, the Finance Committee of the Legislative Council approved a funding of $100 million to eBRAM for the establishment of an online dispute resolution platform. According to the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the Government and eBRAM, the funding has been disbursed in phases starting from 2021. As of February 2026, the Government had disbursed approximately $87 million out of the said funding to eBRAM. It is eBRAM’s aim to operate on a self-financing basis after the conclusion of the Government funding.
Regarding the provision of facilities by the Government, since November 2020, the Government has established the Hong Kong Legal Hub to provide office space for international and local legal and dispute resolution institutions. If an arbitration institution’s application as a tenant of the Legal Hub is accepted, the Government will provide corresponding office facility to support that institution to develop its services in Hong Kong, for deepening international exchanges and co-operation, creating synergies, and consolidating and enhancing Hong Kong’s unique advantages as an international legal hub.
(2) The Government has been committed to promoting Hong Kong as an international arbitration centre through various initiatives and activities. Key initiatives include:
(i) The Department of Justice (DoJ) established the Working Group on Arbitration Law Reform in October 2025. The Working Group provides advice to the DoJ on the legal framework for arbitration in Hong Kong, including reviewing and making recommendations to amend the Arbitration Ordinance, with a view to advancing the relevant legislative amendment work within 2026.
(ii) With effect from March 1, 2025, the Government regularised and refined the Pilot Scheme on Facilitation for Persons Participating in Arbitral Proceedings in Hong Kong, and renamed it to the Immigration Facilitation Scheme for Persons Participating in Arbitral Proceedings in Hong Kong (Scheme). Under the Scheme, persons in possession of a “Letter of Proof” issued by a designated arbitral and dispute resolution institution or a venue provider proving that they are eligible persons participating in arbitral proceedings seated in Hong Kong are permitted to do so as visitors without the need to obtain an employment visa. The regularised and refined Scheme expands the categories of eligible persons and covers all arbitrations physically taking place in Hong Kong, offering parties to the arbitration and legal practitioners great convenience and more choices of arbitrators, legal experts and related professionals, thus further enhancing Hong Kong’s attractiveness as a seat or destination of arbitration.
Regarding the promotion of Hong Kong’s arbitration services, the Government has been actively promoting its high-quality arbitration services through organising the Hong Kong Legal Week, co-organising with the Hong Kong Trade Development Council thematic breakout sessions on dispute resolution at the Belt and Road Summit and the Business of Intellectual Property Asia Forum, and co-organising with Vis East Moot Foundation the Vis East International Commercial Arbitration Moot.
The Government has not established a set of rigid key performance indicators for arbitration-related initiatives. The effectiveness of arbitration-related initiatives involves multiple aspects, and the actual benefits are difficult to quantify. However, international recognition can directly reflect the effectiveness of the current initiatives. For instance, in the 2025 Queen Mary University of London International Arbitration Survey, Hong Kong was selected as the most preferred arbitration seat in the Asia-Pacific region and ranked second globally alongside Singapore, fully reflecting the effectiveness of current initiatives. The Government will continue to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of current initiatives and conduct timely reviews in light of industry feedback and international developments.
(3) Faced with fierce international competition, the Government is implementing a multi-pronged approach to further consolidate Hong Kong’s leading position in arbitration and enhance arbitration efficiency. In terms of legal system and infrastructure, through the Working Group on Arbitration Law Reform established in 2025, the Government is continuously enhancing the Arbitration Ordinance, to comprehensively ensure that Hong Kong’s arbitration system responds promptly to global trends and remains at the forefront of international developments. Furthermore, the Government is planning the construction of the Hong Kong International Legal Service Building, aiming to bring together the facilities such as the headquarter of the Hong Kong International Legal Talents Training Academy and international legal and dispute resolution institutions, in order to create synergy and provide arbitration parties with more comprehensive arbitration facilities.
At the same time, through the Hong Kong International Legal Talents Training Academy and the visa policy facilitating arbitration professionals to participate in proceedings in Hong Kong, the Government is actively cultivating local talent and attracting top international talent, and strengthening co-operation with the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and countries along the Belt and Road Initiative, so as to promote talent exchange and align with the National 15th Five-Year Plan in supporting Hong Kong to deepen its position as an international legal and dispute resolution services centre and to build an international hub for high-calibre talent.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
Following is a question by Dr the Hon Thomas So and a written reply by the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau, in the Legislative Council today (June 24):
Question:
It has been reported that the number of marketing calls reported in 2025 by the users of an unsolicited call reporting website amounted to 466 000, which represented an increase of nearly 220 000 from 241 000 calls in 2023. Among these cases, marketing calls promoting financial loans and banking investments increased by nearly 160 000 in two years, while calls involving estate sales doubled and those promoting body checks increased by 10 times. Recently, there has even been the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI)-generated Cantonese-speaking calls developed by suppliers from the Mainland, who claimed that up to 10 000 calls could be made each day. There are views that while the Government has been inclined to encourage self-regulation by the industry over the years, the data has reflected that such self-regulation is ineffective since the number of unsolicited marketing calls has been rising. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
(1) of the existing objective indicators formulated by the Government for evaluating the effectiveness of the self-regulatory efforts made by the industry; whether the Government will consider introducing measures to curb the rising trend of unsolicited marketing calls, provided that normal business activities remain unaffected; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;
(2) while the Unsolicited Electronic Messages Ordinance (Cap. 593) currently in force regulates facsimile messages, short messages and pre-recorded telephone messages, it does not cover marketing calls featuring AI-generated speeches, and given the relatively low cost of using AI for marketing purposes, will the Government consider studying the regulation of such marketing calls to prevent the number from growing out of control; and
(3) there are views that the increase in marketing calls is primarily caused by the collection and transfer of personal data of members of the public among business organisations for commercial and marketing purposes. While the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance (Cap. 486) stipulates that data subjects must be informed and their express consent be obtained before their personal data can be used in direct marketing, it is learnt that some service providers obtain customer consent by way of “bundled consent” (for example, the forms used for collecting personal data from customers are designed in such a way that renders it impracticable for customers to refuse the use of their personal data for direct marketing purposes unrelated to the services the customers seek, such collection of personal data contravenes the original intent of authorisation), whether the Government will step up efforts in regulating such practice of data transfer; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?
Reply:
President,
Telecommunications services are closely related to citizen’s livelihood, and are also one of the important means for businesses to reach out to members of the public. The Government understands that members of the public are concerned about unsolicited calls (commonly known as marketing calls) and scam calls. Considering the different nature of marketing calls and scam calls, the Government has introduced different measures targeting them respectively in an active response to public concerns. Regarding marketing calls, despite that different industries have adopted innovative modes to promote services and products, the Government understands that currently some enterprises, especially small and medium-sized enterprises, are still using voice marketing calls for promotional activities and service follow-up, etc. Therefore, there is a practical and legitimate need for enterprises to use marketing calls for their business operation. At present, marketing calls are handled differently around the world depending on local circumstances, including restriction-free, industry self-regulation and legislative regulation. Based on the experience in other regions, there are considerable challenges in the actual operation and enforcement of handling marketing calls through legislation (including how to distinguish unlawful marketing calls, evidence collection, cross-border enforcement and prosecution, etc). Under the overarching principle of balancing the practical needs of enterprises’ business operation and minimising nuisance caused to public by marketing calls, and considering that enterprises are undergoing transformation amid the prevailing economic environment, the Government believes that the more pragmatic approach in managing marketing calls is to promote industry self-regulation, while putting in place other industry collaborative and regulatory measures. In response to the question raised by Dr the Hon Thomas So, in consultation with the Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Bureau and the Office of the Communications Authority (OFCA), our reply is as follows:
(1) and (2) To alleviate the nuisance caused by marketing calls, the Government has implemented a series of measures, including:
(i) Through the Industry Regulatory Scheme for Marketing Calls, OFCA has proactively invited relevant industries to implement industry self-regulation, including requiring telemarketers to provide their names and contact numbers upon recipients’ requests, as well as limiting the number of calls made to the same telephone number within a specified period. Currently, 12 industry associations from seven industries (including finance, insurance, telecommunications, call centres, beauty, estate agencies, and money lenders) are participating in the Scheme. Since the relevant industry associations issued their sector-specific codes of practice in 2011, the number of enquiries and complaints related to marketing calls received by the Government has significantly reduced from around 2 000 cases in 2012 to around 270 cases in 2025, reflecting that the measure is effective to a certain extent. The Government will continue to engage relevant stakeholders and various industries to further expand the scope of the Scheme with more industries participating in industry self-regulation;
(ii) OFCA has requested telecommunications service providers (TSPs) to provide call-management services or call-filtering applications to their customers. Subscribers to these services may personalise or use the pre-set black and/or white lists provided by mobile service providers to filter all incoming calls, including anonymous calls, to minimise suspicious and nuisance calls. Currently, the four major TSPs are providing the above services as required, and some even offer free call filtering value-added services to all or some of their customers (e.g. customers aged 60 or above). OFCA has encouraged the use of call-management services and call-filtering applications through various publicity and education activities, and has also helped members of the public in need download and use relevant filtering applications during the public education and promotional activities. Between January 2023 and May 2026, OFCA has organised a total of 366 public education and publicity activities, including 52 roving and small-scale exhibitions, 126 community and school talks, 70 school drama performances, 56 roadshows, 36 mobile promotion truck tours and 26 publicity activities in other forms, to promote relevant messages to residents and students across all districts; and
(iii) Unsolicited electronic messages are currently regulated by the Unsolicited Electronic Messages Ordinance (Cap. 593) (UEMO), members of the public can choose to unsubscribe from commercial electronic messages (e.g. faxes, emails, short messages, pre-recorded telephone messages, etc) at their own will. Regarding artificial intelligence (AI)-generated marketing calls, regardless if they are pre-recorded using human or AI-generated voices, all of them are currently regulated under the UEMO, unless they involve person-to-person interactive communication. In other words, if the caller conducts the entire phone call solely by AI without any person-to-person interaction, i.e. fully AI-powered telephone voice messages, it will be subject to the UEMO. Furthermore, in view of the increasing prevalence of AI-generated marketing calls originating from the Mainland, OFCA communicated with the relevant Mainland authorities in March this year to reflect relevant concerns and to explain the requirement of the UEMO to enterprises in the Mainland, strengthening co-operation in tackling unsolicited electronic messages between Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland. Currently, marketing calls with AI-generated elements only account for a very small fraction of UEMO reports. According to records, among the 831 reports of alleged contravention of the UEMO received by OFCA in 2025, there were only 10 reports in which the complainants alleged the use of AI in those pre-recorded telephone messages. That said, OFCA will continue to closely monitor the development in AI and review the implementation effectiveness of the UEMO to ensure that the UEMO keeps pace with the times.
In addition, OFCA has implemented a series of measures from the perspective of telecommunications services to assist the Police in combating phone deception at the source. Among these measures, according to the Code of Practice formulated by the Communications Authority, TSPs are required to monitor calls and SMS messages originated from their networks and systems. TSPs must suspend the services of the relevant local telephone numbers once suspicious calling or SMS-sending patterns are identified (e.g. making a large number of calls/sending a large number of SMS within a short period of time), regardless of whether such calls and SMS messages are generated by an AI system. As at end May 2026, over 1.59 million local telephone numbers have been suspended as a result. The Government will continue to closely monitor market developments to ensure that the current regulatory mechanisms can respond to the needs of society.
(3) Regarding Member’s concern that there are commercial enterprises obtaining customers’ agreement in using their personal data for business or promotional purposes by “bundling”, the Guidance on Direct Marketing published by the Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data has already reminded data users not to design a service application form in such a way as to render it impracticable for customers to refuse the use of their personal data for direct marketing purposes (such as the so-called “bundled consent”). Instead, data users are advised to design a service application form that separates customers’ agreement to terms and conditions of the services being purchased from customers’ agreement in using their personal data for direct marketing.
As for telecommunications services, OFCA has not received any complaints regarding TSPs obtaining “bundled consent” in their service contracts. If members of the public have any concerns on the matter, OFCA will actively follow up with TSPs.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
Hong Kong Customs yesterday (June 23) arrested a model and toy shop sole proprietor on suspicion of engaging in wrongly accepting payments in the course of selling models and toys, in contravention of the Trade Descriptions Ordinance (TDO).
Customs earlier received a number of reports alleging that someone sold models and toys through two physical shops and their respective online shops but failed to supply the ordered goods within the specified date or a reasonable period after accepting payments from customers. Also, no refund was offered in a timely manner. As of yesterday, the reports received by Customs involved 26 customers and 57 toy products, with the total amount involved being about $98,000.
After investigations, Customs officers yesterday arrested a 41-year-old man suspected to be connected with the case. He is the sole proprietor of the two shops concerned in Mong Kok.
An investigation is ongoing, and the arrested man has been released on bail pending further investigation.
Customs reminds traders to comply with the requirements of the TDO and consumers to procure products at reputable shops.
Under the TDO, any trader commits an offence if at the time of acceptance of payment, the trader intends not to supply the product or intends to supply a materially different product, or there are no reasonable grounds for believing that the trader will be able to supply the product within a specified or reasonable period. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $500,000 and imprisonment for five years.
Members of the public may report any suspected violations of the TDO to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
LCQ12: Control of illegal feeding of feral pigeons Question:
The Wild Animals Protection (Amendment) Ordinance 2024 (the Amendment Ordinance), which came into operation on August 1, 2024, has expanded the prohibition on feeding wild animals to cover feral pigeons. According to the information on the Estimates of Expenditure 2026-2027 provided by the authorities in reply to my question, the preliminary findings of the next phase of the territory-wide feral pigeon population surveys are expected to be available in the second quarter of this year. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
(1) of the detailed findings of the latest feral pigeon population surveys; if the relevant statistics are not yet available, of the reasons for that;
(2) whether the authorities have formulated any objective standards for assessing if the control of feral pigeons and the enforcement work against the illegal feeding of feral pigeons have achieved satisfactory effects; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;
(3) of the current number and locations of illegal feral pigeon feeding blackspots in the 18 districts of Hong Kong; whether the current numbers of such blackspots and locations have dropped when compared with those before the measure to prohibit the feeding of feral pigeons came into operation;
(4) as it has been reported that the Government has commenced the trial use of a monitoring system equipped with AI technology to identify feral pigeon congregation spots and illegal feeding behaviour, and will study the application of the system and related technologies to other illegal feeding blackspots, of the relevant implementation progress and outcome;
(5) as it has been reported that the number of fixed penalty notices issued by the authorities during inspections and enforcement operations is on the low side, whether the authorities have encountered any difficulties in law enforcement; if so, whether they have formulated any response plans; and
(6) given that according to the information on the Estimates of Expenditure 2026-2027 provided by the authorities in reply to my question, the feral pigeon population in Hong Kong declined during the initial commencement of the Amendment Ordinance, and as pointed out by the authorities, the problems concerning the feral pigeon population and the nuisance caused by them will probably show some improvement after the foraging habits of feral pigeons are restored to their natural state, whether the authorities have analysed if the decline in the feral pigeon population is attributable to the return of some feral pigeons to the natural environment for foraging; whether the authorities will introduce other ancillary measures to further guide feral pigeons to return to their natural habitats?
Reply:
President,
The Government has been adopting a multi-pronged approach to address illegal feeding of feral pigeons, including the passage of the Wild Animals Protection (Amendment) Ordinance 2024 (Amendment Ordinance) which expands the prohibition on feeding of wild animals to cover feral pigeons and thus increases the maximum penalty for illegal feeding to a fine of $100,000 and imprisonment for one year, and introducing a fixed penalty of $5,000, so as to step up efforts in combatting illegal feeding activities. Also, the Government has enhanced the publicity and education initiatives to remind the public not to feed feral pigeons.
In addition, the Amendment Ordinance expanded the scope of the Government’s enforcement officers to include appointed officers from the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD), the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) and the Housing Department (HD), in addition to existing officers of the Agricultural, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) and police officers, to enhance effectiveness of law enforcement.
The AFCD, in collaboration with the FEHD, the LCSD and the HD, has established the Inter-departmental Working Group on Feeding Ban Enforcement to review and enhance the enforcement strategies and implementation of the feeding ban through regular meetings. By adopting a risk-based enforcement strategy, relevant departments will conduct routine patrols and enforcement under their managed venues or public places, and arrange special patrols and enforcement operations based on intelligence and reports.
The reply to the various parts of the question raised by the Hon Cheung Pui-kong is as follows:
(1) to (3) Since the Amendment Ordinance came into effect on August 1, 2024, the AFCD has been commissioning consultants to conduct territory-wide feral pigeon population surveys regularly, covering about 140 survey points. Results of the surveys are tabulated as follows:
Year/Quarter* Aside from the aforementioned surveys, the AFCD have also listed 42 locations across all districts as monitoring points of feral pigeon congregation for indicative reference to objectively assess the situation. The distribution of the monitoring points is tabulated as follows:
District At the initial period of the Amendment Ordinance being effective, only less than 40 per cent of the 42 monitoring points recorded low levels of feral pigeon congregations (i.e. fewer than 10). However, according to the on-site inspection conducted in April 2026, more than 60 per cent of the monitoring points had low feral pigeon numbers, and their overall hygiene conditions were generally satisfactory, demonstrating satisfactory effectiveness of combatting measures against illegal feeding activities.
The AFCD will continue to work closely with relevant departments to regularly review the latest conditions at all monitoring points of feral pigeon congregations, and will adjust management strategies and strengthen enforcement efforts as necessary to combat illegal feeding activities.
(4) The AFCD has been stepping up the application of technology to curb illegal feeding activities. Since September 2025, the Department has piloted a monitoring system equipped with AI technology to identify feral pigeon congregations and illegal feeding, collecting information to enhance enforcement effectiveness. The pilot trial is being carried out at the feeding black spot near the Hang Hau MTR Station. In the fourth quarter of 2025, the Department was able to arrange enforcement operations using information gathered by the system and issued Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) to two persons for illegal feeding of feral pigeons. In March 2026, the Department further extended the monitoring system to selected private premises affected by feral pigeons in the Southern District and Sai Kung District. The Department is also piloting AI patrol robot at designated location. The robot is capable of self-moving remotely and equipped with broadcasting function, helping to reinforce publicity on feeding bans in surrounding areas. The AFCD will continue to review the effectiveness of technology application in combatting illegal feeding activities, make adjustments or extend relevant measures further as appropriate.
(5) Illegal feeding of feral pigeons is often carried out covertly, with varying times, locations and methods. To strengthen law enforcement effectiveness, the Government has adopted a multi-pronged strategy, including conducting targeted inspections at specific feeding blackspots, enhancing interdepartmental collaboration, utilising technology to assist evidence collection, as well as complementing with publicity and education to raise public awareness of compliance with the law. From the commencement of the Amendment Ordinance in August 2024 to May 2026, the relevant departments issued a total of 289 FPNs for illegal feeding of feral pigeons.
(6) Human feeding of feral pigeons will disrupt their foraging and behavioral patterns, weaken their survival abilities, resulting in overpopulation and ecological imbalance, as well as potentially increasing the risk of disease transmission. Feral pigeons do not need to rely on human feeding, and stopping such practices helps restore the natural ecological balance by allowing feral pigeons to return to their natural habitat. According to AFCD’s survey data, illegal feeding activities and feral pigeon congregation situations have improved since the Amendment Ordinance came into effect. Enforcement actions and monitoring will continue. Issued at HKT 12:25
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
LCQ14: Joint-user government complex project in Kwu Tung North Question:
Earlier on, the Panel on Development of this Council discussed the Administration’s proposed public works project to construct a joint-user complex (JUC) and a joint-user general office building (JUB) at Area 29 of the Kwu Tung North New Development Area (KTN NDA). In addition to providing government offices, the project, which is the first Government’s flagship project in the Northern Metropolis (NM), will also offer various community facilities. There are views that the two proposed buildings will not only provide facilities and services to nearby residents but also serve as landmarks of KTN NDA. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
(1) of the strategic significance of the aforesaid project to the enhancement of the speed and quality of NM development, and how its implementation in KTN NDA will improve the planning of KTN NDA; how the Government will step up public promotion of the public facilities and services provided by the aforesaid project;
(2) as indicated in the paper submitted by the Government to the Panel on Development, the scale of the proposed JUC and JUB is comparable to that of the Central Government Offices (CGO) and the Legislative Council Complex (Complex) after expansion, whether the construction costs of these two buildings are also comparable to those of CGO and the Complex;
(3) whether the Government has plans to provide similar joint-user office and service complexes in other areas of NM to accommodate the relocation of major government departments and provide various community cultural, recreational and sports facilities; if so, of the details; and
(4) given that JUC and JUB will each house facilities such as a library and a community hall, it is anticipated that they will serve a large number of people daily, but the authorities have allocated only around 650 square metres for small and medium-sized shops under the entire project, and such a limited area may not be sufficient to meet residents’ daily consumption needs and demand for support facilities, whether the authorities have reserved space or incorporated design flexibility to allow for an expansion of shop area in the future; whether the authorities have planned any other commercial sites near Area 29 of KTN NDA to supplement the community’s commercial support facilities?
Reply:
President,
The Government plans to construct a joint-user complex (JUC) and a joint-user general office building (JUB) (the Project) at Area 29 of the Kwu Tung North (KTN) New Development Area (NDA) in the Northern Metropolis (NM). The Project demonstrates the Government’s commitment to drive the development of the NM, with an iconic government facility cluster showcasing the NM as a future core area of Hong Kong.
In respect of the Hon Yiu Ming’s question, the reply to various parts is as follows:
(1) The KTN NDA is the first NDA in the NM entering the construction stage, and the Project marks an important milestone and pioneer in the NM development. First, it is the first government facility cluster in the NM. Some government offices currently situated in other districts, covering nine bureaux/departments including the headquarters of the Architectural Services Department and the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department, will be relocated to the JUB within the Project, thereby driving the development of KTN and highlighting the NM’s strategic significance. In addition, the Project is of a substantial scale, with a total net operational floor area (NOFA) of about 86 000 square metres, comparable to the Tamar Central Government Offices (CGO) and Legislative Council (LegCo) Complex after expansion. Apart from its iconic architectural design, the Project will also integrate green building and smart elements, and adopt advanced construction methods, setting to become a landmark building in the KTN. The Project also embodies the principles of enhancing speed and efficiency. Subject to LegCo’s funding approval, works will commence in the third quarter of this year. The 35-storey JUB is anticipated to be completed first in only about three and a half years (i.e. by end-2029), while the JUC is scheduled for completion by end-2030 to meet the needs of the additional population of 130 000 upon the full completion of KTN in 2032.
For the KTN NDA, the Project provides not only government offices, but also various sports, cultural and recreational, medical, educational and welfare facilities, including a multi-purpose sports centre capable for hosting local and international fencing competitions (such as Fencing World Cup sub-station tournaments), as well as serving as a training venue for non-elite fencing athletes. Relevant departments will promote the public facilities and services available within the Project to their stakeholders. In addition, the Project, together with the NM core exhibition gallery under construction, the international swimming complex under planning, and the Long Valley Nature Park already open to the public, will transform the KTN NDA into a new civic node, comprehensively enhancing the positioning and development potential of the NDA.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
Following is a question by the Hon Judy Chan and a reply by the Secretary for Health, Professor Lo Chung-mau, in the Legislative Council today (June 24):
Question:
It is learnt that at present, the obstetrics and gynaecology departments of public hospitals encourage pregnant women to opt for natural delivery whenever possible, and caesarean sections will only be performed under specific circumstances. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
(1) whether it knows the respective criteria adopted by public hospitals for encouraging pregnant women to opt for natural delivery, and determining to perform caesarean sections for the pregnant women concerned;
(2) whether it knows the number of caesarean sections performed in public hospitals in each of the past five years, and the respective reasons for performing the surgeries, together with a breakdown by type of hospital ward (i.e. general wards and private wards); and
(3) as it is learnt that at present, public hospitals in quite a number of countries allow pregnant women to opt for caesarean sections, whether the Government and the Hospital Authority will make reference to international practices and review the existing policy of public hospitals on caesarean sections; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that, and whether the relevant review will be conducted in future?
Reply:
President,
Hong Kong has high quality obstetric services and is one of the regions with the lowest neonatal mortality rate and maternal mortality rate in the world. In 2025, the neonatal mortality rate in Hong Kong was 1.0 per 1 000 live births, and there were even no case of maternal death during childbirth. The Government attaches great importance to providing appropriate obstetric services for pregnant women. The obstetric departments of the Hospital Authority (HA) adheres to the principles of evidence-based medical practice and conducts comprehensive risk assessments for every pregnant woman during antenatal care and the delivery process. Dedicated teams in the delivery suites provide vaginal deliveries and caesarean sections. In the absence of definitive medical necessity, the healthcare team will arrange natural delivery for the pregnant woman, while caesarean sections are used for pregnant women who are not suitable for vaginal delivery.
Vaginal delivery is a natural physiological process, which results in a small extent of wounds with fast maternal postpartum recovery. Research evidence indicates that vaginal delivery not only enables pregnant women to avoid the inherent risks associated with surgery, but also allow pregnant women to get out of bed almost immediately, or just a few hours postpartum, whereas those who deliver via caesarean section often require a longer rest period and only able to get out of bed at least 12 to even over 24 hours postpartum. Compared to caesarean sections, pregnant women who undergo vaginal delivery experience fewer discomforts such as physical pain and vomiting during the early postpartum period, and is conducive to maternal postpartum recovery, thereby enabling them to care for and accompany their newborns. They also encounter fewer difficulties in breastfeeding. For infants, natural delivery through the birth canal also helps lower the risk of neonatal respiratory complications.
Caesarean section is a major surgical procedure involving maternal abdomen and uterus, it may pose risks of anaesthetic complications, organ injury, haemorrhage, wound healing infection complications etc., as well as a longer hospital stay. According to global statistics, the risk of surgical site infection following a caesarean section ranges between 3 per cent and 10 per cent.
According to data collected by the HA, the incidence rate of postpartum haemorrhage, defined as blood loss exceeding 500 ml, is 34.9 per cent for caesarean sections, far exceeding the 9.1 per cent for vaginal deliveries by nearly four times. In addition, caesarean sections may cause organ injury, with the probability of urinary bladder injury ranging from 0.1 per cent to 1 per cent, and the risk of developing thromboembolic disease is also 3.7 times higher than that of vaginal deliveries. In the long run, it may also lead to long-term complications such as chronic pelvic pain induced by abdominal or pelvic adhesions, as well as leave a scar on the uterus, thereby significantly increasing the risks of placenta accreta, placenta praevia and uterine rupture in subsequent pregnancies.
For infants, caesarean sections carry a risk of causing neonatal respiratory distress syndrome and neonatal hypoglycaemia. Furthermore, medical research indicates that caesarean sections are associated with an increased risk of children developing cardiovascular diseases, asthma, overweight and autism spectrum disorder later in life.
Health authorities worldwide have pointed out that caesarean sections should only be reserved for cases with clear medical needs. The World Health Organization discourages non-essential caesarean sections and continuously promotes various initiatives to reduce such unnecessary caesarean section surgeries. The National Health Commission has also explicitly stipulated “encouraging vaginal delivery and implementing caesarean section where medical indications are met” be adopted as a working principle for maternal and child healthcare. In addition, the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists as well as the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists have all emphasised that unless medical indications arise for the mother or the fetus, vaginal delivery should be routinely recommended as the primary mode of delivery.
Therefore, the HA performs caesarean section surgeries for pregnant women based on clear medical necessity, and does not perform delivery for reasons such as a preferred delivery date and time in general. Reasons such as purely subjective choices regarding the mode of delivery generally do not account for deciding to perform caesarean section surgeries.
In consultation with the HA, the consolidated reply to the question raised by the Hon Judy Chan is as follows:
(1) All public hospitals under the HA determine the mode of delivery appropriate for pregnant women based on the principles of evidence-based medical practice. Only upon comprehensive assessment over the medical risk on the pregnant woman and embryo with medical needs, the healthcare team will arrange for the pregnant woman to undergo a caesarean section.
(2) During the period from 2020 to 2024, the total number of deliveries in public hospitals ranged from 19 488 to 26 494 per annum, while the number of caesarean sections per annum ranged from 6 196 to 8 234, i.e. on average, approximately 30 per cent to 35 per cent of pregnant women gave birth via caesarean sections each year.
According to the HA’s data on caesarean section in 2024, the major clinical indications for caesarean sections in public hospitals include uterine scar, i.e. previous caesarean section or myomectomy, at 37.7 per cent as the most prevalent indication; failed induction of labour at 17.8 per cent; fetal distress (abnormal fetal heart rate) at 14.2 per cent; abnormal fetal presentation at 13 per cent and hypertension at 7.2 per cent. Many other clinical indications include antepartum haemorrhage, multiple pregnancy, arrest of labour, cephalopelvic disproportion, failed assisted vaginal delivery, intra-uterine infection, fetal intra-uterine growth restriction, macrosomia and placenta praevia/placenta accreta. Regardless of whether a pregnant woman is admitted to a general ward or a private ward, the HA determines the necessity of a caesarean section surgery based on the actual clinical conditions. Therefore, the HA does not compile breakdown statistics according to ward types.
(3) As stated above, international standards as well as multiple health authorities worldwide have pointed out that caesarean sections should be reserved for cases with clear medical needs. Unnecessary caesarean section surgeries shall be avoided whenever possible.
Out of consideration for safeguarding patient health, the HA currently has no intention of adjusting the existing policy on caesarean sections.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
LCQ11: Management of stablecoins Question:
There are views that as an emerging digital financial instrument, the widespread use of stablecoins will deal potential blows to the liquidity of the traditional banking system and involve multiple risks such as cross-boundary capital flows and the protection of retail investors. As such, robust risk management and cross-boundary precautionary mechanisms are the key bottom lines of maintaining the resilience of Hong Kong’s financial system and safeguarding national financial security. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
(1) in view of the potential impact of the widespread use of licensed stablecoins in the local market, whether the authorities have assessed if such developments will lead to a significant outflow of capital from the traditional banking system (i.e. “financial disintermediation”), thereby dealing blows to the deposit and lending base of Hong Kong’s banks, their liquidity ratios and the stability of the financial system; if an assessment has been made, of the specific measures put in place by the authorities to guard against such risks and the details of these measures; if not, whether an assessment will be made;
(2) given the current complex geopolitical environment, whether the authorities have any long-term plans to establish more resilient cross-boundary stablecoin payment channels, and to safeguard the security of cross-boundary physical trade under the Belt and Road Initiative by enhancing settlement speeds and reducing currency exchange costs, thereby deepening the synergies between “digital Renminbi and Hong Kong stablecoins”; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and
(3) as it is learnt that at present, retail investors can still easily access and trade offshore fiat-referenced stablecoins not licensed by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority through various channels, of the specific means of enforcement and cross-boundary regulatory collaboration mechanisms put in place by the authorities to combat and prohibit unlicensed institutions or platforms from carrying out promotional, marketing or soliciting activities locally to members of the public; if so, the progress of the relevant work; if not, the reasons for that; apart from existing promotional measures, whether the authorities have plans to step up public education to prevent members of the public from inadvertently falling into stablecoin investment traps; if so, the details; if not, the reasons for that?
Reply:
President,
The Stablecoins Ordinance (Cap. 656) (the Ordinance), which came into effect in August 2025, has established a regulatory regime for stablecoin issuers, with a view to fostering Hong Kong’s monetary and financial stability, protecting stablecoin users, as well as encouraging financial innovation to support real economic activities and financial market developments. Subsequently, in April 2026, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) granted stablecoin issuer licenses to two institutions with banking background. Based on the current business plans of those two institutions, regulated stablecoins in Hong Kong are expected to be launched between the middle and the second half of this year.
The Government and financial regulators will continue to be guided by the risk-based principle of “same activity, same risks, same regulation”, and continue to monitor the market and take appropriate enforcement actions as necessary under the regulatory framework established by the relevant legislation, including the Ordinance and the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing Ordinance (AMLO). The goal is to ensure that stablecoin-related activities are conducted in an orderly manner in Hong Kong, thereby maintaining financial stability and protecting users. We also actively carry out relevant publicity and public education work to deepen the understanding of stablecoins and the Ordinance among both the public and the industry.
Having consulted the HKMA and the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC), the reply to the three parts of the question is as follows:
(1) In formulating the regulatory regime, the HKMA has thoroughly considered the potential risks that stablecoins may pose to the financial system, and has set out clear requirements for licensed stablecoin issuers to implement relevant risk management measures, including holding reserve assets in the form of eligible assets such as bank deposits as well as high-quality and highly liquid debt securities, and placing these eligible assets with banks in Hong Kong. If needed, the HKMA may impose additional regulatory requirements on licensees depending on the situation to ensure financial stability.
Upon the launch of regulated stablecoins, the HKMA will carry out effective ongoing supervision to ensure the licensees’ compliance with relevant regulatory requirements. Meanwhile, the HKMA will closely monitor the operations of the licensees, continuously assessing the impact of stablecoin issuance and circulation on Hong Kong’s financial system.
Furthermore, relevant international organisations (such as the Bank for International Settlements) are conducting further studies on the impact of the widespread use of stablecoins on the traditional banking system. The HKMA is actively participating in these studies to ensure that the risk management under Hong Kong’s regulatory regime aligns with international standards.
(2) The HKMA has been testing out various emerging payment options through pilot projects, including central bank digital currency networks, tokenised deposits, and the interlinkage of fast payment systems across different jurisdictions. The two licensed stablecoin issuers are also actively involved in such testing. Each of these payment options has its own merits, and their growth potential will be largely determined by market demand across different use cases.
The HKMA will continue to maintain close communication with the two licensed stablecoin issuers and encourage them to further explore the synergies and connectivity of regulated stablecoins with other emerging payment options, with a view to creating value for real economic and financial activities.
(3) Currently, the Ordinance stipulates that only regulated entities specified under the Ordinance may engage in the sale (i.e. “offering” in the Ordinance) of stablecoins to the public. Since the commencement of the Ordinance, the HKMA has issued letters to non-regulated entities operating stablecoin offering businesses in the market to explain the provisions and requirements under the law, and has kept following up as part of the HKMA’s daily work to ensure that the relevant entities have made improvements. Subject to the nature of individual cases, the HKMA may refer them to the Police or the Department of Justice for follow-up as necessary. Meanwhile, if the SFC identifies active marketing activities involving unregulated stablecoins during its monitoring of suspected unlicensed activities according to the AMLO (including instances where relevant persons actively market their services to the Hong Kong public), it will also transfer the relevant information to the HKMA for follow-up via the established information sharing mechanism.
In sum, the financial regulators safeguard users by deterring illegal or improper activities through effective market monitoring and taking appropriate actions. The financial regulators also work closely with law enforcement agencies to establish reporting mechanisms and ensure that unlawful activities are properly handled. For cases involving overseas entities actively marketing their stablecoin offering to the Hong Kong public, the HKMA can engage relevant authorities in other jurisdictions via existing regulatory co-operation mechanisms.
The public should also note that protection under the Ordinance applies only to the acquisition of regulated stablecoins through regulated entities. Individuals acquiring unregulated stablecoins via unregulated channels would have to take their own risk.
In addition, the Government and the SFC will introduce a bill to the Legislative Council this year to establish regulatory regimes for virtual asset dealing, custodian, advisory and management service providers, with a view to regulating dealing and other activities of virtual assets (including stablecoins) involving different modes of operation in a more comprehensive manner.
On publicity and public education, the Government, together with the HKMA, the SFC and others, have been committed to deepening the understanding of the Ordinance, stablecoins and other digital assets among the public and the industry, as well as enhancing the public’s anti-fraud awareness. These efforts include publishing articles, press releases and social media posts to remind citizens to stay vigilant to the marketing of unlicensed stablecoins, as well as to reiterate that stablecoins are not an investment or speculative instrument, but a type of blockchain-based payment means. In response to the abrupt market movements linked to the stablecoin concept earlier, financial regulators have also urged the public to exercise caution, conduct thorough analysis of the relevant information, and refrain from making irrational investment decisions based solely on market hype or price momentum. Furthermore, through television interviews and speeches delivered at forums, the SFC has increased public awareness of the risks of engaging in virtual asset-related transactions with entities not licensed by the SFC, such as the fact that such unregulated entities carry high potential risks, including a lack of transparency, potentially unstable operations, and the lack of investor protection.
The Government and the financial regulators will continue to step up relevant publicity and public education efforts, and will publish updated lists of licensed stablecoin issuers and other specified regulated entities on the websites of the financial regulators, with a view to helping the public make informed decisions. Issued at HKT 12:33
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
Following is a question by the Hon Michelle Tang and a written reply by the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn, in the Legislative Council today (June 24):
Question:
In order to enhance the overall level of occupational safety and health (OSH) in Hong Kong and safeguard workers’ safety, the authorities have been promoting the optimal use of innovative technology in the construction industry for the implementation of the Smart Site Safety System (the System) in recent years. However, it has been reported that many frontline workers not only resist using technology-assisted equipment such as smart safety helmets, but even seek ways to evade monitoring by various smart devices. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
(1) apart from the several new measures introduced in 2024 (including a labelling scheme and subsidies for the application of the System in private construction projects), of the additional measures the authorities have adopted over the past two years to promote the implementation of the System in the industry, including whether the authorities have allocated additional resources and strengthened training; whether the authorities have assessed the territory-wide coverage and actual effectiveness of the System and such measures; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;
(2) over the past two years, apart from using small unmanned aircraft to assist in stepping up OSH inspections, whether the authorities have adopted any other new technological equipment to step up site inspections, and provided more smart site-related OSH education and training to various stakeholders in the construction industry; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and
(3) in view of the behaviour of some frontline workers who evade monitoring by various smart devices, whether the authorities will discuss with the industry as soon as possible the corresponding strategies to further enhance OSH level at construction sites across Hong Kong; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?
Reply:
President,
The Government, as a party responsible for public works projects and an advocate of site safety policies, attaches great importance to site safety. The Development Bureau (DEVB), as a major stakeholder for public works, maintains close co-operation with the Labour Department (LD) and other stakeholders to deliberate and implement various site safety measures, including driving the construction industry to fully adopt the Smart Site Safety System (4S) to enhance site safety. The 4S enables remote monitoring of high-risk activities of construction sites in real time (such as lifting operations, confined spaces work, and mobile machinery operations). It can detect hazards early and issue immediate alerts to prevent the occurrence of serious incidents. The 4S can analyse the safety performance data collected to identify the crux of potential safety hazards for formulating appropriate enhancement measures.
Having consulted the LD, the reply to various parts of the question is as follows:
(1) The DEVB has required public works contracts exceeding $30 million to fully adopt the 4S since February 2023. Contractors are required to update and review the adoption of the 4S during monthly site safety management committee meetings with the resident site staff and take effective measures to ensure the 4S is properly adopted on site. Resident site staff will also check whether the 4S has been properly adopted in a continuous manner during site inspections.
Regarding private works projects, to expedite full adoption of the 4S in the construction industry, the Government has introduced a series of enhanced measures since 2024 with a view to promoting the adoption of the 4S in private building works. The measures include:
(i) The Buildings Department (BD) has introduced mandatory measures since July 2024. Conditions will be imposed on building works under the Buildings Ordinance when the first approval for superstructure plans of private works projects or approval for major revisions of superstructure plans is granted. For building works with an estimated cost exceeding $30 million and involving the use of mobile plants and tower cranes, registered contractors should use the 4S Mobile Plant Alert System and Tower Crane Alert System. Since July 2025, the aforementioned mandatory requirements have been extended to demolition works, excavation and lateral support works, foundation works and site formation works. Even if the relevant mandatory requirements have not been imposed when the building plans of the private works projects are approved, the aforesaid requirements will also be imposed by the BD when the first consent for the commencement of building works is granted. The mandatory requirements are also applicable to additions and alterations projects involving structural works;
(ii) In May 2024, the DEVB and the Construction Industry Council (CIC) launched the 4S Labelling Scheme, under which labels are issued to construction sites that have been verified as properly adopting 4S. The 4S plaques are placed at conspicuous spots around construction sites that have been issued with the labels for identification and to facilitate monitoring of the construction sites without 4S labels by enforcement departments (such as the LD). The list of such construction sites is available at the CIC’s webpage (www.cic.hk/content/4s-labelling/en/project-list) for public inspection;
(iii) The DEVB and the LD have established a notification mechanism. During site inspections, the LD will assess the adoption of the 4S at construction sites. If it is obvious that the sites with 4S labels issued have failed to adopt the 4S properly, the LD will notify the DEVB as soon as possible for referring the cases to the CIC for follow-up actions. The CIC will also conduct surprise inspections to check the adoption of the 4S of the construction sites with 4S labels issued. The 4S label of a construction site will be confiscated by the CIC if the site is found not having properly adopted the 4S. The above measure is also applicable to public works sites with 4S labels issued;
(iv) The Government has been subsidising the adoption of the 4S at construction sites of private works projects (including works projects self-financed by public organisations) through the Construction Innovation and Technology Fund (CITF). The scope of subsidy under the CITF has been extended since May 2024 to cover the relevant additional expenses in various aspects of adopting the 4S, including network capacity upgrades, additional manpower employed for the 4S operation, maintenance and technical support arising from the use of the 4S. From September to November 2024, the applicant eligibility of the CITF has been extended to local mobile plant/tower crane rental companies. The subsidy ceiling for each company is $7.5 million to support the installation of danger zone alert system on their machinery; and
(v) The Government has injected $1 billion again into the CITF in 2026, together with the CIC’s contribution of $400 million, bringing the total to $1.4 billion to continue supporting industry development and promoting the wider adoption of innovative construction methods and new technologies, including the 4S, in the industry.
The CIC has stepped up its publicity efforts and arranged outreach teams to visit construction sites. These teams aim to promote the use of the 4S in the industry, and the financial support available through the CITF. In addition, the CIC prepares and proposes different types of 4S packages with a view to assisting the industry to choose appropriate devices under the 4S having regard to factors such as the different nature of works and site environment. The CIC has also provided 4S-related training courses, including Certificate in 4S Planning and Implementation and Certificate in Safety Supervision with 4S. The CIC has also incorporated 4S-related content into its safety conference, seminars and safety training courses for site personnel at different levels to enhance the awareness and attention to the 4S of relevant personnel.
Currently, about 60 per cent of new construction projects and maintenance projects underway across the territory with a contract sum exceeding $30 million have adopted the 4S and been issued with labels. Since the introduction of the above-mentioned policy measures requiring construction sites to adopt the 4S or its related devices, the overall accident rate in the construction industry has dropped notably by approximately 20 per cent from 2023 to 2025, thus having a positive impact on site safety and providing workers with more comprehensive protection.
(2) The LD has started using small unmanned aircraft (SUA) to assist frontline officers in law enforcement work since October 2025. The SUA is used for aerial photography and videography of work sites. The captured images are used to generate three-dimensional photorealistic models to enhance the effectiveness of occupational safety and health inspections, accident investigations and evidence collection, etc. In addition, the LD has recently introduced the use of handheld point cloud scanners, allowing frontline staff to quickly and accurately scan the environment of the workplace under scenarios where drones cannot be used (such as congested areas, indoor areas, or restricted flying zones). The data collected by scanners can also be used to generate three-dimensional photorealistic models to assist in accident investigations and law enforcement.
As the technology matures and the deployment of body-worn video cameras (BWVC) has become increasingly common in the construction industry, the DEVB has recently required the frontline staff of resident site staff and contractors in all public works contracts to equip with BWVCs during site inspections, with a view to effectively enhancing site supervision, safety management, quality control and works progress monitoring.
For enhancing the awareness and attention to the 4S of relevant personnel, the CIC has provided 4S-related training courses, please refer to the part (1) of the reply above.
(3) We understand that the situations where frontline workers resist the use of or attempt to evade monitoring by various smart devices are not common. We nevertheless will continue to closely monitor the situation and deliberate feasible measures to uplift site safety with industry stakeholders. In fact, every member of the project team plays a crucial role in ensuring site safety. Everyone has the responsibility to perform their own duties. The CIC has been proactively implementing measures to enhance the safety awareness of frontline personnel and nurturing a safety culture. The Government also appreciates that the CIC and industry stakeholders have reached a consensus and duly implemented the Frontline Personnel Safety Performance Recording Scheme applicable to frontline personnel of construction sites, aiming to let the frontline personnel to continuously take note on their safety performance during daily work, to praise and record the good behaviour of outstanding performers. It can also timely remind those whose safety behaviours need improvement. Specific safety performance improvement courses will be arranged for them outside working hours, with a view to helping frontline personnel to further enhance their safety awareness and site safety performance.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Following is a question by the Hon Steven Ho and a reply by the Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Mr Tse Chin-wan, in the Legislative Council today (June 24):
Question:
The Government has been actively promoting the application of innovation and technology in recent years, yet there are views pointing out that there is a significant gap between Hong Kong and the Mainland in terms of the level of application of unmanned cleansing technologies. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
(1) of the use of innovative cleansing technologies by the Government in the past five years; with a breakdown by: (i) date of introduction, (ii) duration of testing, (iii) scope of application, (iv) expenditure involved, and (v) manpower and expenditure saved following the use of such technologies;
(2) some members of the sector have relayed that automated cleaning equipment, such as unmanned sweepers, may require supporting infrastructure such as charging facilities and network base stations which involve lengthy interdepartmental vetting and approval processes, whereas the duration of most existing government outsourcing contracts is just three years, making it difficult to recover the costs; whether the Government will consider extending the contract duration or directly providing the infrastructure, and setting up an interdepartmental coordination task force to establish a one-stop green lane for vetting and approving recognized new technologies; and
(3) as it is learnt that currently, street cleansing service tenders are subject to minimum staffing requirements, and some members of the sector have relayed that this will lead to high manpower costs, which will in effect discourage bidders from introducing technologies; whether the Government will consider adopting an output-based or performance-based model for tender evaluations, and suitably relaxing or abolishing the minimum staffing requirements for such service tenders?
Reply:
President,
Various government departments have applied innovative cleansing technologies. In respect of public cleansing services, the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) has actively introduced innovative technologies, including unmanned cleansing technologies, to enhance the efficiency and quality of street cleansing work and to safeguard the occupational safety and health protection for staff. In response to the question raised by the Hon Steven Ho, the reply is as follows:
(1) Over the past five years, the FEHD has introduced or applied the following cleansing technologies:
Pressure washer surface cleaners
Since 2018, the FEHD has tested mini street washing vehicles equipped with high pressure hot water cleaners and pressure washer surface cleaners. The pressure washer surface cleaners can quickly remove stubborn stains, streamline manual scrubbing work, save time and energy, and reduce disturbances to pedestrians. The FEHD has now deployed the mini street washing vehicles across the territory, in areas of high footfall and frequent activities and are easily fouled. As the use of pressure washer surface cleaners has been incorporated into street cleansing service contracts and is provided by contractors, the associated procurement and operating costs are subsumed under the overall contract value, and the FEHD does not maintain separate expenditure figures.
Autonomous street cleaning robots
Since last year, the FEHD has been testing the use of autonomous street cleaning robots for street cleansing, at a cost of about HK$580,000. These robots integrate multiple functions, including automated sweeping, refuse disposal, charging, and intelligent obstacle avoidance, making them particularly suited to broad, flat pavements and waterfront areas. As the initial trial results were satisfactory, the FEHD has commissioned the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) to procure two additional robots, with the next phase of trials expected by the end of this year.
Industrial grade robot dogs
Since last year, the FEHD has been testing the use of industrial grade robot dogs to assist in transporting refuse at remote and rural locations (such as hillside paths, slopes, and stairways), at a cost of about HK$670,000. The robot dogs can navigate slopes and autonomously traverse rugged terrain, improving the efficiency of refuse transport and reducing the risk of injury to workers from heavy lifting. The FEHD is actively exploring the addition of functions such as automatic navigation and full automation, so that the robot dogs can better meet practical operational needs.
Electrically-assisted trolleys
To reduce the physical burden on frontline workers when transporting refuse and other heavy loads, the FEHD has been testing the use of electrically-assisted trolleys since last year, at a cost of about HK$220,000. The trolleys are foldable and suitable for use on pavements. The FEHD has further optimised the functions of the trolleys and is conducting field trials, strengthening the occupational safety and health protection for staff.
Except for the pressure washer surface cleaners, the above three technologies remain at the trial stage, and the FEHD is not yet able to estimate the resources that may be saved. Any manpower and resources saved in future will be flexibly redeployed on a priority basis to other environmental hygiene duties. First, the FEHD has been proactively collaborating with the EMSD and other departments to conduct market research and arrange field trials for suitable projects to assess their operating conditions and effectiveness. Taking autonomous street cleaning robots as an example, the FEHD also assessed the supporting infrastructure and operational requirements required, such as charging stations, etc, during the trial phase. Should the FEHD decides to incorporate the use of such robots into future street cleansing service contracts, it will first assess whether the supporting infrastructure is sufficient and how much additional resources contractors would need to invest, to ensure that the contract duration and terms are reasonable and practicable and the services are cost‑effective.
On the other hand, in line with the government procurement principles to support innovation, the FEHD encourages tenderers to propose feasible innovative solutions beyond the basic requirements stipulated in contracts. In the assessment of street cleansing service tenders, marks will be awarded under that criterion if tenderers provide innovative suggestions for adopting technology or other means that help enhance service efficiency, effectiveness or productivity, thereby incentivising tenderers to introduce innovative technologies. Where a contractor submits an innovative proposal in its tender and is successfully awarded the contract, the FEHD will require the contractor to implement the proposal. If the innovative proposal is proven feasible and effective, the FEHD will incorporate such technologies or equipment into future contract requirements to promote wider adoption. Vehicles equipped with automatic on-board refuse bin cleaner, which are widely used by the the FEHD’s contractors at present, were introduced and put into application through this approach.
In determining contract duration, a range of factors must be carefully balanced, including the need to maintain market competition, service stability, and the upfront capital investment required of contractors. In accordance with prevailing government procurement guidelines, for services like street cleansing which involve the employment of a large number of non-skilled workers, the FEHD generally sets a contract term of three years. For certain contracts where contractors require a longer period to recoup their investment, such as those involving a substantial number of specialised vehicles, the contract term would be set at five years.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
Following is a question by Dr the Hon Hoey Simon Lee and a reply by the Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Mr Tse Chin-wan, in the Legislative Council today (June 24):
Question:
There are views pointing out that the transformation of the energy structure is the foundation for Hong Kong’s economic transformation and industrial upgrading, helps nurture new economic growth points, and that enhancing regional co-operation is an integral part of this process. Moreover, Hong Kong’s Climate Action Plan 2050 proposes increasing the share of zero-carbon energy in the fuel mix for electricity generation to around 60 per cent to 70 per cent before 2035, and the Government has indicated that it will try out the use of new energy and enhance co-operation with neighbouring regions. Regarding the enhancement of regional co-operation to promote the transformation of the energy structure, will the Government inform this Council:
(1) as it is learnt that, to meet Hong Kong’s future demand for zero-carbon energy, the Government keeps planning ahead for the construction of electricity facilities to receive and process increased electricity transmitted to Hong Kong from other regions, whether the Government has engaged in regional co-operation with relevant energy departments in the Mainland and with other cities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area on matters such as zero-carbon energy, cross-boundary power exchange, and the use of the country’s Green Electricity Certificates;
(2) whether it has established a collaboration mechanism with neighbouring regions for the authentication of the origin of zero-carbon energy supply, carbon emission audits, infrastructure co-ordination and regulatory standards; if so, of the details and the progress; and
(3) whether it has established a mechanism to facilitate Mainland low-carbon energy and hydrogen enterprises to invest in Hong Kong, supply products or participate in local projects, such as by enhancing regulatory information sharing between the Mainland and Hong Kong and, where risks are controllable, streamlining the approval procedures?
Reply:
President,
Based on the four energy policy objectives of safety, reliability, affordability and environmental performance, the Government progressively promotes the transition of the energy mix and reduces carbon emissions, so as to achieve the medium- and long-term goals of “net-zero electricity generation” as set out in Hong Kong’s Climate Action Plan 2050, i.e. to increase the share of zero-carbon energy to about 60-70 per cent by 2035, and achieve “net-zero electricity generation” and carbon neutrality by 2050.
Through gradually replacing coal with natural gas as fuel in electricity generation and importing more nuclear energy, carbon emissions in Hong Kong peaked in 2014, and reduced by more than a quarter in 2024 compared to the peak level. Currently, Hong Kong’s overall fuel mix of electricity generation comprises less than 20 per cent of coal, about 28 per cent of zero-carbon energy (including nuclear energy and renewable energy), and over 50 per cent of natural gas.
In response to the question raised by Dr the Hon Hoey Simon Lee, our reply is as follows:
(1) and (2) Hong Kong is a mountainous and small city, which limits the development of nuclear, hydro, solar and wind energy. Nevertheless, Hong Kong has brought the share of nuclear energy in the fuel mix to the current level of nearly 30 per cent by importation of energy. Increasing the importation of zero-carbon energy will help stabilise electricity prices, enhance the resilience and stability of the electricity system, and facilitate the sustainable and high-quality development of the industries.
To further increase the share of zero-carbon energy in the fuel mix of electricity generation, the Government will focus on strengthening regional energy co-operation for importing more zero-carbon energy from the Chinese Mainland in an orderly manner.
Currently, CLP Power Hong Kong Limited imports zero-carbon energy through its Clean Energy Transmission System (CETS) connected to the Daya Bay Nuclear Power Station and the power network of the China Southern Power Grid. With the enhancement of the CETS completed in March 2026, Hong Kong will be able to gradually raise the share of zero-carbon energy in the fuel mix of electricity generation to about 35 per cent.
Meanwhile, the Government is making forward-looking plans to deepen regional energy co-operation and to actively align with our country’s efforts to accelerate the development of a new type of energy system, with a view to achieving the long-term goals of “net-zero electricity generation” and carbon neutrality. The major work includes:
Aligning with the national policy by importation of diversified zero-carbon energy: The 15th Five-Year Plan clearly states the requirement of accelerating the comprehensive green transition for the economy and the society, and upholding the development of multiple energy sources such as wind, solar, hydro and nuclear energy. The First Five-Year Plan for Economic and Social Development of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (2026-2030) Public Consultation Document also puts forward the objectives of green and low-carbon transition, as well as ceasing the use of coal for daily electricity generation progressively. The Government will endeavour to implement the abovementioned strategy to import diversified zero-carbon energy from the Chinese Mainland, with a view to enhancing the resilience of local electricity supply while stabilising electricity prices.
Continuously planning infrastructure and facilities for transmitting electricity to Hong Kong: To further enhance the capacity for receiving zero-carbon energy, the Government has reserved land in Tseung Kwan O Area 132 for the construction of strategic electricity facilities. Relevant government departments and the two power companies are discussing the plan to implement the relevant project.
Establishing collaboration mechanism with relevant Chinese Mainland counterparts: We are liaising closely with the relevant Chinese Mainland counterparts to discuss a collaboration mechanism for promoting regional energy co-operation, and to jointly explore options of transmitting electricity to Hong Kong that best serve its overall interests. Since the electricity transmission proposal is still under discussion, the Government will make an announcement at an appropriate juncture.
Furthermore, the country has made considerable progress in terms of the source certification of renewable energy supply and carbon emissions accounting. China’s Green Electricity Certificates (GECs), issued by the National Energy Administration (NEA), are the valid proof of the renewable energy attributes (such as solar, hydro and wind energy). Each GEC unit corresponds to 1 000 kilowatt hours of electricity generated by renewable energy and is valid for two years. To ensure that GECs would not be double-counted, the NEA updates relevant information in real time and simultaneously with various trading platforms through the National GEC Issuing and Trading System in order to record and store data related to the issuance, trading, and write-off of GECs.
As for carbon emissions accounting, it is a mechanism for calculating greenhouse gas emissions in a uniform manner. The country’s 15th Five-Year Plan also sets out work such as formulating the rules and standards for carbon footprint accounting of products, and promoting international mutual recognition of the rules and standards on carbon footprint.
Hong Kong is also actively exploring relevant initiatives to promote the GEC development within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. Looking ahead, the Government will examine the ways to support national energy-related enterprises and the GEC market to expand application scenarios in the international market, thereby putting green energy transition into practice on multiple fronts.
(3) The Government set up the Inter-departmental Working Group on Using Hydrogen as Fuel in 2022 to co-ordinate preparation works of bureaux and departments for using hydrogen as fuel locally, with a view to encouraging local application of hydrogen energy. The Working Group reviews applications of trial projects on hydrogen as fuel, advises on aspects such as safety and planning, and facilitates hydrogen energy enterprises to commence their hydrogen energy trials. The Working Group has given an agreement-in-principle to a total of 40 applications of hydrogen energy trial projects, a number of which have adopted the products and technologies from the Chinese Mainland.
Besides, the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department and the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) signed the Cooperation Arrangement on Quality and Safety Management in December 2024 to formally establish a co-operation framework that covers five domains, namely, standard metering and conformity assessment, gas-related special equipment, machinery such as hydrogen-powered pressure vessels, household products, and energy efficiency labelling. There has been substantive progress, including:
facilitating the application of a number of national standards in Hong Kong, thus laying the foundation for the recognition of Chinese Mainland’s technical guidelines on hydrogen energy and related products in Hong Kong;
designating hydrogen energy as a pilot area for deepened co-operation, with joint efforts on formulating national and international standards;
promoting the application in Hong Kong of safety monitoring platforms for hydrogen energy equipment independently developed in the Chinese Mainland, with a view to enhancing the safety regulatory standards of hydrogen-powered facilities in both Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland; and
exploring data sharing and mutual recognition of hydrogen pressure vessel approvals between Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland in order to streamline the cross-boundary approval process, provided that the risks are manageable.
The SAMR indicated clearly, at the International Hydrogen Development Symposium 2026 held in Hong Kong in May 2026, that further deepening of co-operation between the Chinese Mainland and Hong Kong (i.e. from “joining hands in pilot projects” to “joint system development”) would be promoted in the next stage of collaboration.
The Government will continue to deepen co-operation with the Chinese Mainland in the areas of low-carbon energy and hydrogen, and by leveraging the unique advantage of connectivity with the Chinese Mainland and the world, provide relevant enterprises with financing support and services for the alignment with international standards, thus enabling their technology and products to go global.