Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Projects jointly funded by Guangdong-Hong Kong and Shenzhen-Hong Kong under 2026/27 Mainland-Hong Kong Technology Cooperation Funding Scheme open for application2. Projects jointly funded by Guangdong and Hong Kong (jointly solicited with the Department of Science and Technology of Guangdong Province); and
3. Projects jointly funded by Shenzhen and Hong Kong (jointly solicited with the Science, Technology and Innovation Bureau of Shenzhen Municipality).Issued at HKT 11:00
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SFST articulates Hong Kong’s gold master plan at Global Precious Metals Conference (with photos)
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, attended the Global Precious Metals Conference 2026 organised by the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) in Sorrento, Italy, on October 6 (Sorrento time). He articulated to delegates from the worldwide precious metals industry Hong Kong’s master plan in building a gold-trading ecosystem that is supported with government-led infrastructure, market-informed governance and commercially driven activities.
At a panel discussion session, Mr Hui was joined by a representative from the Monetary Authority of Singapore to discuss “The Next Chapter in Gold – How Hong Kong and Singapore are Reshaping Market Dynamics”. Mr Hui said that Hong Kong, uniquely positioned in terms of its strategic location, international financial centre status and common law legal system, has been working at full steam to build a gold-trading ecosystem that would connect existing gold markets and add usable liquidity to the international market.
LCQ2: Safety risks of non-plastic disposable tableware
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
LCQ2: Safety risks of non-plastic disposable tableware
Question:
Studies have pointed out that per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a class of highly persistent synthetic chemicals which are difficult to decompose, and chronic exposure may increase health risks such as cancer and endocrine disruption. Other studies have found that PFAS are widely present in non-plastic tableware alternatives (alternatives) such as paper straws, leading to PFAS intake by users through such alternatives. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
(1) as it is learnt that paper straws are widely used in local eateries at present, whether the Centre for Food Safety or relevant departments have, since the implementation of the first phase regulation on disposable plastic products on April 22, 2024, conducted sample tests and safety risk assessments on paper and bamboo disposable straws and tableware supplied in Hong Kong for harmful chemical substances (particularly PFAS); whether the authorities have assessed the chemical leaching rates and potential health risks of paper tableware soaked in acidic and high-temperature environments for prolonged periods; if so, of the detailed assessment outcome; if not, the reasons for that;
(2) as there are views that the Mainland, Europe and the United States have begun to tighten or prohibit the use of fluorine-containing grease-proofing agents in food packaging, while the Green Tableware Platform currently set up by the Environmental Protection Department does not mandatorily require suppliers to submit testing reports on PFAS, which may pose food safety risks in the alternatives; whether the authorities have proactively conducted random sample tests on alternatives available on the market to assess the potential risks of PFAS exposure by Hong Kong citizens through takeaway meals; of the measures to be taken by the authorities in the future to support the catering industry in procuring safer green tableware; and
(3) given that Hong Kong currently includes biodegradable plastics under regulation, and it is learnt that the Mainland has widely used biodegradable plastics that can decompose in the natural environment (e.g. PHA) in disposable tableware including straws, whether the authorities will keep abreast of the times to review and adjust the current regulation on the use of biodegradable plastics, so as to protect public health while taking into account environmental benefits and life experience?
Reply:
President,
The core reason for regulating disposable plastic tableware lies in the profound harm that plastic waste causes to the environment and human health, as well as the imminent need for waste reduction at source. Plastic is difficult to decompose and can persist in the environment for hundreds of years. When plastic waste breaks down, it forms microplastics. If these microplastics enter the ocean, they can be ingested by marine organisms and enter the food chain, posing a threat to human and animal health. Therefore, reducing the use of disposable plastic products has become an international consensus.
Regulating disposable plastic tableware is a key component of the Government’s “plastic-free” strategy, aiming to reduce its use at source through legislation. The Environmental Protection Department has clearly stated that non-plastic tableware should only be used when unavoidable, with the goal of encouraging the public to bring their own reusable tableware.
Since the regulation took effect on April 22, 2024, some chain restaurants reported that over 80 per cent of customers do not require cutlery when ordering takeaway. It is estimated that this can reduce the disposal of more than 60 million sets of disposable cutlery in landfills every year.
In response to the question raised by the Hon Steven Ho, the reply is as follows:
An overseas university research team previously conducted an analysis of PFAS level in straws made from different materials. The study found that PFAS was detected in paper, bamboo, plastic and glass straws available on the market. However, data from the study report showed that under normal conditions of use, the total amount of chemicals released by these utensils is extremely low, far below the threshold for health risks, and poses no threat to public health.
The Green Tableware Platform (the Platform) provides the catering industry with information on alternatives that meet the requirements for non-plastic materials, assisting the industry in transiting to more environmentally-friendly non-plastic tableware as soon as possible. Under the Platform’s current mechanism, suppliers are required to submit material testing reports or certificates issued by accredited laboratories or inspection bodies for their registered products to prove that the products comply with non-plastic material requirements. Since 2024, the Platform Secretariat (i.e. Hong Kong Quality Assurance Agency) has proactively invited suppliers to provide additional proof regarding their products’ performance and quality (including PFAS).
The Government will remain open-minded, closely monitoring the latest international developments in scientific research, evolving standards, and practical application outcomes regarding various types of biodegradable plastics, including PHA, and assessing their overall impact on health and the environment. While balancing public health, environmental benefits, and user experience, the Government will review and adjust relevant regulatory strategies as necessary.
Issued at HKT 11:13
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Haze Situation Update (7 October 2026)
Source: Government of Singapore
Air Quality Forecast
24-hr PSI Forecast: High Moderate to Unhealthy
Health Advisory
Healthy persons: If 24-hr PSI is Moderate, normal activities. If 24-hr PSI is Unhealthy, reduce prolonged or strenuous outdoor physical exertion. If 1-hr PM2.5 is Normal (Band 1), normal activities. If 1-hr PM2.5 is Elevated (Band 2), reduce strenuous outdoor activity for the next hour.
Elderly, pregnant women & children: If 24-hr PSI is Moderate, normal activities. If 24-hr PSI is Unhealthy, minimise prolonged or strenuous outdoor physical exertion. If 1-hr PM2.5 is Normal (Band 1), normal activities. If 1-hr PM2.5 is Elevated (Band 2), avoid strenuous outdoor activity for the next hour.
Persons with chronic lung/heart disease: If 24-hr PSI is Moderate, normal activities. If PSI is Unhealthy, avoid prolonged or strenuous outdoor physical exertion. If 1-hr PM2.5 is Normal (Band 1), normal activities. If 1-hr PM2.5 is Elevated (Band 2), avoid strenuous outdoor activity for the next hour.
Refer to the 1-hr PM2.5 for immediate activities, and the 24-hr PSI forecast to plan ahead.
Singapore, 07 October 2026 – It was fair over Singapore today. As at 6pm, the 1-hr PM2.5 concentration readings were 71 – 136 µg/m3, in (Band 2, Elevated), and the 24-hr PSI was 105 – 140, in the Unhealthy range.
Update on Hotspot and Haze Situation
2. Moderate to dense smoke plumes from southern Sumatra were observed to drift towards Singapore. Moderate to dense smoke haze was also observed from hotspots detected in Kalimantan.
3. Dry conditions are expected to continue over the central and southern parts of Sumatra, as well as over many parts of Kalimantan. Under the prevailing southeasterly to southerly winds, smoke haze from these areas may continue to drift towards Singapore. The 24-hr PSI for Singapore is forecast to be in the Unhealthy range.
Activity Guidelines
4. The health impact of haze is dependent on one’s health status, the PSI level, and the length and intensity of outdoor activity. For immediate outdoor activities, please check the 1-hr PM2.5 concentration readings and personal guide. Use the 24-hr PSI forecast and corresponding health advisories for planning next day outdoor activities.
5. For updates, visit our haze microsite (www.haze.gov.sg), the NEA website (www.nea.gov.sg), MSS website (www.weather.gov.sg), mobile app (myENV) or follow us on NEA Facebook (www.facebook.com/NEASingapore). For information on the distribution of hotspots detected over the past fortnight in the region, please refer to the ASEAN Specialised Meteorological Centre (ASMC) website at http://asmc.asean.org.
Areas with lighter smoke haze are not indicated as they cannot be clearly discerned from satellite imagery. The full extent of the hotspot and smoke haze situation could not be determined due to extensive cloud cover.
– End –
President Lai receives credentials from new Eswatini Ambassador Vulindlela Simphiwe Kunene
Source: Republic of China Taiwan
President Lai receives credentials from new Eswatini Ambassador Vulindlela Simphiwe Kunene
On the afternoon of October 5, President Lai Ching-te received the credentials of new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Eswatini to the Republic of China (Taiwan) Vulindlela Simphiwe Kunene. In remarks, President Lai welcomed Ambassador Kunene to his new post and expressed hope that his expertise and experience will serve to further deepen the two nations’ diplomatic friendship and lead to more diversified development. President Lai noted that under the Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project, Taiwan will continue to work with Eswatini on major initiatives such as the Taiwan Industrial Innovation Park (TIIP), while deepening partnerships in agriculture, healthcare, education, the economy and trade, and technology to further enhance the well-being of the peoples of both nations.
A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows:
It is a great pleasure to receive the credentials of Ambassador Kunene here at the Presidential Office. On behalf of the Republic of China government and the people of Taiwan, I extend my heartfelt welcome as you assume your new post. This year marks the 58th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Taiwan and Eswatini. Our friendship has stood the test of time, remaining strong despite changes across the international landscape. Though many miles apart, we enjoy close ties built upon an enduring sincerity. When faced with challenges, we have always stood firmly together.
This past May, I led a delegation to Eswatini for a state visit and was received warmly by His Majesty King Mswati III, Her Majesty the Queen Mother, and the government of Eswatini. For this, I once again extend my sincerest gratitude. I very much look forward to His Majesty’s upcoming visit to Taiwan, which will further deepen our exchanges and create new momentum for bilateral cooperation.
Ambassador Kunene, you have expressed the hope that, during your tenure, you will elevate Taiwan-Eswatini relations to new heights. Having served for many years in Eswatini’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and having been posted to the United Nations and acted as chargé d’affaires in South Africa, you have accumulated a wealth of expertise and experience. I am certain that this will serve to deepen our diplomatic friendship as our collaboration continues to diversify.
Under the Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project, Taiwan will continue to work with Eswatini to advance important projects such as the TIIP. This will help cultivate talent, advance industrial development capacity, and create even more opportunities for employment and investment. We will also continue to bolster our bilateral partnership in such areas as agriculture, healthcare, education, the economy and trade, and technology, enabling our peoples to deepen their friendship and share in the fruits of our cooperation.
As we face a rapidly evolving international landscape and a host of global challenges, Taiwan hopes to continue to work alongside Eswatini so that we may support one another and jointly contribute to peace and sustainable development across the world. In closing, I once again welcome Ambassador Kunene to Taiwan. May our joint efforts strengthen our nations’ enduring alliance and further advance our peoples’ well-being. I wish you a successful tenure and a pleasant time working in Taiwan.
Ambassador Kunene then delivered remarks, stating that he has the honor of conveying to President Lai the warmest greetings and best wishes of His Majesty King Mswati III, Her Majesty the Queen Mother, and the government and people of the Kingdom of Eswatini. He said that Their Majesties fondly recall their many engagements with the leadership and people of Taiwan, and attach the highest importance to the special friendship that exists between our two countries.
The ambassador went on to say that the friendship between Eswatini and Taiwan was established on September 6, 1968, on the very day that the Kingdom of Eswatini attained independence. For 58 years, he said, our two countries have maintained uninterrupted diplomatic relations founded upon mutual respect, sovereign equality, loyalty, and a genuine concern for the welfare of our peoples.
Ambassador Kunene noted that the longevity of this relationship is important, but that even more important is what our friendship continues to achieve. Taiwan’s partnership with Eswatini is visible in local hospitals, he said, where Taiwanese medical teams work alongside Emaswati health professionals. He added that it can also be seen in Eswatini’s farms, schools and universities, and technical and vocational training programs, as well as in the growing number of Emaswati who have acquired knowledge and skills through Taiwan Scholarships.
He further noted that perhaps nowhere is the human impact of our partnership more visible than in the rural electrification program, a powerful and enduring testament to what our friendship can achieve when it is translated into the lives of ordinary people. The ambassador said that the two nations’ relationship is also increasingly visible in major economic and infrastructure initiatives in Eswatini such as the International Convention Centre, the strategic oil reserve facility, and the TIIP, which demonstrate the transition of our partnership into a new phase centered on investment, industrialization, energy security, technology transfer, and employment creation. These initiatives, he said, give practical expression to His Majesty’s call for Nkwe, meaning accelerated national development, and to President Lai’s vision of shared prosperity with Taiwan’s diplomatic allies; they also demonstrate that diplomacy must ultimately improve people’s lives.
Ambassador Kunene stated that the Kingdom of Eswatini also remains firm in its conviction that the people of Taiwan have much to contribute to the international community. He emphasized that global challenges, including pandemics, climate change, cybercrime, food insecurity, and disruptions to international supply chains, cannot be effectively addressed while the knowledge, resources, and experience of more than 23 million people are excluded. He said that Eswatini will therefore continue to advocate for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organizations and mechanisms where its contribution can benefit humanity. To close, Ambassador Kunene wished for the friendship between the Kingdom of Eswatini and the Republic of China to continue to flourish, and for our two peoples to continue to prosper together.
Huanggang Port transport plans set
Source: Hong Kong Information Services
The Transport Department today announced traffic and transport arrangements ahead of the redeveloped Huanggang Port coming into operation to provide 24-hour services, to ensure smooth travel for the public and visitors.
The Huanggang Port will be served by seven franchised bus routes, six green minibus routes, and five short-haul cross-boundary coach routes operating round the clock, carrying passengers directly to various districts across the city.
Among them, the franchised bus routes will pass through nine MTR stations and four bus-bus interchanges, providing convenient interchanges with railways or buses to different districts.
The department urged cross-boundary travellers to pay attention to the daytime and overnight service hours of various routes, and choose suitable ones for travelling to and from the new port.
It has also arranged dedicated public transport lanes leading directly to San Sham Road from Fanling Highway and San Tin Highway for use by franchised buses, green minibuses and cross-boundary coaches to the new port, bypassing San Tin Interchange and thereby enhancing the efficiency of travelling to and from the port.
In addition, the department and the public transport operators will closely monitor passenger demand and step up or adjust services as necessary.
As for taxis, drivers of vacant urban and New Territories taxis as well as pre-booked fleet taxis must first obtain a queue ticket at the public transport buffer area, and then proceed to their respective taxi stands or the designated taxi fleet pick-up area at the port’s public transport interchange to pick up passengers in order.
Passengers who have pre-booked a fleet taxi should first register at the service station by showing the vehicle registration mark to the fleet taxi ambassadors. The ambassadors will dynamically deploy taxis waiting at the public transport buffer area to the dedicated pick-up area to ensure passengers can board quickly and smoothly.
As traffic near the Huanggang Port may be relatively busy during its initial stage of commissioning, the department urged members of the public to use other land and rail boundary control points based on their needs for travelling between Shenzhen and Hong Kong, and not to rush to the new port.
Cross-boundary travellers who need to use the Huanggang Port should plan their journeys in advance and allow sufficient time to adapt to the new arrangements, the department added.
View sought on radio licences
Source: Hong Kong Information Services
The Communications Authority today announced the start of a two-month public consultation on the renewal of audio broadcasting licences.
The licences of Hong Kong Commercial Broadcasting Company Limited and Metro Broadcast Corporation Limited are due to expire on August 25, 2028 and the two organisations have submitted licence renewal applications to the authority.
In accordance with requirements under the Telecommunications Ordinance and established procedures, the authority will carry out an assessment of the licensees’ past performance and collect public views through various means. This includes launching a two-month public consultation, an opinion survey, an online public hearing and focus group discussions.
The authority said it will take into account the licensees’ past performance and renewal proposals, views in the sector and among public, and the latest industry developments, and will make recommendations on the renewal applications to the Chief Executive in Council by May next year.
Members of the public can submit their views by email, by fax to 2507 2219, or by mail to Office of the Communications Authority (Attn: Broadcasting Section 33), 20/F, Wu Chung House, 213 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong.
They can also participate in an online public hearing due to be held on November 7.
The public consultation will end on December 6.
Office of Licensing Authority of Home Affairs Department steps up enforcement actions against unlicensed hotels/guesthouses before National Day holidays (with photo)
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
In view of the National Day holidays, the Office of the Licensing Authority (OLA) of the Home Affairs Department conducted operations against suspected unlicensed hotels/guesthouses in Central and Western District, Wan Chai District, Eastern District and Yau Tsim Mong District from September 24 to 30 to ensure the safety of tourists as well as the general public.
A spokesman for the OLA said, “During the operation, the OLA carried out surprise inspections on 71 premises based on intelligence received, of which five premises were suspected of operating unlicensed hotels/guesthouses. The OLA will initiate prosecution on cases with sufficient evidence after completion of the investigation.”
In view of the recent emergence of new forms of short-term accommodation services in the community, the OLA has also stepped up its inspection efforts since March 2026. In particular, surprise inspections were carried out on 13 Internet computer services centres (commonly known as cyber cafes). Some of the cyber cafes were found to be suspected of providing overnight accommodation services. Evidence of suspected unlicensed guesthouse operations was collected, and the OLA will initiate prosecution against the relevant cases.
The spokesman stressed, “Operating unlicensed hotels/guesthouses is a criminal offence, and such an offence leads to a criminal record upon conviction. According to the Hotel and Guesthouse Accommodation Ordinance, an offender is liable to three years’ imprisonment and a maximum fine of $500,000. A fine of $20,000 for each day can also be imposed during which the offence continues. A six-month closure order may also be issued for a hotel/guesthouse involved in a repeated offence. Moreover, a licensed hotel/guesthouse which contravenes any licensing conditions (e.g. carrying out alteration and addition works without seeking prior approval) is liable to a maximum fine of $100,000 and two years’ imprisonment. A fine of $10,000 for each day can also be imposed during which the offence continues.”
To enhance deterrence against unlicensed hotels and guesthouses, the Hotel and Guesthouse Accommodation Ordinance was amended in 2020 to empower the Hotel and Guesthouse Accommodation Authority to apply to the court, upon the second conviction within 16 months of operating an unlicensed hotel/guesthouse or the new strict liability offence in respect of the same premises, to issue a closure order to close the premises for six months. As at October 1, the OLA has applied for five closure orders under the Hotel and Guesthouse Accommodation Ordinance from the court, of which three closure orders have been issued by the court.
Apart from conducting special operations during festive seasons, the OLA also steps up efforts to combat unlicensed guesthouses via online platforms. The OLA has strengthened its intelligence collection by forming a dedicated team to browse webpages, mobile applications, social media, discussion forums, etc, to search for information and intelligence on suspected unlicensed guesthouses. The OLA’s law enforcement officers will initiate follow-up investigations when information on unlicensed guesthouses advertised via online platforms is found. The OLA also conducts publicity work on Internet search engines outside Hong Kong to enable tourists’ access to the information provided by the OLA in the course of planning their trips to Hong Kong.
Tourists and members of the public can make use of the search functions on the OLA’s website (www.hadla.gov.hk) to check whether the hotel/guesthouse concerned is licensed or not. Any suspected unlicensed hotel/guesthouse should be reported to the OLA by the hotline (Tel: 2881 7498), by email (hadlaenq@had.gov.hk), by fax (2504 5805), or through the mobile application “Hong Kong Licensed Hotels and Guesthouses”.
CE congratulates Hong Kong, China athletes for achievements at 20th Asian Games
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, today (October 4) congratulated the Hong Kong, China delegation on their outstanding achievements at the 20th Asian Games, and commended Hong Kong, China athletes for demonstrating their perseverance and exceptional prowess in the competitions.
Mr Lee said, “The Hong Kong, China delegation consisted of some 580 athletes competing in 38 events at this Asian Games. All the participating athletes have given their utmost in every competition. They have won a total of 54 medals, comprising 11 gold medals, 19 silver medals and 24 bronze medals – surpassing previous record for the total number of medals while also securing the most gold medals ever, marking an encouraging achievement, demonstrating Hong Kong, China athletes’ perseverance and standards of excellence that have brought honour to both the country and Hong Kong.
“Hong Kong, China athletes won gold medals in wushu, swimming, rowing, squash, sailing, tennis, windsurfing, and rugby sevens. Among them, the squash team, the sailing team and the tennis team achieved historic results, writing a glorious chapter for Hong Kong sports. The courage, relentless spirit, perseverance and unyielding determination shown by Hong Kong, China athletes on the field of play are the finest embodiment of the Hong Kong spirit. I believe all Hong Kong people share my excitement and immense pride in their excellent performances.
“Hong Kong, China athletes have once again achieved excellent results at this latest edition of the Asian Games, demonstrating that the Government’s policies and its strategic resource support are on the right track. I also extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Hong Kong Sports Institute (HKSI), the Sports Federation & Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China, the various national sports associations and the coaching and medical teams for their unwavering support and dedication to nurturing our athletes over the years. I look forward to extending my congratulations to the athletes in person at the commendation ceremony to be held in due course.
“The current-term Government is proactively promoting sports development and continuously developing elite sports, with various measures implemented to enhance the quality of training and support for elite athletes. This comprehensive support includes the hardware facilities of the HKSI, training resources, and research and development of sports medicine and sports science. In the 2024 Policy Address, I proposed to review the mechanism of direct financial support for elite athletes. The grant level of direct financial support for them has been comprehensively increased from April 1, 2025, and the subsidy ceiling of athletes’ participation in competitions has also been raised this year. We will continue to provide full support for Hong Kong, China athletes to excel at international and regional competitions, and to take Hong Kong sport to a new level.”
Security Bureau holds Huanggang Port community experience day (with photos/video)
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
In anticipation of the upcoming opening of the redeveloped Huanggang Port, the Security Bureau today (October 4) organised a community experience day, inviting members of the public from all districts to visit and tour the Huanggang Port Building Hong Kong Port Area. Participants used the public transport services connecting to the port and facilities inside the port building, and learned about the novel “collaborative inspection and joint clearance” mode as well as the building’s architectural design features.
Through the co-ordination of the Home Affairs Department with the District Offices across all 18 districts, more than 1 500 members of the public from various districts participated in the event. Participants travelled from designated pick-up points in their districts to the Huanggang Port Hong Kong Port Area by franchised buses or cross-boundary coach services. They toured the port building in groups guided by officers from the Fire Services Department and the Correctional Services Department.
Participants first arrived at and visited the public transport interchange of the port building to learn about the public transport arrangements. They then toured the port building to learn about its interior design features and experience various passenger-friendly facilities, including the free Government Wi-Fi service. They subsequently took the escalators to the departure hall on the fifth floor, where officers of the Immigration Department introduced the operation of the “collaborative inspection” automated channels, giving participants a better understanding of the novel “collaborative inspection and joint clearance” mode. Officers of Hong Kong Customs then explained the passenger clearance and customs inspection procedures at the arrival hall on the fourth floor.
The Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung, visited the venue and met with participants to learn about their views on the port and experiences of the visit today. He was pleased to note that many participants responded positively and were looking forward to the early opening of the redeveloped Huanggang Port, which would bring a more efficient and convenient clearance experience to the public. Mr Tang also distributed gift packs prepared by the Security Bureau and took photographs with participants.
The community experience day was conducted in a positive and enthusiastic atmosphere, with many participants expressing excitement about the event. The event effectively enhanced participants’ understanding of the public transport arrangements, immigration and customs clearance, and passenger-friendly facilities at the port building. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government will continue to work closely with the Shenzhen side to prepare comprehensively for the opening of the port.