MIL Asia Pacific Publishing Engine

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

     The Transport Department (TD) announced today (June 5) that a pilot licence for autonomous vehicles (AVs) has been issued to approve an AV trial between Sunny Bay and Siu Ho Wan, in accordance with section 4(1) of the Road Traffic (Autonomous Vehicles) Regulation (Cap. 374AA).

     The trial involves a bus operating in autonomous mode, routeing through the Sunny Bay Public Transport Interchange, Sunny Bay Road, Cheung Tung Road and the Discovery Bay Tunnel Toll Plaza. During the trial, a backup operator will be stationed in the vehicle at all times to take over control of the vehicle when necessary. The TD’s label for pilot AV shall be displayed on the pilot AV for identification by other road users. Details of the pilot licence have been uploaded to the TD’s website on AV trials.

     A spokesman for the TD said that the project, funded by the Smart Traffic Fund, aims to develop a 20-seat autonomous driving bus suitable for the complex road environments in Hong Kong. It will test the use of advanced “neuromorphic event-based camera” technology for shortening the reaction time and response distance of the autonomous driving system. Upon completion, the project will provide practical data to enhance autonomous driving technology in Hong Kong.

     Chaired by the Commissioner for Transport, the Autonomous Vehicle Applications Promotion Working Group will, in collaboration with relevant departments and the industry, review the progress of each AV project; provide steer on the trial locations, vehicle types and licensing arrangements required to support the commercial development of AVs; and explore appropriate regulatory arrangements to allow AVs to provide a certain degree of commercial services in specific areas on an individual pilot basis.

     The TD welcomes interested organisations or enterprises to submit applications for a pilot licence for AVs. Upon receipt of an application, the TD will consider various factors, including the operational design domain and functions of the autonomous driving system, relevant national or international standards/guidelines, and the road testing conditions, based on the Code of Practice for Trial and Pilot Use of Autonomous Vehicles, before approval. Driving and road safety remain the Government’s top priorities. The Government will draw on practical experience to refine technical standards, share research findings with the industry in a timely manner, and implement initiatives to promote AVs in a prudent and orderly manner.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

The Government today (June 5) welcomed the publication of the annual report of the Process Review Panel (PRP) for the Accounting and Financial Reporting Council (AFRC). 

A spokesman for the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau said, “The PRP conducted an in-depth review of the internal processes and operational procedures in cases associated with the AFRC’s performance of its various regulatory functions under the regulatory regime of the accounting profession. The PRP has made observations and suggestions which are conducive to maintaining the fair and effective exercise of regulatory powers by the AFRC, thereby contributing to the safeguarding of high-quality financial reporting and auditing in Hong Kong.

“We would like to express sincere gratitude to the PRP Chairperson, Ms Edith Shih, and members of the PRP for their valuable observations and recommendations such that the AFRC can further enhance its regulatory efficiency and effectiveness,” the spokesman said.

The PRP is an independent panel established by the Chief Executive to review cases handled by the AFRC and to consider whether actions taken by the AFRC are consistent with its internal procedures and guidelines for ensuring fairness and consistency.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

     The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) today (June 5), coinciding with World Environment Day, released the Environmental Performance Report 2026 along with the 2025 annual reports on Hong Kong’s air quality, marine water quality, and river water quality. The reports outline the EPD’s achievements over the past year in implementing measures to improve environmental quality, deepening regional co-operation, and enhancing external exchanges, while summarising the overall status of Hong Kong’s key environmental indicators in 2025.
 
Environmental Performance Report 2026

     In review of 2025, the EPD achieved significant milestones across various sectors, including water quality, environmental assessment, and innovative technologies, in which the EPD has received both domestic and international recognition.

     In December 2025, Hong Kong’s Mirs Bay was selected as a national “Outstanding Example of Beautiful Bays” with an excellent overall score. This marks the first time the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) has received the national commendation, affirming the efforts of the HKSAR Government in marine environment protection and ecological conservation, and highlighting Hong Kong’s significant achievement of active participation in the joint building of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area into a beautiful bay area.

     The EPD continues to advance the application of innovative technologies, garnering widespread acclaim. Last year, the Territory-wide Sewage Surveillance Programme, co-developed by the EPD, the Drainage Services Department (DSD) and the Department of Health, won the Grand Award in the Innovation Category (2010-Present) of the Hong Kong Institution of Engineers’ 50th Anniversary Legacy Award. This recognises the team’s innovative model of using technology to safeguard public health and environmental wellness. Furthermore, the Hong Kong Environmental Database (hked.epd.gov.hk/en/homepage), developed by the EPD, won several domestic and international awards. These include the Best Smart Environment Award and the Grand Award at Hong Kong/Shanghai Co-operation Open Data Challenge 2025, showcasing excellence in integrating cutting-edge technology with environmental governance. Additionally, the EPD’s AI Environmental Air Nuisance Investigation Robot Dog (AI Dog) won the Gold Award at the HKMA/HKT Global Innovation Award. Utilising AI for on-site monitoring, the AI Dog has significantly improved enforcement efficiency and overcome previous technical limitations in nuisance investigations.

     The EPD has also remained proactive in resolving long-standing environmental issues through technology and inter-departmental collaboration. A dedicated task force comprising the EPD, the DSD and the Buildings Department, has successfully tackled sewerage misconnections in Sham Shui Po. This collaborative effort earned the Ombudsman’s Awards 2025 for Teams of Public Organisations, recognising cross-departmental collaboration and professional spirit.
 
Hong Kong’s air quality continues to improve

     The report indicates that overall air quality in 2025 remained good and broadly complied with Hong Kong’s Air Quality Objectives. Owing to the sustained emission reduction efforts of the HKSAR Government over the years, Hong Kong’s air quality has continued to improve over the past 20 years, resulting in an over 50 per cent reduction in long-term health risks.

     From 2004 to 2025, the annual average concentrations of respirable suspended particulates (PM10), fine suspended particulates (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and sulphur dioxide (SO2) in the ambient air have reduced significantly by 45 per cent to 88 per cent, whereas the annual average concentrations of these pollutants at the roadside have reduced by 37 per cent to 83 per cent. The annual average concentration of ozone (O3) has also gradually turned steady in the past few years. The number of hours of reduced visibility has greatly reduced by 83 per cent from its level in 2004.

     The EPD launched the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) in 2014 to provide the public with daily updates on short-term health risks of air pollution, enabling individuals to take necessary precautions to safeguard their health. In 2025, the percentage of hourly AQHI readings below seven (i.e. within the “low” or “moderate” health risk categories) recorded by general and roadside monitoring stations improved from 96.1 per cent and 92.1 per cent when the index was first launched in 2014 to 98.4 per cent and 98.6 per cent, respectively.
 
Hong Kong’s environmental water quality continues to improve

     In 2025, river water quality continued to be satisfactory and stable, with the overall Water Quality Objectives (WQO) compliance rate reaching 89 per cent. A substantial 81 per cent of river monitoring stations achieved a Water Quality Index (WQI) grading of “Good” or “Excellent”, a significant leap from 26 per cent in 1987. This progress reflects the notable success of the Government’s pollution control and river management measures implemented over the past three decades. As pollutant loads entering rivers continue to decline, Hong Kong’s rivers have successfully sustained their long-term trend of water quality improvement.

     In 2025, the overall compliance rate for marine WQOs was 74 per cent, which was lower than in previous years, primarily due to exceptional weather conditions. The summer of 2025 was abnormally hot, with the frequency of tropical cyclones and heavy rainstorms reaching record highs (with a total of 14 Tropical Cyclone Warning Signals and over 20 Red or Black Rainstorm Warning Signals issued), leading to persistent natural stratification of seawater, which reduced dissolved oxygen levels and resulted in a decline in the compliance rate for relevant water quality indicators. Given that these circumstances were driven by short-term meteorological and natural factors, the long-term improving trend of marine water quality remains intact.

     With the overall improvement in Hong Kong’s environmental water quality in recent years, the triathlon event of the 15th National Games was successfully held in November 2025 at the Central Harbourfront Event Space and Victoria Harbour, with water quality meeting the stringent standards required for the competition. Hosting such a major national sporting event in the core of a busy harbour marks a remarkable achievement in Hong Kong’s efforts to enhance its environmental water quality.
 
     An EPD spokesperson said, “The progress made in 2025 is a testament to the collective efforts of the Government and all sectors of the society. Looking ahead, Hong Kong will continue to leverage its unique strengths and expertise to promote regional co-operation. We are committed to continuously enhancing our environmental governance and working hand-in-hand with the community to create a greener and more sustainable future.”

     For the Environmental Performance Report 2026, please visit www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/resources_pub/publications/pub_reports_ap.html. For the 2025 annual reports on Hong Kong’s air quality, marine water quality and river water quality, please visit www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/resources_pub/publications/pub_reports_mr.html.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

The following is issued on behalf of the Process Review Panel for the Accounting and Financial Reporting Council:
 
The Process Review Panel (PRP) for the Accounting and Financial Reporting Council (AFRC) published its annual report today (June 5), covering the work of the PRP in 2024-25.
 
The Chairperson of the PRP, Ms Edith Shih, said, “The PRP has conducted a review on the AFRC’s work in 2023-24 under its statutory functions of inspection, issuance of practising certificates, registration and recognition, investigation and enquiry, discipline, as well as oversight of the performance of specified functions of the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants. The PRP concluded from the review that the AFRC had carried out the work in accordance with its internal procedures. The PRP also made a number of observations and recommendations to the AFRC on helping it to further enhance its regulatory efficiency and effectiveness.
 
“We are grateful for the co-operation and support rendered by the AFRC in facilitating the work of the Panel, as well as its positive response to the PRP’s recommendations,” she added.
 
The 2024-25 Annual Report has been uploaded to the website of the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau at (www.fstb.gov.hk/fsb/en/business/prp/doc/afrc_prp_report24_e.pdf). The PRP welcomes the views of the public and market participants on the PRP’s work. Comments can be referred to the PRP via email at afrcprp@fstb.gov.hk.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Independent Committee in relation to the fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po announced today that the fifth round of evidential hearings will be held on June 22, 24 and 25.

On each of those dates, hearings take place from 10am to 1pm, and from 2.15pm to 4.30pm, at the Multi-purpose Hall, 3/F, City Gallery, in Central.

From 10am on June 8 to 10am on June 11, members of the public can pre-register online. Successful registrants will receive a confirmation issued by the committee secretariat no later than June 17.

In this round of hearings, the committee will receive oral evidence from experts, appointed by the Government and the committee, on issues relating to the causes that led to the fire and its rapid spread.

Part of the evidence will be given in English. Simultaneous interpretation in Cantonese, Putonghua and English will be provided on-site at City Gallery.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

     Following is the speech by the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, at the “Partnering for Success – Hong Kong as a ‘Super Connector’ and ‘Super Value-Adder’ for Central Asia” High-level Business Luncheon in Tashkent on June 4:
 
Your Excellency Mr Umurzakov (Mr Sardor Umurzakov), Advisor to the President of Uzbekistan on Strategic Development, Your Excellency Ambassador Yu Jun of the People’s Republic of China to the Republic of Uzbekistan, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,  
 
As-salamu alaykum (peace be upon you). First of all, I must thank, again, His Excellency Mr Umurzakov for being a guest of honour tonight. He is a very busy and influential man in Uzbekistan, and he makes time for us. Let’s give him a big round of applause.
 
I am delighted to be here, with you, in Tashkent – Uzbekistan’s storied capital, and the largest city in Central Asia. Here, where modern architecture and a high-tech financial district meet the enduring legacy of the ancient Silk Road.
 
With me this evening is a high-level delegation of over 70 business and institutional leaders from Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland. It is the largest and most diverse overseas mission led by this term of the HKSAR Government. The mission delegates come from such diverse sectors as financial and legal services, construction and engineering, transport and logistics, innovation and technology, advanced manufacturing, and more. They’re here, as I am, to see for themselves the boundless promise of your country, your economy and your people.
 
Earlier today, I had the honour of meeting with His Excellency President Mirziyoyev, and His Excellency Prime Minister Aripov. I expressed to them my sincere gratitude to the hospitality extended to me and my delegation. And we reaffirmed our mutual commitment to closer, wide-ranging co-operation.
 
Hong Kong and Uzbekistan are important trade and investment gateways to our respective regions – the Asia-Pacific and Central Asia.
 
Indeed, the World Bank has said that Uzbekistan has – and I quote – “become one of the world’s top reformers”, liberalising its economy and averaging six per cent real GDP growth annually between 2017 and 2025. That’s among the strongest, most sustaining growth of any economy in the world in recent years.
 
Uzbekistan is Central Asia’s most populated country, home to more than 38 million people. Endowed with abundant natural resources, from hydrocarbons to cotton and gold, Uzbekistan is also a key trade hub and boasts a rapidly expanding information technology sector. Ongoing legal, institutional and structural reforms underline Uzbekistan’s openness to multilateral opportunities.
 
No less encouraging, the Uzbekistan 2030 Strategy presents a clear roadmap for doubling GDP, attracting investment, expanding green energy and boosting education and healthcare. Uzbekistan is firmly on its way to building a modern and sustainable international economy.
 
This creates far-reaching, mutual opportunities for our businesses and investors –from Hong Kong, the Chinese Mainland and Uzbekistan.
 
It helps that we are all believers in the Belt and Road initiative, a modern expression of the ancient Silk Road spirit. President Xi Jinping introduced the Belt and Road Initiative more than a decade ago, inspired by the ancient networks that connected civilisations across continents for trade, as well as exchanges of ideas, culture and the innovation they inspired.
 
Uzbekistan, in 1992, was the first Central Asian country to establish diplomatic relations with China, our country. That was elevated, two years ago, to an all-weather comprehensive strategic partnership for a new era. Today, China is Uzbekistan’s largest trading partner, and the two countries work closely on major infrastructure and connectivity projects that are revitalising the Silk Road.
 
The China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway, a Belt and Road project now underway, will become a critical artery for trade and prosperity across the region. Other Belt and Road projects here include clean energy, and industrial parks.
 
Hong Kong is a pivotal player in the Belt and Road Initiative, thanks to our world-class professional and financial services expertise.
 
Hong Kong is one of the world’s top three international financial centres, and the largest offshore Renminbi hub. Just last week, we were recognised as the world’s No.1 largest cross-boundary wealth management centre.
 
We are ranked No.1, globally, in economic freedom as well. And we offer a world of companies, entrepreneurs and investors, those from Uzbekistan very much included, with an open and efficient business environment, a simple and low tax regime, and no capital controls or foreign exchange restrictions.
 
Global business turns to Hong Kong for wide-ranging, long-term opportunities. We were ranked, last year, as the world’s third-largest destination for global foreign direct investment, and fifth-largest merchandise trade entity.
 
Last year, our numbers of non-local companies and start-ups both reached record high. They are testament to the business confidence that imbues today’s Hong Kong.
 
Hong Kong is the only economy in the world to combine unwavering support from our country with longstanding international connectivity. And that’s thanks to the unique “one country, two systems” principle.
 
Under this framework, Hong Kong maintains its own economic, legal, legislative and judicial systems. We are China’s only common law jurisdiction. We are also the world’s only bilingual common law jurisdiction, where both the Chinese and English languages are used in proceedings. Our judiciary exercises its powers independently.
 
Thanks to our deep and longstanding experience in legal services and a well-respected judicial system, Hong Kong is rapidly becoming an international legal and dispute resolution services centre. The International Organization for Mediation, or IOMed, the world’s first intergovernmental body dedicated to resolving international disputes through mediation, is headquartered in Hong Kong. I’m pleased to add that the IOMed Convention now has over 40 signatory states, Uzbekistan among them.
 
And, just last week, we announced plans to establish the Hong Kong International Commercial Court in the coming year. With a mandate of adjudicating complex, high-value international and cross-boundary commercial disputes, the International Commercial Court will include Hong Kong judges specialising in commercial law, and may invite eminent judges and practitioners from other common law jurisdictions to sit on its bench. The Court will help provide a sound solution to business disputes, creating a more conducive environment for businesses to thrive in our city.
 
These infrastructure and advantages underpin Hong Kong’s position as an international hub for finance, trade and shipping, as well as aviation, legal services and dispute resolution.
 
With our global connectivity and world-class professional services, Hong Kong serves as an ideal two-way springboard for business expansion. We can help companies from Uzbekistan access the Chinese Mainland, while enabling Chinese Mainland enterprises to expand globally, including into Uzbekistan. It’s why the world knows Hong Kong as the “super connector” and “super value-adder”. We are adding value to whatever we pursue for you.
 
How, then, can businesses and investors from Hong Kong and Uzbekistan deepen our co-operation? Let me count the ways.
 
First, in capital markets and privatisation. Uzbekistan’s ambitious privatisation programme, including listing state-owned enterprises such as airports and key infrastructure, aligns closely with Hong Kong’s strengths as one of the world’s major hubs for initial public offerings.
 
Last year, we topped the world in both IPO volume and funds raised. Our markets can help enterprises from Uzbekistan scale, access international capital and drive high-quality development.
 
Then there’s green and sustainable development. Hong Kong has ranked first in green and sustainable bond issuance in Asia for eight consecutive years, capturing about 40 per cent of the regional total last year. We can help Uzbekistan achieve its renewable energy targets.
 
Through our financing, professional services and technological support, we can help realise Uzbekistan’s, and Central Asia’s, carbon neutrality commitments.
 
Digitalisation and innovation are priorities for both our economies. Hong Kong is emerging and advancing rapidly as an international I&T centre. The cluster formed by Hong Kong and our neighbouring cities of Shenzhen and Guangzhou, ranks first among the world’s top 100 innovation clusters. That demonstrates our ability to convert ideas into tangible outcomes, drawing together the strengths of both Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland. We can share our expertise in smart city solutions, fintech and digital infrastructure, supporting Uzbekistan’s ambition to become a regional innovation hub.
 
We welcome technology firms from Uzbekistan to use Hong Kong as a launching pad into Asian and global markets, supported by our capital markets and infrastructure capabilities.
 
Hong Kong, the only city with five universities in the world’s top 100, has what it takes to support your human capital development. The HKSAR Government offers scholarships specifically for students from Belt and Road countries, including Uzbekistan, to study at our post-secondary institutions. Today’s youth will serve as a bridge between our economies and our societies.
 
Turning to Hong Kong’s high-quality services, we meet international standards across project design, planning, engineering, construction and operations.
 
From infrastructure to hospitality, we can finance and partner with Uzbekistan to develop new townships and smart cities, hotels, shopping centres, green buildings, factories and more.
 
Our major infrastructure project, the Northern Metropolis, is destined to become a new economic engine for Hong Kong. It’s now being fast-tracked to provide land for a world-class I&T hub, for a planned urban centre, a university town and a strategic connection point to the Greater Bay Area.
 
The Greater Bay Area is the cluster city development integrating Hong Kong, Macao and nine major cities in southern China, Shenzhen and Guangzhou included. Its population of over 88 million is similar to Central Asia’s 85 million, and its GDP of over 2 trillion US Dollars is close to that of the world’s 10th largest economy.
 
I know that many of our delegates, from Hong Kong and from the Chinese Mainland, are eager to talk to you about I&T co-operation and investment.
 
And I invite Uzbekistan’s enterprises to establish an office in Hong Kong and explore investment and business opportunities – in the Northern Metropolis, the Greater Bay Area and beyond.
 
Gold is a natural prospect for resourceful co-operation between us. Uzbekistan, after all, is home to one of the world’s largest reserves of gold. And I understand that the country is looking for opportunities to diversify gold storage and investments, given today’s geopolitical uncertainties.
 
Hong Kong is committed to becoming a gold trading centre aligned with the international market. Christopher Hui, my Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, discussed this with your Central Bank during his visit to Uzbekistan last month.
 
In January, the HKSAR Government signed a co-operation agreement with the Shanghai Gold Exchange, setting in motion a gold ecosystem with broader mutual market access and business convenience, with Hong Kong offering clearing services of international standards for gold transactions.
 
We are also expanding our gold storage facilities, which are expected to exceed 2 000 tonnes within the next three years.
 
In short, ladies and gentlemen, a partnership built on gold – on bringing together our professional and financial services and your rich mineral resources –will be the golden opportunity to expand trade between us and, in doing so, extend the historical legacy of the Silk Road.
 
We are, of course, coming together –deepening our co-operation – in a variety of ways. Ladies and gentlemen, I’m pleased to announce that our visit this time is bringing about wide variety of agreements and co-operation initiatives with Uzbekistan.
 
I am glad to add that Uzbekistan is planning to open a Consulate-General in Hong Kong. Thank you. Uzbekistan and Hong Kong will expedite actions on discussions on a Comprehensive Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreement, as well as discussions on an Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement. I’m confident our dialogue will lay the foundation for stronger economic and trade ties.
 
More to come. The Education Bureau of Hong Kong and Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation have entered into an MoU to advance educational collaboration.
 
Our Belt and Road Office will sign MoUs with Uzbekistan’s Development and Reconstruction Fund and Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade to drive collaboration on different projects.
 
I’m pleased to note that IT Park Uzbekistan and the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation, Cyberport and the Hong Kong‑Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park Limited are working toward co-operation. They are our flagship technology and innovation incubators. And I’m confident this will accelerate I&T co-operation, and the opportunities they create, between our two economies.
 
On legal services, another one of our key strengths, the Law Society of Hong Kong will enter into an MOU with the Chamber of Advocates of the Republic of Uzbekistan, strengthening collaboration of our legal professionals.
 
Arts and culture is no less central to our flourishing future. Tashkent is fast-rising as a cultural destination, and Hong Kong’s West Kowloon Cultural District is one of the world’s largest cultural developments. It includes the Hong Kong Palace Museum, which will partner with the State Museum of History of Uzbekistan, to co-organise exhibitions to be presented at both venues in in future.
 
And let me say that I’m pleased that Hong Kong and Uzbekistan exchanged notes yesterday, agreeing to discuss the implementation details of a mutual visa-free arrangement for our people. I look forward to its early implementation, which will surely encourage closer bilateral economic and cultural ties between us. Moreover, we are glad to have initialed the Air Services Agreement with Uzbekistan, and look forward to launching direct passenger flights between two places soon.
 
Putting all these together, 35 MOUs and co-operation will be concluded between us in Uzbekistan. These span aviation, finance and trade, as well as innovation and technology, green development, the digital economy, education, culture and more. And this, ladies and gentlemen, is only the beginning.
 
There is an old Chinese saying, 志合者，不以山海為遠, which means, in English, “Nothing, not even mountains and seas, can separate people with shared goals and ideals”.
 
Uzbekistan and Hong Kong may be separated by thousands of kilometres, yet we are united by a common vision – of free, open and sustainable economies, of a future rooted in partnership, in the enduring spirit of the ancient Silk Road.
 
Hong Kong, with its longstanding commitment to free trade, its world-class professional services, and its role as our country’s most international city, looks forward to helping Uzbekistan realise your unfolding new chapter of prosperity, innovation and global integration.
 
Ladies and gentlemen, it’s a bit long, but it does show how fruitful this visit to Uzbekistan is. We can see that the many people gathered here have already started to talk very closely to each other – and never want to stop. This is time not just for networking, but also to relax and build friendships. Do exchange your WeChat –  remember, we are friends forever. And this friendship will create high-quality development and long-term relations between our people.
 
Ladies and gentlemen, enjoy this evening’s special gathering, and the old and new friends around you. I look forward to welcoming you to Hong Kong soon. Thank you.      

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

     The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, today (June 4), in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, spoke on the Central Asia visit of the business delegation comprising representatives from Hong Kong and Mainland enterprises. He was accompanied by the Deputy Secretary for Justice, Dr Cheung Kwok-kwan; the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui; the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau; the Under Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Ms Lillian Cheong; the Commissioner for Belt and Road, Mr Nicholas Ho; the Chairman of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, Professor Frederick Ma; Chamber Council Member of the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce Mr Jeffrey Lam; and Vice President of Xuzhou Construction Machinery Group Company Limited Dr Hanson Liu. Following are the remarks by Mr Lee:
 
Reporter: Sir, welcome to Uzbekistan. My first question, Hong Kong is one of the world’s leading financial centres, and following today’s discussions, what concrete investment and projects or areas of economic (co-operation) between Hong Kong and Uzbekistan in the near future can we expect? And the second question, which sectors of Uzbekistan’s economy does the Hong Kong business community currently view as the most promising for investment, and why? And a short question, could you please tell us when the visa-free regime can be expected in the near future? Thank you.
 
Chief Executive: I will answer your last question first. Both governments are working very hard to implement this 30-day visa-free arrangement. We have overcome the most difficult part; that is, both sides have worked on the details, and yesterday we exchanged the notes verbales on this matter. With the enthusiastic attitude of both governments, I think we can see very early implementation of the arrangement. I will push my colleagues to work harder, and I received the same assurance from my counterparts in the government of Uzbekistan.
 
     In regard to financial co-operation, I am very glad to know about the establishment of an international financial centre in Uzbekistan. Hong Kong has, I think, a lot of experience to share, including capital markets, asset management, green and sustainable finance, as well as the support of professionals to help upgrade and strengthen the financial centre. I see particular potential in co-operation in capital markets, connectivity, asset management, green finance, financial technology, and related professional services. All these help to foster mutual growth between our two places in regard to financial co-operation. I also want to suggest we co-operate in the area of gold trading, because Uzbekistan has a large production of gold and also has a strong gold reserve, and Hong Kong is quickly building a gold trading market. We hope to see more co-operation in this area, and I think this will be a win-win situation for both financial centres. Then, of course, the traditional stock exchange area is an obvious area for the two Exchanges to co-operate in. Already, the Hong Kong Exchange has been in communication with the Tashkent Stock Exchange, and further co-operation will ensure that investors and also market participants will gain even further mutual benefit. One other point I think Hong Kong and Uzbekistan can co-operate in is fintech, because while we develop financial markets and co-operation in this area, nowadays, technology in the financial sector plays an important role, and I think this is an area we can contribute to and bring mutual benefit to both sides.
 
     As regards your question about which sector looks to us as the most prominent sector for co-operation and for mutual development, you are asking a question which will probably involve a long list of sectors. We come here and, as Chairman Fred Ma of the Trade Development Council has indicated, the examples of agreements and co-operation are just so abundant that they range from the service sector to heavy industries such as mining and infrastructure development. I think the sky is the limit. A lot of Belt and Road projects are actively being pursued in Uzbekistan. For example, Uzbekistan sits in the heart of the corridor of Asia and Europe, so logistical development, railway development, and also how we can complement and supplement each other in cargo handling will be an area for a very wide range of co-operation. Of course, the financial side, which you have asked about, is an area of co-operation. Technology is also an important area, because technology is the future of different parts of the world; without technology, we will all fall behind. IT co-operation will be an area we will focus on, and already you can see there have been some agreements signed in this regard. So your question is one which indicates that the answer will be a big one, and I am glad, because that means the visit to Central Asia is a right decision. The opportunities are so many, and the potential is so unlimited.
 
     The last thing I would say is youth development and education. I am very impressed by the President’s 2030 strategy, in which human capital development and education are highly emphasised, and this is an area where I think Hong Kong can work together with Uzbekistan, because Hong Kong has achieved some good results in education, with five universities in Hong Kong among the top 100. We have three universities which have been rated as most international. We have scholarships for Belt and Road students. In fact, there are altogether some 6 000 students from Belt and Road countries studying in Hong Kong. Besides the scholarship offered by the Government, universities also offer a wide range of scholarships to students, Uzbekistan students included. So the areas of co-operation are wide. Thank you very much.
 
(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the remarks.)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

​The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, led a business delegation comprising representatives from Hong Kong and Mainland enterprises to commence its visit programme to Uzbekistan today (June 4). He met with local leaders, government officials and business representatives to deepen co-operation between Hong Kong and Uzbekistan in areas including trade, investment, finance, innovation and technology (I&T), and people-to-people exchanges.

Mr Lee and the delegation arrived in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, last night and met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan, Mr Bakhtiyor Saidov. Mr Lee and Mr Saidov jointly witnessed an exchange of notes between the two places on a mutual visa-free arrangement, which would allow a visa-free period of 30 days for visitors from both sides. The governments of both places will immediately advance the discussions of the detailed arrangements to strive for early implementation. Mr Lee said he looked forward to the early advancement of the relevant visa-free arrangement with Uzbekistan.

This morning, Mr Lee met with the Prime Minister of Uzbekistan, Mr Abdulla Nigmatovich Aripov, and Deputy Prime Minister of Uzbekistan Mr Jamshid Khodjayev to discuss ways to deepen economic and trade exchanges and co-operation. Mr Lee said that he was pleased to have the opportunity of meeting them in Uzbekistan for the first time, following his earlier meeting with the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister in Hong Kong, when they led their delegations to visit the city.

Mr Lee said that Uzbekistan is an important trading partner of Hong Kong in Central Asia. Economic and trade ties between the two places have continued to deepen, and there are broad prospects for further co-operation. As an international trading centre, Hong Kong ranks first globally in economic freedom and is the world’s fifth-largest merchandise trading entity. He said that Hong Kong and Uzbekistan are respectively important gateways for trade and investment in the Asia-Pacific and Central Asian regions. The two places can leverage their complementary strengths to further enhance economic and trade co-operation and help enterprises explore broader markets. Mr Lee said that Hong Kong has been deepening economic and trade ties with its trading partners through its overseas Economic and Trade Offices. He said he looks forward to further strengthening bilateral co-operation with Uzbekistan in various areas in the future.

     Afterwards, Mr Lee met with the Advisor to the President of Uzbekistan on Strategic Development, Mr Sardor Umurzakov, to exchange views on deepening co-operation between Hong Kong and Uzbekistan. Mr Lee said that he hopes to build closer ties with the local government, enterprises and relevant institutions through the visit, with a view to achieving mutual benefits and win-win outcomes.

At noon, Mr Lee met with the President of Uzbekistan, Mr Shavkat Miromonovich Mirziyoyev, to exchange views on furthering co-operation. Mr Lee said that under the “one country, two systems” principle, Hong Kong enjoys both the China advantage and the global advantage. He said that Hong Kong will continue to play its roles as a “super connector” and a “super value-adder” to further deepen co-operation and exchanges with Uzbekistan on various fronts in line with Uzbekistan’s goal of achieving high-quality development. The two places will join hands in seizing the opportunities from the joint development of the Belt and Road Initiative, and promoting common development between the two places and the Central Asian region.

Uzbekistan is the most populous country in Central Asia, and possesses abundant natural resources and a young labour force. In recent years, its Gross Domestic Product has maintained a robust growth, demonstrating enormous potential in economic growth, industrial development, green transformation and infrastructure development. Mr Lee said that Hong Kong is committed to developing into an international hub for post-secondary education and an international hub for high-calibre talent. Hong Kong is pressing ahead with the promotion of the “Study in Hong Kong” brand to attract more students from outside of the city to study and conduct researches in Hong Kong. He invited Uzbekistan to stage its major conferences and key projects in Hong Kong in the form of Asian chapters or roadshows. He also encouraged more young people from Uzbekistan to study in Hong Kong, building a stronger foundation for long-term co-operation between the two places through education, cultural and people-to-people exchange. 

Mr Lee said that Hong Kong is actively developing into an international gold trading centre, attracting the storage, clearing and delivery of gold in Hong Kong and building a comprehensive gold trading ecosystem. He said that Uzbekistan has abundant gold reserves, and that Hong Kong can provide strong support to Uzbekistan in areas such as gold trading, reserve allocation and professional services, and create more mutually beneficial business opportunities for the two places.

In the afternoon, Mr Lee attended a luncheon hosted by the Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade of Uzbekistan to discuss ways to facilitate business matching and expand market opportunities between enterprises of the two places.

In the evening, Mr Lee attended a business dinner and a signing ceremony for Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) jointly organised by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, where he introduced Hong Kong’s development opportunities and business advantages to local political and business representatives.

Mr Lee will continue to lead the delegation on its visit programme in Uzbekistan tomorrow (June 5).

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

A spokesman for the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) said today (June 4) that, the department has always attached great importance to food safety and environmental hygiene, and has been stepping up inspections against licensed/permitted food premises, including fresh provision shops (FPSs). The FEHD stringently combats irregularities that could lead to rodent infestation or affect public health, with a view to safeguarding food safety and environmental hygiene.

In response to a recent complaint received concerning the appearance of rodents at a FPS on Hip Wo Street, Kwun Tong, the FEHD deployed staff yesterday (June 3) to inspect the FPS concerned. During the inspection, floor stains, signs of rodent activity, and cracks on ceiling and walls were detected. Prosecution was then initiated to the relevant person under the Food Business Regulation (Cap. 132X); a Notice of Elimination of Vermin was also issued under the Public Health and Municipal Services Ordinance (Cap. 132) Section 47(1), requiring the person-in-charge adopting necessary procedures to remove any items causing rodent infestation within specified time frame, failing which prosecution will be instituted. FEHD officers also provided health education and offered advice on rodent prevention and control to the person-in-charge and the staff of the premises, and reminded them to maintain personal, food and environmental hygiene at all times. The FPS concerned has suspended business to carry out thorough cleaning and strengthen rodent prevention and control measures. The department will continue to monitor the hygienic condition of the premises and take appropriate actions to safeguard food safety and environmental hygiene. At the same time, the FEHD has strengthened cleansing of nearby public areas and placed poisonous baits to prevent rodent infestation. 

The spokesman said, as of June 3 this year, the FEHD conducted about 91 500 inspections against licensed/permitted food premises across the territory, including about 6 200 inspections against FPSs. During the period, five licensed FPSs accumulated sufficient demerit points in breach of the Food Business Regulation, the FEHD thus ordered the FPSs concerned to suspend businesses from seven to 14 days. In addition, the department issued a press release on February 10 for a licensed FPS found with poor hygiene condition and serious rodent infestation. An immediate closure order was issued to the FPS concerned, and after the problems were thoroughly rectified, it was approved to reopen earlier. Another press release, issued on March 10, announced that the licence of a FPS was cancelled after breaching licensing condition. During the same period, FEHD officers issued 451 verbal warnings and 77 warning letters, and initiated 527 prosecutions against the irregularities found at the food premises concerned; including issuance of 173 verbal warnings and nine warning letters, and initiation of 125 prosecutions to the licensed FPSs.

Apart from stepping up inspections and enforcement, the FEHD also issued letters to the licensed/permitted food premises across the territory, reminding the trade of key points to note when handling and storing food during the summer period, as well as strengthening rodent control work. The FEHD reminded the trade to handle food properly, for example, keeping hot food that is prepared but not for immediate consumption at or above 60 degrees Celsius, and cold food at or below 4 degrees C; at the same time, following Five Keys to Food Safety, namely choose wisely, keep clean, separate raw and cooked food, cook thoroughly and safe temperature, in order to reduce the risk of foodborne illness. 

The FEHD further reminded the trade to reduce the risk of rodent infestation from three aspects, namely food, harbourage and passages of rodents, including the elimination of food sources and hiding places of rodents, as well as blockages of their dispersal routes. For example, properly storing food and food waste, maintaining cleanliness of the premises from inside to outside, avoiding accumulation of articles, and immediately sealed the holes and cracks on the walls, door frames, openings of pipes and other passages for the rodents. 

The spokesman emphasised that, the FEHD will continue to closely monitor the hygiene conditions of the food premises, and step up inspections and prosecution with reference to the risk assessment. If premises are found with poor hygiene condition, mishandling of food, or possibly causing rodent infestation, the department will adopt appropriate enforcement actions depending on actual circumstances, with a view to safeguarding public health. 

Under the relevant regulation, every person engaged in any food business, including FPSs, shall not knowingly suffer or permit in any food premises, the presence of rats, mice or insects; and shall adopt appropriate measures to protect the food from risk of contamination or deterioration. Operators must at all times keep every part of food premises clean, properly maintained, and in good condition. Offenders are liable on conviction to a maximum fine of $10,000 and imprisonment for three months. If a licensee/permit holder is convicted of an offence relating to food safety and environmental hygiene under the Public Health and Municipal Services Ordinance (Cap. 132) and its subsidiary legislation, or breaches any licence/permit conditions, the FEHD may also register demerit points, issue verbal and written warnings, and suspend or cancel the relevant licence/permit under the established mechanisms. If the condition of a premises poses an imminent health risk, the FEHD has the authority to issue closure orders and immediately close the premises.