Tag Archives: China

     The Government will gazette the Protection of the Harbour (Amendment) Bill 2024 (the Bill) tomorrow (December 6). By amending the existing legislation, the Bill seeks to, on the one hand, set out a clearer mechanism to regulate reclamations in the Victoria Harbour (the Harbour), in particular large-scale reclamations, for protecting the Harbour, and on the other hand, streamline the mechanism for small-scale reclamations which improve the Victoria Harbour to facilitate and promote harbourfront enhancement for public enjoyment and to strengthen harbour functions. The streamlined mechanism will also be applicable to non-permanent reclamations in the Harbour.
      
     A spokesperson for the Development Bureau (DEVB) said, “The existing Protection of the Harbour Ordinance (PHO) prescribes the ‘presumption against reclamation’ in the Victoria Harbour (the Presumption) but does not stipulate any specific mechanism to ascertain whether a proposal can fulfill the ‘overriding public need’ to rebut the Presumption. Moreover, at present, the Presumption covers all harbour reclamations across the board, which is not conducive to reclamations for the purpose of improving the Harbour. As promenades on both sides of the Victoria Harbour are taking shape, and the community has aspired for better facilities and experiences along the harbourfront. Amending the PHO will help meet such aspiration.”
      
     The Government has earlier reaffirmed that there is no plan to initiate large-scale reclamation in the Victoria Harbour to form land for housing, commercial or industrial developments. Amendments in the Bill are proposed along two main directions, namely (1) small-scale reclamations proposed to be carried out in the Harbour for the purpose of harbourfront enhancement or harbour non-permanent reclamations meeting certain criteria may be handled according to streamlined procedures involving the granting of exemption from the Presumption by the Financial Secretary for such reclamations; and (2) other than the aforesaid harbour reclamations exempt from the Presumption, to enhance certainty and transparency, all harbour reclamations will continue to be subject to the existing stringent Presumption and will be required to go through the statutory procedures stipulated in the amended legislation, to ascertain whether the “overriding public need” test is fulfilled for rebutting the Presumption.
      
     In respect of small-scale reclamations involved in improving the Victoria Harbour, only harbour reclamations as specified in the schedule of the Bill may be exempt from the Presumption, for example, for the construction of piers, viewing decks, breakwaters, etc., where the total area of the harbour occupied or covered by the structure, feature or device so constructed does not exceed 0.8 hectare.
      
     In respect of harbour non-permanent reclamations, the reclamations may be exempt from the Presumption if area of land formed in the Victoria Harbour does not exceed three hectares at any time during the works and the expected duration of the works does not exceed seven years. 
      
     According to the Bill, the Financial Secretary, in considering the granting of exemptions for the above two types of reclamations, must be satisfied that the relevant reclamation is in the public interest, including the public benefits that can be brought and the limited impact on the Harbour.
      
     As regards the harbour reclamations not exempt from the Presumption, including large-scale reclamations, they are still subject to the stringent Presumption. To rebut the Presumption, it is necessary to undergo the statutory procedures in the Bill to determine whether the “overriding public need” test is met in rebutting the Presumption. To this end, the Bill incorporates the three considerations set out in earlier court judgment for rebutting the Presumption, which are (i) there is an overriding public need for the harbour reclamation that is not exempt from the Presumption and the need is compelling and present; (ii) there is no reasonable alternative to the reclamation; and (iii) the extent of the reclamation does not go beyond the minimum of that which is required by the overriding public need. Under the formalised mechanism proposed in the Bill, the project proponent is required to prepare a report to set out the assessment on whether the reclamation fulfills the “overriding public need”, and the report must be published for public comments for a period of 60 days.  The project proponent is required to submit the report and the comments received to the Chief Executive in Council within a specified period for determination on whether the Presumption is rebutted.
      
     The DEVB consulted the Legislative Council (LegCo) Panel on Development and Harbourfront Commission (HC) twice in March last year and June this year, and conducted a five-month public engagement exercise last year. During the public engagement period, various stakeholders, including professional bodies, water-based activities organisations, fishermen’s organisations, users with operations in the harbour, District Councils, local representatives and members of the general public were engaged. The proposals met with cross-party support from the LegCo to a large extent and most HC members were supportive. The public was also generally supportive of the proposed legislative framework. 
      
     The spokesperson continued, “The proposed amendments would provide greater flexibility in taking forward small-scale reclamations involved in improving the Victoria Harbour. The Government will fully support the LegCo’s examination of the Bill, with the hope that the Bill could be passed and implemented as soon as possible, thereby enabling the Government to take forward some long-awaited harbour enhancement works and bringing the public a better harbourfront experience.”
      
     The Bill will be introduced into the LegCo for first reading on December 11. For details, please refer to the LegCo Brief issued today. read more

     â€‹Following are the remarks by the newly appointed Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, at a media session today (December 5):

Reporter: First of all, what are your job priorities in your tenure of two and a half years? And also, what are the most critical areas of work for which you want to see improvements in the Bureau? Given that you had no previous experience in the Bureau, how do you plan to use your strengths to serve the general public? Thank you.

Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism: There are several important areas in the portfolio of culture, sports and tourism. First of all, of course, in the National Fourteenth Five-Year Plan, it is clearly stated that Hong Kong is supported to develop into an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange. This will allow Hong Kong to fully leverage its strength in international creativity and experiences in external exchanges under the “one country, two systems”. This is obviously an important priority. Hong Kong has distinctive advantages in enjoying the strong support of the Motherland while being closely connected to the world. With the strong support from the Central Government, we must leave no stones unturned in achieving this important goal. 

     On sports, obviously the most important thing is the opening of the Kai Tak Sports Park. And with this, the successful organisation of the 15th National Games. We will have to work very closely with Guangdong Province and Macao SAR (Special Administrative Region). This will allow athletes to shine, Hong Kong people to strengthen their national identity, and for visitors to have a great time in Hong Kong.

     For tourism, I am most grateful to the Central Government for the recently announced supporting measures for Hong Kong, including the new pair of adorable new pandas, and the resumption of the multiple entry policy for Shenzhen residents. Opportunities are everywhere. And so my priority would be to learn the latest development of my Bureau’s work, and then to meet old friends, make new friends. Have candid, useful, constructive discussions with all stakeholders, with a view of bringing culture, sports, and tourism to new heights.

(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the remarks.)

  

     The Water Supplies Department (WSD) is holding the Water Save Carnival from today (December 5) until December 15 at the HarbourChill in Wan Chai. Under the theme “Save Water Today for a Sustainable Future”, the carnival aims to encourage members of the public to save water and work together to create a sustainable future without water shortages.
      
     In her opening speech, the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn, said that the country has been providing Dongjiang water to Hong Kong since the 1960s to resolve Hong Kong’s water shortage and ensure the prosperity and stability of the city. Earlier this year, the Pearl River Delta Water Resources Allocation project was commissioned to divert water from the Xijiang River, enabling dual sources of water supply from the Dongjiang River and Xijiang River, and further safeguarding the security of Hong Kong’s water supply. To celebrate the 60th anniversary of Dongjiang’s water supply to Hong Kong next year, the Development Bureau (DEVB) and the WSD will hold a series of events to deepen the public’s understanding of the history of Dongjiang’s water supply and the country’s support provided to Hong Kong to overcome water supply challenges.
      
     Ms Linn added that the DEVB and the WSD are implementing the Total Water Management Strategy with an emphasis on containing the growth of water demand and exploiting new water resources. The WSD will strengthen water conservation through public education, adding that the Water Intelligent Network will be enhanced to reduce water mains leakages. Also, the WSD will exploit new water resources by developing desalination and expanding the use of lower-grade water.
      
     Delivering his welcoming remarks, the Director of Water Supplies, Mr Roger Wong, said everyone needs to face water shortages. Hong Kong’s average daily water consumption per person rose to 150 litres during the pandemic. The consumption is 50 per cent higher than that recommended by the World Health Organization (i.e. 50 to 100 litres). As such, the WSD continues to promote water conservation through different publicity events with a view to appeal to the community to work together to save water.
      
     The opening ceremony featured celebrities participating in interactive games with the mascot, Water Save Dave. They shared valuable tips on everyday water-saving practices with the audience and sang the theme song “Droplet is Love” alongside the Droplet Boy Band to promote cherishing water resources.
      
     Other officiating guests attending the event today included Legislative Council members, Mr Lau Kwok-fan and Mr Chu Kwok-keung; the Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Water Supplies, Professor Joseph Kwan; the Chairman of the Hong Kong Aided Primary School Heads Association, Ms Kathy Chung; and the Chairman’s Representative of the Subsidised Primary School Council Mr Ma Chung-tsun.
      
     The carnival features a variety of activities, including water conservation workshops, interactive games, and Water Save Dave meet-and-greet sessions, etc. A giant crystal droplet is set up on-site, allowing the public to step inside for photos. All activities at the carnival are free of charge. Some of the activities require pre-registration. Members of the public are welcome to join. Details are available on the thematic webpage.

            

     Hong Kong Customs earlier detected four cases of cigarette smuggling in Kwai Chung and, upon follow-up investigation, raided an illicit cigarette packaging and storage centre in Sheung Shui on December 3. A total of about 12.3 million suspected illicit cigarettes and about 2 000 kilograms of suspected duty-not-paid manufactured tobacco with a total estimated market value of about $69 million and a duty potential of about $49 million were seized.
      
     Customs in the past few months detected four cases of exporting smuggled cigarettes at the same logistics centre in Kwai Chung. A total of about 4.8 million suspected illicit cigarettes and about 2 000kg of suspected duty-not-paid manufactured tobacco were seized in several batches of goods destined for Australia.
      
     After a follow-up investigation, Customs on December 3 took action and raided a metal warehouse in Sheung Shui, seizing 7.5 million suspected illicit cigarettes and a large batch of packaging tools and dismantling an illicit cigarette packaging and storage centre. During the operation, Customs officers arrested three men, aged between 41 and 75, who were suspected to be connected with the case. They comprised a driver and two packers.
      
     Initial investigations revealed that the syndicate used remote places to store illicit cigarettes. After repackaging and mixed with some lamps and clothes as disguise, the illicit cigarettes were transported to the logistics centre concerned in Kwai Chung and planned to be shipped to Australia for profit.
      
     Investigations of the cases are ongoing, and the three arrested men were released on bail pending further investigation.
      
     Customs will continue its risk assessment and intelligence analysis, and step up enforcement actions to combat cross-boundary illicit cigarettes activities. Smuggling is a serious offence. Under the Import and Export Ordinance, any person found guilty of importing or exporting unmanifested cargo is liable to a maximum fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years.
      
     Under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance, anyone involved in dealing with, possession of, selling or buying illicit cigarettes commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $1 million and imprisonment for two years.

     Members of the public may report any suspected illicit cigarette activities 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/).

    

     Following is the speech by the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, at the Belt and Road Forum 2024 – Digital Economy & Payment Settlement today (December 5):
 
Regina (Co-Chair of the Maritime Silk Road Society, Mrs Regina Ip), Joseph (Chairman of the Silk Road Economic Development Research Center, Mr Joseph Chan), Chairman Lam (Chairman of the Board of Governors of Hong Kong Chu Hai College, Mr Lam Kwong-siu), Consuls-general, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
 
     Good afternoon. It is my great pleasure to speak at the Belt and Road Forum 2024 on the theme of “Digital Economy & Payment Settlement”, an invaluable platform for us to exchange insights and explore how we can drive digital transformation and foster deeper collaboration under the Belt and Road Initiative.
 
     Since its introduction by President Xi in 2013, the Belt and Road Initiative has transformed global connectivity, bridging communities across continents through infrastructure development, trade, finance, and cultural exchanges. Over the past decade, it has delivered tangible benefits to economies worldwide, fostering unity, enhancing global collaboration, and contributing significantly to the creation of a shared future for humanity.
 
     Hong Kong has long been an active participant in and beneficiary of the Belt and Road Initiative. Our strength lies in our role as a global connector – a hub where the East meets the West. As the Initiative continues to deepen, Hong Kong is well positioned to leverage our strategic advantages as an international centre for finance, trade, shipping, and professional services. Our city is committed to unlocking new opportunities and driving growth across Belt and Road economies, businesses, and communities.
 
     Under the “one country, two systems” principle, Hong Kong enjoys a unique dual advantage: access to China’s vast market while maintaining global connectivity. This framework allows Hong Kong to serve as a “super connector” and “super value-adder” in the Belt and Road Initiative. With world-class infrastructure, robust professional services, and a transparent regulatory environment, Hong Kong provides the critical support needed to facilitate trade and enhance Belt and Road projects. Ranked third globally and first in Asia in the latest Global Financial Centres Index (GFCI), Hong Kong is undoubtedly a pivotal player in realising the visionary goals of the Belt and Road Initiative.
 
     As the Initiative evolves, so does the role of technology. Digitalisation has become a driving force behind modern economic transformation, and Hong Kong is always embracing this wave of innovation. According to the latest GFCI, Hong Kong is ranked among the top 10 fintech hubs worldwide, underscoring the seamless integration of technology into our financial markets. Technologies such as AI, big data analytics, blockchain, and distributed ledger systems are not only powering our economy but are also reshaping how businesses operate and collaborate across borders.
 
     Our fintech sector is thriving, with over 1 100 fintech companies operating in Hong Kong. These companies span a wide range of fields, including mobile payments, cross-boundary wealth management, AI-powered financial consultancy, and regulatory technology. Additionally, Hong Kong has become a magnet for Web3 talent and investment, with over 280 companies in virtual asset exchanges, blockchain infrastructure, cybersecurity, and payment systems establishing their presence here. These developments indicate that Hong Kong is well prepared to lead as an advanced digital economy.
 
     We are adopting a multipronged approach to ensure sustained progress by working closely with financial regulators, industry players, and academia to enhance our financial infrastructure, nurture fintech talent, and strengthen partnerships with the Mainland and Belt and Road economies. For instance, our regulator is actively collaborating with central banks in Belt and Road countries, such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE (United Arab Emirates), and Thailand, on the mBridge project to explore CBDC (Central Bank Digital Currency) applications.
 
     Another example of collaboration is more at the retail level, which is our collaboration and partnership with the Bank of Thailand, which launched a Faster Payment System x PromptPay Link in December 2023. This initiative enables visitors from both places to conduct safe, efficient, and seamless electronic payments, further demonstrating how Hong Kong’s expertise in payment infrastructure supports the Belt and Road vision.
 
     To further position Hong Kong as a leader in the digital economy, we issued a Policy Statement on the Development of Virtual Assets in Hong Kong in October 2022, outlining our vision and regulatory approach. Following this, we introduced a licensing regime for virtual asset service providers in June 2023. To date, we have issued three licenses, with more approvals expected in the near future. These efforts highlight our commitment to fostering innovation while maintaining a well-regulated and transparent environment.
 
     The integration of digital technologies into Belt and Road economies is accelerating, driving efficiency, connectivity, and growth. Advances in payment settlement systems, along with the adoption of AI and blockchain, are transforming financial services and unlocking new opportunities for collaboration. As a leader in finance and technology, Hong Kong plays a pivotal role in this digital revolution. To foster a sustainable and trustworthy market environment, we also issued the Policy Statement on Responsible Application of Artificial Intelligence in Financial Market at the Hong Kong FinTech Week in late October, providing clear guidance for financial institutions to adopt AI responsibly while promoting innovation, transparency, and public trust.
 
     The Belt and Road Initiative is more than just a platform for infrastructure and trade – it is a vision for global connectivity and shared prosperity. As we integrate digital innovation into this framework, the opportunities for economic transformation and collaboration are boundless.
 
     From providing world-class financial and professional services to advancing the adoption of cutting-edge technologies, Hong Kong always stands ready to contribute to the continued success of the Belt and Road Initiative. I encourage all of you to seize these emerging opportunities, foster meaningful partnerships, and work together to build a more interconnected, inclusive, and prosperous future for all. Thank you.