What’s New in Hong Kong 2020

What’s New in Hong Kong 2020	Follow Us


The future of Hong Kong in the new era Oct 13, 2020 - Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury Christopher Hui delivered a keynote speech today, the first day of the virtual China Institute Executive Summit 2020. He highlighted the latest financial developments in Hong Kong and the city’s role as an international financial center. Mr Hui said Hong Kong’s role as an international IPO center has been enhanced with a broader and deeper financing platform, attracting new economy sectors such as fintech and biotech. He also spoke on the opportunities in the asset and wealth management sector, with the introduction of new fund structures and tax concession measures, and highlighted the growth in fintech developments and green finance. Mr Hui pointed out that Hong Kong, with its rule of law, independent judiciary and strong international regulatory structure, has remained resilient and open to international business and capital flow amid various challenges over the past decades, including the 2003 SARS epidemic and the 2008 financial crisis. Details here.

Delivery date of Policy Address postponed Oct 12, 2020 - Chief Executive Carrie Lam announced today that she will postpone her Policy Address to seek the central government’s support for proposals to aid Hong Kong’s recovery. Speaking to the media, Mrs Lam said the Policy Address is a very important event and she hopes to use the 2020 Policy Address to instill more confidence among Hong Kong people. The Chief Executive said she will go to Beijing to discuss the proposals with various ministries and commissions later this month. Depending on the progress of the talks, Mrs Lam said she aims to deliver her Policy Address by the end of November. Details here.

New community treatment facility completed Oct 9, 2020 - The community treatment facility expansion at AsiaWorld-Expo (AWE) was successfully completed, with the facility handed over to the Hospital Authority today. Relevant construction works started on Sep 19 and were swiftly completed within three weeks, providing an addition of nearly 1,000 beds, with some equipped with negative pressure facilities. This is in addition to the 900 beds installed earlier. The expansion will enhance Hong Kong's ability to cope with another potential wave of the epidemic in the future, reducing the pressure on public hospitals. Details here.

Transparency measures for courts set Oct 8, 2020 - The Judiciary today announced additional transparency measures to enhance public understanding about the reasoning of court decisions as well as complaints against judicial conduct. Starting from this month, summaries of selected decisions in the District Court and Magistrates’ Courts which may attract great public attention will be prepared and uploaded to the Judiciary website as far as practicable. Currently, in accordance with the principle of open justice, all court hearings, save for some very limited exceptions such as those involving children, are open to the public. Judgments and reasons for verdicts and sentencing for the District Court and above are available on the Judiciary website. Since July 2020, where there have been a large number of identical or similar complaints on judicial conduct in relation to any case, the gist of the complaints, investigation outcome and underlying considerations would be posted online. The Judiciary said in line with the cardinal principle of judicial independence, it cannot and will not handle complaints against judicial or statutory decisions, which should be dealt with via appeal, review or related judicial proceedings. Details here.

Foreign currency reserves up Oct 8, 2020 - Hong Kong's foreign currency reserve assets rose to US$453.3 billion in September from August's US$449.9 billion. The reserve assets represent over six times the currency in circulation or about 42% of Hong Kong dollar M3. Details here.

Viral hepatitis action plan announced Oct 8, 2020 - Secretary for Food and Health Professor Sophia Chan today announced Hong Kong's first viral hepatitis action plan to achieve the goal outlined by the World Health Organization (WHO) to eliminate the major public health threat posed by viral hepatitis by 2030, and to formulate an overall strategy and specific action plan to reduce the transmission of viral hepatitis and lower the morbidity and mortality rate. The plan adopts the four strategic axes in the action framework of the WHO, namely awareness, surveillance, prevention and treatment, and formulates priority actions for each strategy. The Government expects to achieve a range of results in four major aspects by 2024. Details here.

Public Health Response Plan Activated Hong Kong health authorities continue to monitor developments regarding the emergence of an outbreak of respiratory illness caused by a novel coronavirus. A dedicated webpage has been set up to provide relevant information and health advice. Details here.

Social distancing measures maintained Oct 6, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government today announced that the social distancing measures will be maintained until Oct 15 and rules on team sports held at public skating rinks will be eased. From Oct 9 to 15, the requirements and restrictions in relation to catering and scheduled premises will be largely maintained, including the suspension or prohibition of activities and facilities involving higher health risks such as dancing, steam and sauna facilities. Unless exempted, the prohibition on group gatherings of more than four people in public places will continue during the seven-day period. The requirement for wearing a mask at all times when on public transport and in all public places will also remain in effect. Explaining the rationale behind the Government’s decision at a media session in the afternoon, Secretary for Food & Health Professor Sophia Chan said there are increases in unlinked COVID-19 cases in the past one or two weeks. She also appealed to members of the public to maintain vigilance, personal hygiene and social distancing. The Government will take enforcement actions against bars and catering businesses that fail to comply with the regulations. Details here.

Secretary for Food and Health attends WHO meeting Oct 6, 2020 - Attending and speaking at a virtual meeting of the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Committee for the Western Pacific today, Secretary for Food & Health Professor Sophia Chan said Hong Kong has responded promptly and successfully to a few COVID-19 epidemic waves so far. The current wave has subsided from its peak now but there are still sporadic local cases among the recent confirmed cases, indicating the existence of silent transmission chains in the community. She said the Hong Kong SAR Government will spare no effort in containing the spread of the disease using the containment strategy. Prof Chan also shared experiences of running the Universal Community Testing Programme and reaffirmed the Hong Kong SAR Government’s commitment in maintaining close collaboration with the WHO and the regional committee in combatting the COVID-19 pandemic. The meeting's 71st session is being held through video conferencing due to the COVID-19 pandemic and related public health restrictions, with a focus on the anti-epidemic work by committee members and regional co-operation. Details here.

Senior judicial appointment of the Court of Final Appeal Oct 5, 2020 - Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam has accepted the Judicial Officers Recommendation Commission’s (JORC) advice on the appointment of Lord Patrick Hodge as non-permanent judge of the Court of Final Appeal. “The presence of these esteemed non-permanent judges manifests the judicial independence of Hong Kong, helps maintain a high degree of confidence in our legal system, and allows Hong Kong to maintain strong links with other common law jurisdictions,” said Mrs Lam. Chief Justice Geoffrey Ma welcomed the acceptance by the Chief Executive of the JORC’s recommendation on the appointment of Lord Hodge. The recommended appointment of Lord Hodge will increase the number of non-permanent judges from other common law jurisdictions (Australia, Canada and the UK) from 13 to 14. Lord Hodge, a citizen of the UK, was born in Scotland in 1953. Appointed Queen’s Counsel in 1996, he was appointed as a Justice of the Supreme Court of the UK in 2013. Details here.

Government to launch iBond Oct 5, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government will launch of the 2020 inflation-linked retail bond, or iBond, under the retail part of the Government Bond Programme for subscription by Hong Kong residents. The target issue size of the iBond will be up to US$1.2 billion. The authorities may consider increasing the issue size to a maximum of US$1.9 billion subject to market response. The iBond has a minimum denomination of US$1,282 and a tenor of three years. The subscription period will be from Oct 23 through Nov 5. Financial Secretary Paul Chan said the issuance provides residents with a safe and stable investment alternative while further developing the local bond market. Details here.

Police handles cases in accordance with the law Oct 4, 2020 - In response to a statement by the US Department of State regarding the arrests made by Hong Kong Police on Oct 1, a Hong Kong SAR Government spokesman said the arrests were lawful and necessary to maintain law and order in society and protect the life and property of Hong Kong residents. “If there is evidence that anyone has violated the law, they must face justice. No one can break the law without facing consequences,” the spokesman said, adding that police have always handled and will continue to handle all cases in a fair, just and impartial manner in accordance with the law. According to the Hong Kong Bill of Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the freedoms of procession and assembly were not absolute, and might be subject to restrictions as prescribed by law in the interests of public order, public safety and the interests of others. Details here.

Hong Kong plays key role in national development Oct 1, 2020 - Leveraging on Hong Kong's unique role as a connector to the world, the Hong Kong SAR Government has signed over 90 cooperation agreements with the Mainland in the past three years, playing a key role in the national development of China, said Chief Executive Carrie Lam at the National Day Reception in celebration of the 71st Anniversary of the Founding of the People's Republic of China today. Mrs Lam said the Government will participate more actively in the drafting of the outline of the 14th Five-Year Plan, and will seek the Central Government's support to strengthen and enhance Hong Kong's status as an international financial center and a global aviation hub. "We will also take forward the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area at full steam and deepen our work with Shenzhen in developing an international innovation and technology hub," she said. Details here.

Investment advisory body formed Sep 30, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government has set up a governance committee to provide strategic steering for the Hong Kong Growth Portfolio and give guidance on matters such as investment mandates and asset allocation. The Financial Secretary will chair the committee, with six non-officials who have rich experience in investment appointed as members for a term of two years, from Oct 1, 2020, to Sep 30, 2022. In his 2020-21 Budget Speech, the Financial Secretary announced that he would use part of the Future Fund to establish a new Hong Kong Growth Portfolio to make strategic investments in projects with a Hong Kong nexus, with a view to enhancing returns while reinforcing Hong Kong's status as a financial, commercial and innovation centre, and raising Hong Kong's productivity and competitiveness in the long run. Details here.

Financial results for the five months ended August 31, 2020 Sep 30, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government announced today it recorded a cumulative year-to-date deficit of HK$232.6 billion (US$29.8 billion) for the five-months ending Aug 31. Expenditure for the period April to August 2020 amounted to HK$360.1 billion (US$46.1 billion) and revenue HK$127.5 billion (US$16.3 billion). A Government spokesperson said that the deficit was mainly because some major types of revenue, including salaries and profits taxes, are mostly received towards the end of a financial year. It was also due to the payments in respect of the Cash Payout Scheme and various measures under the Anti-epidemic Fund. Fiscal reserves stood at HK$927.7 billion (US$118.9 billion) as at August 31, 2020. Details here.

August retail sales falls 13.1% Sep 30, 2020 - The value of total retail sales in August, provisionally estimated at HK$25.6 billion (US$3.2 billion), fell 13.1% year-on-year. After netting out the effect of price changes over the same period, the volume of total retail sales dropped 13.4% year-on-year. A government spokesman said that retail sales remained weak in August amid the third wave of the local epidemic. While the year-on-year decline narrowed visibly, it was mainly attributable to a very low base of comparison. Looking ahead, as economic conditions remain under pressure and inbound tourism is unlikely to show any swift recovery in the near term, the business environment of the retail trade will remain difficult. Details here.

Social distancing measures eased Sep 29, 2020 - In light of the latest COVID-19 situation, the Hong Kong SAR Government is easing some social distancing measures by allowing religious gatherings to be held at less than half of normal capacity and lifting the cap of four persons in team sports activities, starting Oct 2. The existing mask-wearing requirement in public places and on public transport, social distancing measures in restaurants and the ban on group gatherings of more than four people will continue to be in effect. The public is urged to continue to maintain awareness of epidemic prevention when resuming social and economic activities, and to continue to maintain personal and environmental hygiene with a view to preventing another outbreak in the community. Details here.

Easing of boundary controls mulled Sep 29, 2020 - Relaxation of the boundary controls between Hong Kong and the Mainland may proceed in a gradual manner with due consideration given to the public health risks posed by COVID-19, said Chief Executive Carrie Lam, speaking ahead of the Executive Council meeting this morning. Noting that the Mainland has put the virus under good control, Mrs Lam said there is a scientific basis to relax the boundary controls between Hong Kong and the Mainland. She emphasized that the Government is working hard on ways to fulfill the aspirations of certain Hong Kong people living on the Mainland to return to the city without being subject to the 14-day mandatory quarantine arrangement, provided that they can show a negative test of COVID-19. “We are in advanced internal discussions to find a way to facilitate such Hong Kong residents coming back," she said. Details here.

Logistics subsidy to be launched Sep 28, 2020 - Attaching great importance to the continuing development of the logistics industry and Hong Kong’s role as the regional logistics hub, the Hong Kong SAR Government will launch The Pilot Subsidy Scheme for Third-party Logistics Service Providers on Oct 12 to provide support to the industry and enable it to enhance operational efficiency and to better meet its clients’ needs. About 300 logistics enterprises will benefit from the US$38 million subsidy program, which will provide financial assistance to third-party logistics service providers to encourage the industry to enhance productivity through the application of technology. Details here.

Students excel at International Mathematical Olympiad Sep 28, 2020 - Hong Kong students continue to attain good results in international competitions related to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education. A team of six students representing Hong Kong achieved outstanding results in the 61st International Mathematical Olympiad, winning three silver medals and three bronze medals. This year's competition was held online from Sep 18 - 28, due to the COVID-19 epidemic. A total of 616 contestants from 105 countries or regions participated in the competition. Details here.

Financial Secretary attends APEC meeting Sep 25, 2020 - Financial Secretary Paul Chan underlined the importance of international cooperation and free trade and investment in the critical path to global economic recovery amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Speaking at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Finance Ministers’ Meeting 2020 today, Mr Chan called on all APEC member economies to act in unity and focus efforts on reigniting trade and investment as engines for growth. He also highlighted Hong Kong’s policy response to the unprecedented crisis and shared his views on prescriptions for economic recovery in the region. The event was, for the first time, convened virtually due to the global spread of COVID-19. Details here.

Hong Kong’s financial ranking moves up Sep 25, 2020 - Hong Kong ranks fifth in the latest Global Financial Centers Index Report, one place higher than the last index. In a statement, the Hong Kong SAR) Government said the overall ratings of financial centers that ranked third to seventh in the report were very close, adding that Hong Kong was ranked among the top five in five areas of competitiveness, including financial sector development and infrastructure. The Government pointed out that Hong Kong’s financial system remains resilient amid the various challenges due to the pandemic. Details here.

Hong Kong students triumph at 32nd International Olympiad in Informatics Sep 24, 2020 - A team of three Hong Kong students won one gold and two bronze medals at the 32nd International Olympiad in Informatics (IOI 2020) held online (Sep 13 - 19). The contest is the most recognised worldwide computer science competition aimed at secondary students under 20 years of age. This year's contest was held online from September 13 to 19 to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Secretary for Education, Mr Kevin Yeung, today congratulated the team on their outstanding performance. "It is very encouraging to see the remarkable achievements of the Hong Kong team in IOI, which is one of the International Science Olympiads under UNESCO and is aimed at promoting coding education that helps nurture students' computational thinking and problem-solving skills," he said. Details here.

Full subsidy for exhibition rentals Sep 24, 2020 - With the gradual stabilization of the epidemic situation and the progressive resumption of convention and exhibition activities, the Hong Kong SAR Government will provide a 100% venue rental subsidy for organizers of exhibitions and international conventions held at the Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre and AsiaWorld-Expo. The Convention and Exhibition Industry Subsidy Scheme, which has no cap, will be launched on Oct 3, 2020 and will last for 12 months until Oct 2, 2021. The subsidy is applicable to all exhibitions and international conventions held at the two venues during the period. Eligible organizers will be required to submit applications via the two venue operators after the events. Set up under the Anti-epidemic Fund, the Convention & Exhibition Industry Subsidy Scheme has a total commitment of HK$1.02 billion (US$130 million). Details here.

August exports down 2.3% Sep 24, 2020 - The value of Hong Kong's total exports fell to HK$344.5 billion (US$44.1 billion) in August, down 2.3% compared with the same month last year. The value of goods imports dropped 5.7% to HK$359.1 billion (US$46 billion) year-on-year in the same month. A trade deficit of HK$14.6 billion (US$1.8 billion), or 4.1% of the value of imports, was recorded for the period. Comparing the three-month period ending August with the preceding three months on a seasonally adjusted basis, the value of exports rose 0.3% while that of imports increased by 0.6%. Details here.

Social distancing measures extended Sep 23, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government is extending its current social distancing measures, with minor refinements, starting Sep 25, including the re-opening of public bowling alleys, billiard establishments and shower facilities. Live performances at some entertainment venues could re-start on Oct 1, subject to the latest requirements and restrictions and the adoption of sufficient epidemic prevention measures. Dine-in services at catering premises will continue to operate at 50% capacity, with no more than four people per table. Group gatherings of more than four people in public places will be prohibited and the existing mask-wearing requirement in public places and on public transport continues to be in effect. Details here.

Chief Justice Geoffrey Ma issues statement Sep 23, 2020 - In a statement issued today, Chief Justice of the Court of Final Appeal Mr Geoffrey Ma, said there must not be a politicization of the Judiciary and its functions. He explained that the constitutional duty of judges, in the exercise of judicial power, is to strictly apply the law and nothing else and that such duty does not involve judges deciding political matters or controversies. It follows that judges must therefore not be influenced by political considerations of whatever nature, the Chief Justice added. It is the law that always governs the determination and handling of any case, without any extraneous factors being considered. All are equal before the law, no one is above it. The statement also devoted special attention to the topics of bail, sentencing and appeals and reviews. Details here.

Disney’s option for site to end Sep 23, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government today announced that it will not extend the option for Hongkong International Theme Parks Limited (HKITP) to purchase the site adjacent to Hong Kong Disneyland Resort at Penny's Bay due to current economic conditions. "The Government considers it prudent for HKITP to focus on the development and expansion of the existing resort in the coming few years, rather than geographic expansion into the Site," a spokesman for the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau said, adding that the Government ontinues to fully support the existing expansion plan for the resort despite the prevailing worldwide tourism downturn. Details here.

Hong Kong's gateway role reaffirmed Sep 22, 2020 - Financial Secretary Paul Chan reaffirms that Hong Kong continues to be the unique business bridge between the Mainland and the rest of the world. Delivering opening remarks at the " "How Hong Kong continues to be a gateway to China" webinar today, Mr Chan said Hong Kong's wide-ranging institutional advantages and fundamentals, including the rule of law and judicial independence, free flows of information and capital and a low and simple tax system, have continued to underpin the city as an international financial, trading and commercial center. Riding on its formidable strengths, Hong Kong has been exploring initiatives to open up more markets and business opportunities for local and international businesses, he said. Details here.

Hong Kong's legal system robust: Chief Executive Sep 22, 2020 - Chief Executive Carrie Lam said Hong Kong’s legal system is as robust as ever under the National Security Law. In remarks at a media session ahead of the Executive Council meeting this morning, Mrs Lam stressed that under the Basic Law, judges from common law jurisdictions are welcome to sit on the Court of Final Appeal. "Right now, we have 13 of such very eminent judges from the common law jurisdictions and I’m sure Hong Kong will continue to benefit from their wise counsel and their expertise in adjudicating cases," she said. The Chief Executive reiterated that judicial independence is not undermined in any way and with law and order restored, Hong Kong is an even more attractive place for doing business. Details here.

August consumer prices dip 0.4% Sep 21, 2020 - Overall consumer prices fell by 0.4% in August 2020 year-on-year, with the decrease smaller than the corresponding decrease (-2.3%) in July 2020, as effect of the Hong Kong SAR Government's payment of public housing rentals and waiver of two-thirds of rent for tenants of Group B estates by Hong Kong Housing Society in July dissipated in August. Netting out the effects of all Government's one-off relief measures, the year-on-year rate of increase in the Composite CPI (i.e. the underlying inflation rate) in August 2020 was 0.1%, slightly smaller than that in July 2020 (0.2%). Looking ahead, price pressures on both external and domestic fronts should remain tame in the rest of year amid subdued global and local economic conditions. Details here.

Government recruitment drive underway Sep 19, 2020 - A Hong Kong SAR Government recruitment exercise is currently underway, through Oct 9 for the posts of Administrative Officers, Executive Officers II, Assistant Trade Officers II and Transport Officers II. Current final undergraduates may also apply. Entry requirements for these posts can be found on the Civil Service Bureau homepage and the government portal GovHK. Applicants in the US who do not possess the requisite Common Recruitment Examination (CRE) results, may also apply and may take part in the coming CRE and Basic Law Test, to be held tentatively on Dec 5 in New York and San Francisco, subject to the regulations and prevailing measures of the respective cities amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Application forms are available online. Details here.

Hong Kong remains committed to rule of law Sep 19, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government said nobody should doubt its commitment to the rule of law and judicial independence. Making the remarks in response to media queries today, a government spokesman said that Basic Law Article 2 clearly states that the Hong Kong enjoys independent judicial power, including that of final adjudication, while Article 8 stipulates that the common law system shall be maintained. "This is Hong Kong’s unique strength and advantage and is often cited by international business as a major factor for their continued presence and success in the city," the spokesman said. The spokesman also stressed that there could be no question of the National Security Law affecting Hong Kong’s judicial independence and the smooth operation of the judicial system, including the Court of Final Appeal. Details here.

“Two-pronged” vaccine procurement strategy Sep 18, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government will adopt a “two-pronged strategy” to procure vaccines meeting the criteria of safety, efficacy and quality for the Hong Kong population. The Government has already joined the COVID-19 Vaccine Global Access Facility, which will provide vaccines to 35% of Hong Kong people. At the same time, the Government will pursue additional supplies with individual vaccine developers. The Government aims to procure sufficient doses of vaccines to cover at least twice the Hong Kong population. Vaccine procurement is part of the range of preparations the Government is adopting, as it stays vigilant, to prevent and combat the next wave of COVID-19 pandemic under its “suppress and lift” strategy. Details here.

Post-pandemic regional cooperation Sep 18, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government is actively taking forward the development of the Greater Bay Area, with strategic focuses on consolidating Hong Kong’s status as an international aviation hub and promoting Hong Kong’s high value-added maritime services. Speaking via video-conference at the 2020 Pan-Pearl River Delta Regional Cooperation Chief Executive Joint Conference today, Chief Executive Carrie Lam discussed with other participants the joint promotion of high-quality development of regional co-operation in the post-epidemic era, building a modernized transport network as well as jointly creating an innovative platform for cross-system collaboration. Details here.

Unemployment rate stays at 6.1% Sep 17, 2020 - Hong Kong's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate stood at 6.1% for the June-Aug period, unchanged from the previous three-month period. The underemployment rate rose to 3.8% during the period. Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Dr Law Chi-kwong said the labor market remained austere as the third wave of local epidemic in July and August had continued to disrupt a wide range of economic activities despite the support from the Employment Support Scheme. Looking ahead, Dr Law said the labor market will remain under pressure in the near term. "The Government will continue to monitor the situation closely and roll out measures as necessary," he said. Details here.

July goods exports drop 2.3% Sep 17, 2020 - The volume of Hong Kong's total exports of goods and imports of goods in July fell by 2.3% and 2.2% respectively, year-on-year. Prices of goods exports and imports decreased 0.5% and 0.9% year-on-year for the month. The volume of goods exports increased 1.1% in the three-month period ending July compared with the preceding three months, while the volume of goods imports rose 1.5%. Comparing the first seven months of 2020 with the same period in 2019, the volume of goods exports fell 5.6%, while that of goods imports dropped 7.6%. Details here.

Financial Leaders Forum held Sep 16, 2020 - Members of the Financial Leaders Forum were briefed by Hong Kong Exchanges & Clearing (HKEX) on the latest development of Hong Kong's listing platform and IPO market, including the challenges and opportunities under the current geo-political environment. Members welcomed the initiatives outlined by HKEX to attract more high quality companies to list, primary or secondary, on Hong Kong's stock exchange. During the Forum, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) provided an update on the cross-boundary wealth management connect pilot scheme in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. Members noted that the pilot scheme would bring new business opportunities to Hong Kong's financial industry and provide more wealth management product choices for bay area residents. The HKMA will continue to work closely with relevant authorities to formulate the scheme's implementation details with a view to rolling it out as soon as practicable. Members also agreed that developing the REIT market was essential in enhancing Hong Kong's status as a premier asset and wealth management center. The Hong Kong SAR Government and financial regulators will explore various measures to step up market development and investor education. Details here.

US urged to withdraw Hong Kong goods rule Sep 16, 2020 - Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Mr Edward Yau said he met Acting US Consul General to Hong Kong & Macau Mr Paul Horowitz this morning and asked the US Consul General to Hong Kong to deliver his letter to the US Trade Representative, expressing the Hong Kong SAR Government's position that it strongly objects to the new requirement which was announced by US Customs & Border Protection on Aug 11 and requested that the requirement be immediately withdrawn. The Hong Kong Economic & Trade Offices in Washington, DC, and Geneva also forwarded copies of Mr Yau's letter to the Office of the US Trade Representative and US Customs & Border Protection and to the Permanent Mission of the US to the World Trade Organization (WTO) respectively. Mr Yau said the new US requirement goes contrary to the WTO’s regulations and also infringes on Hong Kong's status as a separate customs territory and the city’s rights under the WTO. Details here.

Social distancing measures further relaxed Sep 15, 2020 - Hong Kong will continue to relax social distancing measures in the city in a gradual and orderly manner. Beginning Sep 18 through Sep 24, dine-in services at catering business premises will be extended to midnight. The number of customers at any such premises must not exceed 50% of the normal seating capacity and no more than four people may be seated together at one table. More premises, including bars and pubs, theme parks, and exhibition centers, can also reopen in reduced capacity. Live performances and dancing are not allowed. Karaoke lounges, mahjong-tin kay playing facilities, and swimming pools can reopen, provided they comply with the applicable restrictions and requirements. Theme parks and exhibition centers can also reopen and must operate at half capacity. The existing mask-wearing requirement in public places and on public transport carriers will continue to take effect. Members of the public are urged to continue to maintain the awareness of epidemic prevention, particularly to stay vigilant and maintain personal and environmental hygiene, in order to prevent the recurrence of epidemic outbreak in the community. Details here.

National Security Law contributes to Hong Kong's progress Sep 15, 2020 - The Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Matthew Cheung, in his capacity as the deputy head of the China delegation, delivered a video message on the situation in Hong Kong and the National Security Law at the 45th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council held in Geneva, Switzerland today. He stressed that the National Security Law is designed to bolster the successful "one country, two systems" principle, which will continue to drive Hong Kong's progress. He explained that the legislation was enacted to address the increasing threat to national security in Hong Kong posed by the escalating violence by rioters during the social unrest last year. "Effective measures must be taken to restore safety and stability," he said, adding that the law seeks to preserve Hong Kong's core values, including rights and freedoms, the rule of law and judicial independence, while fundamental rights and freedoms remain intact under the Basic Law and the relevant provisions of international covenants as applied to Hong Kong. Details here.

Citywide COVID-19 community testing program concludes successfully Sep 14, 2020 - About 1.8 million people registered at community testing centers around the territory during the 14-day Universal Community Testing Program, which concluded successfully today.The Hong Kong SAR Government would continue to extend and conduct repeated testing for target groups or vulnerable groups, and would not relax its anti-epidemic efforts. Although the epidemic situation in Hong Kong has subsided, there are still asymptomatic COVID-19 patients in the community. Members of the public are urged to stay vigilant and comply with the Government's anti-epidemic directives so as to facilitate gradual resumption of our normal daily lives and economic activities. Details here.

Environmental Protection Department wins tech award Sep 14, 2020 - Hong Kong's Environmental Protection Department has been awarded the "Special Achievement in Geographical Information System Award 2020" by the Environmental Systems Research Institute, an international authority in Geographical Information System (GIS) technology. The award recognizes the department's positive application of GIS technology with innovative ideas to provide better services for the public. The department has used GIS technology to develop different applications to strengthen its law enforcement capability and effectiveness in tracking pollution sources. Details here.

“Bruce Lee: Kung Fu · Art · Life” exhibition extended to 2026 Sep 14, 2020 - The “Bruce Lee: Kung Fu · Art · Life” exhibition currently showcased at the Hong Kong Heritage Museum will be revamped and the show period will be extended until 2026. Following mutual consent this year between the Museum and the Bruce Lee Foundation in the US, the exhibition period will be extended to Dec 31 with the revamp taking place subsequently. The revamped exhibition includes a redesign of the gallery, a renewal of exhibits, and the introduction of a multimedia experience and other display items, offering visitors a refreshing and diverse experience. Since its opening in 2013, the exhibition has enjoyed continuous popularity, attracting a total attendance of about 3.7 million. Details here.

Resumption of postal services to US Sep 11, 2020 - Hongkong Post today announced that all postal services, except air parcel service, to the United States will resume from Sep 14 as airlines gradually scale up their air traffic capacity and some postal administrations abroad have resumed acceptance of overseas mail. Notwithstanding this, local postal operations are still under the influence of the pandemic and delays in mail delivery are expected. The service types currently available for overseas destinations can be found on the web page of Hongkong Post www.hongkongpost.hk/en/about_us/whats_new/notices/index_id_982.html[]. Details here.

Free distribution of CuMask+™ to eligible residents Sep 11, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government will distribute, for free, the second adult-sized CuMask+™ to eligible citizens starting Sep 14. Upon completion of the second round of delivery from Hongkong Post, citizens who have not collected the CuMask+™ may collect it at the designated collection points in person or authorize others to do so on their behalf starting early October. The CuMask+™ was developed by the Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel and had undergone testing by an internationally accredited laboratory, which confirms that the mask complies with the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) F2100 Level 1 standard in terms of Particle Filtration Efficiency (PFE), Bacteria Filtration Efficiency (BFE), resistance to penetration by synthetic blood, flammability, and pressure resistance, and is reusable for up to 60 times. Details here.

Hong Kong once again ranked as world's freest economy Sep 10, 2020 -The Hong Kong SAR Government today welcomed that the Fraser Institute's ranking of Hong Kong as the world's freest economy in the Economic Freedom of the World 2020 Annual Report, saying that this is an unambiguous recognition of the city's long-standing and steadfast commitment to building a free economy with a level playing field. Hong Kong has held the top rank since the inception of the report. Among the five areas of assessment, Hong Kong ranked first in "Freedom to Trade Internationally" and "Regulation". Details here.

Government to resume normal public services Sep 10, 2020 - In view of the stabilizing epidemic situation, a Hong Kong SAR Government spokesman announced today that government departments will fully resume normal public services from Sep 15 subject to the implementation of targeted measures to reduce social contact and the application of infection control measures. The Government appeal for the understanding of the members of the public for possible longer wait time for public services and the processing of applications. The public is urged to continue to use alternative means, such as the post, drop-in boxes or online channels, to receive the services they need. When visiting government buildings or offices, members of the public should wear surgical masks at all times and comply with the infection control measures implemented by the relevant departments including temperature checks and crowd control arrangements. Details here.

Secretary shares insights on global trade in webinar Sep 9, 2020 - Noting the unprecedented challenges posed to free and unimpeded trade in the last couple of years aside from the COVID-19 pandemic, Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Edward Yau stressed that trade should not be blamed for the problems of globalization. Free trade instead is the solution as is its impetus to bring back the economic momentum, he said, citing the speed and scale of vaccine developments premised on the global market. Attending a webinar “Global trade in transition? The world after COVID-19”, organized by The Economist Events, to share his insights on global trade after the COVID-19 pandemic, Mr Yau called for the removal of trade barriers and greater collaboration to fight against the pandemic, the common enemy of all. He also said that Hong Kong remains committed to free trade and will continue to strengthen free and open trade alliances with trading partners through the signing of high-standard free trade agreements and active participation in regional trade cooperation. Details here.

Citywide COVID-19 testing to be extended Sep 9, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government has decided to extend the Universal Community Testing Program for three days to Sep 14 after reviewing the data and experiences from the operation of the community testing centers as well as the public's demand for the testing service. Starting from Sep 10, members of public can make online appointments for testing in the new time slots of the three days from Sep 12 to 14. Following the review, the Government has decided to continue the operation of 57 community testing centers across all of the 18 districts to provide the testing service to members of the public from Sep 12 to 14. The remaining centers will cease operation after Sep 11. A total of about 1.4 million people have registered at the centers for testing since the launch of the program on Sep 1. Details here.

Social restrictions further eased Sep 8, 2020 - Social distancing measures in Hong Kong will be further relaxed, beginning Sep 11, said Secretary for Food and Health Prof Sophia Chan at a media briefing this afternoon, pointing out that Hong Kong SAR Government has adopted a phased approach when using the "suppress and lift" strategy in controlling the epidemic. The maximum number of people allowed to be seated together at one table at catering business premises will be increased from two to four, while other requirements and restrictions will remain in effect. More scheduled premises including amusement game centers, places of public entertainment, mahjong-tin kau premises and sports premises will be allowed to reopen. This is in addition to fitness centers, cinemas and beauty parlors which reopened earlier. Group gatherings of more than four people in public places will be prohibited. The existing mask-wearing requirement in public places and on public transport carriers will continue to take effect. Details here.

Travel bubble talks underway Sep 8, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government has approached 11 countries to discuss setting up travel bubbles. Speaking to the media this afternoon, Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Edward Yau said the timetable for establishing travel bubbles and relaxing travel restrictions depends on various factors. "It all depends on how ready and how comfortable both parties are with the situation," he said. “Now, the question on our readiness is a matter of whether we can agree on the protocol." This includes a pre-boarding COVID-19 test, which must be mutually recognized by the respective health authorities and double insurance by ensuring travellers have it upon arrival during port health checks. Further discussions are needed before rolling out any plans, Mr Yau added. The Secretary also expressed hope that social distancing measures adopted in theme parks and exhibition venues could be lifted on Sep 18 if the situation permits. Details here.

Freedoms and civic rights upheld in Hong Kong Sep 8, 2020 - Chief Executive Carrie Lam reiterated that the HKSAR Government upholds the freedoms and rights enjoyed by Hong Kong people under the Basic Law and the relevant provisions in the international covenants as applied to HKSAR. Speaking to the media (Sep 8), Mrs Lam pointed out that whether in the international covenants or the Bill of Rights Ordinance, exercising of some of the rights is not without limits. “For example, in terms of freedom of speech, it could be limited by law under certain situations, for example, in safeguarding national security, ensuring public order, for public health reasons or to protect the rights and reputation of another person, then there will be laws to limit the expressions of such speeches by individuals in Hong Kong. Details here.

Government to join virus vaccine facility Sep 4, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government today announced that it has submitted the expression of interest to participate in the COVID-19 vaccine Global Access (COVAX) Facility as part of Hong Kong’s two-pronged strategy for vaccine procurement. Led by the Vaccine Alliance, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations and the World Health Organization, the facility fosters research and development as well as production of COVID-19 vaccines to ensure fair and equitable distribution of vaccines to places around the world and protect the most vulnerable populations. The facility aims to have the vaccines delivered to the participating countries and economies by end-2021. As the COVAX facility could only serve a proportion of Hong Kong’s population and the vaccines may only be delivered by end-2021, the Government will pursue additional supplies through advance purchase agreements with individual vaccine developers. Details here.

COVID-19 testing program extended Sep 4, 2020 - The Universal Community Testing Program will be extended for four days to Sep 11. Members of the public can make online appointments in the new time slots of the four days (Sep 8 - 11) starting from tomorrow (Sep 5). After reviewing the use of the 141 community testing centers, the Hong Kong SAR Government has decided to cease the operation of 19 community testing centers after Sep 7. The remaining 122 community testing centres across all of the 18 districts will continue to provide the testing service to members of the public in the four days from Sep 8 to 11. Speaking at a media session this morning, Secretary for the Civil Service Patrick Nip said the program’s purpose is to provide a one-off, free COVID-19 test, adding repeated testing is not recommended. Secretary for Food & Health Prof Sophia Chan urged citizens to take the test. “This is very important for us to have this whole picture of whether there are more silent carriers in the community and to cut the COVID-19 transmission chain so that the spread could be stopped," she said. “This is very important for the control and prevention of the entire epidemic, in terms of coming up with measures, and also important for us to prepare for the next wave in the winter.” Details here.

Social-distancing rules further relaxed Sep 2, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government announced the further relaxation of social-distancing rules, effective Sep 4. This includes the extension of evening dine-in services at restaurants by one hour to 10 pm, and the conditional reopening of gyms, sports premises, clubhouses and massage parlors. This is in addition to the cinemas, beauty parlors and designated outdoor sports premises which reopened earlier. Gym-goers are required to wear masks while exercising, with no more than four persons per training class or at each fitness station, machine and equipment. Existing rules limiting restaurants to no more than two per table and mandatory mask-wearing in public places will continue to be implemented. At a media briefing this afternoon, Secretary for Food and Health Prof Sophia Chan said the Government made the decision to ease social distancing rules after careful consideration and stressed that during the process, it will closely monitor the COVID-19 situation. Details here.

COVID-19 test quota to be increased Sep 1, 2020 - On the first launch date of the Universal Community Testing Program, all 141 community testing centers operated smoothly as a whole. After reviewing today's operation and the medical team's throughput, Secretary for the Civil Service Patrick Nip announced at a media session that the booking quota at all centers will be increased starting Sep 3. “We have come to the view that there is room for a further increase in the total capacity, hence we would increase the number of quotas available for booking across the board for all centers," he said. To date, over 674,000 people have made successful online appointments since the online booking system commenced operation on Aug 29. A total of about 126,000 people attended and registered at the centers for specimen-taking on the first day of the program. Details here.

July retail sales fall 23.1% Sep 1, 2020 - The value of total retail sales in July, provisionally estimated at US$3.3 billion (HK$26.5 billion), fell 23.1% year-on-year. The Hong Kong SAR Government said the year-on-year decline in retail sales remained notable in July despite a lower base comparison, as the surge in local COVID-19 cases and the subsequently tightened social distancing measures further disrupted consumption activities. While the recent stabilization in the local epidemic situation may help improve consumption sentiment, the business environment of the retail trade will continue to be very difficult in the near term as inbound tourism remains at a standstill. Details here.

Over half a million people registered for testing program Aug 31, 2020 - As at 6pm today (Hong Kong time), about 553,000 people have successfully registered, through an online booking system, for the Universal Community Testing Program, to be launched on Sep 1. The Hong Kong SAR Government will closely monitor the booking situation and the operation of the programme to consider whether to extend the program for not more than seven days. The testing program aims to identify asymptomatic COVID-19 patients, and to cut the transmission chain on the community. Details here.

Resumption of Hong Kong – US speed post service Aug 31, 2020 - Hongkong Post announced the resumption of various postal services, including speedpost, e-Express and surface mail postal services, from Hong Kong to the US starting Sep 1 as airlines have gradually scaled up their air traffic capacity and some postal administrations abroad have resumed acceptance of overseas mail. Notwithstanding this, local postal operations are still under the influence of the pandemic and delays in mail delivery are expected. Details here.

Schools to resume classes in phases Aug 31, 2020 - Hong Kong schools will resume face-to-face lessons on a half-day basis in two phases beginning Sep 23. Secretary for Education Mr Kevin Yeung said the Hong Kong SAR Government has taken into account a variety of factors in making the arrangements. “The Education Bureau has been monitoring the development of the epidemic, seeking health experts' advice, and maintaining close liaison with the school sector. The epidemic has recently shown signs of subsiding, and now we have the basis to allow schools time to prepare for the resumption of face-to-face classes in the second half of September,” he said. Mr Yeung reminded everyone stay vigilant, and schools must continue to observe all health precautionary measures. Details here.

Special tribute screening of Benny Chan’s “Call of Heroes” Aug 31, 2020 - Paying tribute to acclaimed Hong Kong producer/director Benny Chan, who passed away on Aug 23, New York Asian Film Festival (NYAFF) will feature Chan’s magnum opus “Call of Heroes” as part of a special screening. This epic period piece boasts a who’s who of Hong Kong action cinema, with choreography by Sammo Hung and stars Sean Lau, Louis Koo, Eddie Peng and Wu Jing. Previous editions of NYAFF have featured some of Chan’s blockbusters including: “Big Bullet”, “Shaolin” and “The White Storm”. Details here.

Over 140 centers set for universal testing Aug 28, 2020 - To cut the transmission chain of COVID-19 in local community, 141 community testing centers have been set up in all districts across the territory to provide a one-off free testing service for the public starting Sept 1. "The Universal Community Testing Program aims at identifying as early as possible asymptomatic COVID-19 patients in the community and achieving the target of early identification, early isolation and early treatment,” said a Hong Kong SAR Government spokesman. Members of the public can make online appointments at a dedicated website starting from August 29. Details here.

HK-ASEAN video conference held Aug 28, 2020 - Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Edward Yau today chaired the 4th Association of Southeast Asian Nations Economic Ministers - Hong Kong, China Consultations via video conference to exchange views with economic ministers from the 10 ASEAN member states on a response to the pandemic’s economic impact as well as possible areas for cooperation and collaboration. During the meeting, Mr Yau called for greater regional cooperation and collaborations in mitigating the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact and supporting post-pandemic recovery efforts. He also stressed the importance of keeping boundaries open and refraining from unjustified trade barriers or irrationality in trade policies. Details here.

Anti-epidemic measures relaxed Aug 25, 2020 - Pending drastic changes to the local epidemic situation, Hong Kong will relax several social distancing measures on Aug 28, with the resumption of evening restaurant dining until 9pm, the reopening of cinemas, beauty parlors and some sports venues. The mask requirement for outdoor exercise and in country parks would also be rescinded. Speaking at a media briefing, Secretary for Food & Health Prof Sophia Chan said the epidemic situation has still not completely stabilized. “However, under the new normal, it is almost not possible for us to wait until there are no more local cases before relaxing the social distancing measures." Prof Chan reminded the public not to let their guard down during the fight against COVID-19 and maintain good personal and environmental hygiene. She also encouraged members of the public to participate in the citywide screening program, that will help identify silent carriers and curb the spread of COVID-19. Details here.

Active participation in testing urged Aug 25, 2020 - Chief Executive Mrs Carrie Lam urged the public to participate in the Universal Community Testing Programme, as part of the effort to combat and curb the spread of COVID-19 in the city. Speaking ahead of the Executive Council meeting this morning, Mrs Lam said, “The purpose of launching the Universal Community Testing Programme is to identify as early as possible any silent transmitters in society so that we will feel safer to consider the next stage of social distancing measures with a view that Hong Kong’s economy and people’s livelihood could resume normal as soon as possible.” The program, which starts on Sep 1, will run for seven days. Subject to the actual progress, it may be extended for no more than seven days. Those who plan to take part in the testing program can make online appointments. Details here.

HKMA to chair EMEAP Working Group on Financial Markets Aug 24, 2020 - The Hong Kong Monetary Authority was re-appointed as the chair of the Working Group on Financial Markets of the Executives’s Meeting of East Asia-Pacific Central Banks (EMEAP) for a two-year term from 2020 to 2022. The re-appointment was endorsed by EMEAP Governors at the 25th EMEAP Governors' Meeting, held virtually on Aug 19. As the Chair of the working group during 2018 and 2020, the HKMA facilitated a study on the implications of financial benchmark reforms with a view to enhancing market readiness for removing the remaining dependencies on London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) by the end of 2021 and other associated reforms, and completed a study of US dollar liquidity and funding dynamics in the EMEAP region. In the new term from 2020 to 2022, the HKMA will continue to foster discussions and studies on issues concerning financial markets in the region, such as policies in safeguarding financial stability against the pandemic shock, development in capital markets, and sustainable finance. Details here.

Universal COVID-19 Community Testing Program to launch on Sep 1 Aug 21, 2020 - The Universal Community Testing Programme will launch on Sep 1 to provide a one-off free testing service for members of the public. The program aims to identify as early as possible asymptomatic COVID-19 patients in the community and achieve the target of early identification, isolation and treatment to cut the community transmission chain. It is scheduled to run for up to 14 days. Except for children under 6 and people not suitable for the test, all holders of valid Hong Kong identity cards or birth certificates, who are asymptomatic can participate in the program on a voluntary basis. Members of the public can make an appointment online. More details will be announced in due course. Details here.

Cyber security partnership set Aug 21, 2020 - The collaborative platform Partnership Programme for Cyber Security Information Sharing will be formalized from Sep 1 onward to enhance the Hong Kong's overall defensive capability and resilience against cyber attacks. The Office of the Government Chief Information Officer (OGCIO) will partner with the Hong Kong Internet Registration Corporation Limited (HKIRC) to administer the collaborative platform Cybersechub.hk and encourage more public and private organizations to take part in the cross-sector sharing of cyber security information. A two-year pilot program was launched by OGCIO in 2018 and at present it has 259 organization members with over 850 registered representatives, covering a wide range of sectors including finance and insurance, public utilities, transport, healthcare, telecommunications, innovation and technology, information security and tertiary education institutions. Details here.

HKSAR Government strongly reprimands US' unilateral decision Aug 20, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government today strongly reprimands the US administration's unilateral decision to suspend or terminate three bilateral agreements with Hong Kong, stressing that these agreements are not US' preferential treatment for the city. "They are bilateral agreements negotiated in good faith to benefit the peoples and businesses of both sides in areas of law and order, shipping and tax treatment. The US' unilateral decision reflects its disrespect for bilateralism and multilateralism under the current administration and should be condemned by the international community," a spokesman for the HKSAR Government said. Details here.

Public services to resume in a safe and orderly manner Aug 20, 2020 - Taking into account the need to fight the virus for the whole community, the Hong Kong SAR Government has implemented special work arrangements for government employees in the past month. As only emergency and essential public services were provided, the provision of many public services has been reduced to various extents. In view of the latest development of the epidemic situation, a government spokesman said that government departments will gradually resume the provision of basic public services from Aug 24 to meet the needs of the public and enterprises. The ultimate goal is to resume full public services when conditions permit. Details here.

July sees 2.3% deflation Aug 20, 2020 - Overall consumer prices in July fell 2.3% year-on-year, after a 0.7% rise in June. The drop was mainly due to the Hong Kong SAR Government's public housing rental payment and Housing Society's rent waiver for estate tenants. Netting out the effects of the Government's one-off relief measures, the year-on-year increase in July's underlying inflation rate was 0.2%, smaller than the 1.2% growth in June. The smaller increase was mainly due to a drop in the costs for meals bought away from home and enlarged decreases in local transport fares. Details here.

First video conference session of EMEAP held Aug 19, 2020 - In its first session via video conference of the 25th Executives' Meeting of East Asia-Pacific Central Banks (EMEAP) today, Governors of EMEAP member central banks exchanged views on recent developments in the regional economy and financial systems amidst the COVID-19 pandemic and reviewed the work of EMEAP in the past year. Member central banks noted that the various policy responses by central banks in the region and globally have helped alleviate the economic fallout and financial market stresses stemming from the pandemic. Proactive communication between central banks and the various stakeholders, including public and industry players, have also helped ensure smooth implementation of these policy responses. The Meeting also exchanged views on how policy responses could be calibrated going forward, amid the high uncertainties surrounding the pandemic development and global economy and taking into account the sustainability of such policies. The meeting was hosted by the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, Mr Eddie Yue, as this year's Chair of EMEAP Governors' Meeting. Details here.

Unemployment rate drops to 6.1% Aug 19, 2020 - The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased from 6.2% in April - June 2020 to 6.1% in May - July 2020. The underemployment rate also decreased from 3.7% to 3.5% during the same period. Decreases in the unemployment rate (not seasonally adjusted) were mainly seen in the information and communication sector; professional and business services (excluding cleaning and similar activities) sector; and education sector. A decrease in the underemployment rate was mainly seen in the retail, accommodation and food services sector. Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Dr Law Chi-kwong, said the labor market will remain under significant pressure in the near term. "The recent surges in infected cases both worldwide and locally have further clouded Hong Kong's economic outlook for the rest of the year. To preserve the vitality of the economy, the Government has rolled out relief measures of unprecedented scale, including a series of measures on job retention and job creation, which help keep workers in employment. The Government will continue to monitor the situation closely," he said. Details here.

Government to raise US sanctions with WTO Aug 18, 2020 - Chief Executive Carrie Lam said that the Hong Kong SAR Government will address sanctions imposed by the US with the World Trade Organization. Speaking to reporters ahead of the Executive Council meeting this morning, Mrs Lam said the sanctions, especially those involving trade, are totally unjustified. “Hong Kong is a separate member of the World Trade Organization. To be mistreated by another member of the World Trade Organization breaches the rules and regulations of this international body. So we will take up with the World Trade Organization against those sanctions,” she said. The Chief executive said that even without a physical visit by the leader of the Government, overseas promotion work can still be done in the US. "We still have three economic and trade offices in America and we have our InvestHK arms which will be very happy to introduce Hong Kong’s strengths, especially in the Greater Bay Area, in the financial services to US companies interested in setting up their business in Hong Kong, and we can also work through the chambers.” Details here.

Social distancing measures further extended Aug 17, 2020 - Existing social distancing measures in Hong Kong will be extended for seven days to Aug 25 as the COVID-19 situation remains severe. The measures include the cessation of dine-in services at catering businesses from 6pm to 4.59am of the next day, the closure of scheduled premises, and the requirement of wearing a mask at all times in public places. Although there has been a decline in the number of daily new cases from its peak in late July, it remains at a high level with the seven-day average still higher than the peak of the second wave in March and April. The latest wave is characterized by community infections with a widespread distribution geographically and across sectors. Details here.

Economy shrinks 9% in second quarter Aug 14, 2020 - With the COVID-19 pandemic continuing to deal heavy blows to global and local economic activities, the Hong Kong economy remained very weak in the second quarter of 2020. Real GDP fell by 9% year-on-year in the second quarter, following the record 9.1% decline in the preceding quarter. However, the economy showed signs of stabilization along with the abated local epidemic situation in the latter half of the quarter. The rebound of the Mainland economy also helped offset part of the downward pressures on exports of goods. On a seasonally adjusted quarter-to-quarter comparison, real GDP fell marginally by 0.1% in the second quarter, having plunged by a record 5.5% in the preceding quarter. Taking into consideration the difficult and uncertain economic environment in the second half, but also the cushioning effects of the Hong Kong SAR Government's massive relief measures, the real GDP growth forecast for 2020 as a whole is revised downwards to -6% to -8% in the current round of review. Details here.

US rule on Hong Kong products unacceptable Aug 13, 2020 - The US' new rule on origin marking, which requires Hong Kong-made products exported to the country to be labelled as made in China, is unacceptable and an attempt to undermine the city’s separate customs status. Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Edward Yau made the statement after meeting major local trade chambers today. “The US’ recent attempt to impose an origin marking requirement on Hong Kong products is basically asking Hong Kong traders to tell a lie that products made in Hong Kong would be misdescribed as made in China. So by common sense, by international practices of origin rules and by World Trade Organization (WTO) requirements, all this is exception and unacceptable," he said. "I think it’s a deliberate attempt to undermine Hong Kong’s separate customs territory, which is a very important pillar, as Hong Kong is an international trading center, which is well recognized by all members of the WTO. I hope the US would not be the exception because they are also a fellow member, together with Hong Kong, in the WTO.” Mr Yau said the Hong Kong SAR Government will protect Hong Kong's interests. Details here.

Special work arrangement for government employees to be extended Aug 13, 2020 - In view of the local epidemic situation and the need to reduce people flow and social contacts, the special work arrangement for government employees will be extended for one week until August 23. Save for those involved in the provision of emergency services and essential public services, all other government employees will continue to work from home. "The special work arrangement has been implemented for almost a month. Taking into account the need to fight the virus for the whole community, the provision of many public services has been reduced to a various extent, or the waiting time for public services has been lengthened, or a longer time has been taken to complete the processing of the applications, which have affected and caused inconvenience to the public. We appeal for their understanding," said the Hong Kong SAR Government spokesman. Details here.

COVID-19 testing to be done in Hong Kong Aug 13, 2020 - The Universal Community Testing Programme (the Program) would only do testing on the COVID-19 virus. All testing will be conducted in Hong Kong. Specimens will not be transported outside Hong Kong and will be destroyed after testing. Under the Program, specimens and the registration of personal particulars will be handled separately. Privacy will not be compromised. The Hong Kong SAR Government made the statement in response to online rumors suggesting specimens will be transferred out of the city. The Program is designed in response to public demand for universal testing over the last few months. By engaging Hong Kong citizens to join this one-time and free testing service on a voluntary basis, it is hoped that asymptomatic patients in the community can be located for early treatment and the pandemic will subside. Details here.

June goods exports drop 0.6% Aug 13, 2020 - The volume of Hong Kong's total goods exports decreased by 0.6% year-on-year in June while the volume of goods imports fell 6.3% compared to the same period last year. Prices of total goods exports and imports both decreased 0.8%. Compared with the first half of the year over the same period in 2019, the volume of goods exports decreased 6.2%, while that of goods imports fell 8.5%. In the first half of the year, the prices of goods exports and imports decreased 0.8% and 0.7% year-on-year. Details here.

Sixth-term LegCo to continue to discharge duties Aug 11, 2020 - The sixth term LegCo of the Hong Kong SAR will continue to discharge its duties for no less than one year until the commencement of the seventh-term LegCo. The decision by the Standing Committee of the National People's Committee also stated clearly the seventh-term LegCo of the Hong Kong SAR will have a term of four years after it has been formed in accordance with the law. The Hong Kong SAR Government announced on July 31 the postponement of the 2020 Legislative Council election, originally scheduled for Sep 6, for a year, due to the severe COVID-19 epidemic situation, public safety and public health as well as to ensure the election can be conducted openly and fairly. Details here.

US-bound Hong Kong goods rule opposed Aug 11, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government strongly objects to the notice published today on the US Federal Register by the Customs and Border Protection in relation to origin marking of Hong Kong products. "The new rule on origin marking of Hong Kong products originates from the US President's Executive Order issued on July 14 and reflects that the US ignores Hong Kong's status as a separate member of the World Trade Organization (WTO). The rule may not be consistent with WTO rules, and it will also not help protect consumers' interest. In fact, it will only cause confusion and affect the interests of all parties, including the US," said the Government spokesman. "The special status as a separate customs territory enjoyed by the HKSAR under 'One Country, Two Systems' is conferred by the Constitution of the PRC and the Basic Law. It is recognized by multilateral organizations such as the WTO, and is not granted or revocable by an individual country." Details here.

Social distancing measures extended Aug 10, 2020 - In view of the severe COVID-19 situation, with a high risk of a large-scale community outbreak, Hong Kong is extending existing social distancing measures until Aug 18. Restaurants, except those granted exemptions, must cease providing dine-in service from 6pm to 4:59am of the subsequent day. They may offer takeaway services and deliveries during this period. The number of customers at catering premises at any one time must not exceed 50% of the normal seating capacity. Each table can accommodate no more than two customers and tables must be arranged with a distance of at least 1.5 meters or with partitions. Bars, pubs and scheduled premises should also remain closed. Group gatherings of more than two people are prohibited and mandatory mask-wearing in public places will continue to take effect. The public is urged to stay at home as much as possible, go out less often unless necessary, and avoid dining out and unnecessary social activities. Details here.

Program to boost fintech development Aug 10, 2020 - Invest Hong Kong unveiled the Global Fast Track Programme to help local and global fintech enterprises leverage Hong Kong's proven resilience and fintech opportunities to scale business and accelerate innovation. The program, part of Asia's flagship Hong Kong Fintech Week (Nov 2-6), plugs fintech enterprises directly into the city's diverse ecosystem of world-class regulators, business leaders, corporates and investors. Companies from nine key fintech verticals (trade finance, capital markets, retail banking, commercial banking, insurance, regtech, wealthtech, payments and enterprise resource planning) are invited to submit applications from now till Aug 31. About 10 companies per vertical with the most outstanding ideas will showcase their solutions for an opportunity to join an extensive tailored B2B matchmaking program with the Corporate Champions and investors to explore further deals and investment partnerships. Over 10 selected finalists will then pitch virtually at the FintechHK Global Final for extra prizes at this year's Fintech Week. Details here.

Universal COVID-19 testing set Aug 7, 2020 - Hong Kong will introduce a universal and voluntary COVID-19 testing program that is available free-of-charge to all Hong Kong citizens. The program, scheduled to be launched in two weeks' time, aims to identify infected persons early, particularly those who are asymptomatic. The personal information provided by members of the public who voluntarily participate in testing will be encrypted and stored in the servers of the Government's data centres. They will not be transferred beyond the boundary of Hong Kong. The testing services providers will only have access to the barcode of the specimen bottle for reporting the test result to the Hong Kong SAR Government. They will not have access to the personal data of individual members of the public. The collection and use of any personal data for the purpose of above-mentioned testing shall comply with the provisions of the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance (Cap. 486). Details here.

28 million masks distributed to the public Aug 7, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government has distributed about 28 million disposable adult masks to about 2.8 million residential addresses in Hong Kong in the past month, with each household receiving 10 masks. The masks distributed are the first batch procured by the Government under the Local Mask Production Subsidy Scheme, reflecting the Government's aim to share these masks with the public as part of city's collective fight against the virus. Details here.

Foreign currency reserves at US$450 billion Aug 7, 2020 - Hong Kong's official foreign currency reserve assets amounted to US$450 billion as at the end of July 2020, compared with US$445.9 billion at end-June 2020. Including unsettled foreign exchange contracts, the foreign currency reserve assets of Hong Kong at the end of July 2020 amounted to US$449.9 billion, compared with US$444.8 billion at end-June 2020. The total foreign currency reserve assets of US$450.0 billion represent over six times the currency in circulation or about 46 per cent of Hong Kong dollar M3. Details here.

Decision to delay poll explained Aug 3, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government said its decision to postpone the 2020 Legislative Council General Election on public health grounds is reasonable, legal and in the public interest, stressing that the health and well-being of all Hong Kong people is its overriding concern. “We are at a critical juncture in our current battle against COVID-19. If not handled resolutely, the current wave of infections could spiral out of control to overwhelm our public hospital system,” said a government spokesman. With the stringent social distancing measures in place, no meaningful electioneering activities could be conducted. Moreover, the strict boundary control measures make it virtually impossible for voters from the Mainland and overseas to return to cast their vote. “The decision to postpone the election is therefore to protect public health and to protect the voting rights of all registered voters,” the spokesman added. Details here.

Social distancing measures extended Aug 3, 2020 - Hong Kong’s existing social distancing measures, including the ban on gatherings of more than two people and mandatory mask-wearing in public places, will be extended until Aug 11. The Hong Kong SAR Government said it is necessary to extend relevant social distancing measures in view of the severe epidemic situation. Restaurants must cease to provide dine-in services from 6pm to 4.59am of the subsequent day. They may offer takeaway services and deliveries during the period. The number of customers at any catering premises at any one time must not exceed 50% of the normal seating capacity. Bars and pubs, and 13 types of scheduled premises should also remain closed. Details here.

Youde scholarships open Aug 3, 2020 - Applications for overseas fellowships and scholarships by the Sir Edward Youde Memorial Fund Council for the 2021-22 academic year are open until Sep 18. The fellowships and scholarships encourage outstanding students to pursue further education in reputable institutions overseas. Candidates should have a strong sense of commitment to Hong Kong and be ready to contribute significantly to the community upon graduation. The fellowships are for studies leading to postgraduate degrees either by research or by coursework. The maximum value of a fellowship is US$38,461 per year, tenable for up to three years for a doctoral degree or two years for a master’s degree. The scholarships are for studies leading to undergraduate degrees with a maximum value of US$35,897 per year, tenable for up to three years. Details here.

Support team welcomed Aug 2, 2020 - Seven members of the Mainland nucleic acid test support team arrived in the city today to support the Hong Kong SAR Government’s anti-epidemic work in the face of the severe COVID-19 epidemic. The seven-member team will assist with the preparation for a temporary laboratory with a view to raising the virus testing capability considerably to meet the Government’s need to extend its community testing coverage. Details here.

LegCo General Election postponed for a year Jul 31, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government announced today that, amid the severe COVID-19 epidemic situation, the 2020 Legislative Council (LegCo) General Election, originally scheduled for September 6, will be postponed for a year to September 5, 2021, in order to protect public safety and public health as well as ensure elections are conducted openly and fairly. Speaking at press conference, Chief Executive Carrie Lam said the decision to postpone the 2020 Legislative Council election has nothing to do with politics and was made on the basis of protecting the health of Hong Kong people. Details here.

Financial results for three months ended June 30 Jul 31, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government announced today its financial results for the three months ended June 30, 2020. Expenditure for the period April to June 2020 amounted to HK$176.8 billion (US$22.6 billion) and revenue HK$67.8 billion (US$8.6 billion), resulting in a cumulative year-to-date deficit of HK$109 billion (US$13.9 billion). The fiscal reserves stood at HK$1,051.3 billion (US$134.7 billion) as at June 30. Details here.

Exchange Fund at US$537.8 billion Jul 31, 2020 - Total assets of Hong Kong's Exchange Fund amounted to HK$4,195.3 billion (US$537.8 billion) as at June 30. This is HK$113.4 billion (US$14.5 billion) higher than that at the end of May 2020. Hong Kong dollar assets increased by HK$87.2 billion (US$11.1 billion) and foreign currency assets increased by HK$26.2 billion (US$3.3 billion). Backing assets increased by 2% to HK$1,953.1 billion (US$250.3 billion). Details here.

Support for Hong Kong Community The Hong Kong SAR Government has unveiled a series of economic relief measures to support individuals and businesses in Hong Kong affected by the COVID-19 outbreak. Details of the various measures to preserve the vitality of the economy, retain jobs and relieve people's financial burdens can be found here.

Daytime dine-in services allowed Jul 30, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government has decided to allow the resumption of daytime dine-in services from 5am to 5.59pm with effect from Jul 31, having noted the inconvenience and difficulties the previous arrangement caused the public not working from home. In the latest dine-in arrangements, the number of customers at any catering premises must not exceed 50% of the normal seating capacity of the premises and no more than two people can sit together at one table. Tables available for use or being used by customers must be arranged with a distance of at least 1.5 metres or a partition. Other requirements and restrictions in relation to catering business premises will remain in effect, including wearing a mask at all times except when consuming food or drinks, conducting body temperature screening for people entering the premises and providing hand sanitizers. The Government reiterated that implementation of the temporary cessation of dine-in services was intended to curb the continued spread of the disease in the community by further minimizing eating in groups and social contact in view of the severe epidemic situation. Details here.

Government backs returning officers Jul 30, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government today said it agrees with and supports the decisions of Returning Officers to invalidate 12 nominees for this year's Legislative Council General Election. In a statement, the Government noted that Returning Officers clearly state that, in determining the validity of nominations, the core question is whether the nominee has complied with the declaration requirement under section 40(1)(b)(i) of the Legislative Council Ordinance to uphold the Basic Law and pledge allegiance to the Hong Kong SAR. The Returning Officers’ decisions aim to ensure that the election is held in strict accordance with the Basic Law and other applicable laws in an open, honest and fair manner. There is no question of any political censorship, restriction of the freedom of speech or deprivation of the right to stand for elections as alleged by some members of the community, said the statement. Details here.

Government extends work arrangement Jul 30, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government today announced that aside from those providing emergency services and essential public services, all other government employees should continue to work from home until August 9. As the local epidemic situation remains severe, it is necessary to continue to take measures to significantly reduce people flow and social contact to stop COVID-19 from further spreading in the community. Government departments will continue to provide emergency and essential public services. The Government also strongly appealed to employers of private organizations to allow their staff to work from home as far as possible. Details here.

Advanced estimates of second quarter GDP Jul 29, 2020 - According to estimates, Hong Kong's GDP decreased by 9% in real terms in the second quarter of 2020 from a year earlier, compared with the decrease of 9.1% in the first quarter of 2020. The decline of GDP was mainly attributable to the continued weak performance in both domestic and external demand. A Hong Kong SAR Government spokesman said that Hong Kong's overall economic conditions remained very weak in the second quarter of 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic continued to severely hit global and local economic activities. Looking ahead, the COVID-19 pandemic will remain a key threat to the global economic outlook. The evolving China-US relations and heightened geopolitical tensions also add to uncertainties. The finalized GDP figures for the second quarter of 2020, along with the revised GDP forecast for 2020 will be released on August 14. Details here.

Stand united to fight COVID-19 Jul 28, 2020 - With Hong Kong facing a new wave of COVID-19 infections, the Hong Kong SAR Government has put in place the most stringent measures ever in enforcing social distancing. Frontline staff are battling the surge. The Government is seeking to enhance testing capability and set up a community treatment facility. Chief Executive Carrie Lam appealed to the public to cooperate and strictly adhere to social distancing measures and stay at home as far as possible. "If we stand united and work together, we can suppress this epidemic again," she said. Details here.

Tightened testing and quarantine arrangement for sea and air crew in effect Jul 28, 2020 - The tightened testing and quarantine arrangement for sea crew and air crew members entering Hong Kong, announced earlier (Jul 26), has come into effect to strengthen the prevention of imported cases under the current severe epidemic situation. With effect from 0:00 am on July 29 (Hong Kong time), crew change arrangement for all passenger vessels and goods vessels without cargo operation will be suspended. All air crew and incoming sea crew members of goods vessels coming to Hong Kong for cargo operation arriving at the Hong Kong International Airport must obtain a negative result of nucleic acid test for COVID-19 conducted at a recognized laboratory within 48 hours prior to boarding. They must also submit a deep throat saliva specimen at the Temporary Specimen Collection Centre (TSCC) of the Department of Health upon arrival to Hong Kong for testing purpose. All incoming sea crew members and those air crew members who do not possess negative test results must wait at the TSCC or other designated location until their test results are confirmed negative. Incoming and outgoing sea crew members must only travel between the vessels and HKIA and should not go into the community. As for air crew members, they must self-isolate at their hotel rooms or at home in accordance with the requirements. Details here.

Hong Kong suspends legal pact Jul 28, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government today issued notices to the Canadian, Australian and UK consulates to suspend the agreements on mutual legal assistance in criminal matters with these countries. In a statement, the Hong Kong SAR Government said it is an international practice to safeguard national security through the enactment of laws. However, these countries have unilaterally suspended the agreements on surrender of fugitive offenders with the Hong Kong SAR using the enactment of the National Security Law in Hong Kong as an excuse. The Hong Kong SAR Government will, as always, uphold the principle of mutual assistance and reciprocity, and carry out law enforcement co-operation with other members of the international community in accordance with the law. Details here.

Social distancing measures further tightened Jul 27, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government is further tightening social distancing measures, starting Jul 29 through Aug 24. People must wear a mask at all times in a public place, with group gatherings restricted to two unless exempted. Restaurants, except those granted exemptions, must cease to provide dine-in services at all times and can only offer takeaway services and deliveries. All karaoke and mahjong-tin kau activities carried on at any catering premises must also be suspended. Details here.

June's exports down 1.3% Jul 27, 2020 - Hong Kong's total exports of goods in June dipped 1.3% to HK$305.6 billion (HK$39.1 billion) while the total imports of goods fell and 7.1% to HK$338.9 billion (US$43.4 billion). A visible trade deficit of HK$33.3 billion (US$4.2 billion), equivalent to 9.8% of the value of imports of goods, was recorded in the same month. The value of total exports to the US dropped 21.4% while the value of imports from the US decreased by 32.8%. Details here.

SCED takes part in APEC virtual meeting Jul 25, 2020 - The Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Edward Yau, participated in the first-ever Virtual Ministers Responsible for Trade Meeting of Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) 2020 today. He called on all APEC economies to act in unity and in a manner consistent with the World Trade Organization (WTO) rights and obligations, and to refrain from raising unjustified trade barriers. He also spoke on Hong Kong's strategy in combating the COVID-19 epidemic. Mr Yau stressed that Hong Kong, as a founding member of the WTO and a separate customs territory, remains committed to maintaining a free market policy and supporting progressive trade liberalization. Any unwarranted restrictive and protectionist measures at this critical juncture will only make the pandemic more lethal and detrimental to the region's long-term recovery, he said. Details here.

Exchange Fund records US$1.3 billion loss Jul 24, 2020 - Hong Kong's Exchange Fund recorded an investment loss of HK$10.6 billion (US$1.3 billion) in the first half of the year. The fund's investment income of HK$101.4 billion (US$13 billion) in the second quarter largely offset the investment loss of HK$112 billion (US$14.3 billion) in the first quarter. The fund's total assets fell HK$11.4 billion (US$1.4 billion) to HK$4.1953 trillion (US$537.8 billion). Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority Mr Eddie Yue said the COVID-19 outbreak caused wild swings in financial markets in the first half of the year. He noted that traditional asset classes, including equities and bonds, which account for the bulk of the Exchange Fund's assets, managed to recoup the investment loss made in the first quarter. Looking ahead, Mr Yue said the investment environment in the second half of the year remains challenging. Details here.

Mandatory 14-day quarantine for arriving US travelers July 22, 2020 - Starting Jul 29, travelers from the US arriving in Hong Kong will be required to present health certificates before boarding their flights showing that they are free of COVID-19. They would also be required to present proof that they have booked a hotel for at least two weeks and will be quarantined at the hotels upon arrival. The US, along with Kazakhstan, was added to a list of "high-risk" nations where the pandemic was especially severe. This is part of the city's enhanced anti-epidemic efforts that also include mandating people wear masks on public transport and all indoor public places. The extended measures will come into effect on Jul 23 for 14 days until Aug 5. Details here.

Film director Ann Hui to receive lifetime achievement award from Venice Film Festival July 21, 2020 - Renowned Hong Kong director Ann Hui will receive the lifetime achievement award at this year's Venice Film Festival. She is the first Chinese female film director to be bestowed the honor. Congratulating Ms Hui, Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Edward Yau, said, "Ann Hui is a pioneer of Hong Kong and Asian cinemas of our time. The award is in recognition of her exceptional contribution to the film industry. We take pride in her achievement in successfully showcasing to international audiences the top-notch, exquisite and sensational Hong Kong film productions through her unique film language and visual style." Details here.

June inflation up 0.7% July 21, 2020 - Overall consumer prices in June rose 0.7% year-on-year, less than the corresponding increase of 1.5% in May. Netting out the effects of the Government's one-off relief measures, the year-on-year increase in June's underlying inflation rate was 1.2%, smaller than the 1.9% increase in May. This was mainly due to the substantial moderation of the year-on-year increase in pork prices when compared with May. Year-on-year price increases were recorded in June for food (excluding meals bought away from home), miscellaneous goods, meals bought away from home, housing, miscellaneous services as well as alcoholic drinks and tobacco. Year-on-year decreases were recorded for electricity, gas and water, clothing and footwear as well as durable goods. Details here.

Total exports of goods fell in May July 16, 2020 - The volume of Hong Kong's total exports of goods and imports of goods decreased by 6.7% and 11.0%, respectively, year-on-year. Prices of total exports of goods and imports of goods both fell 0.8% and 0.9%. Double-digit decline was recorded for the total export volume to the US (-11.8%) during the same comparison period. The total export prices to the USA also fell (-2.3%). Details here.

HKSARG firmly opposes HK Autonomy Act becoming US law July 15, 2020 - The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government issued a statement today, expressing its strong opposition to the US signing into law the "Hong Kong Autonomy Act" (the Act) passed by the US Congress. A government spokesman said the US move is in violation of international law, and will definitely harm the relations and common interests between Hong Kong and the US, causing tremendous damage to the companies and people of the US. The spokesman added that the special status as a separate customs territory enjoyed by the HKSAR are recognized by multilateral organizations such as the World Trade Organization (WTO), but not granted or revocable by an individual country. "The HKSAR Government will carefully consider if US's measures contravene WTO rules, and does not rule out the possibility of taking action under WTO rules to protect Hong Kong's interests.” Details here.

Tax concessions bill passed July 15, 2020 - Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Mr Christopher Hui welcomed the passage of the Inland Revenue (Amendment) (Profits Tax Concessions for Insurance-related Businesses) Bill 2019 by the Legislative Council today. The ordinance seeks to amend the Inland Revenue Ordinance to reduce the profits tax rate by 50%, bringing it to 8.25%, for all general reinsurance businesses and selected general insurance businesses of direct insurers, as well as selected insurance brokerage businesses. Mr Hui said it would promote the development of Hong Kong’s marine and specialty risk insurance businesses and enhance the development of high value-added maritime services. The ordinance would also assist the insurance industry in seizing new opportunities, including those arising from the Belt & Road Initiative. Details here.

Payment disbursed for 4.5 million July 14, 2020 - Over 4.5 million people, who registered electronically, have received their HK$10,000 (US$1,282) disbursement via their respective bank accounts, from the Hong Kong SAR Government, under the Cash Payout Scheme. Eligible registrants who registered by filling in paper forms will begin to receive the payment or notifications for cheque collection starting from July 15, five days earlier than the original scheduled date of July 20. People who have submitted paper forms to banks will receive the payment via their specified personal bank accounts. Those who have submitted registration forms to Hongkong Post will receive notifications for cheque collection from Hongkong Post via SMS or letters. They may collect the order cheques in person from the post offices during the period set out in the notifications. Details here.

Convention and Exhibition Industry Subsidy Scheme postponed July 14, 2020 - In light of the postponement of various convention and exhibition (C&E) activities originally scheduled for mid- and late July and August in Hong Kong, the Hong Kong SAR Government announced today that the launch of the Convention and Exhibition Industry Subsidy Scheme under the Anti-epidemic Fund will be postponed. The Government will closely monitor the latest situation and announce the new launch date in due course, with a view to starting the 12-month scheme at an opportune time for holding major C&E events so as to benefit more enterprises and help them explore markets and opportunities. Details here.

Social distancing measures tightened July 14, 2020 - Hong Kong tightened social-distancing rules, in view of the recent rise in the number of local COVID-19 cases. These include mandatory mask-wearing on public transport, banning dine-in service in restaurants from 6pm until 5am, with only four people allowed per table in restaurants and the closure of premises such as bars, karaoke lounges and gyms, along with Ocean Park and Hong Kong Disneyland. The number of persons allowed in any public gathering in public places will also be reduced from 50 to 4. The new rules will take effect on July 15. Speaking at a press conference (Jul 13), Chief Executive Mrs Carrie Lam also said that the government will continue to help the businesses under the Employment Support Scheme and the Anti-epidemic Fund. Details here.

Energizing the film industry July 13, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government has earmarked around HK$260 million (US$33.3 million) under the Film Development Fund to implement five major measures to re-energize Hong Kong’s film industry through nurturing young directors and scriptwriting talents and enhancing professional training. Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Mr Edward Yau said the Government is committed to providing multi-pronged support for the trade to go through this difficult period and sustaining the success story of Hong Kong films. Details here.

48,000 new companies registered in Hong Kong July 12, 2020 - Hong Kong saw 48,760 newly registered local companies in the first half of 2020, resulting in a total of 1,381,355 local companies registered in the city under the Companies Ordinance at the end of June this year. During the same period, 876 non-Hong Kong companies were newly registered under the Companies Ordinance. The total number of registered non-Hong Kong companies reached 13,117 by the end of June 2020. Details here.

Institutional advantages remain intact Jul 10, 2020 - Hong Kong's institutional advantages that have made the city a leading international financial center are very much intact, said Financial Secretary Paul Chan at the online Hong Kong Financial Institutions Awards Forum of StartmeupHK Festival 2020 today. Mr Chan pointed out that Hong Kong placed fifth in the IMD's annual World Competitiveness Yearbook, ranking first in 'Government Efficiency' and second, overall, in 'Business Efficiency'. Hong Kong also ranked second globally in the Heritage Foundation's Index of Economic Freedom, topping the world in 'Business Freedom', 'Trade Freedom', 'Financial Freedom' and, 'Fiscal Health'. The city also led the world in funds raised through IPOs in 2019 - the seventh time in the past 11 years. The Financial Secretary reiterated that Hong Kong remains the business bridge between the Mainland and the western world. Details here.

Social distancing measures tightened Jul 9, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government will tighten existing social distancing measures in view of a recent rise in the number of local COVID-19 cases, Secretary for Food & Health Prof Sophia Chan said today. These include capping the number of customers allowed on the premises of catering businesses at 60% of their seating capacity, and each table should accommodate no more than eight customers at a time. Catering businesses, including Hong Kong-style cafes, are reminded of the the importance of taking proper measures to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. Scheduled premises, including karaoke establishments, fitness centers, clubs and nightclubs, must also adhere to a list of measures to tighten social distancing. The new measures will take effect for 14 days from July 11 to 24. Details here.

Hong Kong continues to be free and open July 7, 2020 - Hong Kong will continue to be a free and open society, said Chief Executive Carrie Lam today at the online conference of the 5th edition of the StartmeupHK Festival. "The rule of law including an independent judiciary will be as robust as ever. In short, the favorable factors of Hong Kong in attracting start-ups remain unchanged," Mrs Lam added. This year's StartmeupHK Festival, running from July 6 to 10, has gone virtual due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Details here.

Security measures clarified July 7, 2020 - More than half of the measures for safeguarding national security in Hong Kong are practices that currently exist in Hong Kong’s laws, Secretary for Security John Lee said today. Citing the power to search, Mr Lee explained that such power will be conducted under a warrant issued by the Judiciary. “In general situations, it will be conducted under a warrant issued by the court. But in exceptional circumstances, where evidence may be destroyed in a short period of time or the person responsible may have a chance to escape, when police officers are facing these situations they can search the premises without applying for a search warrant," he said. “Such practice actually exists in current laws." Mr Lee emphasized that there are checks and balances in all these measures, adding that the procedures to implement them do comply with the protection of human rights and the International Covenant on Civil & Political Rights. Details here.

Social distancing measures under review July 7, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government may tighten the existing social distancing measures in view of the recent number of COVID-19 local cases, Secretary for Food & Health Prof Sophia Chan said. Speaking to reporters tonight, Prof Chan said measures involving scheduled premises, restaurants and prohibition of group gatherings have been lifted earlier when the epidemic situation in Hong Kong was found more stable. However, she noted recently there are a number of local cases, with at least five with unknown sources. “We would, first of all, look into all these measures that we have relaxed previously and see how and also when we are going to suppress in the form of tightening (the measures)," she said. “Secondly, we will also continue to monitor the epidemic situation and local cases." Details here.

Foreign currency reserves at US$445.9 billion July 7, 2020 - Hong Kong's foreign currency reserves amounted to US$445.9 billion as at the end of June 2020, compared with US$442.4 billion at the end of May 2020. The total foreign currency reserve assets of US$445.9 billion represent over six times the currency in circulation or about 46 per cent of Hong Kong dollar M3. Details here.

National security law restores stability July 6, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government today stressed that the national security legislation can promptly reverse the chaotic situation of the past year and restore stability in Hong Kong, thereby improving Hong Kong's business and investment environment. Chief Secretary Matthew Cheung and Secretary for Security John Lee met US Consul General to Hong Kong & Macau Hanscom Smith today on the national security law. “Our much-valued institutional strengths and core competitiveness will remain intact. They include the rule of law and judicial independence, open and flexible markets, a simple and low tax regime, an efficient public sector and a favorable business environment with a level playing field,” a government spokesman said. Details here.

Payment disbursed for 3.15 million people July 6, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government has disbursed payment to 3.15 million people who registered electronically through banks on or before June 30 under the Cash Payout Scheme. The payments are made in batches. People who register electronically through banks on or after July 1 will receive payment about one week after registration. About 1,000 bank branches of 21 participating banks across the city are accepting electronic registration. Details here.

New US act opposed July 3, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government expressed (Jul 3) strong opposition to the passage of the “Hong Kong Autonomy Act” by the US Congress. In a statement, the Hong Kong SAR Government said the proposed sanctions will only harm the relations and common interests between Hong Kong and the US. A Government spokesman said the National Security Law is an important step to improve the 'one country, two systems' institutional system and represents an essential and timely decision for restoring stability in Hong Kong. The law will not affect the high degree of autonomy, judicial independence and the rule of law in Hong Kong. Details here.

FinTech talent program set up July 1, 2020 – The FinTech Anti-epidemic Scheme for Talent Development (FAST Scheme) will open for application on July 2. The Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury Christopher Hui said that the program will create 1,000 new jobs and enrich and support the development of Hong Kong’s fintech talent pool. Each successful applicant will receive US$1,282 (HK$10,000) per month as a salary subsidy for a maximum of 12 months. The total funding involved may amount to US$15.3 million (HK$120 million). Details here.

Research talent hub launched July 1, 2020 – The Researcher Programme and the Postdoctoral Hub have been merged to become the Research Talent Hub, providing more flexibility for employers to engage and nurture more research talents. Each eligible company or organization can obtain funding support to engage up to four innovation and technology (I&T) talents with a bachelor's, master's or doctoral degree to conduct R&D work, with maximum monthly allowances for each degree at US$2,307 (HK$18,000), US$2,692 (HK$21,000) and US$4,102 (HK$32,000) respectively. The maximum engagement period for each research talent is three years in general. Details here.

National security law explained July 1, 2020 – Chief Executive Carrie Lam, in a press conference today, reiterated that the purpose of the national security legislation is not just to punish. It is also to deter people from committing such serious offenses as secession, subverting the state power and terrorist activities. Mrs Lam also reassured the media and the public that criticizing the national security law would not be considered a crime. "It is clearly stated in Article 4 that people of Hong Kong should be able to continue to enjoy the freedom of speech, freedom of press, of publication, protest, assembly and so on," she said. Also speaking at the press conference, Secretary for Justice Teresa Cheng emphasized that when handling national security law cases, all prosecutorial decisions will be based on facts and evidence. Details here.

"One country, two systems" optimized July 1, 2020 – The enactment of the National Security Law in Hong Kong is a turning point to take Hong Kong out of the current impasse and to restore stability and order from the chaos, said Chief Executive Carrie Lam today at a reception to celebrate the 23rd anniversary of the establishment of the Hong Kong SAR. She said the law will neither undermine the high degree of autonomy, the judicial independence and the rule of law in Hong Kong, nor will it affect the legitimate rights and interests of Hong Kong people. Mrs Lam said the implementation of the National Anthem Ordinance and the National Security Law in Hong Kong signifies the fulfilment of the constitutional responsibility of the Hong Kong SAR to better the institution of "One Country, Two Systems". While recognizing the challenges to lead Hong Kong out of the current political predicament and overcome the post-epidemic challenges, Mrs Lam urged the public to put aside differences and build a better future for Hong Kong. Details here.

Social distancing measures relaxed June 30, 2020 – Hong Kong will further relax social distancing measures in relation catering businesses and scheduled premises, increasing the cap from 50% of the normal seating capacity to 80%. Limitations on group gatherings in public places will be maintained at 50 people. These new measures will come into effect on July 3 for a period of 14 days till July 16. This is part of the suppress and lift strategy adopted by the Hong Kong SAR Government in striking a balance between public health protection, economic impact, social acceptance and maintaining disease prevention measures while allowing for the gradual resumption of social and economic activities. Details here.

Security law’s passage welcomed June 30, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR Government welcomes the passage of the National Security Law by the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPCSC), said Chief Executive Carrie Lam today. In a statement, Mrs Lam said the enactment of a national security law at the state level is both necessary and urgent in order to plug the loophole in national security in Hong Kong. The legislation is an important step to improve the "One Country, Two Systems" institutional system as well as restore stability in Hong Kong society as soon as possible. The Chief Executive pointed out that the National Security Law seeks to practically and effectively prevent, curb and punish four types of crimes seriously endangering national security, namely acts of secession, subversion of state power, terrorist activities, and collusion with foreign or external forces to endanger national security. It only targets an extremely small minority of offenders while the life and property as well as various legitimate basic rights and freedoms enjoyed by the overwhelming majority of citizens will be protected. Details here.

Hong Kong people's rights protected June 30, 2020 – The national security legislation will not undermine "One Country, Two Systems" and Hong Kong's high degree of autonomy, said the Chief Executive Carrie Lam at the United Nations Human Rights Council meeting today. Mrs Lam said the law will have no retrospective effect and will not affect Hong Kong's renowned judicial independence. It will not affect legitimate rights and freedoms of individuals which are protected under the Basic Law and the relevant provisions of international covenants as applied to Hong Kong. She urged the international community to respect China’s right to safeguard national security and Hong Kong people's aspirations for stability and harmony. Details here.

Deficit recorded for May June 30, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR Government recorded a deficit of US$5.7 billion (HK$44.7 billion) in the month of May. Expenditure for the period April to May was US$11.6 billion (HK$90.5 billion) and revenue at US$5.8 billion (HK$45.8 billion). Fiscal reserves stood at US$143 billion. Details here.

May retail sales dropped 32.8% June 30, 2020 – The value of total retail sales in May, provisionally estimated at US$3.4 billion (HK$26.8 billion), fell 32.8% year-on-year. After netting out the effect of price changes in the same period, the volume of total retail sales decreased 33.9% year-on-year. A government spokesman said that retail sales continued to fall sharply in May as inbound tourism remained at a standstill and job and income conditions were weak. The Government will monitor the developments closely. Details here.

Wealth connect scheme welcomed June 29, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR Government welcomes the decision to implement the two-way cross-boundary wealth management connect pilot scheme in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area by the People's Bank of China, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority and the Monetary Authority of Macao. Under Wealth Management Connect, residents in Hong Kong, Macao and nine cities in Guangdong Province can carry out cross-boundary investment in wealth management products distributed by banks in the area. Financial Secretary Paul Chan said the Wealth Management Connect brings enormous business opportunities to the entire financial industry value chain and other professional services in Hong Kong, and will strengthen Hong Kong's role as the international asset and management centre and important gateway for capital flowing into and out of the Mainland. Details here.

May exports down 7.4% June 29, 2020 – Hong Kong’s total exports and imports of goods in May decreased by 7.4% and 12.3% respectively year-on-year. The value of total exports was HK$317.6 billion (US$40.7 billion) while the value of imports of goods dropped to HK$331.3 billion (US$42.4 billion). In the same comparison period, the total exports volume to the US fell 14.4% while imports from the US dropped 30.4%. Details here.

Arbitral proceedings pilot program launched June 29, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR Government launched today a pilot program to provide facilitation for eligible non-Hong Kong residents participating in arbitral proceedings in Hong Kong on a short-term basis. This will strengthen Hong Kong’s position as an international center for legal and dispute resolution services in the Asia-Pacific region. Under the program, nationals of countries who may visit Hong Kong visa-free, and possess a letter of proof, are allowed to participate in arbitral proceedings in Hong Kong as visitors, without the need to obtain employment visas. The pilot program, which will run on a trial basis for two years, covers four categories of visa-free nationals, namely arbitrators, expert and factual witnesses, arbitration counsel and parties to the arbitration. Details here.

Special travel arrangement between Hong Kong and Thailand June 29, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR Government welcomes Thailand's decision to set up a special travel arrangement for cross-border control with five economies, including Hong Kong, as a first step in relaxing its inbound passenger control. “This is a very encouraging news for both Hong Kong and Thailand. If the special relaxation arrangements for cross-border control can be established between the two places, cross-boundary business exchange can be gradually resumed for Hong Kong, which is set to give a tremendous boost to our economic recovery," said the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development Edward Yau. A newly established inter-departmental team will start discussing with the relevant departments in the Thai Government in the coming weeks. Details here.

Government opposes US sanctions law June 26, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR Government today expressed strong opposition to the passage of the Hong Kong Autonomy Act by the Senate of the United States Congress. Pointing out that many of the Congress’ comments in the Act are seriously misleading and absolutely unfounded, a government spokesman said the “sanctions” are totally unacceptable and will only harm the relations and common interests between Hong Kong and the US. “The Hong Kong SAR Government will continue to implement the 'one country, two systems' principle resolutely in accordance with the Basic Law,” said the spokesman. In addition, human rights and freedoms in Hong Kong are fully protected by the Hong Kong Bill of Rights Ordinance and other legislation, and underpinned by an independent judiciary. Details here.

All-out efforts to combat human trafficking June 26, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR Government attaches great importance to combatting human trafficking. In response to the US Department of State’s Trafficking in Persons Report 2020, the Government said that it strongly objects to the report, adding it contains allegations made by unidentified sources and without specific case details. “The findings are groundless, and the rating of Hong Kong at Tier-2 Watch List is obviously seriously biased and not substantiated by facts.” The spokesman stressed that Hong Kong has been making proactive, all-out and multi-pronged efforts to combat human trafficking. While human trafficking has never been a prevalent problem in Hong Kong, the spokesman said the Government will continue to combat human trafficking at all fronts. Details here.

30 million free masks to be distributed June 25, 2020 - Beginning next Tuesday (June 30), the Hong Kong SAR Government will begin to deliver masks free-of-charge to members of the public through Hongkong Post. Each household will receive a pack of ten disposable adult masks. These masks are the first batch of masks procured by the Government under the Local Mask Production Subsidy Scheme. Details here.

Chief Justice of the Court of Final Appeal appointed June 24, 2020 – Chief Executive Carrie Lam has signed the appointment of the Honourable Mr Justice Andrew Cheung Kui-nung as the Chief Justice of the Court of Final Appeal, with effect from January 11, 2021. Pointing out that the rule of law and judicial independence are core values of Hong Kong, Mrs Lam said she has no doubt that Mr Justice Cheung will lead the Judiciary to ensure the continuation of the rule of law and judicial independence under 'One Country, Two Systems'. Details here.

May inflation rose 1.5% June 22, 2020 – Overall consumer prices rose 1.5% in May 2020, compared to 1.9% in April 2020. Netting out the effects of all Government’s one-off relief measures, the underlying inflation rate in May was 1.9%, lower than 2.3% recorded in the previous month. The month saw year-on-year increases in prices for food, miscellaneous goods, housing, meals bought away from home, miscellaneous services and transport. Year-on-year decreases were recorded for electricity, gas and water; clothing and footwear as well as durable goods. Details here.

HKSAR Government fully supports national security law June 20, 2020 – Chief Executive Carrie Lam said the Hong Kong SAR Government fully supports the legislative work for safeguarding national security in the city. Mrs Lam emphasized that it is the constitutional responsibility of the Hong Kong SAR to safeguard national security. She also pointed that the drafting process takes into account the difference between the Mainland and Hong Kong and makes every effort in ensuring the compatibility and complementarity of the national security law with the relevant national laws and local laws in the Hong Kong SAR. Details here.

Cash handout registration to start on June 21 Registration for Hong Kong's Cash Payout Scheme will start on June 21, with 21 participating banks accepting electronic registration from 7 am that day. About 1,000 bank branches and 120 post offices across the city will open from 9 am to 5 pm to facilitate the submission of registration forms. The fastest and most convenient way to receive the payment is to register a sole-name account electronically through banks. Internet banking users only need to provide their local telephone contact number for registration. People who wish to receive the payment by order cheques may submit an electronic registration form at the Hongkong Post website. Details here.

HKEX launches university scholarship program June 19, 2020 – Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing (HKEX) launches its first university scholarship program as part of its 20th anniversary celebration. The program will develop home-grown talent in the fields of business, finance, biotech, and innovation in Hong Kong. Six scholarships of HK$50,000 (US$6,410) each will be given out to support tertiary students at The University of Hong Kong, The Chinese University of Hong Kong and The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology in the 2020-2021 academic year. Pointing out that the program will support the best and brightest talent in Hong Kong, HKEX Chairman Laura M Cha said it will contribute not only to the development of the talent pool, but to Hong Kong’s continuing role as a leading global international financial centre. She added that the scholarship program reflects HKEX's commitment to cultivate the local ecosystem for new economy and biotech investments. Details here.

Speedpost service to US to resume June 18, 2020 – Hongkong Post today announced that Speedpost service to the US will resume beginning tomorrow (June 19). Notwithstanding the service resumption, postal operations will experience delays in mail delivery due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Details here.

Government responds to US recommendation June 18, 2020 – As a telecommunications hub in the region, Hong Kong attaches great importance to the security and integrity of its telecommunications networks, said a spokesman for the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau. He expressed disagreement and disappointment with the US Department of Justice's decision to deny the Pacific Light Cable Network connecting to Hong Kong."The recommendation by the committee not only hinders the telecommunications development between Hong Kong and the US, it also harms the interests of US investors and entities, and disregards the win-win situation between Hong Kong and the US as brought by investments in communications infrastructure," he said, adding that the concerns raised are also ungrounded. Details here.

Total exports down 2.7% June 18, 2020 – Hong Kong's total exports of goods and imports of goods in April decreased by 2.7% and 5.3% respectively year-on-year. In the same comparison period, a 22.7% decline was recorded for the total export volume to the US. Details here.

Two special flights for Hong Kong residents stranded in India June 17, 2020 – About 280 Hong Kong residents stranded in India will return to Hong Kong through two special flights arranged by the Hong Kong SAR Government. The two flights, tentatively scheduled to depart from Bengaluru and Chennai for Hong Kong on June 18 and 20, will carry Hong Kong residents in various provinces in the southeast part of India with special needs. The cost will be borne by the passengers. Upon arrival in Hong Kong, the returnees will first proceed to AsiaWorld-Expo for compulsory COVID-19 testing and then transferred to designated quarantine centres for a 14-day compulsory quarantine period. Details here.

Hong Kong ranks fifth in competitiveness June 16, 2020 – Hong Kong ranked fifth globally in the latest World Competitiveness Yearbook 2020 published by the International Institute for Management Development. The Institute attributed Hong Kong’s ranking, down from second last year, to a decline in economic performance, social turmoil as well as the rub-on effect of the Chinese economy. Among the various factors, Hong Kong remained the first globally in “Business legislation”, and jumped to first in indicators “Legal and regulatory framework” and “Exchange rate stability”, all reaffirming Hong Kong’s institutional strengths. A spokesman stated that the Government is committed to enhancing the competitiveness and vibrancy of the Hong Kong economy and have every confidence in its long-term economic development. Details here.

Social distancing measures relaxed June 16, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR Government is easing social distancing measures in relation to catering business, scheduled premises, and group gathering in public. Beginning June 19, public gatherings of up to 50 people will be allowed. Group gatherings at catering business premises such as banquets would be exempted from the restriction on the number of persons at group gatherings. Restaurants will be exempted from customer restrictions while restriction at a table in bars/ pubs will be relaxed from four to eight. The limit in group facilities or rooms will be increased from eight to sixteen persons while clubs and nightclubs will be allowed to host up to eight people at a table. Live performance and dancing will resume at catering business but employees and performers must wear masks at all times. The new measures, part of the "lifting" phase of the city's "suppress and lift" anti-pandemic strategy, will be in effect for 14 days until July 2. Details here.

Unemployment rate at 5.9% June 16, 2020 – The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased to 5.9% (March - May 2020) from 5.2% (February - April 2020). The underemployment rate also increased to 3.5% (March – May 2020) from 3.1% in the previous three-months period. Secretary for Labour and Welfare Dr Law Chi-kwong said that the labor market showed further deterioration as a wide range of economic activities stayed in the doldrums. Looking ahead, Dr. Law said the labor market will still face pressure in the near term due to the pandemic’s heavy blow on the global economy. He believes that the relief measures rolled out by the Government will preserve the vitality of the economy and keep workers in employment. Details here.

Support for national security law urged June 15, 2020 – Chief Executive Carrie Lam said that the national security legislation will only target an extremely small minority of illegal and criminal acts and activities, while the life and property, basic rights and freedoms of the overwhelming majority of Hong Kong citizens will be protected. Pointing out that the Hong Kong community had been traumatized in the past year by protests and violence, Mrs Lam said the legislation will restore stability in the city. She appealed for the public’s understanding and support to put in place national security legislation in the city. Details here.

Government firmly opposes UK report June 12, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR (HKSAR) Government today firmly opposed the Six-monthly Report on Hong Kong issued by the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office The HKSAR Government reiterated its firm commitment to the implementation of the "one country, two systems" principle in accordance with the Basic Law. It expressed deep regret about the report’s inaccurate and biased remarks on the national security law and the high degree of autonomy enjoyed by the HKSAR. It is absolutely wrong and totally groundless for the Report to allege that the enactment of the national security law for the HKSAR by the Central Authorities lies in direct conflict with Article 23 of the Basic Law. Legislating on national security is within the purview of the Central Authorities and is outside the limits of the autonomy of the HKSAR, a Government spokesman said. Details here.

CE signs anthem law June 11, 2020 – Chief Executive Mrs Carrie Lam today signed the National Anthem Ordinance passed by the Legislative Council in accordance with Article 48(3) of the Basic Law. The ordinance will come into effect after it is published in the Gazette tomorrow. Mrs Lam said the ordinance signified the fulfilment of the constitutional responsibility of the Hong Kong SAR and reflected the spirit of "One Country, Two Systems.” Details here.

LegCo election set for Sep 6 June 10, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR Government announced today that the next Legislative Council election will be held on September 6 and the nomination period is scheduled for July 18-31. To ensure all candidates compete fairly, July 18 will be the last day for LegCo’s meeting. Details here.

Re-appointment of Ashley Alder as IOSCO Board Chair welcomed June 10, 2020 – Financial Secretary Paul Chan today welcomed the re-appointment of Ashley Alder as Chair of the Board of the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO) for a third term. Mr Chan said that the re-appointment of Mr Alder, the Chief Executive Officer of the Securities and Futures Commission, reaffirms Hong Kong's position as a premier international financial center as well as a key player on the global scene. The IOSCO is the leading international policy forum for securities regulators, with membership covering more than 95% of the world’s securities markets in more than 115 jurisdictions. Mr Alder has been Chair of the IOSCO Board since May 2016. Details here.

Government invests in Cathay Pacific Airways June 9, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR Government will invest in Cathay Pacific Airways to protect Hong Kong’s role as a leading international aviation hub in the region as well as the city’s long term economic development, Financial Secretary Paul Chan said today. The Government will invest about US$3.5 billion (HK$27.3 billion) in the airline to help it overcome its present challenge. "The Government's investment signifies our determination in upholding our international aviation hub status, and in preserving the necessary conditions and providing impetus to the much-needed post-COVID-19 revival of the economy in Hong Kong," said the Financial Secretary. Details here.

Financial services a key sector: CE June 9, 2020 – Hong Kong should transform into a more prominent offshore RMB center and private wealth management hub as the city enhances its status as an international financial center, said Chief Executive Carrie Lam during a media session today. She also proposes to promote greater connectivity between the Hong Kong financial markets and the Mainland financial market. Details here.

Cash payout registration set June 8, 2020 – The Cash Payout Scheme will open for registration on June 21. Hong Kong permanent residents aged 18 or above on or before March 31, 2021 are eligible to receive the HK$10,000 (US$1,282) payout. Financial Secretary Mr. Paul Chan announced that members of the public may register online through 21 participating banks to have the sum deposited to the bank account. Those who wish to receive the payout with a cheque can register with Hongkong Post and collect it in person at the post office. The Financial Secretary sad he hopes this may help relieve people's financial burden and boost the economy with more consumption. Details here.

Exemption from compulsory quarantine June 8, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR Government announced today a mechanism for directors or executives of companies listed on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong (SEHK) to apply for exemption from the compulsory quarantine arrangement when they arrive at Hong Kong from the Mainland, subject to a pre-determined quota. All exempted persons must only travel to and stay in the areas where the services are performed, and they will be subjected to medical surveillance for 14 days upon arrival in Hong Kong. In striving to safeguard public health and promote Hong Kong's economic development, Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury Mr Christopher Hui said the new scheme will facilitate directors or executives of sizable Hong Kong-listed companies to perform business activities that are essential to their operation. Details here.

Foreign currency reserve at US$442.3 billion June 5, 2020 – Hong Kong’s foreign currency reserve amounted to US$442.3 billion as of May 31, 2020, according to the Hong Kong Monetary Authority. This represents over six times the currency in circulation or about 46% of Hong Kong dollar M3. Details here.

2020 first quarter port statistics released June 4, 2020 – Hong Kong’s total port cargo throughput decreased by 3.2% year-on-year to 57.2 million tonnes in the first quarter of 2020. Inward port cargo loaded in the US dropped by 26.7% while outward port cargo discharged in the US fell by 24.8%. In the first quarter of 2020, the port of Hong Kong handled 4.10 million TEUs of containers, representing a 7.3% year-on-year decrease. Details here.

Startmeup Festival 2020 goes virtual June 4, 2020 – StartmeupHK Festival 2020, organized by Invest Hong Kong, will run virtually online from July 6-10. The festival offers a unique opportunity to connect, exchange ideas, and learn about business opportunities in Hong Kong, China and Asia. It will feature keynotes with renowned speakers, startup village, services marketplaces, job fair and business matching will be open to attendees across the globe. “Despite the challenges, Hong Kong's startup ecosystem remains resilient," said Associate Director-General of Investment Promotion at InvestHK Mr Charles Ng. "Our solid track record stands as a testimony to Hong Kong's enduring appeal as a place for startups to settle, grow, launch and expand into other markets." Details here.

Launch of Banking Talent Programme June 4, 2020 – The Hong Kong Monetary Authority and the banking industry have launched the Banking Talent Program, an initiative to nurture young talents in the industry and better prepare them for future careers in the banking sector. Around 300 recent graduates will be offered six-month work opportunities and industry-specific training. Application opens on June 15. While offering both short-term relief and valuable learning opportunities to young graduates, the program also benefits the industry by expanding the talent pool to support the future growth of Hong Kong's banking sector, said Chief Executive of the HKMA, Mr Eddie Yue. Details here.

HK-ASEAN pact to take effect June 3, 2020 – The commitments on trade and investment agreements between Hong Kong and Indonesia, a member state of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), will enter into force on July 4. Under the Free Trade Agreement (FTA), Hong Kong service providers will enjoy tariff reduction and better business opportunities and legal certainty in market access for different services sectors in Indonesia. Upon the Investment Agreement (IA)’s implementation, Indonesia will provide Hong Kong enterprises investing in its area with fair and equitable treatment of their investments, physical protection and security of their investments, and the assurance on the free transfer of their investments and returns. With the entry of Indonesia, there will be a total of eight ASEAN member states for which both the FTA and IA have entered into force. Details here.

Financial system operates orderly amid COVID-19 June 3, 2020 – Hong Kong's financial regulators and the trade have adopted an array of measures to safeguard financial security and maintain business operations while minimizing the risk of infection amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Christopher Hui said today. The Securities and Futures Commission is pursuing a flexible approach to ensure that markets continue to function properly, while safeguarding investor protection. “Hong Kong's financial system has withstood crises one after another, and Hong Kong can cope with the ever-changing market” said Mr. Hui, affirming its commitment in maintaining Hong Kong’s position as a major international financial center. Details here.

Monetary and financial stability assured June 2, 2020 – Hong Kong's local financial market continues to operate in a smooth and orderly manner, reflecting strong market confidence in the Linked Exchange Rate System (LERS), said Chief Executive of Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) Mr Eddie Yue, who reiterated that Hong Kong has strong fundamentals and a robust financial system. He pointed out that the LERS is underpinned by sizeable foreign reserves of over US$440 billion, strong capital position in the banking system, abundant liquidity, and good asset quality. Mr Yue added that Hong Kong can decide on its own appropriate monetary regime including exchange rate policy and the LERS will not be changed because of any shift in foreign policies towards Hong Kong. Details here.

Anti-epidemic measures extended June 2, 2020 – In view of the recent local outbreak of COVID-19 in Hong Kong, the Hong Kong SAR Government, in adopting its "suppress and lift" strategy, is extending relevant immigration control and social distancing measures. Health rules limiting the group size of public gatherings to eight people, along with regulations governing the operation of restaurants and bars would remain in place until June 18. Compulsory quarantine measures for Hong Kong residents arriving from overseas will be extended until September 18. The mandatory quarantine policy for travellers from Mainland China, Macao and Taiwan will remain in effect until July 7. Non-Hong Kong residents from overseas will continue to be denied entry until further notice. Details here.

More Hong Kong people stranded in India return home June 2, 2020 – The second batch of Hong Kong residents stranded in India will take a special flight arranged by the Hong Kong SAR Government to return to Hong Kong on the morning of June 3 at the earliest. This flight will assist Hong Kong residents in Mumbai with special needs such as people with illness, pregnant women and children, as well as family members travelling with them. The flight will carry about 300 people and the cost will be borne by the passengers. Upon arrival, the returnees will undergo compulsory COVID-19 testing and then transferred to a quarantine center for a 14-day mandatory quarantine. Details here.

No change to currency peg June 1, 2020 – Hong Kong has no intention to change the Linked Exchange Rate System which is backed by solid foreign exchange reserves and a sound banking system, said Financial Secretary Paul Chan. He said that US actions announced last week in response to the national security law in Hong Kong would have limited impact on the city as goods manufactured in Hong Kong exported to the US last year was only about 0.1% of the city’s total exports. Mr Chan added that the US has very substantial business interests and very strong professional and financial services representation in Hong Kong, generating significant economic benefits. Details here.

Special flights for Hong Kong residents in Nepal May 31, 2020 – In light of the strict restrictions on all land and air traffic in Nepal since late March, the Hong Kong SAR Government has arranged for two special chartered flights to bring about 330 Hong Kong residents stranded in Nepal back to Hong Kong on June 1. Upon arrival, all returnees will proceed to the Temporary Specimen Collection Centre at AsiaWorld-Expo for compulsory COVID-19 testing. After collection of deep throat saliva samples, they will then be transferred to the quarantine center for a 14-day mandatory quarantine period. The Government will continue to liaise with the Consulate General and airlines to arrange other special flights to assist stranded Hong Kong residents to return home in batches. Details here.

Trade restrictions unjustified May 30, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR Government said that sanctions or trade restrictions against Hong Kong are not justified and will breakdown the mutually beneficial Hong Kong-US relationship. In exercising its high degree of autonomy under “one country, two systems", the Hong Kong SAR Government is resolutely committed to upholding its international responsibilities and agreements with the US and all countries in areas such as trade, investment protection, mutual legal assistance, the fight against transnational crime and terrorism, as well as education and cultural exchanges. US's trade surplus with Hong Kong has been the biggest among all its trading partners, with merchandise trade surplus totalling US$297 billion from 2009 to 2018. Any change of US economic and trade policy towards Hong Kong would hurt local and US businesses alike in Hong Kong and the people working for them. Details here.

Basic Law online exhibition launched May 30, 2020 – An exhibition presenting the historical background, drafting, promulgation, and successful implementation of the Basic Law in Hong Kong was launched on May 30. Encouraging the public to visit the “Online Exhibition of the 30th Anniversary of the Promulgation of the Basic Law”, Chief Secretary for Administration Matthew Cheung said the exhibition looks back at the important milestones during the 30 years since the promulgation of the Basic Law and will deepen the understanding of the concept and implementation of the “one country, two systems” principle and the critical importance of the guarantee of the Basic Law towards the long-term development of Hong Kong. The public can visit the exhibition online. Details here.

Financial Leaders Forum convenes 12th meeting May 29, 2020 – The Financial Leaders Forum held its 12th meeting today, during which members were briefed on the latest financial market situation. The Hong Kong SAR Government and financial regulators informed members that although Hong Kong’s financial markets have become more volatile, different facets of the financial services sector continue to function in an orderly manner. The Linked Exchange Rate system operates smoothly and no notable outflow of funds has been recorded. The members were also briefed on the latest situation in the city’s banking sector and fintech developments, as well as its position as an international financial centre. The Government and the financial regulators will continue to closely monitor the financial market situation to ensure financial stability. Details here.

CE’s open letter to Hong Kong citizens May 29, 2020 – The legislation to safeguard national security aims to restore stability in Hong Kong society and resume development of the economy and livelihoods, said Chief Executive Mrs Carrie Lam, in a letter to Hong Kong citizens published in newspapers today. Emphasizing that the legislation only targets an extremely small minority of illegal criminal acts and activities, Mrs Lam stressed that the overwhelming majority of citizens will continue to enjoy the freedom of speech, of the press, of assembly, of demonstration, of procession, and to enter or leave Hong Kong in accordance with the law. Mrs Lam appeals for the public's understanding and support for the National People’s Congress’ decision. Details here.

Deficit recorded for April May 29, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR Government recorded a deficit of US$2 billion in the month of April. Expenditure for the first month of the current financial year was at US$5.8 billion and revenue at US$3.7 billion. Fiscal reserves stood at US$146.6 billion. Details here.

Exchange Fund at US$525.1 billion May 29, 2020 – Total assets of Hong Kong’s Exchange Fund amounted to US$525.1 billion as at April 30, 2020. This is US$179 million higher than that at the end of March 2020. Foreign current assets grew by US$8.6 billion while Hong Kong dollar assets fell by US$8.44 billion. The monetary base at the end of April 2020 was US$219 billion, a 1.7% increased compared to the previous month. Backing assets increased by 1.6%, to US$245.1 billion. Details here.

Government strongly objects to US report May 28, 2020 – The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government expressed strong opposition to the unfounded allegations about erosion of HKSAR's high degree of autonomy and the legitimate rights and freedoms enjoyed by the people of Hong Kong in the Hong Kong Policy Act Report by the US State Department. These remarks misrepresented the constitutional relationship between the HKSAR and the Central Authorities, said a government spokesman. Pointing out that any sanctions are a double-edged sword in Hong Kong-US relationship, the spokesman urged the US Government to adopt a pragmatic attitude, bearing in mind US' own interests in Hong Kong, and maintain its economic and trade policy towards Hong Kong. US's trade surplus with Hong Kong has been the biggest among all its trading partners, with merchandise trade surplus totalling US$297 billion from 2009 to 2018. Details here.

Law decision passage welcomed May 28, 2020 – Chief Executive Mrs Carrie Lam today welcomed the National People’s Congress’ passage of the decision on national security legislation for Hong Kong. In a statement, Mrs Lam said that safeguarding national sovereignty, security and development interests is the constitutional duty of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and concerns every Hong Kong citizen. “The legislation to be enacted aims to prevent, curb and sanction an extremely small minority of criminals who threaten national security, safeguarding the prosperity and stability of Hong Kong and maintaining "One Country, Two Systems". It will not affect the legitimate rights and freedoms enjoyed by Hong Kong residents,” said Mrs Lam. Details here.

Government responds to US Chamber of Commerce statement May 27, 2020 – Responding to a statement (May 26) by the US Chamber of Commerce, a spokesman for the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government said that the proposed national security legislation only targets acts of secession, subverting state power, organizing and carrying out terrorist activities, as well as activities interfering with the HKSAR's internal affairs by foreign or external forces. "The vast majority of law-abiding Hong Kong residents, including overseas investors, have nothing to fear," the spokesman said. "All of the rights and freedoms enjoyed by Hong Kong people and international investors will remain unchanged." Details here.

Hong Kong financial system remains strong May 27, 2020 – The proposed national security legislation would not bring any changes to Hong Kong's monetary and financial system, said Chief Executive of Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) Mr Eddie Yue. The free flow of capital and free convertibility of the Hong Kong dollar will continue to be safeguarded, and the Linked Exchange Rate System, underpinned by strong foreign reserves position of over US$440 billion, will remain the bedrock of the city’s financial system. Hong Kong's banking system has strong capital positions, abundant liquidity, good asset quality and solid track record in operational resilience. Mr Yue pointed out that despite the recent volatility in the stock market, the Hong Kong dollar exchange rate has remained stable on the strong side of the convertibility zone and the financial markets have also been operating in a smooth and orderly manner. "The HKMA has the capability, resources and commitment to safeguard Hong Kong’s continued monetary and financial stability," he said. Details here.

Government hails financial partnership May 27, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR Government welcomed the partnership of Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX) and MSCI Limited to launch a suite of 37 MSCI Asia and Emerging Market equity index futures and options contracts on the Hong Kong Futures Exchange. “This partnership is a big step forward in developing Hong Kong into a pre-eminent risk management center and derivative hub, and represents a notable vote of confidence in the Hong Kong market,” said Financial Secretary Mr Paul Chan. Details here.

Social distancing rules relaxed May 26, 2020 – With the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Hong Kong stabilizing, the Hong Kong SAR Government will relax social distancing measures in accordance with the “suppress and lift” strategy. Starting from May 29, bathhouses, party rooms, clubs or nightclubs and karaoke establishments can resume operation. Karaoke activities will also be allowed in catering premises, party rooms and club-houses. Details here.

Total exports of goods fell 3.7% May 25, 2020 – Hong Kong’s total exports and imports of goods in April decreased by 3.7% and 6.7% respectively year-on-year. In the same comparison period, the total exports volume to the US fell 24.6% while imports from the US dipped -1.1%. Details here.

Hong Kong to remain a free city May 25, 2020 – National security legislation for the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region is essential and will also be conducive to the city’s business environment. In an exclusive media interview (May 25), Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development Edward Yau said the legislation would ensure a safer and more stable business environment for international investors, adding that general business activity would not be affected. He stated that Hong Kong will remain the same place that upholds the rule of law, freedom, and remain the most competitive and the freest market. In his latest blog article (May 24), Financial Secretary Paul Chan also said that a safe society and political stability are prerequisites for an international financial center. Enactment of the national security law could provide the necessary protection in these aspects and would not affect the normal flow of people, goods, information and capital. “In fact, other international financial centers around the world are protected by their own national security law, and their development has not been affected by the law,” the Financial Secretary said. Details here.

National security must be protected May 22, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR Government supports the National People's Congress's drafting of legislation to establish and improve the legal system and enforcement mechanism for the city to safeguard national security. The fundamental objective is to safeguard national security and the prosperity and stability of Hong Kong, which will not affect the legitimate rights and freedoms enjoyed by Hong Kong residents under the law, or the independent judicial power, including that of final adjudication, exercised by the Judiciary in Hong Kong. Speaking at a press conference, Chief Executive Carrie Lam said Hong Kong will remain a very free society, where freedom of expression, freedom of protest, freedom of journalism will stay because these are the core values of Hong Kong and are very much protected by the Basic Law. Details here.

April inflation rose 1.9% May 21, 2020 – Overall consumer prices rose 1.9% in April, compared to 2.3% in March. Netting out the effects of all Government’s one-off relief measures, the underlying inflation rate in April was 2.3%, lower than 2.6% recorded in the previous month. The month saw year-on-year increases for food and meals bought away from home, miscellaneous goods, housing, miscellaneous services, alcoholic drinks and tobacco as well as transport. Year-on-year decreases were recorded for electricity, gas and water; clothing and footwear as well as durable goods. Details here.

Health strategy and exemptions explained May 20, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government has introduced statutory restrictions on group gatherings in public places with the aim to reduce risks of virus transmission. The Government has all along adopted a "suppress and lift" strategy and made adjustments to measures to control the epidemic as appropriate while striking a suitable balance among public health, economic development and day-to-day operation of the society. Even though the situation in Hong Kong has become more stabilized in recent weeks, taking into account the local cluster COVID-19 cases last week without known sources, the Government view that the current social distancing measures should be maintained for 14 days, and will review the epidemic development closely. The Government does not rule out gradual relaxation of restrictions on group gatherings subject to the epidemic situation.Before the global epidemic is fully under control, the Government appeals to the public to stay vigilant and adopt necessary precautionary measures in order to cut the virus transmission chain. Details here.

FinTech development to thrive May 20, 2020 – Fintech development is seen by Hong Kong banks as an opportunity to their business operations, now and in the next five years, with risk management services having the greatest potential, according to the “Fintech Adoption and Innovation in the Hong Kong Banking Industry" report released by the Hong Kong Institute for Monetary and Financial Research. The report, based on an industry-wide survey carried out by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA), also showed that 86% of banks have adopted or plan to adopt Fintech solutions across all types of financial services, with preliminary results showing that fintech adoption by banks brought about increased cost efficiency and improved profitability. Looking ahead, Senior Executive Director of the HKMA Mr Edmond Lau said that banks would not be displaced by new competitors as technological changes would help enhance business models and maintain core banking services. Details here.

Social distancing measures extended May 19, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR Government announced today that the prohibition of group gatherings in public with more than eight people will be extended for another two weeks until June 4, but religious gatherings will be exempted with certain restrictions. Announcing the decision today, Secretary for Food and Health Professor Sophia Chan said the government had been using a risk-based approach as part of its "suppress and lift" strategy in considering the restrictions or relaxation of social distancing measures. Social distancing measures for catering business will remain in place until June 4 as well. Fitness centres must limit each group training or class to no more than eight persons, with at least 1.5 metres between each person and the coach must wear a mask at all times. Bathhouse, party room, club, and karaoke establishment will remain closed until May 28, 2020. Details here.

Chairman of HKEX reappointed May 19, 2020 – The Chief Executive has approved the re-appointment of Mrs Laura Cha May-lung as Chairman of the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing (HKEX) with immediate effect. Her term will conclude at the end of the 2022 Annual General Meeting of the HKEX. The Government expressed its confidence that under Mrs Cha’s leadership, the HKEX will further enhance Hong Kong's market quality and competitiveness, and strengthen the city's position as the premier fund raising and risk management platform in the region. Details here.

Unemployment rises to 5.2% May 19, 2020 – The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased to 5.2% (February - April 2020) from 4.2% (January - March 2020). The underemployment rate also increased to 3.1% (February - April 2020) compared to the previous three-months period. Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Dr Law Chi-kwong said the labor market showed further sharp deterioration as the COVID-19 pandemic continued to weigh on a wide range of economic activities. He is optimistic that the relief measures rolled out by the Government will preserve the vitality of the economy and keep workers in employment. Details here.

Government to receive locally-made masks May 19, 2020 – The production lines under the Local Mask Production Subsidy Scheme will start supplying marks to the Hong Kong SAR Government starting from late May. The Government has signed funding agreements of 19 production lines, and nine of them have obtained certification verifying that the masks produced comply with the ASTM F2100 Level 1 standard or above. It is estimated that when all the 20 subsidized production lines are in full production, they will collectively supply 34.25 million masks to the Government and a further 7.65 million to the local market. Details here.

Hong Kong’s resilience will prevail May 19, 2020 – Acknowledging the severe impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Hong Kong's economy, Financial Secretary Mr Paul Chan said Hong Kong has adopted an expansionary fiscal stance and have made the optimal use of its reserves to implement counter-cyclical measures. Speaking at Citi's Pan-Asia Regional Investor Conference, Mr Chan highlighted the US$37 billion worth of relief measures that have been rolled out to support enterprises, safeguard jobs and relieve financial burden of residents. Apart from fiscal policies, Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) also introduced several measures, including the reduction in the issuance size of Exchange Fund paper and injecting additional US dollar liquidity for the local market. Measures that relieve cash-flow pressure on businesses and personal customers were also implemented by the HKMA and Mortgage Corporation. Pointing out that the city's institutional strengths and underlying fundamentals and competitiveness remain strong and intact amid these challenges, the Financial Secretary remains confident in Hong Kong's economic prospects . “With our unique position as the international trade and financial centre, logistics center and aviation hub in the region, alongside with our professional services and high-quality service industries, Hong Kong stands to benefit from the enormous opportunities Asia has to offer,” he said. Details here.

Health chief participated in WHO meet May 18, 2020 – The Secretary for Food and Health, Professor Sophia Chan, attended the 73rd World Health Assembly of the World Health Organization via video conferencing as a member of the Chinese delegation. During the assembly, member states delivered statements focused largely on the COVID-19 pandemic. "The Hong Kong SAR Government has maintained close co-operation with the WHO and health authorities of its member states to fight the pandemic together, with a view to protecting the health of Hong Kong people and maintaining a robust healthcare system in Hong Kong,” said Professor Chan, who added that hearing from leading experts in various fields are crucial in establishing anti-pandemic strategies for the city in the future. Details here.

CEO of Securities and Futures Commission reappointed May 18, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR Government announced the re-appointment of Mr Ashley Alder as CEO of the Securities and Future Commission (SFC), for a new three-year term from October 1, 2020 to September 30, 2023. He has been CEO of the SFC since October 1, 2011 and played a key role in leading the SFC amidst a fast-changing and challenging financial landscape, both locally and globally. The continuity of leadership would significantly boost the confidence of international and local investors about Hong Kong's financial markets and be tremendously beneficial to financial stability. Details here.

Chartered flight for Hong Kong residents in India May 18, 2020 – A chartered flight carrying 249 Hong Kong residents stranded in India arrived at Hong Kong International Airport on May 18 morning (Hong Kong time). Upon arrival, the returnees proceeded to the Temporary Specimen Collection Centre at AsiaWorld-Expo for compulsory COVID-19 testing. They were then transferred to the quarantine centre at Chun Yeung Estate in Fo Tan for a 14-day mandatory quarantine period. Details here.

Quarantine exemptions set May 18, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR Government announced today that the mechanism for medical personnel, people engaged in technological research and development (R&D), people conducting audit services, and enterprises providing construction-related services to apply for exemption from the compulsory quarantine arrangement. For medical personnel, up to 50 people employed and authorized by The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital (HKUSZH) can be exempted and up to two employees of a Hong Kong enterprise with a valid Hong Kong Service Supplier Certificate in relation to the provision of medical and dental services in the Mainland are also exempted. For R&D sector and construction sector, up to two personnel of each eligible enterprise or institution can be exempted from the quarantine arrangement. All exempted persons must only travel to and stay in the areas where the services are provided for the purpose of provision of the intended services as approved, and they will be subjected to medical surveillance for 14 days upon arrival in Hong Kong. Details here.

IPCC recommendations accepted May 15, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR Government today accepted all 52 recommendations proposed by the Independent Police Complaints Council (IPCC) in its Thematic Study Report on the Public Order Events arising from the Fugitive Offenders Bill since June 2019 and the Police Actions in Response. The Chief Executive has requested the Secretary for Security to establish a task force and personally supervise the task force to study and follow up on every recommendation. The government also expresses gratitude to the IPCC Chairman, Mr Anthony Neoh, and all members of the IPCC for their time and efforts in preparing the report. The Security Bureau is making preparations to convene a task force meeting as soon as practicable to develop a work plan and identify the priority items in respect of the recommendations put forward by the IPCC. Police will participate in and fully collaborate with the taskforce. Detail here.

First quarter economy contracts 8.9% May 15, 2020 – Hong Kong’s economy in the first quarter contracted sharply by 8.9% year-on-year as the COVID-19 pandemic continued to disrupt its local economic activities and supply chains. On a seasonally adjusted quarter-to-quarter comparison, real GDP dropped 5.3%. Both rates of decline were the steepest for a single quarter on record. Considering the sharp economic contraction in the first quarter, the high uncertainties surrounding the pandemic, and the grim global economic situation, the real GDP growth forecast for 2020 has been revised downwards to -4% to -7%. The Government will continue to closely monitor the situation and offer supportive economic measures when necessary. Details here.

Additional funding for universities’ Covid-19 research May 15, 2020 – The University Grants Committee and the Research Grants Council have allocated a one-off additional funding of US$32 million (HK$250 million) in total to support research related to COVID-19 and other novel infectious diseases. It is expected that the additional funding can support around 25 medium-size and two to three large-scale research projects. Details here.

Green Finance Certification Scheme launched May 14, 2020 – The Hong Kong Quality Assurance Agency launched its Green Finance Certification Scheme - ESG Fund today. It will provide third-party conformity assessments on the environmental, social and governance (ESG) fund and further promote ESG initiatives towards more green and sustainable uses. “The extension to the ESG fund will promote more disclosure and strengthen market confidence in green financial products”, said Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury Mr Christopher Hui, who added that the Hong Kong SAR Government will continue to develop and consolidate Hong Kong as the leading hub for green finance in the region. Details here.

Total exports of goods fell 4.6% May 14, 2020 – The volume of Hong Kong's total exports of goods and imports of goods in March decreased by 4.6% and 10.3% respectively year-on-year. In the same comparison period, the price of total exports of goods dropped 1.4% while imports of goods declined by 0.9%. The total export volume to the US in March fell 27.3% year-on-year. Details here.

Genome sequencing project set May 14, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR Government announced today the Strategic Development of Genomic Medicine in Hong Kong, with an emphasis to set up a genome sequencing database to help detect undiagnosed cancers. The pilot phase of this large-scale Hong Kong Genome Project focuses on patients and their family members with undiagnosed disorders and hereditary cancers. Up to 50,000 genomes would be sequenced. Secretary for Food & Health Prof Sophia Chan said that this project would benefit science and data development and also provide a more precise diagnosis and personalized treatment of patients in the future. A budget of US$153 million (HK$1.2 billion) is set aside for this project. Details here.

Facilitating FinTech development May 14, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR Government will continue to work with relevant sectors to promote and facilitate FinTech development in Hong Kong using a multi-pronged approach, said Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Mr Christopher Hui when he visited Cyberport today. He said Hong Kong's maturing ecosystem, pioneering infrastructure, increasing receptiveness and adoption, conducive and forward-looking regulatory environment, coupled with traditional strengths in financial services, have elevated Hong Kong to one of the major FinTech hubs in Asia. Joining the Cyberport visit, Secretary for Innovation & Technology Alfred Sit said the Government has set aside US$705 million (HK$5.5 billion) for the Cyberport Expansion Project to develop potential emerging digital technology such as InsurTech, RegTech and LawTech. This would provide more opportunities for young people to pursue a career in innovation and technology and further promote the overall I&T development in Hong Kong. Details here.

Chartered flights for Hong Kong residents in India May 13, 2020 – The first chartered flight, arranged by the Hong Kong SAR Government, to bring Hong Kong residents stranded in India back to Hong Kong is tentatively scheduled for May 17 at the earliest. The flight will assist Hong Kong residents currently located in New Delhi and those in its surrounding areas with special needs, as well as family members travelling with them. The exact date and time of departure are still subject to the approval time of and the facilitation provided by the local government, land traffic situations and relevant permissions received by airlines. Upon arrival in Hong Kong, the people taking the flight will proceed to the Temporary Specimen Collection Centre at AsiaWorld-Expo for compulsory COVID-19 testing. Details here.

Government to observe virus trend May 13, 2020 – Following the confirmation of two new locally transmitted COVID-19 cases for the first time in more than three weeks, the Hong Kong SAR Government will closely observe the trend of the COVID-19 epidemic before deciding whether to adjust social distancing measures, said Under Secretary for Food & Health Dr Chui Tak-yi. Urging the public to remain vigilant, Dr Chui said the battle to curb the COVID-19 outbreak is a long term battle and that sporadic new local cases are unavoidable, citing the resurgence of infections in South Korea and China. The Centre for Health Protection also urged the public to take necessary anti-epidemic measures and maintain personal and environmental hygiene at all times to prevent the spread of virus in the community. Details here.

Samson Young wins the inaugural M+'s Sigg Prize May 13, 2020 – Hong Kong artist Samson Young has been named the winner of the inaugural Sigg Prize, a new award from the M+ museum, which is slated to open in 2021 in Hong Kong's West Kowloon Cultural District. The jury recognizes Young for his installation ‘Muted Situations #22: Muted Tchaikovsky’s 5th’, a multifaceted approach to sound and performance. Last fall, Young had his first US museum exhibition “Samson Young; Silver Moon or Golden Star, Which Will You Buy of Me?” at University of Chicago’s Smart Museum of Art, which was supported by HKETONY. M+ also announced that Beijing-based researcher Yang Zi is the recipient of the inaugural Sigg Fellowship for Chinese Art Research. Details here.

No new local confirmed cases of COVID-19 May 12, 2020 – Hong Kong has recorded no new local confirmed cases today, with the total number of confirmed cases at 1,047. This marked the 23rd day in a row with no local infections. The Centre for Health Protection reminded the public again to reduce social gatherings and avoid non-essential travel outside Hong Kong. Details here.

LegCo debate to resume May 12, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR Government intends to resume the Second Reading debate of 10 Government Bills at the Legislative Council (LegCo) meeting on May 27, said Chief Secretary Mr Matthew Cheung in a letter to the LegCo's House Committee. Of these 10 bills, the Government plans to proceed with the National Anthem Bill and the Trade Marks (Amendment) Bill 2019 first. "The HKSAR Government hopes to work closely together with LegCo Members to make the best use of time in concluding the legislative procedures of the above bills in the remainder of the current term of LegCo in accordance with the priorities," Mr Cheung said. Stressing that the spirit of the National Anthem Bill is respect, a spokesman for the Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Bureau said the implementation of National Anthem Law by local legislation fully reflects the spirit of “one country, two systems” with due regard to Hong Kong’s common law system. Details here.

No new local confirmed cases of COVID-19 May 11, 2020 – Hong Kong has not reported any new local confirmed cases of COVID-19 today, with the total number of confirmed cases at 1,047. This marked 22 consecutive days with zero local confirmed COVID-19 cases. The Centre for Health Protection again urged the public to avoid all non-essential travel outside Hong Kong and maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene, including hand hygiene, at all times. The latest updates on COVID-19 infections and health advice can be found on the dedicated "COVID-19 Thematic Website". Details here.

Immigration Department wins 2020 Skytrax Award May 11, 2020 – Hong Kong Immigration Department was named best airport immigration service in the 2020 Skytrax World Airport Awards, based on a worldwide passenger survey of 550 airports worldwide, between Sep 2019 and Feb 2020. This is the fourth time the Department has won this prestigious award in the past six years. It received the recognition in 2015, 2016 and 2019. Details here.

CuMask+™ safe for use May 10, 2020 – Hong Kong Secretary for Innovation and Technology Mr Alfred Sit said the CuMask+™ has undergone a very comprehensive and very clear testing and certification process.“The product fully complies with the American Society for Testing & Materials (ASTM) F2100 Level 1 requirement, so that the product can fully meet the need of protecting our people from COVID-19," he said. Hongkong Post will begin daily door delivery of CuMask+™ to successful registrants of the free CuMask+™ distributed by the Hong Kong SAR Government. Details here.

No new COVID-19 cases May 8, 2020 – Hong Kong has recorded no new cases of COVID-19 today, with the total number of confirmed cases at 1,044. It also marked the 19th day in row with zero local confirmed COVID-19 cases. The Centre for Health Protection once again reminded the public of the importance of social distancing and the practice of personal and environmental hygiene to prevent a community spread. Members of the public should wear a surgical mask when having respiratory symptoms, taking public transport or staying in crowded places. Details here.

Foreign currency reserve at US$441.2 billion May 7, 2020 – Hong Kong's foreign currency reserve amounted to US$441.2 billion, as of Apr 30, 2020, according to the Hong Kong Monetary Authority. This represents over six times the currency in circulation or about 46% of Hong Kong dollar M3. Details here.

HKEX chief will not seek reappointment May 7, 2020 – Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited announced today that Mr Charles Li will not seek reappointment as Chief Executive after his current contract ends in October 2021. Financial Secretary Paul Chan expressed his deep appreciation to Mr Li for his exemplary contribution to the development of Hong Kong’s financial market, helping to reinforce the status of Hong Kong as a leading international financial center and rendering Hong Kong as the largest IPO market in the world for seven times in the past 11 years. "He also played a pivotal role in the launch of new listing regime in Hong Kong, the enhanced internationalization of HKEX and its international visibility," said Mr Chan, who added that the Hong Kong SAR Government is confident that the HKEx Board will continue to ensure the success of the HKEx in the future. Details here.

More than 1 million residents registered for CuMask+™ May 6, 2020 – Close to 1.38 million Hong Kong residents have registered online for CuMask+™, the free reusable masks distributed by the Hong Kong SAR Government, in the first eight hours of the registration period. The registration period is open until June 6. Information provided to obtain the masks will not be used for other purposes, with multiple security measures in place in compliance with stability and security of the system. The service has also passed an information security risk assessment and audit before launch. Details here.

No new local confirmed COVID-19 cases May 6, 2020 – Hong Kong has recorded no new local confirmed cases of COVID-19 today, with the total number of confirmed cases at 1,040. This marked the 17-day milestone with no new confirmed local cases recorded. The Centre for Health Protection continues to urge the public to stay vigilant and keep social distancing. People are strongly encouraged to maintain at all times strict personal and environmental hygiene, including hand hygiene, especially before touching the face. Details here.

Smart ID card renewal for Hong Kong residents resumes May 6, 2020 – The Immigration Department announced today the full resumption of the territory-wide identity card replacement exercise from May 11, with a new call-up program for Hong Kong residents born in 1957 to 1963 and 1970 to 1976. To reduce crowd gatherings, applicants who have not made appointment bookings previously should do so via the Internet (www.gov.hk/newicbooking), the ImmD mobile application or the 24-hour telephone booking hotline 2121 1234. Details here.

Green and Sustainable Finance Steering Group set up May 5, 2020 – The Green and Sustainable Finance Cross-Agency Steering Group, initiated by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority and the Securities and Futures Commission with other government agencies, was inaugurated today. Through regulatory policy and market development, the Steering Group aims to accelerate the growth of green and sustainable finance in Hong Kong and support the climate strategies of the government. It will also facilitate regional cooperation, including in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. Welcoming the establishment of the Group, Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, said this would consolidate Hong Kong's position as a premier green and sustainable finance hub. Details here.

Some social-distancing measures eased May 5, 2020 – With the COVID-19 infection situation stabilizing, Hong Kong will ease some social-distancing measures under the "suppress and lift" strategy to contain the epidemic. Chief Executive Carrie Lam said that with no local transmission case for 16 days and the low number of imported cases, "this is the time for lifting". Beginning May 8, the number of people allowed for group gatherings in public places will be raised from four to eight people. In addition, bars, gyms, cinemas, gaming centers, massage parlors and mahjong parlors will resume operation, with some restrictions to prevent physical interactions. Bathhouse, party room, club or night club, and karaoke establishment will remain closed for 14 days. Details here.

Free reusable masks for Hong Kong residents May 5, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR Government will distribute reusable masks to Hong Kong residents for free. The CuMask+™, a six-layer mask with special ergonomic features developed by the Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel, complies with the American Society for Testing and Materials F2100 Level 1 Standard in terms of particle filtration efficiency, bacterial filtration efficiency, resistance to penetration by synthetic blood, flammability and pressure resistance, and is reusable for up to 60 times. All holders of valid Hong Kong Identity Card can register online from May 6 - June 6 for the masks, which will be delivered via Hongkong Post after successful registration. The government will also distribute 140,000 CuMask+ to residential homes and social welfare institutions for distribution to those including the elderly and the homeless. Details here.

March retail sales fell 42% May 5, 2020 – March’s value of total retail sales, provisionally estimated at US$2.9 billion (HK$23 billion), fell by 42% year-on-year. After netting out the effect of price changes over the same period, the volume of total retail sales for the month decreased 43.8% year-on-year. A government spokesman said retail sales continued to plummet in March due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting anti-epidemic measures that brought a standstill to inbound tourism and seriously disrupted consumption-related activities. The Government will closely monitor developments amid the difficult retail business environment. Details here.
No new local COVID-19 cases for over two weeks May 5, 2020 – Hong Kong has not reported a local transmission COVID-19 case today, with the total number of confirmed cases at 1,040. This marked a 16-day milestone with no new confirmed local cases recorded. The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) continues to urge the public to maintain proper social distancing and avoid social activities so as to minimize the risk of infection and community outbreak. People are also strongly urged to avoid all non-essential travel outside Hong Kong and to maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene at all times. Details here.

Economy recovery to be slow May 4, 2020 - Financial Secretary Paul Chan cautioned that with the deepening economic recession in the first quarter of 2020, Hong Kong's economic recovery will be slow as the external environment remains challenging even though the local epidemic situation seems to be under control. The Financial Secretary called on Hong Kong people to work together to promote economic development through consumption, adding that, “If the global epidemic situation improves, we will be able to come out of recession gradually towards the end of this year." He also said that the positive impact on the economy would be better felt by the community, upon full implementation of the government's relief measures. And the government stands ready to roll out additional measures to support the people of Hong Kong and their businesses. Details here.

First quarter economy dips 8.9% May 4, 2020 – Hong Kong’s economy contracted by 8.9% in the first quarter of 2020 from a year earlier. This is mainly due to the continued weak performance in both domestic and external demand amid the COVID-19 pandemic. In light of the severe global economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the real GDP growth forecast for 2020 was revised to -4% to -7%. Details here.

Allegations refuted May 1, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR had maintained stability and prosperity under the principle of “One Country, Two Systems”, exercising "Hong Kong people administering Hong Kong" and a high degree of autonomy in strict accordance with the Basic Law since its return to the Motherland, said a government spokesman, refuting allegations relating to a police arrest operation. The people of Hong Kong enjoy extensive rights and freedoms which are enshrined in the Basic Law. "The Hong Kong SAR Government always respects and protects human rights and freedoms. Any allegation that there has been an erosion in freedoms enjoyed by Hong Kong people is unfounded," said the spokesman. "However, these rights are not absolute. There are clear limits in the law as to the exercise of these rights. When law is broken, action will be taken in accordance with the criminal justice system." Details here.

No new confirmed COVID-19 cases for 5 straight days April 30, 2020 – Hong Kong recorded no new local confirmed COVID-19 cases today, with the total number of confirmed cases remaining at 1,037. This marked the fifth consecutive day with no new confirmed cases recorded. The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) continues to urge the public to maintain proper social distancing with other people and avoid social activities to reduce the risk of a community outbreak. Details here.

Chartered flight for Hong Kong residents departs from Islamabad, Pakistan April 30, 2020 – A chartered flight bringing 319 Hong Kong residents stranded in Pakistan back home departed from Islamabad in the morning on April 30 and is expected to arrive at Hong Kong International Airport at around 7pm (HK time) the same day. Upon arrival, the returnees will proceed to the Temporary Specimen Collection Centre for compulsory COVID-19 testing and then transferred to the quarantine centre for a 14-day mandatory quarantine. The cost for the chartered flight is approximately HK$6,000 (US$770) per person and is borne by the residents. Details here.

First chartered flight set for Hong Kong residents in Pakistan April 29, 2020 – The first chartered flight, arranged by the Hong Kong SAR Government, will take around 300 Hong Kong residents from Islamabad, Pakistan to Hong Kong in the morning on April 30 (local time). The cost of the chartered flight is borne by the residents. Upon arriving at the Hong Kong International Airport, all passengers will proceed to the Temporary Specimen Collection Centre at AsiaWorld-Expo for compulsory COVID-19 testing. After collecting deep throat saliva samples, the returnees will be transferred to the quarantine center at Chun Yeung Estate for a 14-day compulsory quarantine period. Details here.

No new local COVID-19 cases April 29, 2020 – Hong Kong recorded no new local confirmed COVID-19 cases today, with the total number of confirmed cases staying at 1,037. The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) is currently investigating an overseas confirmed case from the UK. The CHP continues to urge members of the public to maintain an appropriate social distance with other people as far as possible in their daily lives to minimize the risk of infection and to minimize the risk of outbreak clusters emerging in the community. Details here.

Deficit recorded for 2019-2020 financial year April 29, 2020 – The Government recorded a deficit of US$1.3 billion (HK$10.6 billion) for the 2019-2020 financial year. Expenditure for the year ended March 31 was at US$77.9 billion (HK$607.8 billion) and revenue at US$75.7 billion (HK$590.9 billion), resulting in the deficit after receipt of net proceeds of US$1 billion (HK$7.8 billion) from issuance of green bonds under the Government Green Bond Programme and repayment of institutional notes of US$192 million (HK$1.5 billion). Fiscal reserves stood at US$148.7 billion. Details here.

HK’s Exchange Fund at US$524.9 billion April 29, 2020 – Total assets of Hong Kong's Exchange Fund amounted to US$524.9 billion (HK$4,094.6 billion) as at March 31. This is US$10.6 billion (HK$83.2 billion) lower than at the end of February 2020. Foreign currency assets fell by US$14.6 billion (HK$114.5 billion) while Hong Kong dollar assets grew by US$4 billion (HK$31.3 billion). The monetary base was US$215.3 billion (US$1,679.9 billion). Details here.

No new COVID-19 cases for 3 straight days April 28, 2020 – Hong Kong recorded no new confirmed COVID-19 cases for a third consecutive day, with the total number of confirmed cases at 1,037. This also marked the fifth time in 9 days there were no new cases reported. The Centre for Health Protection continued to stress the importance of social distancing and reminded the public to maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene so as to prevent the spread of disease in the community. Details here.

Quarantine exemptions set April 28, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR Government has announced today that the Compulsory Quarantine of Certain Persons Arriving at Hong Kong Regulation will be extended to June 7, 2020, with exemptions for cross-boundary students and those whose business activities are in the interest of Hong Kong’s economic development. The first category include persons who need to enter Hong Kong in receiving or providing nursery, kindergarten, primary, or secondary education in Hong Kong, as well as related personnel and service providers. The other category is persons who have manufacturing operations or business activities, or provide professionals services and their traveling is considered to be in the interest of Hong Kong's economic development. Details here.

Phased resumption of public services April 28, 2020 - With the stabilizing COVID-19 epidemic situation, public services in Hong Kong will resume in phases on May 4, while maintaining a high degree of vigilance and adopting all necessary precautionary measures. Libraries, museums, and outdoor venues of public facilities, such as sports grounds would reopen in phases beginning May 4. The resumption of public services under the first phase will be subject to the continuation of social distancing and precautionary measures and various infection control measures will also continue to be implemented in government buildings and venues such as body temperature checks at entrances and provision of hand sanitizer. Details here.

No new confirmed cases of COVID-19 April 27, 2020 – No new confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been recorded in Hong Kong today. This marked the second consecutive day that Hong Kong has no new confirmed COVID-19 cases. The total number of confirmed cases in the city stands at 1,037. The Centre for Health Protection continues to urged the public to maintain social distancing with other people as far as possible in their daily lives to minimize the risk of infection. A spokesman for the CHP advised the public to cancel non-essential travel outside of Hong Kong during this time as COVID-19 infection remains severe around the world. Details here.

US$14.2 million funding for COVID-19 research April 27, 2020 – A total funding of US$14.2 million (HK$111 million), under the Health and Medical Research Fund approved by the Research Council, was given to the Chinese University of Hong Kong and the University of Hong Kong to conduct 26 medical research studies on COVID-19. The funding will support research programs covering a wide range of topics including development of vaccines and novel antiviral drug candidates, and characteristics, spread, infection and effective therapeutic interventions of SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19). The studies will last from 12 months to 24 months. Details here.

March’s export of goods fell April 27, 2020 – The volume of Hong Kong’s total exports of goods and imports of goods both recorded year-on-year decreases, at 5.8% and 11.1% respectively in March. The value of total exports of goods fell to US$41.4 billion (HK$323.6 billion), after a 4.3% year-on-year increase in February. March's value of imports of goods decreased to US$45.9 billion (HK$358.4 billion), after a year-on-year decrease of 0.1% in February. In the first quarter of 2020, total export volume to the USA fell 27.4% year-on-year. The value of imports from the US to HK also fell 19% in the same period. Details here.

Chartered flights planned for Hong Kong residents April 25, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR Government said it is planning chartered flights to bring back Hong Kong residents stranded in India and Pakistan. The governments of India and Pakistan have banned all international flight movements since late March due to the coronavirus outbreak. As of April 24, the Immigration Department (ImmD) has successfully contacted about 3,200 and 2,000 Hong Kong residents respectively stranded in India and Pakistan. The ImmD will continue to contact the remaining assistance seekers to facilitate follow-up. Hong Kong residents in India and Pakistan who have yet to contact the Assistance to Hong Kong Residents Unit (AHU) but wish to take the chartered flights to depart from India and Pakistan to Hong Kong, should call ImmD's 24-hour hotline (852) 1868 or email to 1868@immd.gov.hk for assistance. Details here.

HK stays alert in fight against COVID-19 April 25, 2020 – Despite the significant drop in the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases recently, the Hong Kong SAR Government remains alert given the volatility of the epidemic, said Chief Executive Carrie Lam. She added that the Government will constantly adjust the "suppress and lift" anti-epidemic measures and strategy according to the actual situation of the epidemic and also continue its effort to keep workers employed, relieve the financial burden of businesses and members of the public, and pave the way for post-epidemic economic recovery. Details here.

All local mask production lines fully allocated April 24, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR Government has approved the remaining seven production lines under the Local Mask Production Subsidy Scheme today. Together with the 13 production lines approved earlier, the quota of 20 production lines has been fully allocated. Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Edward Yau, said this was a significant milestone for the scheme, which opened for applications on March 2. Noting the need for children's masks, he said the Government will designate one production line for children’s masks. The other 19 subsidized production lines will continue to produce masks for adults. It is estimated that when all 20 lines are in full production, they will collectively provide 34.55 million masks and 8.15 million masks each month to the Government and the local market respectively . Details here.

Revised capital rules under Banking Ordinance gazetted April 24, 2020 – Promulgated by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision, the Banking Rules were gazetted today to implement the latest international standards on banking regulations. A Hong Kong SAR Government spokesperson said that the continued implementation of Basel III standard underlines Hong Kong’s commitment to bring the financial hub's regulatory regime in line with the latest international standards. It will further enhance the resilience of banks and contribute to the overall stability of the banking system in Hong Kong. The BCAR 2020 will come into operation on June 30, 2021. Details here.

March inflation up 2.3% April 23, 2020 – Overall consumer prices rose 2.3% year-on-year in March, compared to the average increase of 1.8% in January and February. Netting out the effects of all Government’s one-off relief measures, the underlying inflation rate in March was 2.6%, lower than that of the average of 3.1% in January and February. The month saw year-on-year increases for food (excluding meals bought away from home), miscellaneous goods, housing, meals bought away from home, transport and miscellaneous services. Year-on-year decreases were recorded for electricity, gas and water, clothing and footwear, durable goods, as well as alcoholic drinks and tobacco. Details here.

US Dollar liquidity facility set at US$10 billion April 22, 2020 – In light of the volatilities and uncertainties in the global financial markets brought by the COVID-19 outbreak, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) announced today the launch of a temporary US Dollar Liquidity Facility to help alleviate tightness in the global US dollar interbank money markets. A total of US$10 billion is currently available at the Facility. Beginning May 6, 2020, the HKMA will conduct a tender every week with a minimum of US$100 million per valid bid and an integral multiple of US$100 million. Details here.

New principal officials appointed April 22, 2020 – The State Council, on the recommendation by the Chief Executive, Mrs Carrie Lam, approved today the appointment of five Principal Officials. They are Secretary for the Civil Service Patrick Nip, Secretary for Home Affairs Caspar Tsui, Secretary for Constitutional & Mainland Affairs Erick Tsang, Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Christopher Hui and Secretary for Innovation & Technology Alfred Sit. Expressing confidence that they would lead their respective policy bureaux to rise to the challenges in serving the community, the Chief Executive said with her new political team, she hopes to start immediately planning for Hong Kong’s economic recovery, especially in such sectors as financial services, innovation and technology, professional services and the creative industries and the many opportunities that will be available to Hong Kong under the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. Details here.

Social distancing measures updated April 21, 2020 – With the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Hong Kong stabilizing, the Secretary for Food and Health will suspend the requirement for the number of customers in catering business premises to be below 50% of the normal seating capacity of the premises. However, tables must be kept 5-feet (1.5 meters) apart or separated by partitions. To safeguard against any sudden turn in the COVID-19 situation, all other implemented requirements regarding catering business, scheduled premises and prohibition of group gathering will be extended for 14 days, effective till May 7, 2020. Leisure and sports venues, along with other establishments such as bars, pubs, beauty salons, karaoke bars and fitness centers would remain closed until then. Details here.

HK$1,550 million spent to buy US dollars April 21, 2020 – The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) sold HK1,550 million (US$198.7 million) to the market in exchange for US dollars. This is the first triggering of the strong-side CU since October 2015. The strong-side Covertibility Undertaking of HK$7.75 to US$1 was triggered during Hong Kong trading hours. The Chief Executive of the HKMA, Mr Eddie Yue said the move was conducted in accordance with the Linked Exchange Rate System's design, which has been operating effectively. He added that the HKMA will continue to closely monitor the market situation and ensure Hong Kong's money and foreign exchange markets operate smoothly. Details here.

Financial institutional strength and core competitiveness remain strong April 20, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR Government expressed disappointment with Fitch’s latest credit assessment, changing Hong Kong’s credit rating to “AA-” from “AA”. Fitch also adjusted the credit outlook to “stable” from “negative”. A Government spokesman said the decision “reflects a disproportionate emphasis on prevailing socio-political issues without giving due recognition to the strong fundamentals underpinning the local economy and financial market.” While the COVID-19 pandemic had dealt an unprecedented and severe blow to the global economy, the impact on Hong Kong was no more significant than on other places. Massive relief measures of US$36.8 billion have been rolled out to preserve the vitality of the economy and to help businesses and people endure the current hardship. Despite the unprecedented challenges, Hong Kong’s institutional strengths and core competitiveness are unscathed and the city’s financial markets and banking system are functioning normally. Details here.

New testing arrangements for asymptomatic visitors April 20, 2020 – Starting April 22, all asymptomatic inbound travelers arriving at the Hong Kong International Airport must wait for their COVID-19 test results at a designated location before being allowed to leave for a 14-day compulsory quarantine. Passengers arriving by flights in the early or late morning will stay at the Temporary Specimen Collection Centre at AsiaWorld-Expo to wait for same-day results, while passengers arriving in the afternoon or at night will be taken to a nearby hotel to wait for test results. Details here.

Unemployment rate at 4.2% April 20, 2020 – The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased to 4.2% (January – March 2020) from 3.7% (December 2019 – February 2020). The underemployment rate also increased to 2.1% (January – March 2020) compared to the previous three-months period. Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Dr Law Chi-kwong said, the labor market showed further sharp deterioration as the COVID-19 pandemic severely disrupted a wide range of economic activities, with the labor market continuing to face significant pressure. He is hopeful that the relief measures by the Government will preserve the vitality of the economy and relieve people’s financial burdens. Details here.

Prosecutorial independence assured April 19, 2020 – A Government spokesman reiterated that the Department of Justice has always been “discharging the constitutional duty independently and professionally, without fear or favor”. All prosecutorial decisions are based on admissible evidence, applicable laws and the Prosecution Code, without political consideration. Cases will not be handled any differently owing to the political beliefs or background of the persons involved. Details here.

Anti-epidemic funding welcomed April 18, 2020 – Hong Kong’s Chief Executive, Mrs Carrie Lam, welcomed the passage of the funding application for the second round of the Anti-epidemic Fund and other relief measures by the Legislative Council Finance Committee. She expressed her heartfelt thanks to the Committee for passing the funding application worth US$17.6 billion (HK$137.5 billion) to achieve the goal of safeguarding jobs and supporting enterprises under the influence of COVID-19. Details here.

Enhanced commitment to Special 100% Loan Guarantee April 18, 2020 – The total guarantee commitment of the Special 100% Loan Guarantee under the SME Financing Guarantee Scheme has been increased to US$6.41 billion (HK$50 billion), announced by HKMC Insurance Limited (Apr 18). The maximum loan amount per enterprise has been increased to US$512,820 (HK$4 million) and the principal moratorium arrangement has been extended to the first 12 months. The Special 100% Loan Guarantee will accept applications starting April 20, for one year. Details here.

Banks to ease cashflow pressure April 17, 2020 - Hong Kong's banking sector launched a scheme to alleviate the cashflow pressure faced by corporate customers in light of the economic challenges brought about by the COVID-19 outbreak. The Pre-approved Principal Payment Holiday Scheme, jointly announced by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority and the Banking Sector SME Lending Coordination Mechanism, is estimated to cover more than 80% of all corporate borrowers in Hong Kong. All corporate customers that have an annual sales turnover of US$102.5 million (HK$800 million) or less, with no outstanding loan payments overdue for more than 30 days are eligible for the Scheme. Eligible customers’ loan principal payments due within a six-month period between May 1 and October 31 this year will be pre-approved for deferment. The scheme does not cover syndicated loans or loans used for financing purchases of shares or other financial assets. Details here.

More local mask production lines approved April 17, 2020 – Five additional local mask production lines have been approved under the Local Mask Production Subsidy Scheme. Each production line is expected to supply an average of 550,000 to 2 million masks every month. To date, a total of 13 production lines have been approved under the Scheme. This is an effort by the Hong Kong SAR Government to facilitate local production of masks to help address the shortage as well as to build up stock. Details here.

Exchange Fund's foreign assets at US$458.2 billion Apr 15, 2020 – Foreign assets that represent the external assets of Hong Kong's Exchange Fund was at US$458.2 billion (HK$3,574 billion), a US$10 billion (HK$78.7 billion) decrease from the previous month. The monetary base amounted to US$215.3 billion (US$1,679.9 billion). Claims on the private sector in Hong Kong was at US$29.7 billion (HK$231.7 billion). Details here.

Support for enterprises strengthened April 9, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR Government is further strengthening support for enterprises facing operational difficulties by rolling out enhancement measures within this month to the Dedicated Fund on Branding, Upgrading and Domestic Sales, and the SME Export Marketing Fund. Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Edward Yau said the COVID-19 outbreak, together with the US-China trade conflict since 2018 and the social incidents in the latter half of 2019, poses unprecedented challenges to the business environment. "We consider it necessary to introduce further support measures to tide enterprises over this difficult time and get well prepared for long-term economic development," he said. Details here.

New enhanced measures for exporters April 9, 2020 – The Hong Kong Export Credit Insurance Corporation (HKECIC) is implementing a new round of enhanced measures to support Hong Kong exporters, in particular SMEs, in view of the COVID-19 outbreak, which has disrupted the supply chain and business activities, putting high pressure on the already difficult operating environment.These new measures, which will benefit about 2,600 policy holders, will help to reduce risks and alleviate financial burden. It will be effective for one year until 31 March 2021. Details here.

Tax payment deadline extended by three months April 9, 2020 – To ease the financial burden and cash flow of businesses and individuals arising from COVID-19, the Chief Executive announced (April 8) that salaries tax, personal assessment and profits tax demand notes that are due in April to June this year for the year of 2018/19 will be extended automatically by three months. Details here.

Suspension of Speedpost to the US; Only surface mail available April 9, 2020 – Starting from April 14, Hongkong Post will suspend Speedpost services to the United States due to substantial reduction in flight frequencies by airlines and thus inability to provide air traffic capacity to cope with the huge volume of Speedpost items conveyed to the US. In lieu of that, the public may consider using surface mail for posting items to the US. The estimated journey time for surface mail to the US would take about 31 days. Details here.

HKMA to increase Hong Kong Dollar liquidity April 9, 2020 – To increase the overall Hong Kong dollar liquidity in the interbank market, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) announced plans to reduce the issue size of 91-day Exchange Fund Bills by USD$2.56 billion (HK$20 billion) in total, across four regular tenders in April and May. Notwithstanding the plan, the HKMA will monitor market situations and the effect of each reduction, and reserves the flexibility of not executing all the four reductions as needed. Details here.

Relief package unveiled Apr 8, 2020 – Hong Kong’s Chief Executive, Mrs Carrie Lam, announced today a US$17.7 billion (HK$137.5 billion) of supportive measures to help businesses stay afloat, keep workers in employment, relieve financial burdens of individuals and businesses and revive the economy once the epidemic is contained. The measures include a US$10.2 billion (HK$80 billion) Employment Support Scheme for eligible employers to provide wage subsidies, and US$2.69 billion (HK$21 billion) fund to support specific sectors. The Government will also enhance the SME Financing Guarantee Scheme and help the MTR Corporate provide a 20% fare discount. Together with the US$3.84 billion (HK$30 billion) under the first round of the Anti-epidemic Fund and the US$15.38 billion (HK$120 billion) in Budget measures, the total fiscal implication is US$36.86 billion (HK$287.5 billion), representing 10 per cent of Gross Domestic Product. "With Hong Kong's fundamental strengths and our people's resilience, we are confident that our city can ride out this storm and Hong Kong can be relaunched," Mrs Lam said. Details here.

Social distancing measures extended Apr 8, 2020 – To curb local transmission of COVID-19, the Hong Kong SAR Government will extend measures regulating catering business premises, scheduled premises and prohibiting group gatherings to April 23. Effective for 14 days from April 10 to 23, new directions include requirements imposed on all catering businesses such as restricting the number of customers, closures of beauty parlors and massage establishments in addition to entertaining and amusement premises. In addition, requirements imposed on all club-houses and prohibition of group gatherings of more than four people in public spaces will also remain in force until April 23. Details here.

Hong Kong residents to depart Morocco on chartered flight Apr 8, 2020 – A total of 27 Hong Kong residents will return to the city on board the chartered flight, arranged by the Chinese Embassy in Morocco. The chartered flight is scheduled to depart from Casablanca on April 9 and arrive in Guangzhou on 10. The cost of the flight will be borne by the passengers. At present, Hong Kong residents in Morocco cannot depart through normal flight arrangement as the country has declared a national emergency and imposed strict restrictions on all marine, land and air traffic. Upon arrival in Guangzhou by noon of April 10, all air passengers are required to undergo local 14-day isolation for medical surveillance as required under the health management on the Mainland. Details here.

Enhanced health measures on inbound travelers Apr 7, 2020 – All asymptomatic inbound travelers arriving at the Hong Kong International Airport from April 8 onwards will be mandated to undergo COVID-19 testing. Deep throat saliva samples will be collected at the Department of Health's Temporary Specimen Collection Centre at the AsiaWorld-Expo before these travellers will be allowed to go home for mandatory quarantine. People arriving from the UK will be required to stay at the test center until their test results come back. If a sample tests positive, arrangement will be made for the person to be admitted to hospital for treatment while the close contacts who travelled with them will be sent to designated quarantine centers. Details here.

Foreign currency reserve at US$437.5 billion Apr 7, 2020 – Total assets of Hong Kong foreign current reserve amounted to US$437.5 billion, as of March 31, 2020, according to the Hong Kong Monetary Authority. This represents over six times the currency in circulation or about 45 percent of Hong Kong dollar M3. Details here.

Entry restriction on non-Hong Kong residents extended April 6, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR Government will extend, until further notice, the entry restriction on non-Hong Kong residents coming from overseas countries and those having been to overseas countries or regions in the past 14 days prior to arrival at Hong Kong. In addition, all transit services at the Hong Kong International Airport will also continue to be suspended for the time being. Details here.

Hong Kong people in Peru returned safely April 5, 2020 – A total of 65 Hong Kong residents stranded in Peru returned to Hong Kong safely via chartered flights arranged by the Hong Kong SAR Government. All people who were on the chartered flights underwent COVID-19 testing and are now waiting for results. If tested negative, they will return home to complete a mandatory 14-day quarantine. Details here.

HKMA and banking sector extend support for SMEs Apr 3, 2020 – The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) and the banking sector introduced several new initiatives to alleviate cash-flow pressure for the city's SMEs affected by the coronavirus outbreak. The new measures, which include obtaining US dollars through the US Fed's repo facility, aim to increase liquidity in the banking sector to support local economic activities. Details here.

Hong Kong residents to depart Peru on chartered flight Apr 3, 2020 – A chartered flight, arranged by the Hong Kong SAR Government, will take Hong Kong residents from Lima, Peru to London on April 3 afternoon (local time). These residents will then take a connecting flight back to Hong Kong. The cost will be borne by the residents. Upon arrival in Hong Kong on April 5, all passengers will proceed to the Centre for Health Protection’s testing center for mandatory COVID-19 testing and thereafter a 14-day compulsory home quarantine. Details here.

Bars and pubs to close for two weeks Apr 2, 2020 – With the emergence of COVID-19 cases related to bars and bands cluster and further spread of cases to people who had not visited the bars, the Hong Kong SAR Government is ordering the closure of bars and pubs, club-house, and catering premises that sell or supply intoxicating liquors for on-site consumption, for a period of 14 days starting from 6pm on April 3, 2020. This is to further enhance social distancing and curb social activities in the effort to prevent the further spread of the virus in the community. Details here.

Door-to-door specimen collection service available Apr 2, 2020 – Inbound travellers who are under the COVID-19 surveillance program can make use of a door-to-door specimen collection service beginning April 3 to submit their deep throat saliva specimen to the Department of Health (DH) for coronavirus testing. Under the Enhanced Laboratory Surveillance Programme for COVID-19 testing, DH is providing free COVID-19 testing service for asymptomatic inbound travellers from overseas. The Cyberport Startup Alumni Association, with two of its member companies, GoGoTech (“GOGOVAN”) and HK PICK-UP (“Pikcupp”), can provide this door-to-door service at a cost of US$12.8. Details here.

Business restrictions gazetted April 1, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR Government has gazetted the Prevention and Control of Disease (Business and Premises) Regulation today, empowering the Secretary for Food and Health, to issue directions, for public health reasons, to restrict the mode of operation, operating hours, or require the closure of beauty parlors, clubhouses, nightclubs as well as premises for karaoke, mahjong tin-kau and massage establishments. The Secretary issued directions today for the closures of karaoke, mahjong-tin kau establishments, and clubs as well as the suspension of karaoke and mahjong tink-kau activities in catering premises and clubhouses, through April 15. This is part of measures to further enhance social distancing and protect public health. Details here.

Flight set for Hong Kong people in Peru March 31, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government said it will charter a flight to assist Hong Kong residents stranded in Peru to leave the country smoothly. The cost of the flight will be borne by the passengers. At present, Hong Kong residents currently in Peru cannot leave through normal flight arrangements as the country has declared a state of emergency and imposed strict restrictions on all land and air traffic. The government will arrange a chartered flight from Lima to London on April 3, followed by a connecting flight with secured flight bookings back to Hong Kong. Hong Kong residents in Peru who have yet to contact the Assistance to Hong Kong residents Unit but wish to take the chartered flight out of Peru to London and then return to Hong Kong should call the department's 24-hour hotline (852) 1868 or email 1868@immd.gov.hk for assistance by March 31, Peru time. Details here.

Deficit recorded for April 2019 – February 2020 March 31, 2020 – The Government recorded a deficit of US$756 million in the month of February. Expenditure for the 11-month period was at US$68.6 billion and revenue at US$70.2 billion, resulting in the cumulative year-to-date surplus at US$2.4 billion after receipt of net proceeds of US$1 billion from issuance of green bonds under the Government Green Bond Programme and repayment of institutional notes of US$192 million. Fiscal reserves stood at US$152.5 billion. Details here.

February retail sales dropped 44% March 31, 2020 – The value of total retail sales in February, provisionally estimated at US$2.9 billion, fell 44% year-on-year. After netting out the effect of price changes in the same period, the volume of total retail sales decreased by 46.7% year-on-year. Retail sales plunged sharply and showed the largest year-on-year decline for a single month on record, reflecting the heavy blow to tourism and consumption-related activities affected by COVID-19. Details here.

Exchange fund at US$535.6 billion March 31, 2020 – Total assets of the Exchange Fund was at US$535.6 billion as at Feb 29, 2020. This is US$2 billion lower than the previous month. Hong Kong dollar assets decreased by US$4.2 billion while foreign currency assets increased by US$2.1 billion. Details here.

Free trade agreement and investment agreement between HK and the Philippines launched March 31, 2020 – The Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and Investment Agreement (IA), signed between Hong Kong and the Philippines in March this year, will take effect on May 12. Under the FTA, Hong Kong service providers will enjoy better business opportunities and legal certainty in market access for a comprehensive range of service sectors in the Philippines. The IA will provide Hong Kong enterprises with fair and equitable treatment as well as free transfer of investments and returns. With the latest agreement with the Philippines, a total of seven ASEAN member states are now under FTA and IA with Hong Kong. Details here.

New measures to curb COVID-19 March 27, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR Government announced new regulations to combat the spread of COVID-19. These measures, aimed at enforcing social distancing, include a ban on gatherings of more than four people in a public place, and the closure of all entertaining and amusement premises. Speaking at a press conference, Chief Executive Carrie Lam said there will be exemptions for the four-person limit regulation such as in the workplace and at weddings. This regulation will come into effect for 14 days from March 29. Under a second regulation, restaurants are required only to serve half their capacity of customers and venues such as cinemas, fitness centers, and amusement game centers will close for two weeks, beginning March 28. All country park barbecue sites and campsites managed by the government will also be closed starting from March 28 through April 11. Details here.

Addition local mask production lines approved March 27, 2020 – Six additional local mask production lines are now approved under the Local Mask Production Subsidy Scheme. Each line is expected to supply an average of between one to two million masks from April onwards. Together with the two production lines approved last week, a total of eight production lines have been approved under the scheme. This is one of the Hong Kong SAR Government’s initiatives under the Anti-epidemic Fund to help address the shortage of masks due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Details here.

Postal services to US adjusted March 27, 2020 – Due to substantial reduction in flight frequencies or even cancellation of flights, the time needed for handing in posted items to airlines is subject to considerable delays of more than two weeks, according to Hongkong Post. All airmail delivery services, including Speedpost, to the United States are subject to delays. Details here.

Hong Kong people in Hubei returned safely March 26, 2020 – A total of 558 Hong Kong residents stranded in Hubei Province returned safely to Hong Kong via four chartered flights arranged by the Hong Kong SAR Government on March 25 and 26. All people who were taking the chartered flights back to Hong Kong have undergone health assessment. Upon arrival in Hong Kong, all passengers were required to undergo temperature checks and began 14 days of compulsory home quarantine. Details here.

February's exports up 4.3% March 26, 2020 – The value of Hong Kong's total exports rose to US$30.5 billion (HK$238.6 billion), up 4.3% year-on-year. The value of imports of goods dipped 0.1% to US$35.5 billion (HK$277.1 billion) for the same period. Taking the first two months of 2020 together, the value of total exports of goods decreased by 12% year-on-year, reflecting the serious disruptions to regional trading and production activities caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The value of imports of goods fell 9.3%, with a visible trade deficit of US$8.8 billion (HK$69.1 billion) recorded in the first two months of the year. During the first two months of 2020, total exports to the USA fell 26.4% year-on-year while the value of imports from the USA decreased by 11.7% compared to the same period last year. Details here.

Suspension of poultry products from South Carolina March 26, 2020 – Due to the outbreak of low pathogenic H7N3 avian influenza in the Chesterfield County in South Carolina in the United States, Hong Kong’s Centre for Food Safety has suspended the import of poultry meat and products, including poultry eggs, from the aforementioned area with immediate effect to protect public health in Hong Kong. Hong Kong imported about 690 tonnes of chilled poultry meat, 257,970 tonnes of frozen poultry meat and 642 million poultry eggs from the US last year. Details here.

Second batch of flights for Hong Kong residents stranded in Hubei March 25, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR Government has dispatched the second batch of chartered flights to bring back 281 Hong Kong residents stranded in Hubei Province. All are people who have urgent needs to return to Hong Kong, including people suffering from serious illnesses, children who are sick, and students who are taking the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education examination. All passengers on the chartered flights had completed health assessment by DH staff before and after arrival. Upon landing, they will undergo a 14-day quarantine period. The Hong Kong SAR team will depart for Wuhan March 26 morning to bring back another batch of some 280 people to Hong Kong. Details here.

Free COVID-19 testing available for inbound travelers from the US March 25, 2020 – The Centre for Health Protection has extended free testing for COVID-19 to asymptomatic inbound travellers arriving from the United States, beginning March 25 afternoon. In light of the increasing demand for COVID-19 testing for inbound travelers from overseas, the Department of Health will set up a temporary specimen collection center at the AsiaWorld-Expo, starting March 26, to speed up the collection of test specimen and to help ease difficulties for the submission of specimen. This temporary specimen collection center will operate daily from 7:30am to 11pm. Details here.

Enhanced support for person under quarantine March 25, 2020 – The Office of the Government Chief Information Officer announced that more manpower has been deployed to support the existing telephone hotline "StayHomeSafe" mobile app for people under compulsory quarantine. Apart from that, a new Email and SMS channels were also set up to provide further assistance. Details here.

Quarantine regulation gazetted March 24, 2020 – The quarantine regulation to extend the compulsory 14-days quarantine arrangements for all inbound travelers, including those arriving from or having stayed in Macao and Taiwan in the past 14 days prior to arrival, was gazetted today. The Compulsory Quarantine of Certain Persons Arriving at Hong Kong (Amendment) Regulation will begin at midnight March 25 and will be effective till midnight of May 7. It is a further measure to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 in Hong Kong. Along with the Compulsory Quarantine of Persons Arriving at Hong Kong from Foreign Places Regulation that came into effect on March 19, the regulation stipulates that all inbound travelers would be subject to compulsory quarantine, unless exempted. Details here.

New Chief Justice of the Court of Final Appeal appointed March 24, 2020 – Andrew Cheung has been appointed as Hong Kong's next Chief Justice of the Court of Final Appeal. He will take up the position on January 11, 2021, succeeding Mr Geoffrey Ma. Congratulating Mr Cheung on the impending appointment, Chief Executive Carrie Lam said he is a person of high integrity and commands strong respect both within the Judiciary and from the legal profession. "As Chief Judge of the High Court for over seven years, he possesses strong administrative experience in the operation of the Judiciary," said Mrs Lam. The Chief Executive reiterated that the rule of law is the cornerstone of Hong Kong's stability and prosperity. "An independent Judiciary plays a pivotal and indispensable role in upholding the rule of law and in ensuring the fair administration of justice; these are well recognized strengths of Hong Kong's judicial system. Throughout the years, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government has been rendering all necessary support to the Judiciary in sustaining effective judicial administration," she said, adding that the Government will continue to provide the same support to Mr Cheung and members of the judiciary. Details here.

Hong Kong bans non-residents March 23, 2020 – In light of the spike in imported COVID-19 cases in Hong Kong, the Government will deny entry to non-Hong Kong residents coming from overseas countries for 14 days, effective midnight on March 25. All travelers from mainland China, Macau and Taiwan will be barred from entry if they have visited a foreign country in the past 14 days. This is part of the effort to stop the surge of coronavirus infections in the city. Details here.

Businesses barred from selling alcohol March 23, 2020 – Amid rising concerns over the increasing COVID-19 cases in the community, the Government is planning to temporarily suspend the sale of alcohol at around 8,600 restaurants, bars, and clubs with liquor licenses in the city. Supermarkets and alcohol retailers are not covered in the ban. This would reduce social contacts and gathering and further reinforce the efforts by Hong Kong people to maintain social distancing as much as possible as part of the anti-epidemic work. Details here.

February inflation grew 2.2% March 23, 2020 – Overall consumer prices rose 2.2% year-on-year in February, compared to 1.4% in January. Netting out the effects of the Government’s one-off relief measures, the underlying inflation rate was 2.5%, lower than 3.7% in January. The month saw year-on-year price increases for food, miscellaneous goods, housing, meals bought away from home, transport, alcoholic drinks, and tobacco. Year-on-year price decreases were recorded in February for electricity, gas and water, clothing and footwear, durable goods, and miscellaneous services. Details here.

Enhanced health measures introduced March 22, 2020 – In response to the intensifying situation of the COVID-19 infection from imported cases from abroad, the Government is implementing a series of measures for disease control. They include strengthening the testing program for people returning to Hong Kong and disease prevention at residential care homes for the elderly. People returning to Hong Kong are expected to strictly abide by the compulsory quarantine regulations. Anyone contravening the order will be prosecuted immediately. To protect students’ health, the start date of the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education examination will be deferred to April 24. Public services will also be limited to provide essential and emergency use only. Some public facilities that reopened will be temporarily closed again. Details here.

Cathay Pacific to reduce flights to US in April and May March 20, 2020 - Cathay Pacific and Cathay Dragon will reduce capacity by 96% across its passenger network in April and May in light of the severe drop in demand due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and multiple government travel restrictions that form part of the global health response plan. The airlines intend to operate a bare skeleton passenger flight schedule in April and May, while keeping the freighter capacity intact. In North America, Cathay Pacific will operate three flights per week to Los Angeles and Vancouver only. Cathay Pacific and Cathay Dragon are waiving rebooking, rerouting and cancellation fees. Details here.

"StayHomeSafe" quarantine mobile app activated March 20, 2020 – SMS messages to activate the “StayHomeSafe” mobile app have already been sent out to inbound travelers arriving at Hong Kong International Airport. This is a new monitoring method, combining the existing electronic wristbands with the mobile app, with the aim to better support the compulsory quarantine measures. Details here.

Proposed installation of Hong Kong-Americas submarine optical fiber cable gazetted March 20, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR Government has proposed to install a submarine optical fiber cable, part of the new Hong Kong Americas submarine cable network, from Chung Hom Kok to the eastern boundary of the HKSAR. This new trans-Pacific optical fiber communications system will connect Hong Kong and the United States and further increase the bandwidth between the two places, thus strengthening Hong Kong as the key communication hub in the Asia-Pacific region. The construction is planned to begin in the second quarter of this year and be completed in the third quarter. Details here.

Local mask production lines approved March 20, 2020 – Two local masks production lines are now approved under the Local Mask Production Subsidy Scheme. Topwill Passion Limited is expected to supply an average of 2 million masks to the Government every month beginning Apr 20 while Shang Manufactory is planning to supply an average of 800,000 masks to the Government every month starting May 5. This is part of the Hong Kong SAR Government's scheme under the Anti-epidemic Fund to facilitate local production of mask so as to alleviate shortage and build up stock. Details here.

New loan plan for SMEs March 20, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR Government welcomes the approval of a new loan guarantee commitment of US$2.56 billion (HK$20 billion) that will help provide timely assistance to enterprises affected by the COVID-19 outbreak. Under a new Special 100 percent Guarantee Product, the Government will provide a 100 percent guarantee for approved loans taken out by eligible enterprises. This greatly enhances the chances for enterprises in securing loans. The product is set to launch within April. Details here

Free COVID-19 testing service extended; Temporary testing centers set up March 19, 2020 – In light of the increasing volume of inbound travellers arriving at Hong Kong, the Centre for Health Protection has extended the free testing service for COVID-19 to cover asymptomatic inbound travellers under the compulsory quarantine regulation. The measure aims to identify cases of COVID-19 early to minimize the risk of community transmission. Anticipating a large number of inbound travellers suspected to be infected with COVID-19, the Hospital Authorities is setting up test centers at the Asia World-Expo and the North Lantau Hospital. People arriving Hong Kong, via Hong Kong International Airport, with upper respiratory symptoms will be sent to the two test centers for the viral test and to wait for the laboratory results. Both test centers have designated waiting areas and individual waiting places. Internet access and charging facilities will be provided. The waiting area facilities and arrangements are in compliance with infection control standards. Details here.

January's exports of goods fell March 19, 2020 – The volume of Hong Kong’s total exports of goods and imports of goods decreased by 22.9% and 16.8%, respectively, compared with January 2019. Total export volume to the USA in January 2020 fell 32.2% year-on-year. The total export prices to the USA dipped by 0.1% in the same comparison period. Details here.

Compulsory quarantine law gazetted March 18, 2020 – To combat the COVID-19 global outbreak, the Hong Kong SAR Government passed the Compulsory Quarantine of Persons Arriving at Hong Kong from Foreign Places Regulation (Cap. 599E) on March 18, to impose compulsory quarantine orders on all persons arriving from all places outside China, starting midnight on March 19. Under the regulation, all people, regardless of nationality and travel documents used, will be subject to compulsory quarantine for 14 days. Details here.

Hong Kong enjoys press freedom March 18, 2020 - Hong Kong enjoys press freedom and the Government has been facilitating media organizations and journalists from other countries to cover news in the city. The Government said Hong Kong has always adopted a pragmatic and open policy on the employment of professionals in Hong Kong, allowing those possessing special skills, knowledge or experience of value to and not readily available locally to work in Hong Kong, including journalistic work. It made the remarks in response to media enquiries relating to a Ministry of Foreign Affairs statement, “China Takes Countermeasures Against Restrictive Measures on Chinese Media Agencies in the US”, setting out the ministry's position on the acts of the US side and the countermeasures adopted to reciprocate. Details here.

Postal services to US subject to delay March 18, 2020 – Hongkong Post announced that air mail to the United States may be subject to delays of more than one week due to the substantial reduction in flight frequencies. Details here.

Suspension of poultry products from North Carolina March 18, 2020 – Due to the outbreaks of low pathogenic H7N3 avian influenza in the Union County and Anson County in the State of North Carolina, United States, Hong Kong's Centre for Food Safety has suspended the import of poultry meat and products, including poultry eggs, from the aforementioned areas with immediate effect. Details here.

Travel Alert on all overseas countries issued; Quarantine measures for all inbound travelers March 17, 2020 – The Hong Kong SAR Government has issued the Red Outbound Travel Alert on all overseas countries/ territories in view of the continuing and rapid growth in the number of COVID-19 cases globally. From March 19 onwards, the Department of Health will issue compulsory quarantine orders to people arriving in Hong Kong who have been to any overseas countries in the past 14 days, regardless of whether they are Hong Kong residents. As the risk in all overseas countries is currently high, members of the public are strongly advised to adjust travel plans and avoid any non-essential travel outside Hong Kong. Details here.

World's second freest economy March 17, 2020 – Hong Kong ranked second in the 2020 Index of Economic Freedom, with an overall score of 89.1 and high scores of 90 or above in seven out of twelve components adopted for measuring economic freedom. A Government spokesperson expressed disappointment as the city dropped to the second position, after attaining the world’s freest economy title in the past 25 years. Despite challenges from social unrest and turbulences in the past year, the Government stressed that Hong Kong’s institutional strengths are unscathed and its underlying fundamentals remain strong and robust. Details here.

Unemployment rate at 3.7% March 17, 2020 – The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased to 3.7% (December 2019 – February 2020) from 3.4% (November 2019 – January 2020). The underemployment rate also increased to 1.5% (December 2019 – February 2020) as compared to 1.2% in the previous three-months period. Secretary for Labor and Welfare, Dr. Law Chi-kwong said, the deterioration in the labor market could be attributed to the COVID-19 epidemic as it disrupted a wide range of economic activities and dampened economic sentiment. The situation in food and beverage service activities was particularly severe, with the unemployment rate and underemployment rate soaring to 7.5% and 3.5% respectively. Dr. Law expected the labor market to face even greater pressure in the near future as the pandemic will take a toll around the world. Details here.

Multi-tech approach to support home quarantine March 16, 2020 –The Hong Kong SAR Government is adopting a multi-tech approach in home quarantine support. In addition to the use of electronic wristbands developed by the Logistics and Supply Chain MultiTech R&D Centre, other technology solutions are also being introduced to complement the current monitoring system and enhance its effectiveness in dealing with the evolving epidemic. This include a mobile app, by local start-up Compathnion Technology, that help analyze the change in communication signals with AI and big data to confirm that people under quarantine are staying at home. Details here.

HKMA’s response to US Fed’s rate cut March 16, 2020 - The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) adjusted downward the Base Rate to 0.86 after the US Federal Reserve announced its adjustment for the target range of US federal funds rate by 100 basis points to 0-0.25 percent. The Chief Executive of the HKMA, Mr Eddie Yue, said HK’s market has continued to operate in an orderly manner, with the Hong Kong dollar exchange and interest rates remaining stable. "Our banking system remained robust with strong capitals and liquidity buffers," said Mr Yue. "The HKMA will continue to remain vigilant and closely monitor the markets in collaboration with other regulators. We will also maintain currency stability in Hong Kong in accordance with the Linked Exchange Rate System." Details here.

Second batch of chartered flights for Hong Kong people in Hubei March 16, 2020 – A second batch of chartered flights to bring back around 700 Hong Kong residents from Xiaogan, Xianning, Huangshi, and Wuhan in Hubei Province to Hong Kong. The cost will be covered by the Hong Kong SAR Government and the Wuhan ETO will be responsible for transporting these people to the Wuhan airport. The people who take the chartered flights must be Hong Kong residents and health screenings will be conducted before boarding. Those with fever, abnormal vital signs, respiratory tract symptoms or other signs of infectious diseases will not be allowed to board the plane. Details here.

Launch of Retail Sector Subsidy Scheme March 16, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government has earmarked US$717 million (HK$5.6 billion) to aid retailers facing financial difficulties during this challenging time. The Retail Sector Subsidy Scheme, to be launched on March 23, is expected to benefit some 70,000 retailers. Each eligible retail stores will receive a one-off subsidy of US$10,256 (HK$80,000), with the first tranche of payment expected to be made in April. Some 70,000 retailers are expected to beneift from this program. Details here.

Travel alert issued for US, UK and Ireland; Quarantine measures for travellers from these countries March 15, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government has issued the Red Outbound Travel Alert for the United States, the United Kingdom and Ireland due to the persistent and rapid increase in the number of COVID-19 cases there. Beginning March 19, a 14-day quarantine period on all arrivals from the three countries will be imposed in an effort to stop the number of imported COVID-19 infections. For those who are already in the countries, they should heed the announcements of local authorities, always wear surgical masks and avoid visiting healthcare facilities and crowded places. Hong Kong residents are encouraged to use the online Registration of Outbound Travel Information service (www.gov.hk/roti) to register their contact details and itinerary when outside Hong Kong. Details here.

Airmail services to the United States are subject to delay March 13, 2020 - Hong Kong Post announced that the city's airmail services are affected due to flight adjustments. Airmail services, including Speedpost, to the United States are subject to delay. Details here.

Government responds to US report March 12, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government reiterated that Hong Kong has been exercising "Hong Kong people administering Hong Kong' and a high degree of autonomy in strict accordance with the Basic Law, since its return to the Motherland. In a statement in response to comments about the Hong Kong SAR in the US Department of State's 2019 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices, a spokesman said safeguarding human rights and freedoms is the constitutional duty of the Government, which is firmly committed to upholding human rights and various freedoms in Hong Kong. He refuted any alleged "political prosecutions" and stressed that judicial independence is upheld in Hong Kong. Details here.

Hong Kong's commitment to rule of law reaffirmed March 11, 2020 - The Rule of Law Index 2020, released by the World Justice Project, reaffirmed Hong Kong's commitment to the rule of law. According to the Index, Hong Kong maintains its No. 5 ranking in the East Asia and Pacific region and No. 16 globally. Hong Kong improved its ranking in four categories: "Absence of Corruption", "Civil Justice", "Criminal Justice", and "Order and Security". The Government reiterated that Hong Kong's solid foundation of rule of law remains strong and the fundamental rights are well protected by the Basic Law. Details here.

Red Travel Alert issued; anti-epidemic measures strengthened March 10. 2020 - Taking into consideration the health risks arising from the COVID-19, the Hong Kong SAR Government issued a Red Outbound Travel Alert on the whole of Italy, France (Bourgogne-Franche-Comte and Grand Est), Germany (North Rhine-Westphalia), Japan (Hokkaido) and Spain (La Rioja, Madrid and Pais Vasco). Starting March 14, the Department of Health will issue quarantine orders to all people arriving in Hong Kong who have been to the aforementioned regions in the past 14 days. They will be staying in a quarantine centre. Under the red alert, the Government urges members of the public planning to travel to the aforementioned regions to adjust travel plans. In general, the public is advised to consider delaying all non-essential travel outside Hong Kong. Details here.

2019 port statistics released March 10, 2020 - Hong Kong's total port cargo throughput increased by 4.2% year-on-year to 67.8 million tonnes in the fourth quarter of 2019. Total port cargo throughput for 2019 grew by 1.8% year-on-year to 263.3 million tonnes. In the fourth quarter of 2019, the port of Hong Kong handled 4.59 million TEUs of containers, representing a 7.5% year-on-year decrease. For 2019 as a whole, the port of Hong Kong handled 18.3 million TEUs of containers, a 6.6% decrease compared with the previous year. Details here.

Smart ID card renewal and replacement exercise continues March 9, 2020 - The Immigration Department announced today that Hong Kong residents born in 1960 or 1961 should apply for new Hong Kong smart identity cards (HKIC) in person at a Smart Identity Card Replacement Centre (SIDCC) on or before April 20, 2020. In addition, the caring measure of the card replacement exercise has been extended to persons with disabilities (PwDs). PwDs, who intend to apply for a new HKIC together with eligible applicants under the measure, only need to bring along their existing smart HKIC and provide relevant documentation as proof of their PwD status upon HKIC replacement. Residents who are absent from Hong Kong during their call-up period can apply within 30 days of their return to Hong Kong. Details here.

Smart lampposts report released March 9, 2020 - The Multi-functional Smart Lampposts Technical Advisory Ad Hoc Committee unanimously agreed that the Hong Kong SAR Government should continue to take forward the pilot program to install multi-functional smart lampposts as they are key digital infrastructure to promote Hong Kong as a smart city and to facilitate 5G mobile network in the city. Noting that the Government has strictly complied with the requirements of Personal Data Ordinance, and public concern over potential privacy issues, the Committee recommended the use of more privacy-friendly technologies as substitutes for cameras and Bluetooth detectors, the establishment of rigorous and transparent government review system for any new smart lamppost application and engagement of independent third-party professionals to conduct regular security and policy review. Details here.

Health declaration measures strengthened March 6, 2020 - Starting from March 8, all travelers on inbound flights arriving at the Hong Kong International Airport are subject to health declaration arrangements and will be required to complete a health declaration form. Passengers can choose to fill in and submit an electronic health declaration form on their smartphone or mobile devices. Taking into account the increasing transmission of the COVID-19 virus globally, members of the public are also advised to consider delaying all non-essential travel outside Hong Kong. Details here.

Foreign Currency Reserve at US$446.1 billion March 6, 2020 - Total assets of Hong Kong foreign current reserve amounted to US$446.1 billion, as at February 29, 2020, according to the Hong Kong Monetary Authority. This represents over six times the currency in circulation or about 46 per cenr of Hong Kong dollar M3. Details here.

Chartered flights for Hong Kong people in Hubei returned safely March 5, 2020 - A total of 469 Hong Kong residents stranded in Hubei Province returned to Hong Kong safely through four chartered flights arranged by the Hong Kong SAR Government in the past two days (March 4 and 5). Upon arrival in Hong Kong, all returnees were taken to the quarantine centre in Chun Yeung Estate by pre-arranged coaches to undergo 14 days of quarantine observation. The HKSAR Government will continue to maintain close liaison with the Hubei Provincial Government and discuss further plans of bringing back Hong Kong residents in other parts of the Province. Details here.

Promoting exchanges and collaboration in Pittsburgh March 4, 2020 - During her two day (Mar 3-4) visit to Pittsburgh, Director of HKETONY Joanne Chu met with government officials, business executives and academics, highlighting the unique advantages and opportunities that Hong Kong offers for US companies interested in expanding their business in Asia. She also gave an update on the latest developments in Hong Kong and the Hong Kong SAR Government's efforts to promote innovation & technology development in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. Details here.

First batch of Hong Kong residents in Hubei province arrive safely March 4, 2020 - The first two chartered flights carrying 244 Hong Kong residents stranded in Hubei Province landed in Hong Kong on March 4. The flights were arranged by the Hong Kong SAR Government, with Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Patrick Nip and the Director of Immigration Erick Tsang leading the Hong Kong team this morning to the Wuhan Tianhe International Airport to coordinate the mission. Members of the Hong Kong team include staff from the Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Bureau, the Immigration Department, the Department of Health (DH) and the Hospital Authority. Upon arrival, the returnees were taken to the quarantine center in Chun Yeung Estate to undergo 14 days of quarantine observation. The HKSAR team will depart for Wuhan on March 5 morning to bring back another batch of about 240 Hong Kong people home. Details here.

HKMA lowers base rate to 1.5% March 4, 2020 - The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) today lowered the base rate to 1.5%. The adjustment, made according to a pre-set formula, followed a 50-basis point downward shift in the target range for the US federal funds rate on March 3. HKMA's Chief Executive Eddie Yue said: “These actions indicate that the US Fed would proactively use its monetary policy to mitigate possible economic risks posed by the coronavirus. However, further developments of the coronavirus are still very uncertain and financial markets will continue to see considerable volatility. Investors should manage their risks prudently.” The base rate is the interest rate forming the foundation upon which discount rates for repurchase transactions through the discount window are computed. It is currently set at either 50 basis points above the lower end of the prevailing target range for the US federal funds rate or the average of the five-day moving averages of the overnight and one-month Hong Kong Interbank Offered Rates, whichever is higher. Details here.

Funding for I&T programs extended March 3, 2020 - Effective March 9, the funding scopes of the Researcher Programme and the Postdoctoral Hub will be extended to all technology companies conducting or planning to conduct R&D activities in Hong Kong. With the enhancements, the programs will allow more local technology companies to engage more research staff, create more local R&D jobs, and enlarge the pool of I&T talent in Hong Kong. Details here.

Chartered flights for Hong Kong people in Hubei March 3, 2020 - A total of 533 Hong Kong residents in Hubei province will return to Hong Kong in batches by four chartered flights arranged by the Hong Kong SAR Government in the coming two days (Mar 4 and 5). They include 440 residents in Wuhan and 93 from 10 other cities in the province. The 93 people include pregnant women, candidates for the upcoming university entrance examination and those who need medical treatment in Hong Kong. Secretary for Constitutional & Mainland Affairs Patrick Nip said the Government started planning to bring residents back to Hong Kong upon receiving their requests for assistance. "We have to consider the right moment to do so," he said, taking into account the epidemic situation in the Mainland and the situation in Hong Kong. Details here.

Gradual resumption of public services March 2, 2020 - Government bureaux/departments gradually resumed more public services today in a smooth and orderly manner. Secretaries of Department and Directors of Bureau visited the departments under their respective purviews to learn more about the implementation of the targeted measures to reduce social contact and measures for infection control to protect the health of their staff and members of the public. These include the introduction of flexible working hours to reduce staff using public transport during peak hours, and adopting a roster system to reduce the number of staff working in an office at any one time. Colleagues are also arranged to have staggered lunch hours. The Government has also implemented various infection control measures at government buildings and offices to reduce the risk of infection and the spread of the virus. These measures include enhancing the cleansing of public facilities, such as lifts and escalators, checking the body temperature of persons entering government buildings and offices, providing alcohol hand sanitizer and sanitizing mats, etc. Details here.

Crime rises in 2019 March 2, 2020 - A total of 59,225 cases of crimes were reported in 2019, a 9.2% year-on-year increase, according to the statistics released by the Hong Kong Police. Law and order in the city improved for 12 consecutive years and the situation remained stable in the first half of 2019 with a 4.7% drop in overall crime compared with the same period in 2018. However, the trend reversed in the second half of 2019, with social unrest stemming from protests against the extradition bill since last June. Details here.

Community urged to stay united March 1, 2020 - A spokesman for the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government condemned rioters' acts of vandalism in Mong Kok, which breached public peace and seriously jeopardized the safety of members of the public. The Police used minimum necessary force to conduct dispersal and arrest operations, and will seriously follow up on these acts, which totally disregard law and order. The spokesman also strongly condemned the malicious behavior of damaging medical facilities in Kwai Chung, which caused innocent patients to suffer. “At this difficult juncture, a small number of radicals still conducted violent acts of vandalism which disregard law and order. Their behavior is outrageous. We strongly believe that Hong Kong people will stay united and fight against the disease together, help the Hong Kong community to withstand the current difficulties and gear up for a brighter tomorrow.” Details here.

January retail sales drop 21.4% March 2, 2020 - January's value of total retail sales, provisionally estimated at US$4.8 billion, decreased by 21.4% year-on-year. After netting out the effect of price changes over the same period, the volume of total retail sales decreased 23% year-on-year. The value of sales of jewelry, watches and clocks, and valuable gifts dropped 41.6%. With the austere business environment of retail trade amid the threat of COVID-19, which has brought inbound tourism almost to a standstill and caused severe disruptions to consumption-related activities, the Government will closely monitor the situation and its repercussion on the overall economy and the employment market. Details here.

Surplus recorded in January February 28, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government announced today its financial results in the past 10 months that ended on January 31, 2020. The fiscal reserves stood at US$153.3 billion as of January 31,2020. There was a surplus of US$9.6 billion in the month of January, hence bringing a cumulative year-to-date surplus of US$3.2 billion after receipt of net proceeds from issuance of green bonds under the Government Green Bond Programme (US$1 billion) and repayment of institutional notes (US$192 million). Details here.

Exchange Fund at US$537.6 billion February 28, 2020 - Total assets of Hong Kong's Exchange Fund amounted to US$537.6 billion, as at January 31, 2020, according to the Hong Kong Monetary Authority. This is US$8.3 billion lower than that of December 2019. Hong Kong dollar assets decreased by US$6 billion and foreign currency assets decreased by US$2.3 billion. The Currency Board Account showed that the Monetary Base was US$216.5 billion at the end of January 2020. Backing Assets reached US$240.2 billion. Details here.

Travel alert issued for Italy and Iran February 28, 2020 - In light of the health risks arising from the COVID-19 outbreak in Italy and Iran, the Hong Kong SAR Government issued a Red Outbound Travel Alert on Iran and for three regions in Italy: Emilia-Romagna, Lombardy and Veneto. Under the red alert, those who plan to travel to the Italian regions concerned and Iran are urged to adjust travel plans and avoid non-essential travel. Starting March 1, the Department of Health will begin compulsory quarantine orders on all people arriving Hong Kong who have been to the aforementioned places in the past 14 days. The Centre for Health Protection will also enforce stricter reporting criteria to enhance surveillance of suspected cases. The public are reminded that they should be aware of the potential health risk due to outbound travel arrangements. Details here.

Public services to resume in a safe and orderly manner February 27, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government will implement targeted measures to reduce social contact and infection control measures and gradually resume more public services from March 2 in an orderly manner. The Government said while fighting the epidemic remains its top priority, taking into account the need for the functioning of society, bureaus or departments will provide more public services from March 2. The Government's ultimate goal is to resume full public services when conditions permit. Details here.

Assistance for Hong Kong cruise passengers continues

February 27, 2020 - Hong Kong's Immigration Department and the Department of Health (DH) have reinforced their staff to Japan to continue to assist the Hong Kong passengers of the Diamond Princess cruise ship who are still in Japan, including patients who are confirmed to have contracted COVID-19 and hospitalized, and close contacts of the confirmed cases now under quarantine at land quarantine facilities. There are currently 23 immigration officers in Japan and a DH medical team has also arrived there to follow up with the conditions and needs of the confirmed Hong Kong patients who are still in Japan, providing them with appropriate assistance. The Hong Kong SAR Government had arranged three chartered flights to bring 193 Hong Kong residents back home during the period between Feb 19 - 23. Separately, another 25 Hong Kong residents have returned Hong Kong on their own by other flights. As at Feb 26, a total of 218 Hong Kong passengers of the Diamond Princess cruise ship are under quarantine. Among them, seven have subsequently been confirmed to have contracted COVID-19 and sent to hospitals for isolation and treatment. Details here.

2020-21 Budget promotes economic diversification

February 26, 2020 - Adopting an expansionary fiscal stance, Financial Secretary Paul Chan today announced a wide range of measures to tackle the current economic difficulties and to support the community in his 2020-21 Budget, which aims to strengthen Hong Kong’s pillar industries, identify new growth engines and foster talent. The Financial Secretary set out a series of proposals to fortify the city’s competitiveness as an international financial center and to support the Innovation & Technology sector. The Government will also implement counter-cyclical measures to help support enterprises and relieve hardship. The economy contracted 1.2% in 2019. The full-year economic growth forecast for 2020 is between -1.5% and 0.5%.

Chief Executive Carrie Lam welcomed and supported the bold and substantive proposals in the 2020-21 Budget. She expressed confidence that they will help to boost efforts to combat the coronavirus epidemic, take care of people in need and bolster the economy. "These proposals also complement the initiatives set out under the recently established HK$30 billion Anti-epidemic Fund," she said. "Taken together, this substantial funding commitment will provide comprehensive support for people from all walks of life."

2020-21 Budget promotes economic diversification

Hong Kong people in Wuhan to be flown back

February 26, 2020 - The first batch of chartered flights to bring Hong Kong people from Hubei to Hong Kong will mainly assist those stranded in Wuhan, the Hong Kong SAR Government announced today. The cost of the flights will be borne by the Government, and the Wuhan ETO will arrange transport to bring these people to the airport in Wuhan. The people who take the chartered flights must be Hong Kong identity card holders and must pre-register with the Immigration Department or the Wuhan Economic & Trade Office. Health screenings will be conducted for each passenger before boarding. Those with fever, abnormal vital signs, respiratory tract symptoms or other signs of infectious diseases will not be allowed on the plane. Taking into consideration the potential public health risk, those concerned will be quarantined for 14 days upon arriving in Hong Kong. Details here.

Decrease in January's exports

February 25, 2020 - Hong Kong's total exports and imports of goods both recorded year-on-year decreases, at 22.7% and 16.4% respectively in January. The value of total exports of goods fell to US$34.5 billion (HK$269.4 billion), after a year-on-year increase of 3.3% in December 2019. The value of imports of goods decreased to US$38.4 billion (HK$300.0 billion), after a year-on-year decrease of 1.9% in December 2019. A visible trade deficit of US$3.9 billion (HK$30.6 billion), equivalent to 10.2% of the value of imports of goods, was recorded in January 2020. Details here.

Port health measures strengthened

February 25, 2020 - Following the Hong Kong SAR Government’s announcement (Feb 24) on the Red Outbound Travel Alert issued on Korea and restriction imposed on non-Hong Kong residents arriving from Korea from entering Hong Kong, effective 6:00 AM on Feb 25, the Department of Health has immediately strengthened port health and quarantine measures on inbound travellers arriving from Korea. The measures are implemented in response to the latest situation of COVID-19 in Korea. Details here.

Flight arrangement for Hong Kong residents in Hubei

February 24, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government has been liaising with the relevant Mainland authorities with the aim to bring back, in batches and as soon as possible, Hong Kong people in Hubei, especially groups of special needs. Active discussions are also ongoing with the relevant government departments and public health experts to draw up a feasible and safe plan to bring them back that will cause minimal public health risk in Hong Kong. Details here.

Red Outbound Travel Alert issued on Korea

February 24, 2020 - In view of the health risks arising from the Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) outbreak in Korea, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government issued a Red Outbound Travel Alert (OTA) on the country, urging the public planning to travel to Korea to adjust travel plans and avoid non-essential travel. Hong Kong residents are encouraged to use the online Registration of Outbound Travel Information service (www.gov.hk/roti) to register their contact details and itinerary when outside Hong Kong. The information provided allows the DH and AHU of the Immigration Department to disseminate practical information to them through appropriate means, including SMS on mobile phones, on a timely basis when necessary. Details here.

Third chartered flight arrives from Japan

February 23, 2020 - The third chartered flight arranged by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) Government to bring back the Hong Kong residents on board the Diamond Princess cruise arrived in Hong Kong with five Hong Kong passengers on board. They will be under quarantine for 14 days, along with the 188 Hong Kong residents on the previous two chartered flights and 20 passengers who came back on their own by other flights. Up to February 22, there were a total of 634 confirmed cases of COVID-19 among passengers on board the Diamond Princess cruise, of which 68 were Hong Kong residents They are under treatment in Japan. A number of Immigration Department officers are staying in Japan to continue to provide assistance to the Hong Kong residents who are receiving medical treatment there. Details here.

Anti-epidemic funding welcomed

February 21, 2020 - Hong Kong’s Chief Executive, Mrs Carrie Lam, welcomed the passage of the funding application for the Anti-epidemic Fund by the Legislative Council (LegCo) Finance Committee (Feb 21). Mrs Lam conveyed her heartfelt thanks to LegCo Members for their support and approval of the funding application for the HK$30 billion (US$3.8 billion) Anti-epidemic Fund to achieve the objective of fighting the COVID-19 virus. “The Government will continue to assess the impact of the epidemic on society and listen to comments from all sectors, while introducing more support measures as necessary," she said. Details here.

Dissemination of anti-epidemic information enhanced

February 21, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government launched (Feb 21) a Telegram channel, "Hong Kong Anti-epidemic Information Channel" (t.me/HKFIGHTCOVID19), to disseminate the Government’s information on COVID-19 in a more direct and speedy way. In addition, the Government has, since early February, made use of various online platforms to centrally disseminate anti-epidemic information, including an Interactive Map Dashboard (chp-dashboard.geodata.gov.hk/covid-19/en.html) and a thematic website (www.coronavirus.gov.hk/eng/index.html), with a view to updating the public on the relevant information. Details here.

Hongkong Post continues to accord priority for surgical masks delivery

February 21, 2020 - Hongkong Post will continue to uphold the principle of according top priority for the delivery of surgical masks, committing to keeping its delivery service in order, with the aim of delivering all inbound items of surgical masks to the hands of the public within the week of Feb 24 - Mar 1. In a statement (Feb 21), Hongkong Post said it would also continue with the practice of calling recipients prior to delivery to ascertain their choice for door delivery or collection from post office. Hongkong Post has all along been prioritizing the handling of Speedpost items containing surgical masks. It is estimated that more than 120,000 such items would have been delivered since after the Lunar Year through this weekend. Details here.

First batch of Hong Kong cruise passengers return safely

February 20, 2020 - A total of 106 Hong Kong residents on board the Diamond Princess cruise ship, including the six persons who had completed quarantine at a facility in Saitama Prefecture and were permitted to leave Japan, arrived in Hong Kong from Tokyo safely (Feb 20) on a chartered flight arranged by the Hong Kong SAR Government. Before disembarkation from the plane, staff of the Port Health Division briefed them about the quarantine arrangements and checked their body temperature. All passengers were taken to the quarantine center in Chun Yeung Estate by pre-arranged coaches to undergo 14 days of quarantine observation. People who have been arranged to stay at quarantine centers, including these passengers returning Hong Kong, have not developed any symptoms and are not confirmed or suspected infected patients. Details here.

Vigilant monitoring of COVID-19 outbreak

February 20, 2020 - Since the outbreak of COVID-19, the Hong Kong SAR Government, guided by three key principles - responding promptly, staying alert to the situation and working in an open and transparent manner, has responded comprehensively to the situation, with decisive and appropriate measures in accordance with the advice and opinions of experts. These include introducing specific measures in the areas of health surveillance, compulsory quarantine, isolation treatment, health declaration, exit screening, reducing the flow of people between Hong Kong and the Mainland, enhancing 'social distancing' locally, supporting front-line healthcare staff and provision of sufficient personal protective equipment. The Government will continue to monitor closely the development. Subject to expert advice and the actual situation in Hong Kong, the Government will not hesitate to introduce necessary measures to suit the situation. In face of the severe epidemic situation, the Government calls on the community to act in concert, put aside differences and win the battle against the epidemic for Hong Kong. Details here.

January's inflation rose 1.4%

February 20, 2020 - Overall consumer prices for January rose by 1.4% year-on-year, smaller than the corresponding increase (2.9%) in December 2019. Netting out the effects of all Government’s one-off relief measures, the year-on-year rate of increase in the Composite CPI (i.e. the underlying inflation rate) in January 2020 was 3.7%, larger than that in December 2019 (2.9%). The increase was mainly due to the enlarged increases in the charges for package tours and prices of pork around the Lunar New Year. Looking ahead, overall inflationary pressures will likely be contained in the near term, given the mild external price pressures and subdued local economic conditions. While the threat of the novel coronavirus infection may cause prices of certain daily necessities to rise, any disruption should only be temporary. Details here.

December's exports of goods grew 3.8%

February 18, 2020 - The volume of Hong Kong's total exports of goods in December grew 3.8% year-on-year while the volume of imports of goods fell by 2.0% (Feb 18). Comparing 2019 with 2018, the volume of Hong Kong’s total exports of goods and imports of goods decreased by 5.0% and 7.6% respectively. Details here.

Unemployment rate rises to 3.4%

February 18, 2020 - Hong Kong's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased to 3.4% in November 2019 - January 2020 from 3.3% in October - December 2019 (Feb 18). The underemployment rate remained unchanged at 1.2% in the two periods. The labor market slackened further as economic conditions stayed weak, with the employment situation of the consumption- and tourism-related sectors (viz. retail, accommodation and food services sectors) remaining difficult. Details here.

Chartered flights arranged for cruise passengers

February 17, 2020 - Hong Kong SAR Government has arranged two chartered flights to bring home Hong Kong residents quarantined for the novel coronavirus onboard the Diamond Princess cruise ship in Japan. Secretary for Security John Lee said (Feb 17) the two flights will leave Japan on Feb 19 and arrive in Hong Kong the following day. Hong Kong residents can board the flights once Japan authorities clear their blood tests. They will be placed under quarantine for 14 days upon arrival in Hong Kong. Each chartered flight has more than 400 seats which are enough to cater for the some 350 Hong Kong people on the cruise, including 260 Hong Kong permanent residents, and 90 foreign passport holders. Details here.

Hongkong Post accords priority for surgical mask parcels

February 15, 2020 - Hongkong Post has accorded top priority to Speedpost items containing surgical masks on the principle of “surgical masks first”, with over 40,000 boxes of surgical masks items delivered in the past week (Feb 10-15). Hongkong Post has made special arrangements by re-deploying manpower from other divisions to speed up the processing of Speedpost boxes, along with Sunday deliveries and full resumption of daily mail delivery service so that parcels containing surgical masks can reach the hands of the recipients as soon as possible. Chief Secretary for Administration Matthew Cheung expressed his warm appreciation (Feb 17) to Hongkong Post for addressing the community’s pressing needs during this emergency period. Details here.

US$3.2 billion fund to fight viral outbreak

February 14, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government will set up a HK$25 billion (US$3.2 billion) fund to help local residents and businesses tide over the coronavirus situation. Chief Executive Carrie Lam said the initiative is a commitment to the people of Hong Kong. The Chief Executive stressed that Hong Kong was facing an almost unprecedented situation that was still evolving. "This time, the Government has taken some bold and decisive steps to help different sectors and to ensure that we can continue to undertake all the infection control measures that have been put in place," she said. Vowing that the Government would continue to work very hard based on its good public health experience, the expertise of its advisory panel, the dedication of colleagues, as well as the amount of resources it was prepared to put into the fight against the disease, Mrs Lam added that the measures were justified and took into account feedback from the public, various sectors and Legislative Council members. Details here.

Quarantine surveillance enhanced

February 12, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government is enhancing surveillance (Feb 12) of people under the compulsory quarantine orders issued by the Department of Health (DH).The DH and Office of the Government Chief Information Officer (OGCIO) will continue to make surprise phone calls and video calls and request real-time locations to the persons under quarantine. If those under quarantine fail to share their real-time locations via their mobile devices, they will be immediately requested to wear electronic wristbands so that the DH can monitor them. The Government is also strengthening manpower to assist the DH and the OGCIO in this joint effort to combat the novel coronavirus. The Government reiterated the importance of self-discipline by people under quarantine, urging them to strictly comply with the quarantine orders. Details here.

Postal services from the United States normal

February 12, 2020 - Hongkong Post announced (Feb 12) that, as advised by the United States Postal Service (USPS), postal services originating from the United States to Hong Kong remain normal, while priority mail express international service (i.e. Speedpost) items for Hong Kong may be subject to delay due to widespread flight cancellations. In addition, mail transiting the USPS from other regions to Hong Kong have been suspended. Details here.

Cooperation urged in fight against virus

February 11, 2020 - Chief Executive Carrie Lam has called on Hong Kong citizens to fully cooperate and participate in the fight against the novel coronavirus by staying at home as much as possible, particularly those subject to the Government’s compulsory quarantine order. Mrs Lam made the appeal Tuesday (Feb 11), after some residents were found to have breached their 14-day quarantine. “In order to fight this virus, Hong Kong needs the full cooperation and active participation of every member of society. This is a time for social cohesion. This is a time for every one of us to display civic responsibility," she said. Anyone who breaches the compulsory quarantine is subject to a fine of US$3,205 and imprisonment for six months. The Hong Kong SAR Government was providing quarantined residents with as much support as possible. The Chief Executive also reiterated the Government’s appeal for the public to avoid some social interactions and activities to prevent a community-wide outbreak of novel coronavirus infection. Details here.

Multi-pronged approach to procure surgical masks

February 10, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government (Feb 10) has been adopting a multi-pronged approach to procure surgical masks globally through different channels and means. The Government (is prioritizing the distribution of surgical masks in accordance with the risk level, with priority given to healthcare workers and personnel providing care services; and personnel who provide essential services and who are required to have contact with the public at work. Details here.

Cruise quarantine completed

February 9, 2020 - The Centre for Health Protection said (Feb 9) all those on board the World Dream cruise ship docked in Hong Kong no longer need to be under surveillance for the novel coronavirus and may disembark, following negative results for the novel coronavirus for all 1,800 crewmembers. Some Mainland travellers who had earlier taken the cruise were confirmed to have been infected with the novel coronavirus, so tests were conducted on all 1,800 crewmembers to safeguard the current passengers on board. Details here.

Some overseas airmail services subject to delay

February 7, 2020 - Due to flight adjustments of some airlines, airmail services from Hong Kong to a number of destinations, including the United States of America, United Kingdom, Argentina, Brazil and Chile may be subject to delay, according to the Hongkong Post (Feb 7). Details here.

Mandatory quarantine for travelers arriving from Mainland

February 5, 2020 - Effective Feb 8, Hong Kong will require all travelers from the Mainland to be placed on mandatory quarantine for 14 days. The measure will further reduce cross-boundary flow of people between Hong Kong and the Mainland, thereby reducing the risk of transmission and spread of the disease in the community. In addition, immigration services at the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal and the Ocean Terminal have also been suspended effective immediately. Refuting rumors, the Hong Kong SAR Government stressed that freight services between the Mainland and Hong Kong will not be affected. The supply of food products remains normal and there is no shortage of food in the city. Details here.

December retail sales down

February 4, 2020 - December's value of total retail sales, provisionally estimated at US$4.6 billion, fell 19.4% year-on-year. For 2019 as a whole, the value of total retail sales was provisionally estimated at US$55.2 billion, down 11.1% in value and 12.3% in volume compared with 2018. A Hong Kong SAR Government spokesman said that retail sales continued to decline sharply in December 2019, as the impact of the local social incidents on consumption- and tourism-related activities remained severe. The business environment for retail trade has become even more difficult recently, with the threat of the novel coronavirus infection heavily weighing on inbound tourism and local consumption sentiment. Details here.

Government defends response to disease

February 4, 2020 - Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam refuted (Feb 4) allegations claiming that the Hong Kong SAR Government has not adequately addressed public health concerns arising from the novel coronavirus situation and has put politics above public health. Mrs Lam said that since Jan 25, the Government has made four announcements to introduce measures to respond to the disease’s evolving situation. “Our public health strategy is to ensure that we could speedily respond to the changing situation and implement as quickly as possible the necessary response measures," she said. “I certainly would not agree with the allegation that we are not addressing this public health concern adequately, and certainly I don’t agree with the allegation that we are putting politics above public health. This is a public health situation and we are assisted by our experts, both external and in-house, to tackle this very important situation.” Mrs Lam added that all the measures that has been adopted are focused on the one single objective to minimise and reduce very significantly cross-border passenger traffic so as to reduce the chances of infection. Details here.

US-bound counterfeit goods seized

February 4, 2020 - Approximately 10,000 items of suspected counterfeit goods, with an estimated market value of US$141,025 were seized by Hong Kong Customs during a targeted operation in January to combat cross-boundary counterfeiting activities involving goods destined for the United State. Through intelligence exchanges with the US customs authorities, Hong Kong Customs took enforcement action in January and stepped up inspection against suspicious express consignments destined for the United States. Details here.

Technology Talent Admission Scheme enhanced

January 30, 2020 - Enhanced measures to the Technology Talent Admission Scheme (TechTAS) were announced (Jan 30), allowing more eligible companies to apply. When it was inaugurated, TechTAS covered tenants and incubatees of the Hong Kong Science & Technology Parks Corporation and Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company which conducted research and development (R&D) activities in seven technology areas (artificial intelligence, biotechnology, cybersecurity, data analytics, financial technologies, material science and robotics. With the new enhancements, TechTAS covers six more technology areas including 5G communications, digital entertainment, green technology, integrated circuit design, the Internet of Things and microelectronics. The enhancements aim to contribute to Hong Kong’s innovation and technology development by expediting admission of technology talent from around the world to undertake R&D work in the city. Details here.

Government increases supply of surgical masks

January 30, 2020 - In response to widespread public concern and anxiety about the supply of surgical masks in Hong Kong, a Hong Kong SAR Government spokesman said (Jan 30) that owing to the spread of disease which gives rise to keen global demand, the supply of surgical masks is expected to remain tight in the short term. The spokesman stressed that the Government has been working proactively to increase the overall supply of surgical masks with a multi-pronged approach. As the supply of surgical masks is tight in the short term, experts have advised the Government to continue the measures to minimize contacts among people and take a risk-based approach by prioritizing the distribution of surgical masks to the personnel in need, in particular healthcare workers. According to the recommendations of the Centre for Health Protection, although surgical masks can effectively prevent the spread of disease, the public should also pay attention to personal hygiene in addition to wearing surgical masks. Details here.

December's exports grew 3.3%

January 30, 2020 - Hong Kong's total exports of goods in December grew by 3.3%, while the value of imports of goods decreased by 1.9% over a year earlier. The value of total exports reached US$45 billion while the value of imports of goods was US$49.2 billion. A visible trade deficit of US$416 million, equivalent to 8.5% of the value of imports of goods, was recorded in December 2019. For 2019 as a whole, the value of total exports of goods dropped by 4.1% over 2018. Concurrently, the value of imports of goods decreased by 6.5%. A visible trade deficit of US$54.7 billion, equivalent to 9.7% of the value of imports of goods, was recorded in 2019. Details here.

Enhanced health measures announced

January 29, 2020 - Taking into account the latest situation, the Hong Kong SAR Government is implementing (Jan 28) more disease prevention and control measures. They include reducing the flow of people between the Mainland and Hong Kong as well as contacts among members of the public, with a view to lowering the chance of the disease being imported into Hong Kong and spreading in the community. The issuance of new permits under the Individual Visits Scheme to Hong Kong has been suspended until further notice. And effective Jan 30, flights, rail and cross-boundary bus services between Hong Kong and the Mainland, will be reduced or suspended. The Government is also urging HK residents to return from the Mainland as soon as possible. All persons returning from the Mainland are advised to stay home for 14 days upon their return as far as possible. Details here.

Hong Kong markets will trade as normal on January 29

January 28, 2020 - The stocks, futures and derivatives markets of Hong Kong will trade as normal on Jan 29, after the Chinese New Year holiday. In view of the latest situation of the novel coronavirus infection in Hong Kong, the Financial Secretary met with financial regulators and Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (Jan 28). The Financial Secretary was briefed on the contingency arrangements, preparedness and coordination of the relevant institutions for market open on Jan 29. The Financial Secretary appealed to financial organisations to make special work arrangements for their employees as far as practicable, so as to work together to reduce the risk of the spread of the novel coronavirus in the community. Details here.

Government staff to work from home

January 28, 2020 - Hong Kong SAR Government employees, except for staff of departments providing emergency and essential public services, will work at home from January 29 to February 2. The special work arrangement was announced to reduce the risk of the novel coronavirus’ spread in the community. The Government will review the situation before February 2, when the measure tentatively ends. The Government has also appealed to private sector organisations to make similar arrangements as far as practicable. Details here.

New measures rolled out to tackle novel coronavirus

January 26, 2020 - In an all-out effort to tackle the spread of the novel coronavirus in the city, the Hong Kong SAR Government has rolled out a range of measures after issuing the highest “emergency” response level (Jan 25). These include enhancing the mechanism and organization structure to tackle the disease, strengthening immigration control, minimizing risks of virus infection and spreading in local community, enhancing personal hygiene of the public, improving anti-epidemic facilities and services, and allocating sufficient resources for the measures. Flight and high-speed train services between Hong Kong and Wuhan are suspended indefinitely. Effective Jan 27, and until further notice, Hong Kong will impose restrictions on all Hubei Province residents and people, except for Hong Kong residents, who visited the province in the past 14 days from entering the city. Explaining that the Government has taken actions in a very systematic matter based on scientific evidence and advice from experts, Chief Executive Carrie Lam said the government will closely monitor the development of the situation and seek expert advice. “We will not hesitate to introduce more measures when necessary to protect the health of the citizens. I appeal to the public to work together with the HKSAR Government in fighting the disease," she said. Details here.

Chief Executive concludes visit to Davos

January 24, 2020 - Concluding her three-day visit in Davos, Switzerland, to attend the World Economic Forum (WEF), Chief Executive Carrie Lam said she was deeply encouraged to note that all the people she met had a very positive attitude towards Hong Kong and were pleased to continue to enhance their connections with the city in all relevant aspects. While in Davos, Mrs Lam spoke at various WEF events and activities, as well as bilateral meetings with more than 10 political and business leaders and senior members of the media, in which she gave updates on Hong Kong’s situation. At the Hong Kong Night (Jan 23) event, Mrs Lam led the TeamHK delegation to promote the city’s strengths and advantages to about 200 global political, business and media leaders. During a Q&A session, Mrs Lam stressed that the Hong Kong SAR Government will safeguard Hong Kong’s fundamentals, including the rule of law, adding that she is fully confident of the city’s future. The event also included three panel discussions, with topics covering the global capital market, trade and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, during which relevant experts shared their insights on Hong Kong’s future development opportunities. Details here.

Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement signed

January 24, 2020 - Hong Kong and Mexico signed an Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (IPPA) in Davos, Switzerland (Jan 23) to strengthen mutual investment protection. Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development Edward Yau said the agreement allows investors of the two parties to enjoy corresponding protection of their investments in the host economies, and thus enhance investors’ confidence in making investments abroad. The IPPA with Mexico is the fourth such agreement that this term of the Hong Kong SAR Government has signed since taking office in July 2017. Details here.

Second best year for Exchange Fund

January 23, 2020 - The Exchange Fund recorded its second highest-ever investment income of HK$247.2 billion (US$31.6 billion) last year, with an investment return of 6.2%, according to the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) (Jan 23). Chief Executive of HKMA Eddie Yue said despite the slowdown of global economic growth and US-China trade tensions last year, accommodative monetary policies by major central banks lent support to the equity and bond markets. Details here.

Chief Executive attends WEF Annual Meeting

January 22, 2020 - Chief Executive Mrs Carrie Lam, leading a Hong Kong delegation, arrived in Davos, Switzerland (Jan 21) to start her three-day visit to attend the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting. She attended a WEF session with an address by the Vice Premier of the State Council, Mr Han Zheng, and met with the Prime Minister of Singapore and the Prime Minister of Luxembourg to brief them on the latest situation in Hong Kong. She said Hong Kong experienced an unprecedented challenge last year, but with its solid foundation, she expressed confidence that the city is capable of overcoming the current difficulties. She emphasized that the Hong Kong SAR Government has all along been adhering to three principles in handling the social unrest, namely upholding the "One Country, Two Systems" principle and the Basic Law, respecting and safeguarding the rule of law and protecting Hong Kong's institutional strengths. At the WEF session "Expanding Asia's Technology Leadership", Mrs Lam pointed out that Hong Kong, as an international financial center, can also provide plenty of capital for I&T development in Asia, which is emerging as an important I&T region. Mrs Lam also gave interviews to two international media organisations separately. Details here.

Greater travel convenience for HKSAR passport holders

January 22, 2020 - Kenya will grant entry visas upon arrival to Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) passport holders and stay in the country for up to three months, according to the Immigration Department (Jan 22). HKSAR passport holders may also apply for an online e-visa for Kenya. Noting that Kenya is along the Belt & Road, the department said under the Belt & Road Initiative, the visa-on-arrival arrangement would bring greater travel convenience to HKSAR passport holders visiting Kenya and strengthen the tourism, cultural and economic ties between the two places. This arrangement brings to 168 the number of countries and territories that grant visa-free access or visa-on-arrival to HKSAR passport holders. Details here.

Government disagrees with Moody’s rating

January 21, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government strongly disagrees (Jan 21) with Moody’s decision to downgrade Hong Kong’s long-term issuer rating to “Aa3” from “Aa2”, while changing the credit outlook to “stable” from “negative”. A Government spokesman said, “Moody’s rating falls way out of line with Hong Kong’s sound credit fundamentals.” These included strong confidence in the Linked Exchange Rate System, strong and sound liquidity of banks, thriving capital markets, buttressed by the city’s institutional strengths such as the rule of law; an independent judiciary; a robust supervisory regime; free flows of capital, talent, goods and information; and a simple and low tax regime. Details here.

Record number of firms invest in HK

January 21, 2020 - Invest Hong Kong assisted 487 overseas and Mainland companies to set up or expand in Hong Kong last year, up 11.7% year-on-year, setting a new record.The number of fintech companies and start-ups saw the strongest growth. The total number of jobs thereby created (6 009) rose by 14.1% over the previous year's figure. "2019 was another record year for InvestHK in terms of the number of companies assisted and the number of jobs created by those companies. Hong Kong continues to attract overseas and Mainland investors because of its core advantages and emerging business opportunities, especially in the light of the latest developments in the Greater Bay Area and the Belt and Road Initiative," said InvestHK's Director-General of Investment Promotion Stephen Phillips. Details here.

December inflation grew 2.9%

January 21, 2020 - December's overall consumer prices rose 2.9% year-on-year (Jan 21). Netting out the effects of the Government's one-off relief measures, the underlying inflation rate for the month was also 2.9%, unchanged from last November. Year-on-year price increases were recorded for food, miscellaneous goods, housing, meals bought away from home, miscellaneous services and transport. Year-on-year decreases were recorded for electricity, gas and water, clothing and footwear, durable goods as well as alcoholic drinks and tobacco. The Government said the underlying consumer price inflation rate was stable and price pressures on most major Consumer Price Index components stayed modest or moderate. Details here.

Unemployment rate grows to 3.3%

January 20, 2020 - Unemployment rate for the October – December period rose to a provisional 3.3% from 3.2% in the September – November period. The underemployment rate remained unchanged at 1.2% in the two periods. Secretary for Labour & Welfare Dr Law Chi-kwong said the labor market slackened further as economic conditions stayed weak. The unemployment rate of the consumption and tourism-related segment of retail, accommodation and food services sectors stayed at a three-year high of 5.2%. “The labour market will be subject to even more pressure in the near term if the overall economy stays weak. The Government will monitor the developments closely,” Dr Law added. Details here.

Core events of StartmeupHK Festival 2020 announced

Lifestyle and retail tech, smart city, artificial intelligence, the Internet of things, e-sports, environment and sustainability are some of the key themes of the 5th edition of the StartmeupHK Festival (Feb 10 - 15). The event will also see the finals of the global Jumpstarter and WHub start-up pitching competitions. An international mix of more than 300 speakers from 54 countries or territories will discuss their experience and know-how in a range of panel sessions, fireside chats, keynotes and presentations. The festival attendance is set to exceed 17,000 delegates. Details here:

Government regrets call for sanctions

January 19, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government has expressed (Jan 20) deep regret that some participants of a public meeting called on foreign governments to intervene in Hong Kong’s affairs and to impose sanctions. In a statement, the Government said foreign governments, legislatures or organizations have absolutely no role in matters relating to Hong Kong’s constitutional development and should not express any opinion or attempt to influence or interfere in the discussions of related matters in Hong Kong. Understanding the aspiration of the community for universal suffrage, the Hong Kong SAR Government has all along been taking forward constitutional development in accordance with the Basic Law and the relevant Interpretation and Decisions of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress. Since the return to the Motherland, the HKSAR has made three attempts to take forward constitutional reform – in 2005, 2012 and 2015. In 2012, membership of the Election Committee was increased from 800 to 1,200, while that of the LegCo was increased from 60 to 70. This is a milestone in the development of democracy in Hong Kong. For the 2020 Legislative Council General Election, the five seats in the District Council (Second) Functional Constituency are expected to be returned by around four million registered voters. Details here.

Business expectations survey unveiled

January 17, 2020 - Businesses in Hong Kong expecting their business situation to be worse (31%) in the first quarter (Q1) of 2020, compared with the previous quarter (Q4 2019), is higher than those expecting it to be better (9%), according to the latest Quarterly Business Tendency Survey. A Hong Kong SAR Government spokesman cautioned that the results of the survey should be interpreted with care. "In this type of survey on expectations, the views collected in the survey are affected by the events in the community occurring around the time of enumeration, and it is difficult to establish precisely the extent to which respondents' perception of the future accords with the underlying trends," he said. Details here.

Chief Executive to attend World Economic Forum

January 16, 2020 - Chief Executive Carrie Lam will lead a top-level delegation to this year’s World Economic Forum (WEF) at Davos (Jan 21 - 25) to remind global political, business and media leaders that Hong Kong's enduring strengths and advantages continue to serve it well. Mrs Lam said she understood the global interest in Hong Kong and would take the opportunity to engage as many Davos attendees as possible to impress upon them the city’s strengths and advantages.. “Much has happened in Hong Kong over the past year, and challenges remain. But our fundamentals remain strong and our future remains bright,” Mrs Lam said. “We are a free and open society and a highly competitive international business and financial hub." The Chief Executive said she would stress the resilience and flexibility of Hong Kong and its people. Details here.

November's exports of goods fell 1.3%

January 16, 2020 - The volume of Hong Kong’s total goods exports (Jan 16) in November 2019 decreased 1.3% year-on-year while the volume of goods imports dropped 5.9% compared to the same period last year. Goods exports prices dipped 0.2% while those of goods imports increased 0.1%.Comparing the first 11 months of 2019 with the same period in 2018, the volume of goods exports dropped 5.8%, while that of goods imports fell 8.1%. Both prices of goods exports and imports increased 1.3% in the same period. Details here.

Government responds to NGO report

January 15, 2020 - The "one country, two systems" principle has been fully and successfully implemented in Hong Kong, said a Hong Kong SAR (HKSAR) Government spokesman (Jan 15), adding that the HKSAR Government will continue to implement the "one country, two systems" principle resolutely in accordance with the Basic Law. Responding to parts of a report related to Hong Kong issued by Human Rights Watch, the spokesman added that the Government attaches great importance to human rights and freedoms and is determined to safeguard them. The Police have been carrying out enforcement actions in strict accordance with the law in order to protect life and property and restore order to society. The Government is also committed to universal suffrage of "one person, one vote" for selecting the Chief Executive and electing all members of the Legislative Council, as enshrined in the Basic Law. Details here.

Unlocking business potential

January 15, 2020 - Determined to unlock the vast potential of the asset and wealth management business, Hong Kong has been stepping up efforts to sharpen Hong Kong's competitive edge through a multi-pronged approach, said Financial Secretary Paul Chan at the Asia Private Equity Forum 2020 (Jan 15). These include diversifying fund structures and streamlining licensing process, adopting a more user-friendly approach to attract family offices, providing a more facilitative tax environment for funds, and expanding the fund distribution network. Among the world's top 10 private equity fund managers, nine have a presence in Hong Kong, underlining the city's formidable strengths in the Asian private equity market. Details here.

Asian Financial Forum opens

January 13, 2020 - Hong Kong's financial system remains stable and remarkably successful despite the challenges of global economic slowdown, trade disputes among major economies, geopolitical uncertainties and local issues over the past two years, said Chief Executive Carrie Lam at the opening session of the 13th Asian Financial Forum (Jan 13). "Our core competitiveness, and our status as one of the world's premier financial centers, continues to be internationally recognized," said Mrs Lam, who emphasized that Hong Kong, with its strategic regional location and its extensive, ever-deepening cultural and financial links with the Mainland, is China's international financial center, contributing to the sustainable progress of the country, the region and the world. Hong Kong would also enhance its role as the business bridge between the Mainland and the rest of the world through the two national policies of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area development and the Belt and Road Initiative. Details here.

Financial market stable

January 13, 2020 - In his welcome remarks at the keynote luncheon of the Asian Financial Forum, Financial Secretary Paul Chan highlighted the strengths of Hong Kong as a global financial center underpinned by its solid linked exchange rate system, its fully convertible currency and the free flow of capital enshrined in Article 112 of the Basic Law. He said Hong Kong's capital markets are deep and liquid, the exchange rate remains stable and the banking system continues to run smoothly with ample liquidity, reflecting the integrity of the city's financial system and the confidence it conveys even in face of challenges. Citing Hong Kong's achievements in the financial services sector, he said the city would also step up efforts to capitalize on emerging opportunities not only from green finance and fintech but from the Greater Bay Area development and the Belt and Road Initiative. Details here.

Pledge to uphold judicial independence

January 13, 2020 - Chief Justice Geoffrey Ma said the rule of law is rightly cherished by the community and is the foundation of a cohesive society. "We must do all our best to preserve it and to treasure it because once damaged, this is not something from which our community can easily recover, said Mr Ma at the opening of the 2020 Legal Year. Pledging to uphold judicial independence, Mr Ma said, "Everyone is subject to the law, no one is above it. The duty on the courts to enforce the law is a constitutional requirement of the Basic Law. I can say with confidence that my fellow judges and I will discharge our duties without compromise and without fear." The Chief Justice pointed out that the proper administration of justice depends on judges discharging the duties and responsibilities incumbent on them. "Judges do not have the duty to achieve a certain result in accordance with popular wishes, whether they be majority or minority wishes," he said. "However, they have to ensure that a fair trial takes place and to adhere strictly to the requirements of the law. In the discharge of their responsibilities, judges look only to the letter of the law and to the spirit of the law, and nothing else." Political, economic or social considerations, as opposed to legal considerations, simply do not enter into the equation. Details here.

Rule of law upheld

January 13, 2020 - Noting that many of Hong Kong's core values, including the rule of law, have been under challenge during the past year, Secretary for Justice Teresa Cheng said fair trial and due process are essential elements of the procedural aspects of the rule of law, with the judiciary playing the pivotal role. These are backed by the city's transparent system of law, and an independent judiciary. Speaking at the ceremonial opening of the 2020 Legal Year, Ms Cheng added that all prosecutorial decisions taken by the Department of Justice are made after taking into account the available evidence, applicable laws and the principles set out in the Prosecution Code. She also highlighted the initiatives taken in 2019, including an inaugural annual Hong Kong Legal Week, and arrangements between Hong Kong and the Mainland in arbitration and intellectual property. Details here.

Fintech Week to be held in November

January 13, 2020 - The fifth annual Hong Kong Fintech Week will return to AsiaWorld-Expo from Nov 2- 6 at AsiaWorld-Expo in Hong Kong and in Shenzhen. The signature cross-boundary Shenzhen day is part of a broader focus on the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. The run-up to Fintech Week starts this month with the first-ever FintechHK Startup Salon at the Asian Financial Forum (Jan 13-14). This is a new initiative to help early stage fintech start-ups connect and exchange ideas with potential investors, and to introduce their latest solutions and innovations to conference participants. Throughout 2020, fintech start-ups from around the world will have the opportunity to participate in the Fintech Week signature programs, with the FintechHK Global Competition in the spotlight. Last year's Fintech Week drew more than 12,000 attendees, up about 50 per cent from the figure in the previous year, and there were 150 exhibitors and 18 trade delegations. Hong Kong is now home to more than 600 fintech companies, up around 10% year-on-year. Details here.

Hong Kong remains world's top IPO market

Hong Kong retains its crown in the world's initial public offering league table for the second consecutive year, with the Hong Kong stock exchange raising US$40 billion from 183 newly listed companies last year. This was higher than the US$36.8 billion raised in 2018. This also marked the seventh time in the last 11 years that Hong Kong has topped the ranking table. Stock market capitalisation in 2019 reached almost US$4.9 trillion, a 27.6% surge from the previous year's US$3.8 trillion. Details here.

HKSARG responds to US report

January 9, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR (HKSAR) Government expressed strong opposition to the enactment of the 'Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act' in the US. "The Act clearly intervenes in Hong Kong's internal affairs. It is unwarranted, sends an erroneous signal to violent protesters, and harms the relations and common interests between Hong Kong and the US. The HKSAR Government deeply regretted that the US has disregarded the genuine concerns raised repeatedly by Hong Kong on the Act and let the Act become US law," said a spokesman (Jan 9), in response to media enquiries to parts of a report related to Hong Kong issued by the United States (Congressional-Executive Commission on China. "Since the return to the Motherland, the HKSAR has been exercising 'Hong Kong people administering Hong Kong' and a high degree of autonomy in strict accordance with the Basic Law of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China. The HKSAR Government will continue to implement the 'one country, two systems' principle resolutely in accordance with the Basic Law. Details here.

Port health measures boosted

January 7, 2020 - The Government has been strengthening port health measures to tackle the Wuhan-related illness, said Secretary for Food & Health Professor Sophia Chan (Jan 7). The Department of Health has been working very hard to strengthen measures, particularly at the airport and the West Kowloon Station of the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link. To strengthen Hong Kong's capability in monitoring the disease, and in the prevention and control of infectious diseases, Prof Chan added that the Prevention & Control of Disease (Amendment) Regulation 2020 and the Prevention & Control of Disease Ordinance (Amendment of Schedule 1) Notice 2020 will be gazetted on January 8 to include the severe respiratory disease associated with a novel infectious agent as a statutorily notifiable infectious disease. Details here.

November retail sales drop 23.6%

January 1, 2020 - November's value of total retail sales (Jan 3) fell 23.6% year-on-year to a provisionally estimated US$3.8 billion. Retail sales continued to fall sharply in November as the local social incidents turned extremely violent, causing very severe disruptions to tourism and consumption-related activities and further dampening consumption sentiment. Noting that the near-term outlook for the retail trade hinges on how the local social incidents will evolve, the Government said that putting an end to violence and restoring social order are essential to the recovery of the retail trade and the economy as a whole. Details here.

Government refutes claims in open letter

January 1, 2020 - The Hong Kong SAR Government refutes the unfounded and misguided claims in an open letter to the Chief Executive signed by a group of overseas politicians and persons. In a statement (Jan 1) , the Government made clear that since Hong Kong’s return to the Motherland, “one country, two systems” and a high degree of autonomy had been faithfully implemented in strict accordance with the Basic Law, which clearly stipulates that the HKSAR is an inalienable part of the People's Republic of China. "We are gravely concerned that the claims in their letter are biased and misleading," the government statement said, stressing that Police do not initiate actions against protesters and only respond with appropriate and proportionate force when protesters take part in illegal activities. The actions and response of the Police at all times over the past six months were only in response to the blatant disregard for public safety and order by radical protesters. Police have established clear guidelines on the use of force which are consistent with international human rights norms and standards. Fully recognizes that freedom and the rule of law are the core values and cornerstone of Hong Kong's long-term prosperity and stability, the Hong Kong SAR Government is determined to safeguard these core values at all times. Details here.

Justice Department and HK legal bodies responds to criticism against judge

January 1, 2020 - Responding to vandalism outside the High Court Building and criticism against a judge, the Department of Justice said (Jan 1) personal attacks and insults against judges would severely undermine the authority of the courts and damage public confidence in the judicial system. The Hong Kong Bar Association and The Law Society of Hong Kong issued a joint statement (Jan 2) condemning the abusive graffiti on the High Court building. The two organizations strongly deplored these criminal acts as an "affront to the rule of law and judicial integrity" and reiterated their joint commitment to defend the rule of law and judicial independence in Hong Kong. Details here.


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What’s New in Hong Kong 2020

The future of Hong Kong in the new era

Delivery date of Policy Address postponed

New community treatment facility completed

Transparency measures for courts set

Foreign currency reserves up

Viral hepatitis action plan announced

Public Health Response Plan Activated

Social distancing measures maintained

Secretary for Food and Health attends WHO meeting

Senior judicial appointment of the Court of Final Appeal

Government to launch iBond

Police handles cases in accordance with the law

Hong Kong plays key role in national development

Investment advisory body formed

Financial results for the five months ended August 31, 2020

August retail sales falls 13.1%

Social distancing measures eased

Easing of boundary controls mulled

Logistics subsidy to be launched

Students excel at International Mathematical Olympiad

Financial Secretary attends APEC meeting

Hong Kong’s financial ranking moves up

Hong Kong students triumph at 32nd International Olympiad in Informatics

Full subsidy for exhibition rentals

August exports down 2.3%

Social distancing measures extended

Chief Justice Geoffrey Ma issues statement

Disney’s option for site to end

Hong Kong's gateway role reaffirmed

Hong Kong's legal system robust: Chief Executive

August consumer prices dip 0.4%

Government recruitment drive underway

Hong Kong remains committed to rule of law

“Two-pronged” vaccine procurement strategy

Post-pandemic regional cooperation

Unemployment rate stays at 6.1%

July goods exports drop 2.3%

Financial Leaders Forum held

US urged to withdraw Hong Kong goods rule

Social distancing measures further relaxed

National Security Law contributes to Hong Kong's progress

Citywide COVID-19 community testing program concludes successfully

Environmental Protection Department wins tech award

“Bruce Lee: Kung Fu · Art · Life” exhibition extended to 2026

Resumption of postal services to US

Free distribution of CuMask+™ to eligible residents

Hong Kong once again ranked as world's freest economy

Government to resume normal public services

Secretary shares insights on global trade in webinar

Citywide COVID-19 testing to be extended

Social restrictions further eased

Travel bubble talks underway

Freedoms and civic rights upheld in Hong Kong

Government to join virus vaccine facility

COVID-19 testing program extended

Social-distancing rules further relaxed

COVID-19 test quota to be increased

July retail sales fall 23.1%

Over half a million people registered for testing program

Resumption of Hong Kong – US speed post service

Schools to resume classes in phases

Special tribute screening of Benny Chan’s “Call of Heroes”

Over 140 centers set for universal testing

HK-ASEAN video conference held

Anti-epidemic measures relaxed

Active participation in testing urged

HKMA to chair EMEAP Working Group on Financial Markets

Universal COVID-19 Community Testing Program to launch on Sep 1

Cyber security partnership set

HKSAR Government strongly reprimands US' unilateral decision

Public services to resume in a safe and orderly manner

July sees 2.3% deflation

First video conference session of EMEAP held

Unemployment rate drops to 6.1%

Government to raise US sanctions with WTO

Social distancing measures further extended

Economy shrinks 9% in second quarter

US rule on Hong Kong products unacceptable

Special work arrangement for government employees to be extended