{"total-count": 65, "returned-count": 65, "results": [{"title": "APEC Finance Ministers' Meeting 2026 concludes successfully in Hong Kong (21.10.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202610/21/P2026102100550.htm", "date": "21.10.2026", "description": "The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Finance Ministers' Meeting (FMM) 2026 concluded successfully in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). Representatives from APEC member economies and international organisations engaged in in-depth exchanges on major issues concerning regional economic development, reaching broad consensus and achieving practical outcomes. On its second day today (October 21), the FMM issued the 2026 APEC Finance Ministers' Joint Statement, reaffirming the commitment to building an open, dynamic, resilient, and peaceful Asia-Pacific community by 2040 for the prosperity of all our people and future generations. The statement also noted that meaningful discussions were held on fiscal policy supporting households, digital infrastructure financing, financial access and opportunity for all, and welcomed the convening of the Young Financial Talents Dialogue, to promote the prosperity and resilience of the region. The agenda of the FMM today included discussions on advancing financial inclusion through approaches tailored to the circumstances of individual economies, and strengthening exchanges and co-operation among young financial professionals across APEC. Speaking during the discussion sessions, the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, said that the key to advancing financial inclusion was to enable individuals and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to access affordable and reliable financial services safely and conveniently. He shared Hong Kong's experience with the Commercial Data Interchange, which facilitates data sharing between businesses and banks to improve the efficiency of credit assessment and help SMEs access finance. He emphasised that consumer protection, sound data governance and clear accountability must be integral to innovation. Mr Chan also expressed Hong Kong's support for continuing the Young Financial Talents Dialogue in 2027 to nurture a new generation of professionals with technical expertise, sound judgement, international perspectives and the ability to work across borders. He suggested focusing exchanges on practical policy issues, including responsible AI adoption, digital infrastructure financing and financial access, and building a lasting network among participants to promote continued learning and long-term co-operation. At the closing session of the meeting, the Minister of Finance, Mr Lan Fo'an, said that all parties should firmly implement the consensus reached at the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting, uphold multilateralism, and deepen practical co-operation in fiscal and financial affairs, with a view to contributing to regional economic and financial stability and long-term sustainable growth. A press conference was also held after the meeting. Mr Lan said that, with the joint efforts of all participants and the high-quality services provided by the HKSAR Government, the FMM had successfully completed all agenda items and delivered a series of practical deliverables. He noted that the meeting had deepened consensus among Asia-Pacific economies in three areas, namely strengthening communication and co-ordination on macroeconomic policies to jointly respond to external risks and challenges; promoting practical financial and economic co-operation to support long-term sustainable development in the Asia-Pacific region; and advancing regional economic integration and fostering an Asia-Pacific community. Following the meeting, tours were arranged for members of delegations from participating economies and international organisations during their stay in Hong Kong. These activities offered them first-hand experience of Hong Kong's unique charm - a city where Eastern and Western cultures converge and development goes hand in hand with culture. The itineraries included visits to the Hong Kong Museum of Art, the Hong Kong Palace Museum, as well as a boat tour to enjoy the renowned views of Victoria Harbour. The APEC FMM 2026 showcased Hong Kong's unique advantages as an international financial centre, strongly supported by the Motherland and closely connected to the world, as well as its capability to host major international conferences. Hong Kong will continue to leverage its roles as a \"super connector\" and \"super value-adder\" to deepen exchanges and co-operation with APEC member economies and contribute to regional economic and financial development. Ends/Wednesday, October 21, 2026 Issued at HKT 18:45 NNNN"}, {"title": "APEC Finance Ministers' Meeting 2026 opens in Hong Kong (20.10.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202610/20/P2026102000247.htm", "date": "20.10.2026", "description": "The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Finance Ministers' Meeting (FMM) 2026 commenced today (October 20) for the first time in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). Representatives from the APEC member economies and international organisations gathered for the two-day meeting to discuss key issues including the global and regional macroeconomic and financial outlook, fiscal policy supporting households, digital infrastructure financing, financial access and opportunity for all, and young financial talent dialogue, with a view to strengthening economic and financial co-operation in the Asia-Pacific region. The Minister of Finance, Mr Lan Fo'an, said at the opening ceremony that a new round of technological revolution and industrial transformation is accelerating with breakthroughs, and new development momentum is gathering. As the engine of global economic growth, the Asia-Pacific region bears greater responsibility. All parties should firmly implement the consensus reached at the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting and contribute to regional prosperity. First, strengthen macroeconomic policy dialogue and maintain regional economic and financial stability. Given the current highly uncertain international economic environment, all economies should enhance the soundness of their own macroeconomic policies while strengthening policy communication and co-ordination to prevent negative spillover effects from policy adjustments. Second, accelerate economic transformation and enhance economic resilience. All economies should seize the opportunities of digital and green transformation, promote innovative co-operation in areas such as artificial intelligence, the digital economy, and green and low-carbon development, and cultivate new growth drivers. Third, uphold development as a priority and promote shared prosperity. All economies should deepen practical co-operation in fiscal and financial fields, foster an open regional economic environment, maintain the stability and smooth flow of industrial and supply chains, and advance regional economic integration. The agenda of the FMM today covered discussions on the global and regional macroeconomic and financial outlook, fiscal policies supporting households, and digital infrastructure financing. Speaking during the discussion sessions, the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, said that amid geopolitical tensions and uncertainties over trade policies, Asia-Pacific economies should strengthen co-operation to maintain the smooth flow of trade and investment, while guarding against financial risks and nurturing long-term growth drivers. He noted that economies should step up investment in technology, digital infrastructure and talent training, and promote the wider application of artificial intelligence, enabling small and medium-sized enterprises and the public to share in the benefits of technological advances. On infrastructure development, governments should provide a clear, stable and predictable policy environment and make effective use of public resources. They should also work with the business sector and multilateral development banks, leveraging financing tools such as asset securitisation to channel long-term capital into productive infrastructure projects. Mr Chan said that Hong Kong would leverage its unique advantages under the \"one country, two systems\" principle, and make full use of its diverse financing channels and professional services as an international financial centre to serve as a \"super connector\" and \"super value-adder\". By connecting capital, technology and projects across the region, Hong Kong would work with other economies to foster more resilient, sustainable and inclusive growth, ensuring that the benefits of development translate into better livelihoods. In the morning, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority and the APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC) held two thematic seminars on \"Fostering a digitalised, inclusive and sustainable supply chain ecosystem through finance\" and \"Mobilising capital for nature: scaling finance and regional cooperation across APEC\" respectively. Delivering welcoming remarks at the seminars, the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, said that the seminars have brought together regulators, business leaders and experts from across the Asia-Pacific region to share their practical experience and market insights for meaningful exchanges on ways to unlock new opportunities, strengthen financial resilience, and drive sustainable growth for all. The speakers and attendants of the seminars also held in-depth discussions on the relevant topics. To allow delegates to further appreciate Hong Kong's cultural heritage and unique charm as an international metropolis, a diverse range of experiential and cultural activities and visits, incorporating elements of Chinese culture and Hong Kong's distinct character, were arranged for members of delegations from participating economies and international organisations, with an aim of telling good stories of both the country and Hong Kong. Members of some participating delegations boarded a sightseeing bus arranged by the meeting organiser yesterday (October 19) evening, to visit the Xiqu Centre and enjoy cultural performances, experiencing first-hand the essence of Chinese culture and the vitality of Hong Kong society. A series of study visits and tours were arranged for delegates today for members of the delegations from participating economies and international organisations, offering them an opportunity to experience Hong Kong's diverse appeal, where natural and urban landscapes converge and tradition blends with modernity. The itineraries included the Peak, the Chinese Culinary Institute and Ocean Park. In the evening today, the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, and Mr Lan, jointly officiated at a welcome dinner for representatives of the APEC member economies and international organisations. The FMM will continue tomorrow (October 21). China is the host of APEC 2026. The FMM, being hosted by the Ministry of Finance and held in Hong Kong under the arrangements and organisation of the HKSAR Government, is a key component among a series of APEC meetings this year. Through the FMM, Hong Kong has demonstrated to participating economies and the international community its comprehensive development across economic, financial, and social sectors, leveraging its distinctive advantages of enjoying strong support of the motherland and being closely connected to the world. The FMM has also deepened co-operation with other APEC members, fully showcasing Hong Kong's role as a \"super connector\". Ends/Tuesday, October 20, 2026 Issued at HKT 20:20 NNNN"}, {"title": "FS meets with Thai Deputy Prime Minister and senior executives of multinational financial institution in Bangkok (17.10.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202610/17/P2026101700322.htm", "date": "17.10.2026", "description": "The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, continued his visit to Bangkok, Thailand, this morning (October 17). Mr Chan met with the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of Thailand, Mr Ekniti Nitithanprapas, in the morning to exchange views on further strengthening economic, trade and financial co-operation between Hong Kong and Thailand. The two sides explored ways to deepen co-operation and connect foreign direct investment in Thailand with Hong Kong's capital market to further support enterprises investing and expanding their businesses in Thailand. Mr Chan said that Hong Kong could leverage its strengths as an international financial centre to provide comprehensive investment and financing support for enterprises in Thailand. Hong Kong also welcomed closer regulatory co-operation between the two securities markets to encourage dual listings by enterprises from both places and strengthen capital market ties. With Mainland enterprises accelerating their international expansion and increasing investment in Thailand and Southeast Asia, Hong Kong could further enhance its bridging role by matching the Mainland's technological strengths with Thailand's industrial development needs, thereby fostering investment and industrial co-operation. Mr Chan thanked Mr Ekniti for visiting Hong Kong to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Finance Ministers' Meeting, and invited him to attend the Asian Financial Forum in Hong Kong in January next year to further strengthen economic, trade and financial ties between the two places and across the region, and jointly explore new opportunities for co-operation. Mr Chan also met with the chief executive officer and senior management of a major French bank with extensive operations in Hong Kong this morning. They exchanged views on developments in the fixed income and currency markets in Hong Kong and the region, green and sustainable finance, tokenised financial products, and asset and wealth management. Mr Chan welcomed the group's continued expansion in Hong Kong and its use of the city as a key hub for developing its regional business, tapping into the opportunities offered by Hong Kong as an international financial centre. Having concluded his morning programme, Mr Chan departed for Hong Kong and returned in the afternoon today. Ends/Saturday, October 17, 2026 Issued at HKT 13:12 NNNN"}, {"title": "FS attends Annual Meetings of IMF and World Bank Group in Bangkok (16.10.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202610/16/P2026101600660.htm", "date": "16.10.2026", "description": "The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, continued his visit to Bangkok, Thailand, today (October 16). As a member of the Chinese delegation, he attended the plenary session of the Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank Group (WBG). He also took part in discussions organised by financial media and a think tank, met with senior executives of international financial institutions and enterprises, and hosted a dinner for financial sector leaders to highlight Hong Kong's development opportunities and promote financial and investment co-operation. At a fireside chat organised by Bloomberg, Mr Chan outlined how Hong Kong's First Five-Year Plan aligns with the National 15th Five-Year Plan, providing clear development directions and goals for the public and businesses. He said that Hong Kong would focus on developing the \"four centres and one hub\", reinforcing and enhancing its status as an international financial, shipping and trade centre. Hong Kong would also leverage its strengths and work in tandem with other cities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) to advance its development as an innovation and technology (I&T) centre. Mr Chan stressed that financial development must serve the real economy. Hong Kong would deepen its \"Finance+\" strategy to empower different industries, support enterprises in upgrading and transformation, and provide venture capital, patient capital and long-term funding for I&T to accelerate the development of emerging industries. Hong Kong would also continue to broaden its financial products and services, develop commodities trading, enhance its listing regime and further facilitate financing for technology enterprises. To meet the needs of Mainland enterprises expanding overseas and reorganising their production and supply chains, Hong Kong would provide comprehensive support covering logistics, supply chain management, trade finance, risk management and professional services. The Government would also proactively address enterprises' needs through cross-departmental collaboration. He said that Hong Kong's international character is a core strength that must be continuously reinforced and enhanced. While strengthening ties with mature markets such as Europe and the United States and attracting international capital, Hong Kong would deepen co-operation with emerging markets in Southeast Asia, the Middle East and Central Asia. It would open up two-way investment opportunities by bringing together capital and industries to meet development needs across these markets. Beyond promoting business and trade exchanges, Hong Kong would leverage its financial and professional services strengths, including green and sustainable finance and trade finance, to support infrastructure, supply chain and industrial development in the region, growing together with its regional partners. On offshore Renminbi business, Hong Kong is expanding its range of investment products, enhancing custody and collateral management infrastructure, and increasing liquidity to add depth and breadth to the market. Hong Kong would also develop gold storage, clearing and settlement services and related financial products, and explore closer connectivity with the Mainland gold market. These efforts would build a more comprehensive gold trading ecosystem and offer international investors more choices. Mr Chan said that \"one country, two systems\" provides Hong Kong with an institutional advantage for its long-term development, while talent is a key driving force for its future growth. Hong Kong would remain free, open, diverse and inclusive, welcoming enterprises and talent from around the world to establish and pursue careers in the city, as well as young people to study here, and encouraging them to become part of its future. Hong Kong would continue to attract international talent, promote exchanges across regions and cultures, and further strengthen its role in connecting the Mainland with the world. Mr Chan also took part in a broadcast fireside chat hosted by the Atlantic Council, a US think tank. He outlined the latest developments in Hong Kong's financial markets and how its first five-year plan would advance I&T, promote the integrated development of education, technology, talent and industries in the Northern Metropolis, and deepen co-operation with other GBA cities in I&T industries. On digital assets, he said that Hong Kong embraces financial innovation with an open mind. With equal emphasis on regulation and development, Hong Kong would take a prudent and measured approach to developing areas such as digital asset exchanges and stablecoins to better serve the real economy. Mr Chan also met with the Managing Director and Chief Administrative Officer of the WBG, Mr Zhang Wencai, today. They exchanged views on the global and regional economic outlook and deepening co-operation between Hong Kong and the WBG. Mr Chan said that Hong Kong could combine its strengths in capital markets and professional services with the project experiences and networks of multilateral development institutions to channel more private market capital and philanthropic funding into infrastructure and sustainable development projects in the region. A range of financial instruments could also be used to enhance project financing and risk management. Mr Chan also met with the management of a major European digital bank to discuss fintech development, digital banking services and cross-boundary payments, and outlined opportunities in Hong Kong's financial markets. He welcomed the bank to establish a presence in Hong Kong and leverage the city's vibrant financial services ecosystem, well-established financial infrastructure, professional talent and international networks to explore innovative financial services and expand its regional business. In the evening, Mr Chan attended a dinner organised by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Bangkok, where he met with senior executives of major Thai banks and other financial institutions. He shared the latest developments in Hong Kong's economy and financial services sector and explored opportunities to further strengthen financial co-operation between the two places. Mr Chan will continue his visit to Bangkok tomorrow morning (October 17) before departing for Hong Kong, arriving in the afternoon. Ends/Friday, October 16, 2026 Issued at HKT 20:05 NNNN"}, {"title": "Maiden voyage of southbound yachts from Guangdong realises two-way navigation for Guangdong-Hong Kong individual yacht travel (16.10.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202610/16/P2026101600631.htm", "date": "16.10.2026", "description": "The maiden voyage ceremony of southbound yachts from Guangdong was held today (October 16), marking the official implementation of the scheme. The Acting Financial Secretary, Mr Michael Wong; the Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Ms Mable Chan; and the Director of Marine, Mr Wong Sai-fat, officiated at the ceremony to welcome five visiting yachts from Guangdong. In his speech at the ceremony, the Acting Financial Secretary, Mr Michael Wong, said that Hong Kong is actively developing into a yachting hub in Asia. He noted that the global yacht market has continued to grow in recent years, with the luxury yacht market in particular experiencing significant expansion. He added that the market value of the superyacht industry is projected to reach approximately $350 billion by 2032, representing a massive scale. He believed that Hong Kong has the potential, capability, and strength to secure a share of this market. He said that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government is proactively implementing various measures to promote the yacht economy, including the three measures introduced by the Marine Department in June to facilitate yachts to visit Hong Kong. He also mentioned that The Festival of Connoisseurs, an international flagship exhibition focusing on superyachts and premium lifestyles, will be held in Hong Kong in early November. He added that the Government is fully committed to promoting the construction of four new yacht clubs at the airport, Lamma Island, Aberdeen, and Hung Hom respectively, which will provide a total of more than 1 100 berths and four highly attractive new clubhouse facilities. It is expected that these facilities will significantly enhance and improve Hong Kong's infrastructure and ecosystem in the yachting economy. Following the launch of northbound travel of yachts from Hong Kong in June this year, and the signing of the relevant work arrangements between Guangdong and Hong Kong in September to establish an institutionalised mechanism for cross-boundary individual yacht travel between Guangdong and Hong Kong, the Governments of the two places have further implemented the southbound travel of yachts from Guangdong, enabling yacht owners in Guangdong to handle cross-boundary procedures more conveniently, thereby promoting greater connectivity between the two places in cross-boundary navigation networks and the marine leisure industry. Under the framework of the southbound travel of yachts from Guangdong, all Guangdong-registered yachts that meet the requirements of a navigation range of up to 20 nautical miles offshore and a wave resistance capability of not less than 2 metres may apply to visit Hong Kong. Yacht owners/masters intending to travel southbound may complete the procedures online in advance and must complete the relevant Chinese Mainland departure inspection formalities at the six designated control points (namely the Nansha Ferry Terminal in Guangzhou, Shekou Cruise Homeport in Shenzhen, Shenzhen Airport Ferry Terminal, Jiuzhou Port Passenger Terminal in Zhuhai, Wanshan Port in Zhuhai, and Sunsea Yacht Club Marina, Zhongshan Port). The Marine Department launched three facilitation measures in June, which include enhancing the Electronic Business System to allow one-stop online completion of arrival and port formalities, setting up designated anchorage areas and relaxing the requirements of booking a berth at a yacht club before arriving in Hong Kong, as well as authorising Chinese Mainland institutions to conduct the Hong Kong Waters Local Knowledge Examination and provide training for yacht masters prior to arrival in Hong Kong. These facilitation measures also apply to overseas yachts. Owners/masters of visiting yachts may apply through the Electronic Business System for Permission to Navigate in Hong Kong Waters as early as 30 days before arrival, and book an anchoring location. Details of the procedures and relevant information for Guangdong-registered yachts travelling southbound to Hong Kong are set out in the Appendix. The Marine Department has authorised two Mainland examination centres to conduct the Hong Kong Waters Local Knowledge Examination, and has approved seven Mainland training institutions to offer recognised training courses. To date, the department received an enthusiastic response with nearly 300 people having already obtained the relevant qualification. The Marine Department will also recognise online short-term training courses organised by local professional training and examination institutions in order to facilitate masters of visiting yachts in obtaining the qualification to navigate in Hong Kong waters while overseas. The implementation of the southbound travel of yachts from Guangdong and the relevant cross-boundary facilitation measures for yachts will help attract more yachts from the Greater Bay Area and around the world to visit Hong Kong, injecting new impetus into the tourism industry and the yacht market, bringing new growth opportunities and driving the development of related industries. The Government will continue to monitor the development of visiting yachts and make timely adjustments to the implementation of the various facilitation measures. Ends/Friday, October 16, 2026 Issued at HKT 19:55 NNNN"}, {"title": "FS begins visit to Bangkok, Thailand (15.10.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202610/15/P2026101500767.htm", "date": "15.10.2026", "description": "​The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, arrived in Bangkok, Thailand, today (October 15) to begin his visit, attending the Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group and related events as a member of the Chinese delegation. Mr Chan attended a high-level roundtable co-organised by the IMF and the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) to explore how economies in the Middle East and Central Asia can better benefit from the vast opportunities offered by Hong Kong's investment and financing markets. Heads of finance ministries and central banks from a number of countries in these regions took part. In his keynote speech, Mr Chan said that the increasingly close financial ties between Hong Kong and the Middle East and Central Asia help investors diversify their investments and enable enterprises to better raise capital for business development and manage risks. As these economies continue to develop and diversify, Hong Kong can support their growth in three areas: mobilising long-term capital, broadening currency options, and managing and sharing risks. On mobilising long-term capital, Mr Chan pointed out that Hong Kong's common law system under \"one country, two systems\", free flow of capital, Linked Exchange Rate System, diverse investor base, and connectivity with both Mainland and international capital markets provide a solid foundation for investment. Hong Kong ranked first globally in funds raised through initial public offerings last year. In the first nine months of this year, funds raised reached nearly US$50 billion, more than double the amount in the same period last year and already exceeding last year's full-year total. Hong Kong also supports industries in reducing emissions and transitioning to greener operations through green and sustainable finance. Infrastructure asset securitisation helps broaden the investor base and enables lenders to recycle capital into new projects. On broadening currency options, Mr Chan said that Hong Kong is continuing to enhance its offshore Renminbi (RMB) ecosystem to facilitate financing, settlement and investment by enterprises and investors. This helps enterprises with close business ties with the Mainland reduce currency conversion risks and better align the currencies of their receipts, payments and borrowings. Hong Kong has the world's largest offshore RMB liquidity pool, with deposits of around RMB1.3 trillion. With the support of the People's Bank of China, the HKMA expanded the funding arrangements supporting RMB trade business to RMB500 billion in July, further meeting enterprises' financing needs. On managing and sharing risks, Mr Chan noted that Hong Kong has facilitated seven issuances of catastrophe bonds totalling around US$800 million since 2021. These bonds bring in capital market investors to share catastrophe risks, providing additional protection against major disasters and strengthening the resilience of businesses and communities. Mr Chan invited international multilateral organisations, financial institutions and insurers to work together in innovative ways to promote more efficient capital mobilisation and risk management, enabling all parties to share in the benefits of economic development. He said that Hong Kong's concentration of relevant professional expertise, abundant capital and extensive experience can help structure projects to make them bankable, fostering a virtuous cycle in which investment drives growth and growth creates investment opportunities. The Chief Executive of the HKMA, Mr Eddie Yue, and senior management members of three major banks in Hong Kong also attended the roundtable. Mr Chan also called on the Chinese Ambassador to Thailand, Mr Zhang Jianwei, today to exchange views on Thailand's economy, China-Thailand relations and the international landscape. Mr Chan gave an update on Hong Kong's economy and an overview of the First Five-Year Plan for Economic and Social Development of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (2026-2030). The two sides also had in-depth exchanges on further strengthening economic and trade co-operation and people-to-people exchanges between Hong Kong and Thailand. He also met with the Regional Vice President for Asia and the Pacific of the International Finance Corporation, Mr Sarvesh Suri, for in-depth exchanges on strengthening co-operation in a number of areas. These included more effectively mobilising private capital to support sustainable development in infrastructure, education, healthcare and the digital economy in the region, and participating in the formulation of relevant international standards; strengthening financing support for trade, supply chains and small and medium-sized enterprises; using financial instruments such as catastrophe bonds to manage and share climate risks; and enhancing co-operation in talent training. Mr Chan will continue his visit to Bangkok tomorrow (October 16), including attending the plenary session of the Annual Meetings of the IMF and the World Bank Group. Ends/Thursday, October 15, 2026 Issued at HKT 22:10 NNNN"}, {"title": "FS to attend Annual Meetings of IMF and World Bank Group in Thailand (14.10.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202610/14/P2026101400449.htm", "date": "14.10.2026", "description": "The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, will depart for Bangkok, Thailand, tomorrow morning (October 15) to attend the Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group (WBG) as a member of the Chinese delegation. This year's Annual Meetings will bring together officials responsible for fiscal, financial and economic affairs, central bank representatives, business and non-governmental sector leaders, and academics from around the world to discuss issues including the global economic outlook, financial stability, poverty reduction, inclusive growth and job creation. The meetings will also focus on mobilising private capital to support infrastructure investment, employment and sustainable growth across economies, as well as harnessing artificial intelligence to promote development while managing the associated risks. Mr Chan will attend the plenary session of the Annual Meetings on October 16. During the Annual Meetings, he will also attend a roundtable co-organised by the IMF and the Hong Kong Monetary Authority to explore investment and financing opportunities in the Hong Kong market for economies in the Middle East and Central Asia. He will outline how Hong Kong can leverage the strengths of its financial markets and professional services to meet these economies' investment and financing needs, and foster cross-border financial co-operation. In addition, Mr Chan will take part in dialogue sessions organised respectively by Bloomberg and the Atlantic Council to exchange views on Hong Kong's economy, offshore Renminbi business, technological and financial innovation, and the global economic and trade landscape. He will highlight Hong Kong's strengths and resilience as an international financial centre, as well as its role in connecting the Mainland and global capital markets. During the Annual Meetings, Mr Chan will also meet with financial officials from various economies and senior executives of the IMF, the WBG and international financial firms to exchange views on the global and regional economic and financial situations. He will also introduce the latest developments and opportunities in Hong Kong's financial services sector to strengthen ties and foster further co-operation. Mr Chan will depart from Bangkok for Hong Kong on the morning of October 17 and arrive in Hong Kong in the afternoon. During his absence, the Deputy Financial Secretary, Mr Michael Wong, will act as Financial Secretary. Ends/Wednesday, October 14, 2026 Issued at HKT 17:00 NNNN"}, {"title": "FS concludes visit to Nanjing (14.10.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202610/14/P2026101400398.htm", "date": "14.10.2026", "description": "The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, today (October 14) continued his visit to Nanjing with a delegation, meeting with the leadership of Jiangsu Province and visiting advanced manufacturing and pharmaceutical enterprises. Mr Chan had a breakfast meeting with member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Jiangsu Provincial Committee and Executive Vice Governor of Jiangsu Province, Mr Zhang Wenbing, this morning. They exchanged views on deepening economic and trade co-operation between Jiangsu and Hong Kong, strengthening collaboration in innovation and technology (I&T), and supporting enterprises in their international expansion. Mr Chan said that the visit had strengthened the delegation's ties with the Jiangsu Provincial Government, universities, I&T institutions and enterprises. Hong Kong will actively follow up on various co-operation projects to deliver more concrete results in Jiangsu-Hong Kong co-operation. The delegation then visited a Jiangsu-based enterprise specialising in energy and energy-saving equipment to learn about its technology research and development (R&D), commercialisation of research outcomes and business development. With high-efficiency heat transfer technology at its core, the enterprise develops and manufactures key equipment for sectors such as clean energy and chemicals. Its technologies are also applied to industrial waste heat recovery and efficient energy use, helping industries conserve energy, reduce carbon emissions and pursue green transformation. The delegation also visited a pharmaceutical enterprise to learn about its drug R&D, production and global marketing operations. They met with the enterprise's management to learn about its future development plans, including the use of artificial intelligence to enhance drug R&D efficiency, the development of cutting-edge therapies, and strategies for expanding its international business. During the visits to the two enterprises, Mr Chan said that I&T is a key area of co-operation between Jiangsu and Hong Kong. The two places have ample scope for collaboration in technology R&D, the commercialisation of research outcomes and international market expansion. They can further promote two-way investment and personnel exchanges, and work together to foster deeper integration of technological and industrial innovation. On innovative drugs, enterprises can leverage Hong Kong's strengths in drug R&D and the opportunities arising from reforms of its drug approval regime to accelerate the development, application and market expansion of innovative drugs. He encouraged the two enterprises to make good use of Hong Kong's internationally connected capital markets, experience in aligning with the highest international standards, high-quality professional services, and strengths as a hub for international financial institutions and talent, to scale up their businesses and bring more competitive technologies, products and solutions to overseas markets. Mr Chan and the delegation concluded their visit to Nanjing this afternoon and will return to Hong Kong in the early evening. Ends/Wednesday, October 14, 2026 Issued at HKT 13:46 NNNN"}, {"title": "FS continues visit to Nanjing (13.10.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202610/13/P2026101300550.htm", "date": "13.10.2026", "description": "The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, today (October 13) continued his visit to Nanjing with a delegation, meeting with Jiangsu provincial leaders and business representatives, attending a promotion conference on supporting enterprises in going global, and visiting a platform for the commercialisation of research outcomes. The visit seeks to deepen co-operation between Jiangsu and Hong Kong, and support Mainland enterprises in leveraging Hong Kong to expand their global business. In the morning, Mr Chan attended a promotion conference on supporting Mainland enterprises in going global, themed \"Jiangsu-Hong Kong Partnership: Setting Sail Together\". In his address, he said that this year marks the beginning of the National 15th Five-Year Plan. Through closer co-operation, Jiangsu and Hong Kong can seize the opportunities arising from the country's pursuit of high-level opening up and translate them into tangible results for enterprises expanding into international markets. He encouraged Jiangsu enterprises to use Hong Kong as a base for their long-term development when planning their global operations. Mr Chan noted that Jiangsu and Hong Kong enjoy a solid foundation of co-operation. Hong Kong is both Jiangsu's largest source of foreign investment and its largest destination for outward investment. As at the end of September this year, 129 Jiangsu enterprises were listed in Hong Kong, with a combined market capitalisation of about HK$1.44 trillion. He said that the two places have a sound basis for co-operation, with ample scope for further collaboration in innovation-driven development and expansion into international markets. He said that Hong Kong's strengths extend beyond stock market listings and fundraising to its high concentration of international capital, financial institutions and professional talent. Last year, Hong Kong recorded 119 new listings, raising over HK$280 billion and ranking first globally in initial public offering fundraising. In the first nine months of this year, Hong Kong recorded over 110 new listings, raising more than HK$380 billion, more than double the amount raised in the same period last year. More than 70 of the world's top 100 banks operate in Hong Kong. Enterprises can connect with international investors and partners through Hong Kong, broadening their financing channels to support business development at different stages. On talent and innovation and technology (I&T), Mr Chan said that Hong Kong's free, open and international environment helps enterprises attract research, engineering and management talent from the Mainland and overseas. Hong Kong has more than 50 international schools offering a diverse range of curricula. Together with its convenient transport network and vibrant lifestyle, these provide a favourable environment for talent and their families to settle and pursue long-term development in Hong Kong. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government is taking forward the development of the Northern Metropolis and university towns, bringing together quality education and research resources from Hong Kong, the Mainland and overseas to foster the co-ordinated development of education, technology, talent and industries, and accelerate the commercialisation of research outcomes. He invited Jiangsu enterprises to visit Hong Kong and the Northern Metropolis to explore co-operation opportunities. Mr Chan also pointed out that, in attracting enterprises and nurturing industries, the HKSAR Government looks not only at the scale of investment, but also at enterprises' technological capabilities, capacity for innovation, and long-term contributions to Hong Kong's I&T ecosystem and talent development. The Government is willing to explore investment co-operation with promising enterprises aligned with Hong Kong's future development priorities, and offer support in areas including land, taxation and other complementary measures. He expressed the hope of building long-term partnerships with Jiangsu enterprises and supporting more Mainland enterprises in becoming multinational corporations with global influence, bringing Chinese technologies, products and solutions to markets around the world. Mr Chan also had breakfast with a group of young Jiangsu entrepreneurs in the morning, exchanging views on business development and co-operation opportunities between the two places. He also attended a sharing session with Hong Kong business people and enterprises in Jiangsu to learn about their business development in the province. In the afternoon, the delegation visited the National Regional Technology Transfer and Transformation Centre for Higher Education Institutions (Jiangsu) to learn about its work in promoting the transfer and commercialisation of university research outcomes, matching them with enterprises' needs, and fostering industry-academia-research collaboration. Focusing on areas including biomedicine, information and communications, and advanced materials, the centre provides support covering technology research and development, proof of concept and pilot testing. It promotes the deeper integration of technological and industrial innovation, helps nurture emerging and future industries, and advances the integrated development of education, technology and talent. The delegation subsequently met with officials and representatives of Nanjing's Jiangbei New Area and the centre, as well as representatives of local industries and enterprises. They exchanged views on promoting two-way co-operation between Jiangsu and Hong Kong, and between Nanjing and Hong Kong, as well as establishing more regular mechanisms for I&T collaboration. At the meeting, Mr Chan proposed strengthening two-way collaboration in three areas to deepen co-operation and deliver more concrete results. First, Jiangsu enterprises can make good use of Hong Kong's financing and treasury management platforms to support their international business expansion. Second, they can leverage Hong Kong's professional services to align with international standards, creating favourable conditions for their products and services to enter overseas markets. Third, enterprises can capitalise on Hong Kong's strengths in international data resources and talent to drive product and service innovation, and better respond to the evolving needs of international markets. He also encouraged the two places to strengthen connections among science and technology parks, universities, enterprises, investment institutions and the professional services sector, facilitate talent exchanges, and bring more promising research projects to fruition. In the evening, Mr Chan called on the Governor of Jiangsu Province, Mr Liu Xiaotao. They exchanged views on deepening economic and trade co-operation between Jiangsu and Hong Kong, strengthening connections between innovation and industrial resources, and jointly supporting enterprises in expanding into overseas markets. Mr Chan said he looked forward to further broadening co-operation in youth development, talent and cultural exchanges, alongside economic, trade and I&T collaboration, to provide fresh impetus for the long-term partnership between Jiangsu and Hong Kong. Mr Chan and the delegation will continue their visit to Nanjing tomorrow morning and depart for Hong Kong in the afternoon. Ends/Tuesday, October 13, 2026 Issued at HKT 18:39 NNNN"}, {"title": "FS begins visit to Nanjing (12.10.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202610/12/P2026101200559.htm", "date": "12.10.2026", "description": "The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, today (October 12) led a delegation of about 30 members to Nanjing to begin his visit. Upon arrival, Mr Chan visited Nanjing University and delivered a keynote speech to more than 200 faculty members and students, introducing new directions for Hong Kong's economic development and outlining specific areas for co-operation between Hong Kong and Jiangsu, and between Hong Kong and Nanjing. In his speech, Mr Chan pointed out that artificial intelligence (AI) is reducing search and transaction costs, driving enterprises to redesign their operational processes and giving rise to new business models. He noted that the country's comprehensive manufacturing system and wide range of application scenarios provide ample scope for validating and continuously improving new technologies. Hong Kong can leverage its strengths in finance, innovation and technology (I&T), professional services and international connectivity to complement the strong industrial foundations of Nanjing and Jiangsu, jointly promoting the commercialisation of research outcomes and industrial development. Mr Chan said that Hong Kong could deepen co-operation with Jiangsu and Nanjing in two areas: supporting enterprises in going global and strengthening industrial collaboration. Hong Kong's financial and professional services can support enterprises as they plan their expansion into overseas markets, covering financing, intellectual property strategies, product certification, alignment with standards, corporate governance, compliance and risk management, talent and treasury management. Enterprises can also establish international or regional headquarters in Hong Kong to attract talent and co-ordinate their overseas operations, while collaborating with universities, international research teams and enterprises in the city. On industrial collaboration, Nanjing's strengths in the software industry can be combined with Hong Kong's research and development (R&D) capabilities and international networks to jointly develop industrial software, AI agents for enterprises and robots to meet business needs. The two cities can also pursue joint R&D, clinical validation, patent licensing and international business collaboration in life and health sciences. In addition, they can jointly develop and validate green technologies for urban energy conservation, energy storage management and energy dispatch, and leverage Hong Kong to expand into overseas markets. He encouraged Nanjing University students to build a solid foundation in their disciplines and develop AI literacy. Through interdisciplinary learning and making good use of research collaboration and talent exchange opportunities between the two cities, they can develop a broad range of capabilities through practical experience, serve as a bridge between Nanjing and Hong Kong, and help bring more of the country's research outcomes to the world. The delegation subsequently held a discussion with university representatives and representatives of a number of enterprises founded by Nanjing University alumni. Innovative enterprises from both cities in fields including AI, photonic chips, biotechnology, advanced manufacturing and new energy introduced their businesses. Participants explored opportunities for co-operation and ways to connect industry with capital. Mr Chan said that Hong Kong's unique institutional advantages under \"one country, two systems\", together with its deep pool of capital, comprehensive professional services, extensive international networks and diverse talent pool, enable the city to provide all-round support for Mainland I&T enterprises in accessing international markets and expanding their global operations. The delegation also visited Nanjing University's Brain-Computer Interface Institute, where they were briefed by the research team on its research directions and work to commercialise research outcomes. The institute seeks to achieve breakthroughs in key technologies for non-invasive brain-computer interfaces. Its research covers such areas as neuroimaging and neural decoding, exploring applications in the diagnosis and treatment of brain diseases and rehabilitation. In the evening, Mr Chan called on the Secretary of the CPC Nanjing Municipal Committee, Mr Zhou Hongbo, and the Mayor of Nanjing, Mr Li Zhongjun, to exchange views on deepening co-operation between Hong Kong and Nanjing in economic affairs and trade, finance and I&T. Ends/Monday, October 12, 2026 Issued at HKT 18:50 NNNN"}, {"title": "CE attends opening ceremony of Huanggang Port (11.10.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202610/11/P2026101100371.htm", "date": "11.10.2026", "description": "The redeveloped Huanggang Port will open at 6.30am tomorrow (October 12). The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, officiated at the opening ceremony at the Mainland Port Area of the Huanggang Port today (October 11) alongside the Director of the Standing Committee of the Guangdong Provincial People's Congress, Mr Huang Chuping; the Standing Committee Member of the CPC Guangdong Provincial Committee and the Secretary of the CPC Shenzhen Municipal Committee, Mr Jin Lei; the Deputy Secretary of the CPC Shenzhen Municipal Committee and Mayor of the Shenzhen Municipal Government, Mr Li Yun; Deputy Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Mr Luo Yonggang; the Director General of the Guangdong Sub-Administration of the General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China, Ms Zhang Geping; the Director of Bureau III of the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council, Mr Zou Jinsong; and the Deputy Director of the Department of Border Security Check of the National Immigration Administration, Ms Mo Haiying. The National 15th Five-Year Plan proposed consolidating and enhancing the role of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area as an engine for high-quality development, as well as strengthening regional infrastructure connectivity. The redevelopment of the Huanggang Port signifies the proactive alignment of the HKSAR Government with national development strategies, representing a key project through which Hong Kong actively integrates into and serves the overall national development. The Hong Kong's First Five-Year Plan announced by the HKSAR Government last month explicitly set out to leverage the strengths of the redeveloped Huanggang Port, implement the co-location arrangement, and adopt the novel \"collaborative inspection and joint clearance\" mode. The official opening of the Huanggang Port signifies a major milestone achieved by Hong Kong and Shenzhen in enhancing the layout of boundary control points, and improving clearance efficiency, and facilitating cross-boundary flow of people. Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Lee said that the Huanggang Port redevelopment project is a landmark undertaking built upon the close partnership and concerted efforts between Hong Kong and Shenzhen for joint contribution and shared benefits. The official opening of the redeveloped port reflects that connectivity within the Greater Bay Area has reached a new height, serving as a faithful demonstration promoting \"hard connectivity\" in infrastructure, fostering \"soft connectivity\" of rules and mechanisms, and achieving \"connectivity of hearts\" between the residents of the Mainland and Hong Kong. The redeveloped Huanggang Port is positioned as the most important 24-hour passenger land boundary control point between Hong Kong and Shenzhen. The design flow of the redeveloped Huanggang Port is 200 000 passenger trips per day, and could be further increased to about 300 000 upon the future commissioning of the Northern Link Spur Line of the MTR Corporation Limited. With the staunch support of the Central Authorities, the Huanggang Port implements the co-location arrangement with clearly delineated Hong Kong Port Area and Mainland Port Area. The Huanggang Port is also the first land boundary control point between Hong Kong and Shenzhen adopting the \"collaborative inspection and joint clearance\" mode, further enhancing passenger clearance experience and efficiency. Under this new clearance mode, clearance time will be significantly reduced from around 30 minutes at the original Lok Ma Chau/Huanggang Port, to approximately five minutes. The 23rd Meeting of the 14th Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPCSC) passed the decision to authorise the HKSAR to exercise jurisdiction over the Huanggang Port Hong Kong Port Area and Related Extended Areas (Hong Kong Port Area) on June 26 this year. Subsequently, the State Council issued an Official Reply on July 8, stipulating the specific co-ordinates and area of the Hong Kong Port Area, and agreeing that the Hong Kong Port Area is to be commissioned beginning at 00.00 hours of July 31, 2026, and is to be subject to the jurisdiction of the HKSAR in accordance with the laws of the HKSAR. The Huanggang Port Hong Kong Port Area Ordinance (Cap. 659), together with the relevant subsidiary legislation, came into operation on July 31. Since the establishment of the Huanggang Port Hong Kong Port Area on July 31, the HKSAR Government has been pressing ahead at full steam with the various preparatory tasks for the opening of the port, including conducting drills and tests of various scales, as well as continuously enhancing detailed arrangements to prepare comprehensively for the opening of the port. Having confirmed that the port is ready for safe, smooth and efficient operation, Hong Kong and Shenzhen issued a joint statement on October 9, announcing that the redeveloped Huanggang Port will officially open at 6.30am of October 12, 2026, providing 24-hour clearance services for passengers and passenger vehicles. Officials of the HKSAR Government attending the ceremony included the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki; the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan; the Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC; the Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung; the Secretary for Health, Professor Lo Chung-mau; the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn; the Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Ms Mable Chan; the Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs, Miss Janice Tse; the Commissioner of Police, Mr Chow Yat-ming; the Director of Immigration, Mr Benson Kwok; the Commissioner of Customs and Excise, Mr Chan Tsz-tat; and the Director of the Chief Executive's Office, Ms Carol Yip. Ends/Sunday, October 11, 2026 Issued at HKT 15:20 NNNN"}, {"title": "FS to lead delegation to visit Nanjing (11.10.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202610/11/P2026101000581.htm", "date": "11.10.2026", "description": "The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, will depart for Nanjing tomorrow morning (October 12), leading a delegation of more than 30 members. The delegation comprises representatives of public organisations, innovation and technology (I&T) parks and professional bodies, as well as heads of enterprises in financial services, legal services, e-commerce and various I&T fields (Note). The delegation will attend a promotion conference on supporting Mainland enterprises in going global, themed \"Jiangsu-Hong Kong Partnership: Setting Sail Together\", in Nanjing on October 13. It will also take part in a series of business-matching, exchange and promotional activities to showcase to Mainland enterprises Hong Kong's unique advantages as a platform for developing international business, and how Hong Kong's diverse financial and professional services can support their overseas expansion. The delegation will also highlight Hong Kong's I&T ecosystem and strengths, promote the matching of I&T resources between the two places, and explore opportunities for co-operation in areas including technology research and development (R&D), commercialisation of R&D outcomes and industry development. The delegation will also visit institutions engaged in technology transfer and commercialisation, as well as I&T enterprises specialising in green technology and biotechnology, in Jiangsu Province to exchange experience. During his stay in Nanjing, Mr Chan will visit Nanjing University to deliver a keynote speech to faculty members and students. He will also visit the university's research institutes undertaking frontier technology R&D. In addition, he will meet with Hong Kong business people and residents in Jiangsu to learn about their business operations, daily lives and development in the province. Mr Chan will call on the leaders of Jiangsu Province and Nanjing City separately to discuss further strengthening co-operation in economic and trade matters, investment and I&T, as well as enhancing personnel exchanges, with a view to fostering closer, mutually beneficial co-operation between Hong Kong and Jiangsu. Mr Chan will depart for Hong Kong in the afternoon of October 14. During his absence, the Deputy Financial Secretary, Mr Michael Wong, will be the Acting Financial Secretary. Note: Delegation members include heads or management representatives of the following organisations: Invest Hong Kong; the Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises; the Hong Kong Investment Corporation Limited; the Hong Kong Trade Development Council; the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited; the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation; the Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited; the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park Limited; the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants; the Hong Kong Venture Capital and Private Equity Association; and the Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre. The delegation also includes heads or management representatives of enterprises engaged in financial services, venture capital, legal services, e-commerce, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, green technology and construction technology. Ends/Sunday, October 11, 2026 Issued at HKT 10:00 NNNN"}, {"title": "FS announces reappointment of Chief Executive Officer of Hong Kong Investment Corporation Limited (2.10.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202610/02/P2026100200514.htm", "date": "2.10.2026", "description": "Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Hong Kong Investment Corporation Limited (HKIC) and Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, announced today (October 2) that the HKIC Board of Directors had approved the reappointment of Ms Clara Chan as the Chief Executive Officer of the HKIC for a term of three years with effect from October 9, 2026. Mr Chan said, \"Since taking office as the inaugural Chief Executive Officer of the HKIC in 2023, Clara has led the team in harnessing the catalytic power of 'patient capital' to mobilise capital and partners from Hong Kong, the Chinese Mainland and international markets to support the development of Hong Kong's strategic industries. She has also helped Hong Kong and Chinese Mainland companies expand into international markets through Hong Kong. The HKIC has achieved reasonable investment returns, and its achievements are widely recognised. \"To date, the HKIC has invested in over 200 companies. Of these, 11 portfolio companies are already listed in Hong Kong, while more than 30 have submitted or plan to submit listing applications in Hong Kong this year. Every Hong Kong dollar invested by the HKIC has attracted more than eight Hong Kong dollars in international long-term market capital. Approximately 70 per cent of its portfolio companies based in Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland have established or are expanding their overseas operations. \"I look forward to Clara's continued leadership of the HKIC over the next three years, contributing to the growth of Hong Kong's financial sector, innovation and technology sector and emerging industries, while supporting the development of the Northern Metropolis and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.\" Biography of Ms Clara Chan Ms Chan was appointed as the inaugural Chief Executive Officer of the Hong Kong Investment Corporation Limited in October 2023. She has extensive experience in investment management and financial stability. Since joining the Hong Kong Monetary Authority in 2010, she has taken on several key roles, including leading the private markets team of the Exchange Fund Investment Office and advancing the development of Hong Kong's financial infrastructure and payment systems. ​ Ms Chan is a barrister admitted by the High Court of Hong Kong. Earlier in her career, she joined the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government's Administrative Service, and served in different roles in policy formulation covering home affairs, cross-boundary infrastructure and financial services. Ends/Friday, October 2, 2026 Issued at HKT 17:00 NNNN"}, {"title": "HKSAR Government's fourth Digital Green Bonds offering (29.9.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202609/29/P2026092900691.htm", "date": "29.9.2026", "description": "The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority: The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China (the HKSAR Government) today (September 29) announced the successful pricing of around HK$20 billion worth of digital green bonds (Digital Green Bonds) denominated in HK dollars (HKD), Renminbi (RMB), US dollars (USD) and euro (EUR) under the Government Sustainable Bond Programme. Following a virtual roadshow, the Digital Green Bonds were priced on September 28 as follows: HKD 5.5 billion 2-year tranche at 3.80 per cent RMB 7.5 billion 5-year tranche at 1.65 per cent USD 200 million 3-year tranche at 5.023 per cent EUR 450 million 4-year tranche at 3.734 per cent This issuance has once again set a new record for the largest digital bond issuance in the world, with subscription ratios across four currencies reaching 1.3 to 11.3 times, further promoting market adoption and broadening investor base for digital bonds. Building on three successful issuances since 2023, the latest issuance reinforces HKSAR Government's commitment in promoting innovation in the bond market. Alongside traditional settlement rail and the tokenised central bank money option introduced in the previous issuance, tokenised deposits, empowered by EnsembleTX, have been incorporated into the primary issuance settlement process for the HKD tranche of this issuance. It represents the world's first digital bond that integrates tokenised deposits in HKD, advancing towards a more integrated digital ecosystem, and lays a foundation for exploring the programmable features of digital money. This issuance also continues to advance adoption of global standards. By adopting the International Capital Market Association's latest Bond Data Taxonomy (BDT) Version 2.0 (Note 1), this issuance promotes greater data consistency, interoperability and end-to-end automation across the bond lifecycle. The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, said, \"The HKSAR Government has successfully issued digital green bonds for the fourth time, totalling HK$20 billion, which is the largest issuance of its kind globally. The offering was oversubscribed, demonstrating strong market appetite for tokenised products issued in Hong Kong. Denominated in multiple currencies, these bonds cater to the asset diversification needs of both local and overseas investors, and have incorporated a range of innovative technologies to further advance innovation in the bond market. The Government will continue to issue tokenised bonds on a regular basis, expand the use cases for the underlying technologies, and harness fintech to empower the bond market's continued development.\" The Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, said, \"This fourth issuance of tokenised green bond demonstrates the HKSAR Government's ongoing commitment to supporting innovative forms of bond issuance and driving green transformation. The Policy Statement 2.0 on the Development of Digital Assets in Hong Kong released last year highlighted the focuses on the expansion of the suite of tokenised products and the advancement of use cases and cross-sectoral collaboration. The Chief Executive's 2026 Policy Address further stated that the Government will work to broaden use cases and popularise digital bonds. This issuance will further enhance society's understanding of the integration of sustainable development and fintech, while strengthening Hong Kong's position as a leading global green and sustainable finance hub.\" The Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA), Mr Eddie Yue, said, \"Since 2023, we have been breaking new ground with digital bond issuances of the HKSAR Government. This fourth issuance reinforces our commitment to stay ahead in the digital finance space, continues to unlock new synergies across digital infrastructures, and deepens our digital asset ecosystem. We are encouraged by the strong investor demand and the expanding market participation, and look forward to sustaining this momentum to further catalyse market innovation and promote adoption.\" Key features of the Digital Green Bonds The clearing and settlement system of the Digital Green Bonds is the Central Moneymarkets Unit (CMU), with HSBC Orion as the digital assets platform. HSBC, Bank of China (Hong Kong), Bank of Communications, BNP PARIBAS, Crédit Agricole CIB, ICBC (Asia), J.P. Morgan, Standard Chartered Bank, Barclays, Citigroup, Deutsche Bank, Société Générale, UBS, Allen Overy Shearman Sterling, Ashurst Perkins Coie Hong Kong, and Linklaters were involved in the preparation for the issuance. Issue size Around HK$20 billion equivalent Currency HKD, RMB, USD, EUR Issue ratings AA-/Aa3/AA+ (Fitch / Moody's / S&P), on par with the issuer's long-term rating Governing law Hong Kong law Settlement cycle T+1 Use of proceeds To finance and/or refinance projects that fall under one or more of the \"Eligible Categories\" set out in the Government's Green Bond Framework Vigeo Eiris has provided a Second Party Opinion on the Government's Green Bond Framework. The Digital Green Bonds have also received the Green and Sustainable Finance Certification Scheme Pre-issuance Stage Certificate from the Hong Kong Quality Assurance Agency Listing Hong Kong Stock Exchange Joint Global Coordinators, Joint Lead Managers, Joint Bookrunners HSBC, Bank of China (Hong Kong), Bank of Communications, BNP PARIBAS, Crédit Agricole CIB, ICBC (Asia), J.P. Morgan, Standard Chartered Bank Joint Lead Managers, Joint Bookrunners Barclays, Citigroup, Deutsche Bank, Société Générale, UBS Joint Green and Sustainable Bond Structuring Banks Crédit Agricole CIB, Bank of China (Hong Kong), BNP PARIBAS, Standard Chartered Bank Clearing and Settlement System CMU operated by the HKMA (Note 2), with linkage to Euroclear and Clearstream Platform HSBC Orion Platform Provider HSBC Platform Direct Participants Bank of China (Hong Kong), Bank of Communications, BNP PARIBAS, Crédit Agricole CIB, HSBC, ICBC (Asia), Standard Chartered Bank Trustee HSBC Principal Paying Agent HSBC Legal Advisers Allen Overy Shearman Sterling (to issuer), Ashurst Perkins Coie Hong Kong (to Platform Provider), Linklaters (to banks and agents) DISCLAIMER: NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, CANADA, AUSTRALIA OR JAPAN OR IN ANY OTHER JURISDICTION IN WHICH SUCH DISTRIBUTION OR DISSEMINATION WOULD BE PROHIBITED BY APPLICABLE LAW. THIS ANNOUNCEMENT IS NOT MADE BEING MADE AVAILABLE IN, AND IS NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN WHOLE OR IN PART, IN OR INTO THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, CANADA, AUSTRALIA OR JAPAN OR IN ANY OTHER JURISDICTION IN WHICH SUCH DISTRIBUTION OR DISSEMINATION WOULD BE PROHIBITED BY APPLICABLE LAW. THIS ANNOUNCEMENT IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED, AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED, AS AN OFFER OF, OR A SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO BUY, SECURITIES IN THE UNITED STATES OR ANY OTHER JURISDICTION. THE SECURITIES DESCRIBED HEREIN HAVE NOT BEEN AND WILL NOT BE REGISTERED UNDER THE UNITED STATES SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED (THE \"SECURITIES ACT\"), OR THE LAWS OF ANY STATE OF THE UNITED STATES, AND MAY NOT BE OFFERED OR SOLD WITHIN THE UNITED STATES EXCEPT PURSUANT TO AN EXEMPTION FROM, OR IN A TRANSACTION NOT SUBJECT TO, THE REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECURITIES ACT AND IN COMPLIANCE WITH ALL APPLICABLE STATE LAWS. THERE WILL BE NO PUBLIC OFFERING OF SUCH SECURITIES IN THE UNITED STATES. Note 1: The BDT is a standardised and machine-readable language of key economic terms of a bond (such as amounts, currency, maturity, interest), key dates (such as pricing, settlement) as well as other relevant information (such as governing law, relevant parties, ratings, selling restrictions) typically included within a term sheet. Version 2.0 of the BDT expands coverage to support more complex issuance structures, introduces greater flexibility in data fields to accommodate a wider range of transaction types, and extends its application across the full bond lifecycle. Note 2: The Digital Green Bonds are cleared and settled through the CMU, and the settlement of transactions made through the CMU benefits from statutory settlement finality under Hong Kong law. Ends/Tuesday, September 29, 2026 Issued at HKT 20:10 NNNN"}, {"title": "FS attends AIIB Annual Meeting in Qatar (29.9.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202609/29/P2026092900027.htm", "date": "29.9.2026", "description": "The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, continued his visit to Doha, Qatar, yesterday (September 28, Doha time), attending activities related to the 11th Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). He also met with representatives from various countries and organisations to explore issues including infrastructure financing, digital public infrastructure, investment and economic co-operation. Mr Chan attended the opening ceremony of the Annual Meeting yesterday and participated in the official session of the AIIB Board of Governors and the Governors' Business Roundtable. At the roundtable, he spoke on how the AIIB could deepen and broaden its support for member economies. He said that strengthening climate resilience and developing digital infrastructure were becoming increasingly urgent priorities for economies. Translating these development needs into concrete projects requires not only financial support but also the capacity to plan and implement projects throughout their life cycle. Alongside providing financing, the AIIB could further promote knowledge and experience sharing among members, strengthen support for project planning and preparation, and help members enhance their project management and implementation capabilities to bring infrastructure projects to fruition. Mr Chan said that Hong Kong, China, would continue to support the AIIB in helping members undertake preparatory work for infrastructure projects, creating favourable conditions for financing and smooth implementation to achieve development goals. He also welcomed the AIIB's establishment of an office in Hong Kong, saying that Hong Kong would actively support its work and leverage its strengths as an international financial centre and a provider of professional services to advance regional infrastructure and sustainable development. Mr Chan also delivered a keynote address yesterday at a seminar entitled \"Digital Public Infrastructure as an Enabler of Resilient Economies\". He said that digital public infrastructure provides essential services such as identity verification, secure data exchange and convenient payments, enabling people to access public and commercial services more safely and conveniently while helping businesses expand and obtain financing. Citing Hong Kong's \"iAM Smart\", Faster Payment System and Commercial Data Interchange as examples, he explained how digital infrastructure could improve the efficiency of public services, facilitate payments and cross-border transactions, and help small and medium-sized enterprises make better use of data to obtain trade financing. He also noted that the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) was creating new opportunities to enhance the effectiveness of digital public infrastructure. Hong Kong, China, is promoting the application of AI in public services and across different sectors of the economy, while supporting innovation by strengthening computing power, data and digital infrastructure, and enhancing AI literacy across the community. At the same time, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government will strengthen cybersecurity, safeguard data privacy and improve AI risk governance, enabling the public and businesses to adopt new technologies with confidence and share in the benefits of the digital economy. During the Annual Meeting, Mr Chan met with Uzbekistan's Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade, Mr Laziz Kudratov, to exchange views on strengthening co-operation between the two places in areas including trade, investment, finance and infrastructure development. Mr Chan said that Hong Kong attached great importance to its economic and trade relations with Uzbekistan and looked forward to further deepening mutually beneficial co-operation. He noted that Uzbekistan's Prime Minister, Mr Abdulla Nigmatovich Aripov, had visited Hong Kong twice this year, fully demonstrating Uzbekistan's commitment to advancing co-operation between the two places. He welcomed Uzbek enterprises to make full use of Hong Kong's international financing platform and professional services, including exploring opportunities to list exchange-traded products and real estate investment trusts in Hong Kong. Mr Chan also met with the Chief Executive Officer of Qatar Development Bank, Mr Abdulrahman Hesham Al-Sowaidi, to explore joint efforts to promote bilateral trade, support the development of start-ups in both places, and strengthen investment co-operation in venture capital. In addition, he met with HSBC's Chief Executive Officer of Infrastructure Finance and Sustainability, Sir Danny Alexander, to discuss infrastructure financing and related opportunities for co-operation. In the evening, Mr Chan attended the AIIB Annual Meeting Members' Dinner hosted by Qatar, where he exchanged views with representatives of governments, multilateral development organisations, financial institutions and the business community from around the world. Mr Chan concluded his visit and departed for Hong Kong late last night (September 28, Doha time). He will arrive in Hong Kong this afternoon (September 29, Hong Kong time). Ends/Tuesday, September 29, 2026 Issued at HKT 9:00 NNNN"}, {"title": "FS begins visit to Qatar (28.9.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202609/28/P2026092800043.htm", "date": "28.9.2026", "description": "The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, arrived in Doha, Qatar, yesterday (September 27, Doha time) to begin his visit there. He met respectively with the President and Chair of the Board of Directors of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), Ms Zou Jiayi; Qatar's Minister of Finance, H.E. Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari; and a number of political, business, financial, investment and corporate leaders in Qatar to exchange views on deepening co-operation. During his meeting with Ms Zou, Mr Chan had an in-depth exchange on issues including deepening co-operation between the two sides, promoting regional infrastructure development and sustainable development, and making better use of Hong Kong's strengths in financial markets, professional services and talent. Mr Chan welcomed the AIIB's establishment of an office in Hong Kong, and looked forward to expanding co-operation between the two sides to areas such as catastrophe bond issuance, green and transition finance, technology and innovation, and talent training. Mr Chan met with Qatar's Minister of Finance, H.E. Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari, yesterday morning to discuss the international political, economic and financial landscape, the economic development policies of the two places, and the direction for strengthening co-operation between the two sides. He said that the Middle East is actively promoting economic diversification and diversified asset allocation amid the current geopolitical situation, bringing new opportunities for Hong Kong and Qatar to expand co-operation. As an important functional platform for the Belt and Road Initiative, Hong Kong can leverage its strengths in finance, trade, infrastructure development, innovation and technology, and professional services to complement Qatar's development needs, and promote capital flows, two-way investment, as well as business and industry collaboration between the two places. Mr Chan then met with representatives of the Qatari Businessmen Association. Business leaders from various sectors including finance, insurance, trade, energy and shipping attended the meeting, at which the two sides had in-depth exchanges. He introduced Hong Kong's unique advantages under \"one country, two systems\" as a two-way platform connecting the Mainland and the world. He pointed out that Hong Kong, on the one hand, enjoys the strong support of the motherland, enabling international enterprises to conveniently, and even with priority, access the vast Chinese Mainland market; and on the other hand continues to practise the common law system, maintain the free flow of capital and its status as a free port, and keep its business rules aligned with international standards, thereby providing enterprises with a safe, familiar and business-friendly environment. He also introduced the opportunities brought about by the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and the Northern Metropolis, in particular the development layout of \"South North Dual Engine (Finance IT)\", and welcomed Qatari enterprises and investors to participate in the development of the Northern Metropolis and jointly explore business opportunities in Innovation and Technology (I&T) industries. Mr Chan said that the two sides could organise reciprocal visits by business delegations and explore institutional co-operation in areas such as commerce, trade and investment. He said that Hong Kong would be pleased to explore establishing mutual recognition arrangements with the Qatar Stock Exchange, so as to facilitate dual listings in Hong Kong by Qatari enterprises wishing to expand their businesses in China and the Asia-Pacific region, enabling them to make good use of Hong Kong's international fundraising platform to attract international and Mainland capital in support of their business development. Mr Chan also met respectively with the Chief Executive Officer of Doha Venture Capital, Mr Mohammed Al-Abdulla, and the Chief Financial Officer, Mr Niall Byrne, and the Chief Investment Execution, Mr Ken McLaren, of the Qatar Investment Authority to explore ways to strengthen two-way investment and industry collaboration. In addition, Mr Chan met respectively with the senior management of Lesha Bank Group and Al Asmakh Group Holding. He briefed them on Hong Kong's economic, financial, trade and I&T development, and encouraged them to establish a presence in Hong Kong, expand their businesses and invest in I&T industries. In the evening, Mr Chan attended the AIIB President's Reception hosted by Ms Zou, where he exchanged views with representatives of governments, multilateral development organisations, financial institutions and the business sector from various places. Mr Chan will continue his visit in Doha today (September 28, Doha time), attend events related to the AIIB Annual Meeting, and depart for Hong Kong late at night. Ends/Monday, September 28, 2026 Issued at HKT 9:00 NNNN"}, {"title": "FS to visit Qatar (26.9.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202609/26/P2026092600214.htm", "date": "26.9.2026", "description": "The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, will depart for Qatar late tonight (September 26) to attend the 11th Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) in Doha. Under the theme \"Tomorrow's Infrastructure: Impact and Innovation\", this year's AIIB Annual Meeting will bring together government officials, multilateral development institutions, business leaders and other stakeholders from around the world for in-depth exchanges on issues such as sustainable infrastructure, cross-border connectivity, green finance and digital transformation, as well as discussions on the AIIB's strategic direction and future work agenda. Mr Chan will attend a number of meetings during the Annual Meeting, including the official meeting of the Board of Governors, and will deliver a keynote speech at a thematic session on digital public infrastructure. He will also meet with other AIIB Governors, as well as local and international political and business leaders. ​ Mr Chan will depart for Hong Kong in the early hours of September 29 (Qatar time) and return to Hong Kong that afternoon (Hong Kong time). During his absence from Hong Kong, the Deputy Financial Secretary, Mr Michael Wong, will act as Financial Secretary. Ends/Saturday, September 26, 2026 Issued at HKT 11:30 NNNN"}, {"title": "Appointments to Occupational Retirement Schemes Appeal Board announced (25.9.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202609/25/P2026092400516.htm", "date": "25.9.2026", "description": "The Financial Secretary, in exercise of the authority under the Occupational Retirement Schemes Ordinance (Cap. 426) delegated to him by the Chief Executive, has appointed Ms Miranda So Man-wah and Ms Hilda Lam as the Chairman and the Deputy Chairman of the Occupational Retirement Schemes Appeal Board (ORSAB) respectively. He has also appointed Ms Astina Au Sze-ting, and reappointed Mr Lewis Law Chung-ming and Mr Roy Leung Sze-kit as members of the ORSAB. The appointments are for a term of two years, effective from October 1, 2026, until September 30, 2028, both dates inclusive. Welcoming the appointments today (September 25), a spokesperson for the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau said, \"With members' extensive experience and professional knowledge, we believe that the ORSAB, under the leadership of the new Chairman and Deputy Chairman, will continue to effectively discharge its statutory duties in ensuring the impartiality and fairness of decisions made by the Mandatory Provident Fund Scheme Authority in relation to occupational retirement schemes.\" The spokesperson also thanked the outgoing Chairman, Ms Giovanna Kwong, for her valuable contributions to the ORSAB over the years. The new membership of the ORSAB with effect from October 1, 2026, is as follows: Chairman ----------- Ms Miranda So Man-wah Deputy Chairman ----------- Ms Hilda Lam Members ---------- Ms Astina Au Sze-ting Mr Lewis Law Chung-ming Mr Roy Leung Sze-kit Ends/Friday, September 25, 2026 Issued at HKT 11:00 NNNN"}, {"title": "Appointments to Accounting and Financial Reporting Council announced (25.9.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202609/25/P2026092400467.htm", "date": "25.9.2026", "description": "The Government announced today (September 25) appointments of Non-Executive Directors (NEDs) to the Accounting and Financial Reporting Council (AFRC) Board. The Financial Secretary, under the authority delegated by the Chief Executive pursuant to the Accounting and Financial Reporting Council Ordinance (Cap. 588), has newly appointed Mr Clement Kwok King-man, Mr William Mak Tze-leung, Mr Tony Mak Wing-yin and Mr Norman Nip Sum-ping, SC, as NEDs of the AFRC, and reappointed Mr Johnny Chan Kok-chung, Ms Deborah Leung Woon-kan and Professor Phyllis Mo Lai-lan as NEDs of the AFRC. All the appointments are on a two-year term from October 1, 2026, to September 30, 2028. The membership of the AFRC Board with effect from October 1, 2026, is as follows: Non-Executive Directors (new members marked with *; and reappointed members marked with #) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Dr David Sun Tak-kei (Chairman) Mr Johnny Chan Kok-chung # Ms Clara Chan Yuen-shan Mr Andrew Fung Hau-chung Ms Cindi Hui Ming-ming Mr Clement Kwok King-man * Ms Deborah Leung Woon-kan # Dr James C Lin Mr Charles Lip Sai-wo Mr William Mak Tze-leung * Mr Tony Mak Wing-yin * Professor Phyllis Mo Lai-lan # Mr Norman Nip Sum-ping, SC * Mr Edward Yuen Siu-bun Executive Directors ---------------------- Ms Janey Lai Chui-pik (Chief Executive Officer) Ms Eva Lau Kin-yu A spokesman for the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau (FSTB) said, \"The AFRC Board has been steering the discharge of its various regulatory powers over accounting professionals and practice units under the new regulatory regime of the accounting profession. With the four new NEDs from diverse professional backgrounds coming onboard, we are confident that their professional knowledge and experience will support the AFRC in continuing to contribute to the effective regulation and sustainable development of Hong Kong's accounting profession.\" The FSTB also expressed its heartfelt gratitude to the outgoing NEDs, Mr Stephen Hung Wan-shun, Ms Miranda Kwok Pui-fong, Mr Roger Thomas Best and Mr Keith Lui Kei-kwong, for their dedication and contributions to the AFRC over the past years. Upon the commencement of the new regulatory regime of the accounting profession on October 1, 2022, the AFRC has become a full-fledged regulatory and oversight body of the accounting profession with expanded statutory functions of, inter alia, registration, inspection, investigation and discipline. It is also responsible for promoting and supporting the development of the accounting profession, as well as overseeing the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants' performance of various statutory professional functions. Ends/Friday, September 25, 2026 Issued at HKT 11:00 NNNN"}, {"title": "FS concludes visit to Beijing (22.9.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202609/22/P2026092200260.htm", "date": "22.9.2026", "description": "The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, continued his visit programme in Beijing this morning (September 22) by visiting China International Capital Corporation Limited (CICC), where he met with its Chairman, Mr Chen Liang. Mr Chan was briefed on CICC's business operations and developments. He also had in-depth exchanges with Mr Chen and his team on issues including the regulation and development of the securities and fixed income markets, promoting the internationalisation of the Renminbi, enhancing financial infrastructure, and deepening mutual market access. At the meeting, Mr Chan said that building China into a financial powerhouse requires the support of strong international financial centres and financial institutions. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government's recently announced the First Five-Year Plan for Economic and Social Development of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (2026–2030) and the Chief Executive's 2026 Policy Address focus on consolidating and enhancing Hong Kong's role and status as an international financial centre, supporting quality enterprises in making good use of Hong Kong's platform to grow bigger and stronger, better serving the real economy, and promoting the development of the innovation and technology sector. He expressed the hope that CICC would continue to maintain close communication with Hong Kong's financial regulators, actively participate in the high-quality development of Hong Kong's capital markets, and expand its international business, particularly by further connecting with markets in Belt and Road countries. By fully leveraging Hong Kong's unique advantages of enjoying strong support from the motherland and being closely connected to the world, both sides can jointly make greater contributions to building the country into a financial powerhouse. The Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui; the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, Mr Eddie Yue; and the Chief Executive Officer of the Securities and Futures Commission, Ms Julia Leung, also attended the meeting. Mr Chan and Mr Hui concluded their visit programme in Beijing this morning and returned to Hong Kong in the afternoon. Ends/Tuesday, September 22, 2026 Issued at HKT 12:00 NNNN"}, {"title": "FS calls on finance-related central ministries and institutions in Beijing (21.9.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202609/21/P2026092100692.htm", "date": "21.9.2026", "description": "The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, who is currently visiting Beijing, called on the Minister of Finance, Mr Lan Fo'an, this morning (September 21). Mr Chan reported on the arrangements for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Finance Ministers' Meeting. They also exchanged views on economic and financial developments on the Mainland and in Hong Kong, as well as global economic and trade issues. The Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, also attended the meeting. This afternoon, Mr Chan called on the Governor of the People's Bank of China, Mr Pan Gongsheng, and the Minister of the National Financial Regulatory Administration, Ms Ding Xiangqun, respectively. They had in-depth exchanges on issues including national and international economic and financial market developments, as well as further co-operation between the Mainland and Hong Kong in financial regulation and development. Mr Chan also gave them a brief introduction to the First Five-Year Plan for Economic and Social Development of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (2026–2030) and the Chief Executive's 2026 Policy Address, particularly the planning direction and objectives for consolidating and enhancing Hong Kong's status as an international financial centre. Mr Hui; the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, Mr Eddie Yue; and the Chief Executive Officer of the Securities and Futures Commission, Ms Julia Leung, also attended the meetings. Mr Chan and Mr Hui will continue their visit programme in Beijing tomorrow (September 22) and return to Hong Kong in the afternoon. Ends/Monday, September 21, 2026 Issued at HKT 19:30 NNNN"}, {"title": "FS to visit Beijing (20.9.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202609/20/P2026091900639.htm", "date": "20.9.2026", "description": "The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, will depart for Beijing this afternoon (September 20) for a visit. During his stay in Beijing, he will visit the Ministry of Finance and relevant central ministries and commissions, as well as financial regulatory authorities. The Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui; the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, Mr Eddie Yue; and the Chief Executive Officer of the Securities and Futures Commission, Ms Julia Leung, will join all or part of the visit. Mr Chan will return to Hong Kong in the afternoon on September 22. During his absence from Hong Kong, the Deputy Financial Secretary, Mr Michael Wong, will act as Financial Secretary. During Mr Hui's absence from Hong Kong, the Under Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Joseph Chan, will act as Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury. Ends/Sunday, September 20, 2026 Issued at HKT 11:30 NNNN"}, {"title": "Remarks by CE at press conference on Hong Kong's First Five-Year Plan and Policy Address (16.9.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202609/16/P2026091600716.htm", "date": "16.9.2026", "description": "The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, held a press conference on the First Five-Year Plan for Economic and Social Development of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (2026-2030), and the Chief Executive's 2026 Policy Address today (September 16). The Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki; the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan; the Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC; and the Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs, Miss Janice Tse Siu-wa also attended. Following are the remarks at the press conference: Reporter: Given that you have presented a detailed five-year plan for Hong Kong's future development, can you share a ballpark figure for the projected economic returns from this plan? And my second question is: In the Policy Address, you proposed 11 measures to boost the birth rate. How likely is it that these measures will become permanent? And what do you think young couples will think of them? Chief Executive: I will answer about what we do to promote fertility, and in regard to the economic projection, I will give it to the Financial Secretary to answer you. In regard to what we do to encourage people to bear a child, they will have to realistically look at their own situation. I basically want to clear as many hurdles as possible for people to bear a child. For those who have made up their mind not to bear any children, I think no matter what we try to help, the effect will not be significant. But for those who are very keen to bear a child, or for those who are thinking about it but having some apprehensions, then these, I think, are the target groups. For those who want to bear a child, but because, first of all, they have medical reasons that they can't, then we'll help them as much as possible using medical means. That is something I have introduced in the 11 measures. So we increase the services for them. And the other thing is, for those who want to bear a child, I think we can help those who have already had one child. Then it will be much easier to encourage them to have a second child. That is why I want to put the resources at the most appropriate place by emphasising the government policy of encouraging a second child. That is why I have raised the allowance from $20,000 to $30,000 for a second child, as well as raising the tax reduction. And also I have given them a $20,000 stamp duty exemption if they buy a flat within three years, one year before and two years after bearing a child, and also for those who are buying our subsidised public housing, then I will raise the mortgage rate to 95 per cent. These measures are basically aiming at people who have no hurdle to bearing a child, and we just want to help them. They want to bear a child, and we encourage them, help them. For those in the middle, and they represent, I think, a big number, as they haven't made up their mind and have some apprehensions, we want to help them to make the decision. So I have to, first of all, assess what are the hurdles, and basically it is sometimes lacking the opportunity to take care of the child when the child is born, and so I'm adding more facilities to take care of them when, say, the parent needs to work and they need to put the child in some caring facilities. That is something that I'm doing now, and also I am, first of all, continuing that $20,000 allowance, which in some way helped them. If you ask for further action to help them, then we will assess it every year. For those who want to have a better living condition after they have a child, so we have made them realise that we are helping them to buy a flat. So we are basically using a bonus, which is in terms of cash, and also making tax concessions so that they will know that when the child is being developed and the Government will try to help them with the tax concession, and will provide facilities for taking care of the children when they need to put their child in places where they can have confidence that the child will be taken care of. We do the best we can, and overall, we create a friendly environment. After all, the decision whether to bear a child is a very critical one for the family. But it is important, first of all, the Government tells them that we encourage them to bear a child. We will try to help with facilities and with some tax concession plus some cash bonus, and when they want to have better accommodation, we will help them to buy flats as much as we can. Basically, it's a package, and we have to be realistic to make our policy according to the local situation. With regard to the economic side, I will ask the Financial Secretary to handle your question. Financial Secretary: Thank you for the question. Talent is the most valuable asset of any economy. Indeed, competition among different economies is determined by the quality of the talent they have. So from Hong Kong's standpoint, we have our strengths, but we are also facing two key issues. One is an ageing population; the other is economic transition. Economic transition calls for the need to develop new sectors, as pointed out by the Chief Executive – technology and innovation for example. For fast tracking this development, we might not be able to groom our own people quickly enough. So, we need to bring in talent from the Mainland and overseas. It is critical that we have people with the qualifications, experience and expertise required to support our economic development. It is difficult to measure their very specific contribution to GDP (gross domestic product), because people will be deployed to different sectors. But indeed, in order to sustain Hong Kong's GDP growth in the coming decade, we need to do the things outlined in the Five-Year Plan and the Policy Address with adequate resources, and such resources certainly include talent. Thank you. Reporter: Just two questions on the major indicators and also on fertility. For the major indicators of the Five-Year Plan, I’m just wondering if there are consequences of failing to meet such targets. Of the binding ones, there are so few. There are very few that are binding. Why is that the case? And why are they primarily environment-focused and not economic? Is that a sign that the Government is being overly cautious? So that's our question on indicators. For fertility, the previous baby bonus a few years back failed to achieve its target, with birth rates hitting another record low. How would you convince the public that it's wise to increase expenditure on this front if the birth rate continues to drop? Thank you. Chief Executive: On indicators, I think the consideration is the same for all governments. When they think of what indicators said, they are binding ones because this means these are the things we must do and we must achieve them. And there are some anticipatory ones, which is something we want to tell the world that this is the target, so that everybody works to achieve the target. So it is not the Government alone. They are not the only factors. There are so many factors. So we want to play a leading role to tell them the target, which is anticipatory, and hope that everybody will join in to make their best efforts. In regard to what indicators we want to make it binding, then of course the most important ones are the things that we believe affect livelihood, which are very critical. Environmental factors are important because, definitely, everyone needs to breathe, right? So we have to ensure that these factors that will affect health so much are something that we must do well to achieve, and this is an area that we will devote all resources and action to do. Obviously, there are so many things we want to do, and we just have to focus on things and where we will go all-out to achieve the binding targets. In regard to encouraging fertility, we do our best. We do our best because every city around the world is facing the same problem. And I think the takeaway from all these measures that we rolled out is that there are structural reasons for all these. So short-term measures can help, but there is a time limit. But we have to continue to do them and try to go to cover them as much as possible, so as to make those who want to bear a child know that the Government supports them. We try our best. I think every government has to be realistic about their own situation, and then roll out measures that will be applicable to their own circumstances. The attitude, I think, is important for people to appreciate that, despite all the constraints and restraints, the Government is trying to do the best. So I am trying to help those who want to bear a child, whether it is because of medical reason. Or since they want to bear a child, I encourage them to have more than one. That's what I want to do. For those who always have apprehension, I would try to remove the apprehension as much as possible with the best effort. I always, when I debate internally, it's like building a very good athletic ground for people. So I build this ground so that people want to really keep fit and do exercise. They do the exercise without any hurdle. But whether he will do exercise or not, whether he will run or whether he will jump really is a choice of their own. So what I try to do is try to remove the hurdles as much as I can. But of course, the Government can only do its best, and that is what I have tried to do with the 11 measures that I rolled out. (Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the remarks.) Ends/Wednesday, September 16, 2026 Issued at HKT 22:12 NNNN"}, {"title": "Government announces subscription and allocation results of Silver Bond (11.9.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202609/11/P2026091100567.htm", "date": "11.9.2026", "description": "The Government announced today (September 11) the subscription and allocation results of the new batch of Silver Bond. According to the subscription information submitted by the Placing Banks and the Designated Securities Brokers, as at the close of the subscription period on September 4, 2026, a total of 476,703 valid applications were received by the Government for a total of HK$119,306,240,000 in principal amount of bonds. The final issuance amount of the Silver Bond will be HK$55 billion, higher than the target issuance amount of HK$50 billion. Allocation is conducted by the Government in accordance with the mechanism set out in the Issue Circular. All valid applications received have been allocated bonds up to a maximum of 13 units (with each unit being HK$10,000). For the 88,422 applications seeking 12 or fewer units, they will be allocated the full amounts applied for. The remaining 388,281 applications applying for more than 12 units will be allocated 12 units each and then entered into a ballot. Of these applications, 97,396 applications will be allocated one additional unit. The Silver Bond will be issued on September 15, 2026 under the retail part of the Infrastructure Bond Programme. Notifications on individual allocation results, applicable subscription moneys and refunds of application moneys in excess of the allocated portion will be sent to applicants. The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, said, \"The number of applicants and the subscription amount for this batch of Silver Bond have reached new record highs again, demonstrating that Silver Bond continues to be widely welcomed by senior citizens as a safe and steady investment option. The proceeds from this batch of bonds will be used on capital works projects for pushing ahead Hong Kong's infrastructure and urban development, as well as enhancing people's quality of life. We will keep the Silver Bond scheme under review, taking account the investor response, market conditions and other relevant considerations.\" Ends/Friday, September 11, 2026 Issued at HKT 18:15 NNNN"}, {"title": "Omani bank Sohar International advances global reach with new Asia Pacific Office in Hong Kong (10.9.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202609/10/P2026090900582.htm", "date": "10.9.2026", "description": "Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) today (September 10) welcomed Sohar International's launch of its Asia Pacific Office in Hong Kong, marking the first Omani bank having a presence in the city. As the Bank's first location outside the Middle East, this strategic expansion underscores its commitment to driving cross-border banking, trade and investment amid deepening economic ties linking Oman and the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC) to the Chinese Mainland and Asia via Hong Kong. Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, highlighted that Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government warmly welcomes the opening of Sohar International's representative office - the first presence of an Omani bank in Hong Kong, and Sohar International's first office in Asia. Its arrival affirms confidence in Hong Kong as an international financial centre and a gateway connecting the Middle East, the Chinese Mainland and Asia. Oman's strategic position along the maritime Belt and Road, combined with Hong Kong's strengths in capital markets, asset and wealth management, banking, professional services and offshore Renminbi business, can facilitate trade, investment and project financing. Hong Kong-Oman collaboration is already taking good shape, including the Oman Investment Authority's plan to participate in Hong Kong's vibrant startup ecosystem by investing up to HK$250 million as a partner to the Innovation and Technology Venture Fund. Under the \"one country, two systems\" framework, Hong Kong serves as a \"super connector\" and \"super value-adder\". HKSAR Government looks forward to deepening financial links with Sohar International, helping businesses find the right opportunities in the Gulf and across Asia, and turning new connections into lasting, mutually beneficial partnerships. Guests of honour attending the opening ceremony included the Ambassador-at-Large at the Foreign Ministry of Oman, Mr Abdulaziz Abdullah Al Hinai; the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion for Investment Promotion, Ms Ibtisam Ahmed Said Al Farooji; the Deputy President of the Oman Investment Authority for Operations, Mr Muneer Ali Al-Muneeri; the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Sohar International, Mr Said Mohamed Al-Aufi; and the Chief Executive Officer of Sohar International, Mr Abdulwahid Mohamed Al Murshidi. The Director-General of Investment Promotion, Ms Alpha Lau, said that InvestHK is proud to have facilitated Sohar International's setup in Hong Kong, from its business delegation to Oman in May 2025 to high-level government exchanges and local regulatory alignment. Beyond enriching Hong Kong's banking sector, Sohar International's arrival enables businesses to reimagine what the stronger investment ties between the Middle East and Asia can achieve, capitalising on the city's strengths in fundraising, risk management, and professional services. Sohar International will also serve as a key partner for Chinese enterprises seeking to expand into Oman and the wider GCC. Mr Abdulwahid said that Sohar International's presence in Hong Kong is a strategic step in its international growth, offering closer access to one of the world's most important financial and commercial centres and a stronger platform from which to engage with investors, financial institutions, businesses and strategic partners across China and Asia. The Bank's objective is to turn this connectivity into tangible opportunities for Oman and its clients - attracting investment and capital into the Sultanate, supporting Omani businesses seeking to access Asian markets, and creating stronger channels for investment, trade, and business between Asia, Oman and the wider GCC. On the sidelines of the 11th Belt and Road Summit in Hong Kong, Sohar International signed two strategic Memorandums of Understanding, with an Asia- and a GCC-focused alternative asset manager respectively to foster institutional ties, facilitate cross-border investment and capital flows, and unlock new opportunities linking China and Asia with Oman and the wider GCC. Sohar International is Oman's fastest-growing bank and the second-largest bank in the Sultanate by total assets, offering services across commercial and investment banking, wealth management, and Islamic finance. Building on its expansion into Saudi Arabia, the Bank's presence in Hong Kong will support its goal of driving greater two-way connectivity between Oman and Asia, bringing international and Chinese investors, institutions and opportunities closer to Oman while developing stronger relationships for Omani businesses across international markets. For more information, please visit www.sib.om . Ends/Thursday, September 10, 2026 Issued at HKT 20:29 NNNN"}, {"title": "Senior appointment at Hong Kong Monetary Authority (4.9.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202609/04/P2026090400503.htm", "date": "4.9.2026", "description": "The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority: The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) announced today (September 4) that the Financial Secretary, on the advice of the Governance Sub-Committee of the Exchange Fund Advisory Committee, has approved the appointment of Ms Mayanna To as the General Counsel, at the rank of Executive Director, with effect from February 12, 2027. Ms To will succeed Ms Karen Kemp who will retire in February 2027. As the General Counsel, Ms To will be responsible for providing legal advice and guidance in relation to all aspects of the HKMA's functions. The Chief Executive of the HKMA, Mr Eddie Yue, said, \"Karen has worked in the HKMA for over 30 years. She has been providing high quality legal advice on different aspects of work in the HKMA. I would like to thank Karen for her eminent service and her contributions to the HKMA's work over the years. My colleagues and I wish her all the best in a new chapter of life.\" The CV of Ms To is attached at Annex. Ends/Friday, September 4, 2026 Issued at HKT 16:30 NNNN"}, {"title": "Hong Kong Hosts ABU Robocon (23.8.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202608/23/P2026082300438.htm", "date": "23.8.2026", "description": "The Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union Robot Contest 2026 (ABU Robocon 2026) commenced today (August 23) in Hong Kong. Jointly organised by Radio Television Hong Kong (RTHK) and Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP), this year's competition sees 16 university teams from 15 countries and regions worldwide compete in the largest university-level robotics competition in the Asia-Pacific region. At the opening ceremony, the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, the Director of Broadcasting, Ms Angelina Kwan, the Chairman of HKSTP, Ms Cordelia Chung, and the Secretary-General of ABU, Mr Ahmed Nadeem, officiated at the event. Hong Kong martial artist Samuel Hui, a children's martial arts troupe, and Chinese percussionists joined robots, which had performed at CCTV's Spring Festival Gala, to deliver a spectacular showcase of human-robot collaboration. ABU Robocon 2026 adopted the theme \"Kung Fu Quest,\" inspired by the spirit of Chinese martial arts. Each team's two robots were required to cooperate in forging traditional Chinese weapons, collecting martial arts manuals, and engaging in strategic duels that demonstrated precision and tactics, combining martial arts philosophy with advanced robotics and automation technology. The 16 participating teams came from 15 countries and regions, including: Chinese Mainland, Cambodia, Egypt, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Japan, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Nepal, Thailand, Vietnam, Mongolia, Macao and Hong Kong. The teams competed for 18 awards, including the Champion, First Runner-up, Second Runner-up, and the ABU Robocon Award. The Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Prof Sun Dong, and the President of the Hong Kong Institution of Engineers, Ir Prof Frank Chan, serve as award presenters. Prior to the award presentation ceremony, Ms Kwan and the Chief Executive Officer of HKSTP, Mr Terry Wong, took part in a handover ceremony alongside Indonesia's representative, Ihwan Susila, marking Indonesia as the host of the next ABU Robocon. ABU Robocon is the largest university-level robotics competition in the Asia-Pacific region. Hong Kong hosted the global event once again, following its first time as host in 2012. The event successfully demonstrated the city's strength as an international innovation and technology hub and a center for nurturing young talent. Through student collaboration and friendly competition, it also strengthened regional ties and promoted exchanges across technology, academia, media, youth, and culture in the Asia-Pacific, in support of the Government's alignment with the National 15th Five-Year Plan. The Contest attracted about 2,000 spectators, including more than 650 participants, supporters, and media representatives from Mainland and overseas. The competition was broadcast live on RTHK TV31 and RTHK's YouTube channel, while ABU member organisations also broadcast or will air the event to audiences across the globe, reaching hundreds of millions of viewers and showcasing Hong Kong's innovation and technology strength to the international community. Beyond the competition, the teams will explore Hong Kong's tourist attractions and visit Hong Kong Science Park and local enterprises to experience the city's unique charm as an East-meets-West cultural centre. Nearly 100 young participants will also travel to Qianhai, Shenzhen, to gain firsthand insight into the nation's achievements in innovation and technology, with the hope of inspiring them to pursue future opportunities and development in the region. Ends/Sunday, August 23, 2026 Issued at HKT 18:00 NNNN"}, {"title": "Appointments to Mandatory Provident Fund Industry Schemes Committee announced (21.8.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202608/21/P2026082100257.htm", "date": "21.8.2026", "description": "The Government announced today (August 21) that the Financial Secretary, in exercise of his authority under the Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Ordinance (Cap. 485), has reappointed Mr Lam Chun-sing as the Chairman of the Mandatory Provident Fund Industry Schemes Committee (MPFISC). He has also appointed Mr Lam Fung-yuen and reappointed Mr Franki Chan Shut-ho, Mr Samme Cheng Pak-man, Ms Cherrie Chong Wing-lum, Mr Jacky Ho Yan-ching, Mr Bob Lee Tak-luen, Mr Adrian Li Man-kiu, Mr Daniel Shum Hau-tak and Mr Howard Tong Ho-wai as members of the MPFISC. The appointments are for a term of two years from August 25, 2026, to August 24, 2028, both dates inclusive. In welcoming the above appointments, a spokesperson for the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau said, \"The MPFISC oversees the effectiveness of Mandatory Provident Fund industry schemes and advises the Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority (MPFA) on ways to improve the administration and operation of the schemes. We are confident that Mr Lam will continue to lead the MPFISC in providing insightful recommendations to the MPFA to strengthen the interests and retirement protection of casual employees in the catering and the construction industries.\" The spokesperson also expressed gratitude to the outgoing member, Mr Lam Tsin-kwok, for his dedicated service to the MPFISC during his tenure. The membership of the MPFISC with effect from August 25, 2026, is as follows: Chairman ------------ Mr Lam Chun-sing Members ----------- Mr Franki Chan Shut-ho Mr Samme Cheng Pak-man Ms Cherrie Chong Wing-lum Mr Jacky Ho Yan-ching Mr Huang Yongquan Mr Lam Fung-yuen Mr Bob Lee Tak-luen Mr Adrian Li Man-kiu Mr Daniel Shum Hau-tak Mr Howard Tong Ho-wai Representative of the MPFA -------------------------------- Mr Cheng Yan-chee, Managing Director Ends/Friday, August 21, 2026 Issued at HKT 11:00 NNNN"}, {"title": "HKSAR Government expresses gratitude for country's support for further development of Hong Kong's financial market (18.8.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202608/18/P2026081800261.htm", "date": "18.8.2026", "description": "The Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, together with the Executive Director of Investment Products of the Securities and Futures Commission, Ms Elisa Ng, and the Chief Executive Officer of Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited, Ms Bonnie Chan, visited the National Financial Regulatory Administration (NFRA) today (August 18) and met with its Vice Minister, Mr Xiao Yuanqi, to discuss measures to further promote the co-ordinated development of the Mainland and Hong Kong capital markets. At the same time, the NFRA announced that it will actively support Mainland insurance funds to participate in mutual access schemes between the Mainland and Hong Kong financial markets and support Mainland insurance institutions to invest in exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in Hong Kong through Stock Connect. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government warmly welcomes this measure. The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, said, \"I sincerely thank the Central People's Government and the NFRA for their support. The National 15th Five-Year Plan clearly supports Hong Kong in consolidating and enhancing its status as an international financial centre, strengthening its role as a global offshore Renminbi business hub, an international asset and wealth management centre, and an international risk management centre. Building on the mature experience of Mainland insurance funds investing in Hong Kong's stock market through Stock Connect, the policy measures announced further facilitate Mainland insurance companies in diversifying their asset allocation via Hong Kong, while promoting the development of the local ETF market and strengthening its ecosystem. The measures represent the strong support of our country for the development of Hong Kong's capital market and asset management industry, and are of profound significance. The HKSAR Government will continue to leverage Hong Kong's unique advantage of being closely connected with the Mainland and the world under the 'one country, two systems' principle, further enhancing the mutual access mechanism between Hong Kong and the Mainland as well as working closely with the Mainland regulators to deepen market co-operation of the two markets. The HKSAR Government is pressing ahead at full speed with the formulation of Hong Kong's First Five-Year Plan, and will spare no effort in taking forward the preparatory work to seize the opportunities presented by our country's development, serve our country's high-level financial opening up, and better integrate into and contribute to the overall national development.\" The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, said, \"Enabling Mainland insurance funds to invest in ETFs in Hong Kong through Stock Connect is a win-win initiative with benefits on multiple fronts. It will not only provide Mainland insurance companies with broader and more diversified investment channels, but also drive the development of the market of exchange-traded products in Hong Kong, further deepening the connectivity and concerted development of the two capital markets. In recent years, we have been actively promoting the development of the market of exchange-traded products, including nurturing and expanding innovative products such as active ETFs, and encouraging overseas ETFs to seek cross-border listings in Hong Kong. The trading volume of exchange-traded products has repeatedly reached new highs; the average daily turnover nearly doubled year on year in 2025, and it further increased by over 25 per cent year on year in the first half of this year, making Hong Kong one of the leading hubs in the region for relevant products. With the strong support of the relevant Central Authorities, ETFs were included in Stock Connect in 2022. Their trading scale has grown significantly in the past few years, with the average daily turnover in the first half of this year already about 12 times of that in the year when the initiative was launched. We will continue to join hands with the financial regulators and market stakeholders to expand and enhance the competitiveness of this market, opening up more new channels for asset allocation and new investment opportunities for investors from both the Mainland and overseas.\" To optimise the insurance asset allocation structure, Mainland insurance funds will be allowed to invest in ETFs included under the Southbound trading of Stock Connect, supporting the development of Hong Kong's financial market. Ends/Tuesday, August 18, 2026 Issued at HKT 17:15 NNNN"}, {"title": "Government launches new batch of Silver Bond (6.8.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202608/06/P2026080600626.htm", "date": "6.8.2026", "description": "The Government announced today (August 6) the launch of a new batch of Silver Bond for subscription by eligible Hong Kong residents. The target issuance size of this batch of Silver Bond is HK$50 billion, with each unit offered at HK$10,000 and a tenor of three years. Interest will be paid semi-annually at a rate linked to inflation in Hong Kong, subject to a minimum of 4.25 per cent. The Government may exercise discretion to increase the target issuance size to a maximum of HK$55 billion from HK$50 billion, subject to market response. Hong Kong residents who turn 60 in or before 2027 (i.e. those born in 1967 or before) holding a valid Hong Kong Identity Card will be eligible for subscription. The bonds are offered under the retail part of the Infrastructure Bond Programme. Proceeds will be credited to the Capital Works Reserve Fund for investment in infrastructure projects in accordance with the Infrastructure Bond Framework. The Government will provide information on the allocation of the proceeds in the relevant Infrastructure Bond Reports. The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, said, \"The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government continues to issue Silver Bond this year, offering senior citizens a safe, steady and low-risk investment option while encouraging the financial sector to tap into the business potential of the silver economy. Issued under the Infrastructure Bond Programme, proceeds from this batch of Silver Bond will be used to fund public works projects to push ahead Hong Kong's infrastructure and urban development, enhancing people's quality of life while enabling citizens to participate in and benefit from the city's development.\" There will be no secondary market for Silver Bond. Bondholders may sell their bonds before maturity to the Government at par together with accrued but unpaid interest. To encourage greater participation from citizens, a maximum allocation of HK$1 million per investor is stipulated, meaning that each investor is allocated 100 units of retail bonds at most. The subscription period of Silver Bond will start from 9am on August 21 and end at 2pm on September 4. The bonds will be issued on September 15. Eligible Hong Kong residents may apply for the bonds through one of the placing banks and designated securities brokers. The offering terms and subscription arrangements of Silver Bond, including the list of placing banks and designated securities brokers, will be available on the Hong Kong Government Bonds website ( www.hkgb.gov.hk ). Ends/Thursday, August 6, 2026 Issued at HKT 18:28 NNNN"}, {"title": "FS gives direction to terminate investigation into affairs of Next Digital Limited under Section 845(1) of Companies Ordinance (Cap. 622) (5.8.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202608/05/P2026080500614.htm", "date": "5.8.2026", "description": "The Government spokesman said today (August 5) that, pursuant to section 845(1)(a) of the Companies Ordinance (Cap. 622), the Financial Secretary has directed the Inspector to terminate the investigation into the affairs of Next Digital Limited (NDL). The term of office of the Inspector expired on July 27, 2026. The Financial Secretary noted that over the past period: (i) Pursuant to the Companies Ordinance and the Companies (Winding Up and Miscellaneous Provisions) Ordinance (Cap. 32), the Court of First Instance of the High Court granted a winding-up order against NDL on December 15, 2021. The relevant liquidation is now underway; (ii) The listing of NDL’s shares was cancelled by the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited pursuant to the Listing Rules on January 12, 2023; (iii) A number of former senior officers of NDL were convicted of offences endangering national security and sentenced to imprisonment by the Court of First Instance on December 15, 2025 and February 9, 2026; and (iv) Three subsidiaries of NDL were convicted and fined by the Court of First Instance in the above criminal case. On March 24, 2026, the Chief Executive-in-Council, pursuant to Article 31 of the Hong Kong National Security Law and the Companies (Winding Up and Miscellaneous Provisions) Ordinance, ordered them to be struck off the Companies Register, and the three subsidiaries were dissolved forthwith accordingly. Having carefully reviewed the above circumstances and all relevant factors, the Financial Secretary considered that it is no longer necessary to continue the investigation into the affairs of NDL and hence directed the Inspector to terminate the investigation pursuant to section 845(1)(a) of the Companies Ordinance. The Financial Secretary said, \"As an international financial centre, Hong Kong possesses a corporate governance regime that is sound, efficient and aligned with international standards. Companies in Hong Kong, particularly listed companies, generally adhere to high standards of corporate governance. The governance and financial problems of NDL, as well as the unlawful acts committed by its senior officers exploiting corporate vehicles, represented only an isolated incident. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government, regulatory bodies and the business community will continue to work together to ensure that Hong Kong consistently adheres to its internationally acclaimed corporate culture and high standards of corporate governance, maintains a high-quality, fair and efficient market, and remains steadfast in safeguarding its status and reputation as an international financial and commercial centre.\" The spokesman said, \"The HKSAR Government expresses its gratitude to Mr Clement Chan Kam-wing for his exemplary professional competence and high degree of professionalism during his tenure as the Inspector. Mr Chan upheld the principles of objectivity and impartiality, and faithfully discharged his duties with dedication and distinction. The HKSAR Government extends its sincere appreciation to Mr Chan and his team.\" Ends/Wednesday, August 5, 2026 Issued at HKT 18:30 NNNN"}, {"title": "HKSAR Government welcomes new measures for further deepening co-operation between Hong Kong and Mainland markets (3.8.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202608/03/P2026080300203.htm", "date": "3.8.2026", "description": "The China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC) and the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) announced today (August 3) a series of new measures to deepen further the practical co-operation and coordinated development of the two markets, consolidating and enhancing Hong Kong's status as an international financial centre. The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) warmly welcomes the measures. The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, said, \"The series of measures announced today will support the development and cross boundary financing of enterprises in Hong Kong and the Mainland, and further promote the connectivity between the Hong Kong and Mainland markets through deepening co-operation in indices, futures and exchange traded funds. Under 'One Country, Two Systems', Hong Kong enjoys the unique advantage of having strong support from the motherland while being closely connected to the world. As an important bridge in our country's financial system, Hong Kong will continue to leverage its role in 'bringing in and going global', better integrating into and serving the overall development of our country. Hong Kong is proactively aligning with the National 15th Five Year Plan and is working at full speed to formulate our first five-year plan, fostering high quality market development by promoting Renminbi internationalisation and cross boundary capital flows. I sincerely thank the Central People's Government and relevant authorities for their staunch support for Hong Kong all along. The HKSAR Government will continue to enhance the competitiveness of Hong Kong's financial markets to consolidate and elevate Hong Kong's status as an international financial centre, while serving our country's high-quality financial opening-up and contributing to the long term development of our country's financial markets.\" The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, said, \"The 10 new measures cover a wide range of areas including cross boundary listings, exchange traded funds, index co-operation, Renminbi-denominated futures products, streamlined applications for Mainland professional qualifications, and strengthened financial regulatory co-operation. They will facilitate Mainland and overseas investors to seize the enormous investment opportunities arising from our country's steady and high-quality economic development and the building of a modern industrial system, while at the same time consolidating and enhancing Hong Kong's function as a hub connecting the Mainland market and global capital. These measures will further promote the coordinated development of the two capital markets on a more open, resilient and efficient basis. We sincerely thank the Central People's Government, relevant authorities and the Mainland regulators for their strong support for Hong Kong, and will work closely with relevant Mainland institutions to expedite implementation of the measures.\" The CSRC and the SFC announced today a series of new measures for further deepening the practical co-operation and coordinated development of the markets of Hong Kong and the Mainland. The HKSAR Government and regulators will actively facilitate the implementation of the measures. Ends/Monday, August 3, 2026 Issued at HKT 11:00 NNNN"}, {"title": "Government advances acquisition work of Wang Fuk Court at full speed (17.7.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202607/17/P2026071700666.htm", "date": "17.7.2026", "description": "The Deputy Financial Secretary, Mr Michael Wong, and the Secretary for Housing, Ms Winnie Ho, attended the meeting of the Finance Committee (FC) of the Legislative Council (LegCo) today (July 17) to seek extra funding approval of $1 billion to make the long-term housing arrangement available to the owners of Wang Chi House (Block H), Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po. Together with the $2.8 billion provided by the Support Fund for Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po and the $4 billion earmarked under the 2026-27 Budget for the acquisition of Blocks A to G of Wang Fuk Court, the Wang Fuk Court long-term housing arrangement plan will cover all eight blocks (Blocks A to H). Expressing gratitude to the FC for its approval of the funding, Mr Wong said that the Government will continue to advance the acquisition work of Wang Fuk Court at full speed. As of yesterday (July 16), 90 per cent of the owners (1 786 flats) of the eight buildings of Wang Fuk Court (Blocks A to H) have submitted the duly signed \"Letters of Acceptance\". Among them, 1 565 letters came from the seven buildings from Blocks A to G, representing 90.1 per cent of the total number of flats in these seven blocks, while 221 letters came from Wang Chi House (Block H), representing about 89.1 per cent of the total number of flats in that block. The Government has already signed the Agreement for Sale and Purchase with 769 owners, accounting for about 43 per cent of those who have submitted the duly signed \"Letters of Acceptance\". Mr Wong said that during the FC meeting, a few LegCo Members have reflected that some residents are worried that their personal belongings remaining in the flats may not be retrievable upon transferring titles to the Government. In this connection, the Government had previously arranged for Wang Fuk Court residents to return to their flats to collect their personal belongings in two rounds. The Government is consolidating the relevant experience. Mr Wong said that the Government has all along been striking a balance among empathy, rationality, and legality, with empathy as the priority. It will therefore adopt a people-oriented and flexible approach when addressing residents' requests for further retrieval of personal belongings from the flats. If individual residents have special needs to retrieve items left in the flats, they can make the requests through appropriate channels, including the Engagement Team and the \"one social worker per household\" service. The Government will consider such requests, taking into account the actual circumstances including the overall condition of the buildings, safety of the residents and working staff, as well as the substantial manpower and logistical support required, before handling the items inside the flats. The general direction is to provide opportunity for the residents to return to the flats to take their necessary belongings to tie in with their new accommodation arrangements as far as possible. At the meeting, Mr Wong also mentioned to Members that the Support Fund for Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po has decided to enhance the rental grant arrangement for the owners of Wang Fuk Court. Under the enhanced arrangement, regardless of which long-term housing arrangement option the owners have chosen, whether they have successfully purchased a flat, or even if they do not participate in the long-term housing arrangements, they will receive a rental grant totalling $300,000 over two years from December 22, 2025, to December 21, 2027. In addition, if owners opt to join the Special Sales Exercise, their eligibility for the rental grant will only cease three months after the date of the assignment of the new flat purchased. Rental grants disbursed need not be refunded, but no further grants will be disbursed thereafter. The Engagement Team co-ordinated by the Housing Bureau will continue to maintain communication with owners of Wang Fuk Court. If there are any enquiries, owners may contact their designated Engagement Team member or call the hotline at 2129 8133. Owners may also visit the dedicated website for the long-term housing arrangements for Wang Fuk Court ( www.hb.gov.hk/wfc ) for further details. Ends/Friday, July 17, 2026 Issued at HKT 18:00 NNNN"}, {"title": "Appointments to Financial Reporting Review Panel (10.7.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202607/10/P2026071000318.htm", "date": "10.7.2026", "description": "The Government announced today (July 10) that the Financial Secretary has, under the authority delegated by the Chief Executive, appointed Mr James Liu Hong-yuen, Mr Benson Wong Wai-bong and Professor George Yang Yong as members to the Financial Reporting Review Panel (FRRP), and reappointed Mr Ernest Lee Chun-ho as Convenor of the FRRP for a term of three years from July 16, 2026, to July 15, 2029. The appointments and reappointments are made in accordance with the Accounting and Financial Reporting Council Ordinance (Cap. 588) (AFRC Ordinance). The membership of the FRRP with effect from July 16, 2026, is as follows: Convenors (reappointed Convenor marked with #) --------------------------------------------------------- Mr Paul Donald Hebditch Mr Ernest Lee Chun-ho # Mr William Lo Chi-chung Professor Phyllis Mo Lai-lan Mr Eric Tang Ying-cheung Mr Tang Yiu-chung Members (new members marked with *) ---------------------------------------------- Ms Bella Chhoa Peck-lim Ms Caroline Chiu Su-yuen Ms Irene Chu Ngar-yee Mr Benny Chung Koon-chung Ms Fanny Hsiang Yuet-ming Mr Alexander Kaung Wai-ming Mr Lam Chi-ki Ms Bernardine Lam Sin-yu Mr Gilbert Lee Man-lung Ms Alva Lee Yi-ling Mr Jacob Lee Chi-hin Mr Jason Li Jiasheng Mr James Liu Hong-yuen * Mr Benjamin Lo Man-chuen Mr Mak Kwong-fai Mr Ng Chun-man Mr Simon Ng Wing-fai Mr Benson Wong Wai-bong * Professor George Yang Yong * Ms Elza Yuen Wai-yiu A spokesman for the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau said, \"The Accounting and Financial Reporting Council (AFRC) is an independent regulator for the accounting profession, playing a crucial role in upholding the integrity of financial reporting and fostering sound corporate governance. Among its statutory responsibilities, the AFRC is empowered to initiate enquiries into non-compliance with legal, accounting or regulatory requirements in the financial reports of a listed entity. \"The FRRP, a statutory body established under the AFRC Ordinance, is indispensable to the discharge of the AFRC’s statutory functions of enquiries. The work of the FRRP will benefit from the rich experience and professional knowledge of the members. \"We would like to take this opportunity to express our heartfelt appreciation to the outgoing members for their valuable contribution to the work of the FRRP in the past years,\" the spokesman added. When an enquiry case arises, the AFRC may appoint one Convenor and four or more members from the FRRP to form a Financial Reporting Review Committee which will enquire into the relevant non-compliance of the case. The Committee will submit an enquiry report on the case to the AFRC for consideration and, where appropriate, follow-up action. Ends/Friday, July 10, 2026 Issued at HKT 16:00 NNNN"}, {"title": "LEAP East 2026 opens to deepen I&T co-operation between Middle East and Hong Kong (8.7.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202607/08/P2026070800795.htm", "date": "8.7.2026", "description": "LEAP East 2026 officially opened today (July 8) at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, and the Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, attended the opening ceremony alongside Minister of Communications and Information Technology of Saudi Arabia, Abdullah Alswaha, to welcome more than 35 000 participants in the conference, including 340 speakers and 450 exhibitors from 30 countries and regions. In his remarks, Mr Chan welcomed the inaugural LEAP East to Hong Kong, marking the first LEAP conference held outside Saudi Arabia. He said the event underscored the deepening partnership between Hong Kong and Saudi Arabia, and highlighted Hong Kong's role as a unique gateway connecting the Chinese Mainland with the world. He is pleased to note that LEAP East will continue to be held in Hong Kong for the next three years. Mr Chan outlined Hong Kong's strengths as an ideal base for innovation, including its common law system, strong intellectual property protection, free flow of capital, goods, talent and data, simple and low tax regime, and safe and stable business environment. He set out three key strategies underpinning Hong Kong's innovation development: leveraging \"Finance+\" through vibrant capital markets, venture capital and private equity, and government investment support; advancing \"AI+\" by developing artificial intelligence as a strategic industry and applying it across sectors; and integrating technology, talent, education and industry through the Northern Metropolis and deeper collaboration within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. Mr Chan also invited Saudi and Gulf enterprises to use Hong Kong as an international fundraising and risk-management platform, and expressed HKSAR's commitment to further strengthening co-operation with Saudi Arabia in innovation, infrastructure, green technology, healthcare, advanced manufacturing and professional services. Mr Chan remarked that he plans to lead a delegation to Saudi Arabia again later this year, bringing leading companies in infrastructure, green tech, healthcare and advanced manufacturing, plus professionals in the finance, investment and professional services sector, to explore concrete projects and further partnership. The Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau (ITIB) is the Hong Kong Government Partner of LEAP East 2026. Professor Sun in his speech thanked Saudi Arabia for extending the technology conference to Hong Kong, recalling his 2024 visit to Riyadh that sparked I&T collaboration. Professor Sun mentioned that Hong Kong is building a comprehensive I&T ecosystem with strategic focuses on life and health technologies, artificial intelligence and robotics, as well as advanced manufacturing and energy. He highlighted the city's strong R&D capabilities, for instance, the flagship InnoHK platform's 38 laboratories are in collaboration with over 30 top-notch research institutions from around the world. He also cited rapid digital infrastructure development, including the Sandy Ridge Data Facility Cluster, which is set to provide 180,000 PFLOPS of computing power by 2032 — a 36‑fold increase from the current level that will position Hong Kong as an international data hub. To accelerate R&D commercialisation and new industrialisation, the Government has committed over USD3.8 billion through three HK$10 billion funding schemes. Professor Sun highlighted Hong Kong's role as a \"super connector\" and \"super value-adder\" for international exchanges. Emphasising Hong Kong's unparalleled advantages of strong support from the Motherland while remaining closely connected to the world under \"one country, two systems,\" he positioned the city as an ideal gateway for both Mainland enterprises going global and Saudi and Middle Eastern firms accessing Chinese and other Asian markets, reaffirming Hong Kong's readiness to partner globally for a sustainable, innovative future. After the opening ceremony, Mr Chan and Professor Sun toured the LEAP East's exhibition and visited the Hong Kong Pavilion. Professor Sun also met with Minister of Communications and Information Technology of Saudi Arabia, Abdullah Alswaha, to exchange views on I&T collaborations between Hong Kong and Saudi Arabia. The three-day LEAP East 2026 will be held from July 8 to 10, featuring a diverse range of technological fields including artificial intelligence, deep tech, smart cities, and new energy industries. The event aims to build an integrated ecosystem for investors and startups and to promote cross-border industrial collaboration. The ITIB set up the Hong Kong Pavilion to showcase the I&T development and achievements of Hong Kong. Ends/Wednesday, July 8, 2026 Issued at HKT 21:22 NNNN"}, {"title": "Hong Kong's gold central clearing and settlement system commences trial operation today supported by full package of targeted initiatives (7.7.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202607/07/P2026070700223.htm", "date": "7.7.2026", "description": "The Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau (FSTB) announced today (July 7) the commencement of the trial operation of Hong Kong's new central clearing and settlement system for gold, together with a suite of targeted initiatives aiming to build a modern and full-chain gold trading ecosystem. These initiatives include rolling out the initial phase of Delivery Connect with the Shanghai Gold Exchange, launching a new HAU price ticker, expanding storage capacity and refining capability, diversifying gold investment products, exploring tax incentives, co-ordinating insurance arrangements, enhancing flexibility of Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF) investments in gold exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and establishing an industry-led trade association. These measures will collectively bolster Hong Kong's role as a trusted international gold trading, clearing, and reserve hub. The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, said, \"The National 15th Five-Year Plan incorporates explicit support for Hong Kong in establishing a commodity trading ecosystem. The commencement of the trial operation of the gold central clearing and settlement system today marks a significant step forward in developing Hong Kong's gold trading infrastructure. Along with a series of measures to promote physical delivery, develop investment and derivative products as well as risk management tools, provide tax concessions, and deepen connectivity with the Mainland gold market, we are committed to building a thriving gold trading ecosystem. This will further enhance the richness, depth, and breadth of our financial markets, create new investment opportunities for local and overseas investors, and inject new momentum into the development of the financial sector.\" The Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, said, \"The commencement of the trial operation of our central gold clearing and settlement system is fully supported by a holistic package of support measures. Our vision is to build a scalable and integrated platform with trusted capabilities in clearing, connectivity, price discovery, risk management, storage, and insurance for global participants. The diversified strategic initiatives demonstrate the Government's commitment to building a comprehensive and internationally competitive gold ecosystem, thus consolidating and enhancing Hong Kong's status as a leading gold centre in Asia and beyond.\" Trial operation of gold central clearing and settlement system commences today with transactions completed The trial operation of Hong Kong's new central clearing and settlement system for gold commences today, with trading, clearing, and settlement processes already in service. Operating under the governance of the Hong Kong Precious Metals Central Clearing Company Limited (HKPMCC), a wholly government-owned entity, the system provides efficient and reliable clearing and settlement services for bilateral and over-the-counter (OTC) gold transactions. Key features of the system include: Operation is governed by a comprehensive Clearing Rulebook, which clearly defines the rights, obligations, rules, and procedures for all participating banks and designated vault(s). A central ledger is established to record settlement activities, gold transfers, and balances of participating banks, and interfaces seamlessly with designated vault(s) to facilitate and record physical gold deposits and withdrawals. Gold balances in the system are held and settled on an unallocated basis, with commingled holding enabling efficient settlement for gold of international standards among participants. Eligible gold for settlement comprises approximately 400 fine troy ounce bars meeting international standards. The Board of Directors of the HKPMCC comprises the Government, the Shanghai Gold Exchange, regulators, and 11 banks to fully incorporate market feedback. Meanwhile, Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited has been appointed as the settlement institution and designated vault of the system, operating under the oversight of the HKPMCC. In tandem with the commencement of the trial operation, the first batch of gold has been successfully deposited into the designated vault, and the first batch of trading and settlement activities has also been completed. The trial operation has received strong support from key market participants, including banks and financial institutions, mining companies, refiners, jewellers, and institutional participants. A list of key participants in the trial operation is set out in the Annex. The HKPMCC will continue to closely monitor the trial operation of the system, and strive to identify areas for enhancement to provide further facilitation to market participants before the official commissioning of the system. The system will also establish connectivity with the Real Time Gross Settlement system to enable Delivery versus Payment settlement, seamlessly linking gold trading and physical delivery with Hong Kong's world-class cash clearing and settlement capabilities, as well as reducing settlement risk and improving overall operational efficiency. Co-ordinated initiatives are also in place along with the commencement of the trial operation of the central gold clearing and settlement system to demonstrate the Government's comprehensive and determined efforts in building a modern, interconnected, and internationally competitive gold trading ecosystem. These measures include: (1) Initial phase of Delivery Connect launched with Shanghai Gold Exchange On the basis of the co-operation agreement signed in January this year, the FSTB and the Shanghai Gold Exchange launched the initial phase of Delivery Connect today. Under this initiative, the HKPMCC has applied to become an international member of the Shanghai Gold Exchange and opened a physical gold account. Market participants can choose to deposit their physical gold holdings into the designated vault of the Shanghai Gold Exchange International Board in Hong Kong through this account. Through two-way transfer, market participants can participate in both the on-exchange market of the Shanghai Gold Exchange and the OTC market of Hong Kong. This will facilitate the flow of physical gold between the HKPMCC system and the Shanghai Gold Exchange system, effectively connecting the gold markets of Hong Kong and Shanghai, and achieving mutual benefit and win-win outcomes. The introduction of Delivery Connect is welcomed by the market. Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (Asia) Limited, The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited, and Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited have participated in the initial phase of Delivery Connect as the first batch of participants. Two-way transfers by these banks have successfully been completed today. (2) New HAU price ticker launched A new HAU price ticker was launched today to provide a Hong Kong-specific reference rate. Developed in partnership with Bloomberg, this ticker reflects the indicative bid/offer prices contributed by market participants in the gold trading market, thereby providing greater convenience and reference value for international banks, hedge funds, refiners, corporates, and sovereign institutions in terms of price discovery, liquidity, and overall trading participation, particularly for those active during Asian trading hours. The ticker is now accessible on Bloomberg and London Stock Exchange Group platforms for market reference. (3) Expansion of storage capacity and refining capability As announced in the 2025 Policy Address, the Government is supporting the Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) and financial institutions in establishing world-class gold storage facilities, with a target to expand Hong Kong's total storage capacity to over 2 000 tonnes within three years, positioning the city as a trusted global vault of choice. The AAHK has already launched a project to develop vaulting facilities on a thousand-tonne scale to meet local storage and delivery demands. The Government welcomes market interest, and will continue to encourage and attract more institutions to explore expanding their storage capacity in Hong Kong. The Government is also discussing with the industry the expansion of the refining capability of precious metals in Hong Kong. Several enterprises that are qualified to refine gold to international standards have already expressed interest in expanding into the Hong Kong market. The Government will continue to work closely with interested enterprises to help them tap into the vast opportunities in the city. (4) Diversifying gold investment products Since January this year, the variety of gold investment products in the Hong Kong market has continued to increase. The listing of three additional gold ETFs has brought the total number of such ETFs to six. To further enhance liquidity and provide sophisticated hedging, the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX) has revitalised its USD gold futures contract, and launched trading fee waivers and incentive programmes to boost overall market liquidity and attract broader market participation. Concurrently, the HKEX is exploring the development of a brand-new RMB gold futures contract with delivery support from the Shanghai Gold Exchange, ensuring Hong Kong's expanding physical market is fully supported by robust, world-class risk-management tools. (5) Exploring tax incentives The Government has introduced an amendment bill into the Legislative Council to enhance the preferential tax regimes for funds and single family offices, including expanding the scope of qualifying investments to cover precious metals, which is expected to promote investment activities related to precious metals. Furthermore, the Government is exploring offering tax incentives for eligible institutions conducting gold trading and settlement in Hong Kong. (6) Co-ordinating insurance arrangements The Insurance Authority has been co-ordinating with international, Mainland, and local insurance companies interested in providing specie insurance for high-value precious metals. It will also launch a dedicated specie insurance hotline within July 2026 to support market participants in connecting with relevant insurers. (7) Enhancing flexibility of MPF investments in gold ETF The Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority will optimise its approval mechanism for gold ETFs to facilitate Mandatory Provident Fund investments into this asset class. Furthermore, the Government will submit the relevant amendment bill to the Legislative Council in the fourth quarter of this year to enhance MPF fund investment regulations, which will include relaxation of restrictions on MPF fund structure. (8) Establishing an industry-led trade association ​ The Government is in the process of assisting the industry to establish an industry-led trade association with a view to consolidating resources, strengthening international promotion efforts, and fostering closer ties with global stakeholders. By strengthening infrastructure, enhancing connectivity, and providing targeted supporting measures across the industry chain, Hong Kong is well positioned to develop into a leading global gold trading, clearing, and reserve hub. Ends/Tuesday, July 7, 2026 Issued at HKT 11:00 NNNN"}, {"title": "Committee on AI+ and Industry Development Strategy holds first meeting (29.6.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202606/29/P2026062900794.htm", "date": "29.6.2026", "description": "The Committee on AI+ and Industry Development Strategy (the Committee), chaired by the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, held its first meeting today (June 29). At the meeting today, members discussed the development of artificial intelligence and its deep integration with industries to empower various sectors to upgrade, transform, and achieve sustainable development. Members also exchanged views on a series of relevant issues, including research and innovation, data flow and security, computing infrastructure, application scenarios, talent cultivation, capital investment, and governance policies. Mr Chan said, \"Currently, a new round of technological revolution and industrial transformation is accelerating, with AI playing a pivotal and leading role. AI is not only a major industry in its own right, but is also deeply empowering a myriad of industries - particularly in enhancing corporate productivity, pioneering new business models, new tracks, and new application scenarios, as well as promoting more inclusive and accessible products and services. The National 15th Five-Year Plan explicitly proposes to advance the building of 'Digital China' and to deepen and expand the AI+ Initiative. A key focus of the Committee is to explore how to better align with the national development strategy; how to leverage and combine Hong Kong's strengths in research, internationalised application scenarios, capital, talent, and global connectivity to accelerate the development and application of AI; and how to enhance the competitiveness of various sectors and create new opportunities for them, while ensuring that the fruits of this development benefit all segments of society. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to all members for their participation and support, and for sharing their profound insights and offering constructive advice.\" The Financial Secretary announced the establishment of the Committee on AI+ and Industry Development Strategy in the 2026-27 Budget. The terms of reference of the Committee include formulating priorities and strategies for AI-driven industrial transformation, innovation and development; promoting co-ordination among the Government, industry, academia, research, investment and application sectors to drive the industrial application of AI and facilitate the intelligent development of different industries; and fostering the deep integration of AI with various industries. The membership comprises representatives from the business and professional sectors, as well as relevant policy bureaux and departments. The list is as follows: Chairperson --------------- Financial Secretary Official members --------------------- Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury Secretary for Health Secretary for Environment and Ecology Commissioner for Digital Policy Commissioner for Innovation and Technology Commissioner for Industry (Innovation and Technology) (Representatives from other relevant bureaux and departments will be invited to attend Committee meetings as and when appropriate) Ex-officio members ------------------------ Chairperson of Board of Directors of Hong Kong Artificial Intelligence Research and Development Institute Chairperson of Hong Kong Life and Health Technology Research Institute Steering Committee Chairperson of Board of Directors of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park Limited Chairperson of Board of Directors of Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation Chairperson of Board of Directors of Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited Chairperson of Board of Directors of Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute Chairperson of Hong Kong Productivity Council Chairperson of Board of Directors of Hong Kong Microelectronics Research and Development Institute Non-official members (in alphabetical order of surnames) ----------------------------------------------------------------- Professor Au Kwok-wai Samuel Professor Chan Kwok-leung Professor Chiu Wai-yan Philip Dr Chuang Tzu-hsiung Steve Dr Kam Chak-pui Jacob Dr Lam Tzit-yuen David Dr Lo Kam-wing Professor Man Kwan Professor Shum Ho-cheung Anderson Mrs Tse Annie Yau On-yee Mr Wang Hua Professor Yang Hongxia Mr Yao Cho-fai Andrew Professor Yu Cheung-hoi Professor Zhang Fumin Ends/Monday, June 29, 2026 Issued at HKT 19:58 NNNN"}, {"title": "Advisory Committee on Tax Policy holds first meeting (29.6.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202606/29/P2026062900784.htm", "date": "29.6.2026", "description": "The Advisory Committee on Tax Policy (ACTP), chaired by the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, held its first meeting today (June 29). At the meeting, members were briefed on and discussed the various preferential policies and measures under Hong Kong's current tax regime and the relevant measures in this year's Budget, including preferential policies for promoting investments and development of industries. Mr Chan said, \"Tax policy is a key component of enhancing the competitiveness of an economy. One of Hong Kong's institutional advantages is our simple and low tax regime. Our tax policy is widely and internationally recognised. For instance, in the latest World Competitiveness Yearbook 2026 published by the International Institute for Management Development, Hong Kong's tax policy has topped the global rankings for two consecutive years. However, in the face of the evolving and increasingly stiff global competitive environment, we must move ahead with the times and continue to enhance our tax policy and create a more facilitating business environment, with a view to attracting more quality enterprises and industry clusters to Hong Kong and supporting the diversified and long-term development of our economy. I am very grateful for members' participation and support by proactively putting forward valuable insights.\" In the 2026-27 Budget, the Financial Secretary proposed the establishment of the ACTP. The ACTP's terms of reference are: To advise the Government on tax policy matters, with a view to sustaining and enhancing Hong Kong's economic development and competitiveness, taking into consideration the evolving global tax environment and Hong Kong's international tax obligations. Members comprise representatives from the commercial, industrial and professional sectors, as well as relevant government departments. The membership is as follows: Chairman ----------- Financial Secretary Ex-officio members ---------------------- Deputy Financial Secretary Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development Permanent Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury (Treasury) Commissioner of Inland Revenue Government Economist Head, Budget and Tax Policy Unit Non-official members (in alphabetical order of surnames) ------------------------ Mr Roger Barbour Dr Sunny Chai Ngai-chiu Ms Agnes Chan Sui-kuen Mr Alan Chan Chung-yee Mr Calvin Chan Ka-wai Mr Pierre Chan Tat-hin Mr Johannes Hack Ms Namalee Kodikara Mr Anthony Lam Sai-ho Ms Amy Lo Choi-wan Mr Paul McSheaffrey Dr Webster Ng Kam-wah Mr Michael Olesnicky Mr Ou Xiaoming Ms Jennifer Tan Yuen-chun Mr Sunny Tan Ms Sally Wan Yuen-wai Ends/Monday, June 29, 2026 Issued at HKT 19:50 NNNN"}, {"title": "FS concludes visit to Xi'an (27.6.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202606/27/P2026062700436.htm", "date": "27.6.2026", "description": "​The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, today (June 27) concluded the final day of his visit to Xi'an. Mr Chan attended the First Western Commercial Space Conference this morning. In his speech, he said that Xi'an, with its strong scientific research capabilities, complete industrial chain, and deep accumulation in technology and talent pipelines, possesses unique advantages in depth in the aerospace industry. The related industries have progressed from being strong in supporting capabilities to becoming strong overall. He pointed out that the local industry has established an efficient and collaborative industrial system in areas such as rocket engines, satellite payloads, laser communications, precision measurement and control equipment, and new materials, significantly improving industry efficiency, lowering costs and accelerating technological iteration. He noted that for commercial space to form a complete closed loop, it still needs to address the key issues of being able to secure financing, sell far, and proceed steadily, including connecting with international capital markets, expanding global customer networks, and aligning with cross-boundary rules and standards. Mr Chan pointed out that Hong Kong can serve as an interface connecting the western region's aerospace industry with international markets from three dimensions: capital, research and market. In terms of capital, Hong Kong has a deep and broad pool of international capital and a global investor network, a mature offshore renminbi market, and an end-to-end fundraising and financing ecosystem, including patient capital that invests in small, early-stage, long-term and hard technology projects. These can help technology enterprises raise funds and complete valuation, pricing and cross-boundary mergers and acquisitions under rules familiar to international markets. In terms of research, Hong Kong's universities can collaborate with Xi'an's institutions on research into key technologies, promote the transformation of research outcomes, connect with international networks and attract high-end talent. In terms of market, Hong Kong can, with its common law system and internationally aligned intellectual property protection regime, assist enterprises in going global, expanding into international markets, converting standards and validating products. He emphasised that Hong Kong has already incorporated commercial space into its industrial planning, including establishing the Space Robotics and Energy Centre, supporting the Chang'e-8 mission, and promoting local satellite projects and related investment. As commercial space enters the scaled development stage \"from one to N\", co-ordination among the industrial chain, capital and markets is particularly crucial. Hong Kong will leverage its openness, internationalisation and financial advantages under the \"one country, two systems\" framework to empower the accelerated development of the western region's aerospace industry and support the development of the country's aerospace cause. Mr Chan met with the Chairman of the Shaanxi Provincial Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, Mr Xu Xinrong, at noon. He concluded his visit programme in Xi'an in the afternoon and departed for Hong Kong. Ends/Saturday, June 27, 2026 Issued at HKT 15:00 NNNN"}, {"title": "FS continues visit to Xi'an (26.6.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202606/26/P2026062601092.htm", "date": "26.6.2026", "description": "The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, today (June 26) continued his visit programme in Xi'an. Mr Chan today called on the Secretary of the CPC Shaanxi Provincial Committee, Mr Zhao Yide, and had an in-depth exchange of views on further strengthening co-operation between Shaanxi and Hong Kong. Mr Chan said that Shaanxi has gathered innovative resources, possesses strong research capabilities, and has complete and thriving industrial chains in areas such as national hard technology research and development, aerospace and aviation, and major equipment manufacturing. Hong Kong, with its advantages as an international financial centre and in high-end professional services under \"one country, two systems\", together with its common law system and free port status, is an important hub connecting the Mainland and international markets. He said that the two places can deepen co-operation in areas such as innovation and research and development, commercialisation of research outcomes, cultivation of innovative enterprises and listing financing, as well as talent exchanges and higher education. This would better connect Shaanxi's research and industrial strengths with Hong Kong's financial and internationalisation advantages, achieve resource sharing and mutual empowerment, enable each other's success, and jointly serve the country's development of new quality productive forces and high-quality development. He invited Xi’an enterprises to form delegations to visit Hong Kong, exchange and connect with Hong Kong enterprises and the investment community, and explore further co-operation. In the morning, Mr Chan visited Northwestern Polytechnical University (NPU), where he met with the President of NPU, Professor Song Baowei, and held a discussion session with innovation and technology enterprises. He then delivered a speech to more than 200 teachers, students and alumni, engaging in in-depth exchanges on promoting hard technology innovation, commercialisation of research outcomes, and deepening co-operation between Xi'an and Hong Kong in scientific research and industrial development. In his speech, Mr Chan pointed out that NPU students have demonstrated, in different ways, a spirit of craftsmanship in perfecting technologies and products. However, for technology to move from the laboratory to the world, it no longer depends only on whether the product is advanced, but also on whether it can withstand the tests of supply chain restructuring and alignment with international standards. He said that globalisation is shifting from the previous \"efficiency first\" model to one that places equal emphasis on \"efficiency and resilience\", with supply chain security, self-reliance in core technologies, and cross-boundary regulation becoming key considerations. Against this backdrop, the country is strengthening basic research and original innovation, supporting breakthroughs with long-term accumulated \"slow variables\". At the same time, areas such as artificial intelligence, advanced materials and quantum technology are crossing the threshold of industrialisation, forming synergistic development among \"technology clusters\" and driving the development of new industries, new models and new growth drivers. Mr Chan pointed out that Xi'an has a profound foundation in hard technology and is an important fertile ground for the accumulation of related technologies, with its achievements being accelerated for civilian application. Hong Kong, with its common law system, free port advantages and international platform, brings together capital, talent and professional services, to help connect technological achievements with international markets, and promote \"Xi'an R&D, Hong Kong empowerment, global application\". He encouraged young people to be professionally strong and broad-minded, and to actively enter the intersection of \"finance + technology\". He also encouraged them to base themselves in the country and look to the world, seize opportunities amid changes, enhance their sustainable competitiveness, and grasp the broad opportunities brought about by technological development. In the afternoon, Mr Chan visited the Xi'an High-tech Industries Development Zone (Xi'an High-tech Zone). As a national-level high-tech industries development zone, the Xi'an High-tech Zone focuses on strategic emerging industries such as electronic information, high-end equipment, new energy and new materials. The Director-General of the Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises (OASES), Mr Peter Yan, and representatives of the Hong Kong Investment Corporation Limited (HKIC), Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX) and Invest Hong Kong also joined the visit. Mr Chan and his delegation visited enterprises engaged respectively in advanced energy storage, optoelectronic integration, metal additive manufacturing, and high-end equipment inspection and testing, to learn about their latest progress in frontier technology research and development and industrialisation. Mr Chan then held a discussion session with representatives of 25 enterprises in the Xi'an High-tech Zone, exchanging views on promoting hard technology innovation, facilitating deeper integration among industry, academia, research and application, and expanding co-operation between Hong Kong and Shaanxi in areas such as technology and innovation, finance and professional services. During the discussion session, a number of enterprises expressed strong interest and willingness to access international capital through Hong Kong and further expand into overseas markets. Mr Chan welcomed them to come to Hong Kong for fundraising and financing, global expansion, and technology research and development and advanced manufacturing. He asked the OASES, the HKIC, HKEX and others to fully connect with them and provide support. Mr Chan will continue his itinerary in Xi'an tomorrow (June 27) and attend the inaugural Western Commercial Aerospace Conference. Ends/Friday, June 26, 2026 Issued at HKT 22:57 NNNN"}, {"title": "FS proceeds to Xi'an for visit (25.6.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202606/25/P2026062500876.htm", "date": "25.6.2026", "description": "The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, completed his visit programme in Dalian this morning (June 25) and proceeded to Xi'an at noon for a visit. Mr Chan called on the Secretary of the CPC Xi'an Municipal Committee, Mr Hao Huijie, and the Mayor of Xi'an, Mr Ye Niuping, for in-depth exchanges on strengthening co-operation between the two places. Upon arriving in Xi'an, Mr Chan visited Xi'an Jiaotong University (XJTU). He met with the Secretary of the CPC XJTU Committee, Mr Wu Guosheng, and, accompanied by the Vice President, Professor Shan Zhiwei, held a symposium with innovation and technology enterprises in Xi'an, during which he introduced Hong Kong's business environment, financial and innovation and technology ecosystems, and listened to their business development plans. Mr Chan said that Shaanxi has solid strengths in hard technology, with its innovation capabilities continuously improving, and possesses the capability to expand international business. He encouraged enterprises to actively consider using Hong Kong as a platform for developing international business, and to make good use of Hong Kong's full-chain funding ecosystem and professional services to grow bigger and stronger. The Director-General of the Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises, Mr Peter Yan, and representatives of the Hong Kong Investment Corporation Limited attended the symposium. Mr Chan then delivered a speech to about 400 teachers, students and alumni of XJTU, focusing on how Hong Kong and Xi'an can work together to effectively transform hard technology achievements into products and services for the global market, and encouraging students and alumni to make good use of Hong Kong's platform to seize development opportunities. Mr Chan pointed out that Xi'an has outstanding research strengths in hard technology areas such as aerospace technology, artificial intelligence, new energy and new materials, and that cutting-edge technologies can fully unleash their value only by \"identifying the right scenarios and the right applications\". For hard technology to become efficient productive forces, apart from laboratory breakthroughs, it must also rely on capital relay, market validation and internationalisation channels, and Hong Kong can provide crucial support in these areas. He said that Xi'an's strength lies in hard technology, while Hong Kong's strengths lie in \"one country, two systems\", internationalisation and its status as a financial centre. The country supports Hong Kong in building itself into an international financial centre, an international innovation and technology centre and a hub for talent, meaning that Hong Kong is not only a place where capital and talent converge, but also a \"converter\" for connecting technology with capital and helping enterprises adapt to international strategies. He pointed out that Hong Kong's initial public offerings, secondary market financing, private equity funds, exchange-traded products and cross-boundary asset management offer market depth, breadth, innovation and flexibility. Together with a robust banking system and a sound Linked Exchange Rate System, they provide technology enterprises with multi-level fundraising and financing channels as well as risk management tools. On technology innovation, he emphasised that Hong Kong is promoting the integration of \"AI+\" and \"Finance+\", and has advantages in areas such as communications hub functions and computing power development. In addition, the Hong Kong Investment Corporation Limited, as the Government's patient capital, supports investment in small, early-stage, long-term and hard technology projects. When Xi'an's technology seeks to go international, in addition to the technology itself, it also needs capital that understands technology, professional services, patent protection, brand building and global networks — and these are precisely the support that Hong Kong can provide. Mr Chan encouraged young students to regard Hong Kong as one of the barometers of the global market, actively enter the intersection of \"finance + technology\", and make good use of Hong Kong's positioning as an international financial centre and an international innovation and technology centre to accumulate practical experience across markets and regions. He also encouraged them to base themselves in Hong Kong and look to the world, and welcomed them to make use of learning, internship and work opportunities in Hong Kong to build connections with international capital, markets and professional institutions. In conclusion, he said that Hong Kong is willing to be a long-term partner of Xi'an and of the teachers, students and alumni of XJTU. With the shared goal of \"Xi'an R&D, Hong Kong empowerment, global application\", Hong Kong is ready to deepen collaboration in project co-operation, capital matching and talent exchanges. The Vice Chairman of the Shaanxi Provincial Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, Mr Zhang Xiaoguang, and the President of the Hong Kong China Friendship Association, Ms Cheng Cheung-ling, took part in the visit programme at XJTU. Before leaving Dalian in the morning, Mr Chan continued to attend the Summer Davos 2026. He spoke at a session organised by Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited on \"Scaling Green Technology for Climate Impact: How Capital Accelerate Change\". Speaking at the session, Mr Chan said that Hong Kong has set clear carbon reduction targets, including reducing carbon emissions by half before 2035 as compared with 2005 levels, and achieving carbon neutrality before 2050. However, Hong Kong also sets a higher goal of serving the country's and the region's green transition. As an international financial centre, Hong Kong continues to play its role as a green financing hub, and will further promote financial innovation, including the continued development of digital green bonds, insurance-linked securities such as catastrophe bonds, and other instruments. It will also actively align with international green and sustainable finance standards, including promoting the Sustainable Finance Action Agenda, strengthening climate-related disclosure requirements for listed companies, and enhancing the green and transition finance taxonomy framework. On industrial development, Hong Kong is accelerating the building of a green technology ecosystem. Currently, more than 300 green technology enterprises have established a presence at Hong Kong Science Park and Cyberport, and possess international competitiveness. The HKSAR Government continues to support the development of green industries of strategic significance, promoting the transformation of research outcomes and industrial upgrading. Mr Chan will continue his visit programme in Xi'an tomorrow (June 26). Ends/Thursday, June 25, 2026 Issued at HKT 22:37 NNNN"}, {"title": "FS visits Dalian and attends Summer Davos 2026 (24.6.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202606/24/P2026062400848.htm", "date": "24.6.2026", "description": "​The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, continued his visit programme in Dalian today (June 24), attending events of the Annual Meeting of the New Champions 2026, also known as the Summer Davos, and taking part in a number of Liaoning-Hong Kong exchange activities. Mr Chan attended the opening ceremony of the Annual Meeting in the morning. Premier Li Qiang of the State Council attended the opening ceremony and delivered a speech. Mr Chan then attended a discussion session organised by the World Economic Forum, during which he joined a dialogue with a number of financial, political and business leaders from the Mainland and overseas on the topic \"Is Finance Dividing Us?\". Speaking at the session, Mr Chan said that he did not consider the world to be forming a fragmented financial system. However, he said the trend of economies using their own currencies for trade and investment settlement to diversify foreign exchange risks and reduce costs would continue and develop naturally. He noted that China accounts for an important share of global trade, driving the increasingly frequent use of the Renminbi in cross-boundary payments and settlements, and that the international monetary system is therefore steadily developing towards greater diversification. He pointed out that emerging payment systems and cross-boundary infrastructure should be seen as complementary options that increase choice, enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and strengthen financial security and resilience, rather than as zero-sum substitutes. On Hong Kong's role, Mr Chan said that, despite uncertainties brought by geopolitics, overseas capital still attaches great importance to the Mainland's innovation capabilities and attractive valuations, and institutional investors from Europe and the United States remain important participants in Hong Kong's initial public offering and secondary markets. He said that, while consolidating its status as an international financial centre, Hong Kong will actively promote fintech innovation, including tokenised assets, on the premise of prudent regulation and safeguarding financial stability. This includes the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government taking the lead in issuing tokenised bonds to expand the investor base, as well as promoting the development of green finance, and gold and commodities trading. Mr Chan also called on the Secretary of the CPC Liaoning Provincial Committee, Mr Xu Kunlin, and the Governor of Liaoning Province, Mr Wang Xinwei, today. At the meeting, Mr Chan said that Liaoning enjoys prominent locational advantages and a solid industrial foundation, and is highly complementary with Hong Kong's economy, offering huge potential for the two sides to deepen co-operation. During his visit to Dalian, he organised Hong Kong financial and innovation and technology institutions and enterprises to actively engage in in-depth docking with Liaoning industries, helping more quality Liaoning enterprises to \"go global\". He said he looked forward to deepening and expanding exchanges and co-operation with Liaoning in areas including economic and trade, financial, innovation and technology, shipping, and logistics, so as to promote the prosperity and development of Liaoning and Hong Kong. In the afternoon, Mr Chan attended a promotion conference on supporting Mainland enterprises in going global, organised by the Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises (OASES) in Dalian. The conference focused on how to leverage Hong Kong's financial, trade, and innovation and technology centres, as well as its unique advantages of being highly internationalised, to help Liaoning enterprises go global and expand their presence worldwide. Member of the Party Leadership Group of the People's Government of Liaoning Province and Vice Governor, Ms Bai Ying, attended the event. The event attracted over 180 leaders and enterprise representatives from the local political and business sectors, innovation and technology sector, and various institutions. Speaking at the event, Mr Chan noted that Liaoning, as one of the provinces with the strongest industrial capabilities in the country, has been continuously enhancing its innovation capacity and is accelerating the building of a modern industrial system. Liaoning enterprises have strong innovation capabilities. Coupled with strong manufacturing capabilities, as well as vast application scenarios and industrial chains in the northeastern region, they have great potential in developing overseas markets. He pointed out that Hong Kong's new listing market is active and gathers international capital and professional institutions. Enterprises coming to Hong Kong can not only raise funds efficiently, but also enhance their corporate governance standards, international profile and ability to attract global talent. In recent years, the HKSAR Government has been vigorously developing innovation and technology, strengthening research and development as well as infrastructure, and promoting the integrated development of education, technology, talent and industries. Through the Hong Kong Investment Corporation Limited, it supports hard technology and future industries by investing in small, early-stage and long-term projects. In addition, innovation and technology parks such as the Science Park and Cyberport, together with the HKSAR Government's task force on supporting enterprises in going global, are committed to providing incubation, professional support and risk management services for innovative enterprises. Mr Chan sincerely invited enterprises in Liaoning and the northeastern region to make good use of Hong Kong's international financial and innovation and technology platforms, as well as its talent advantages and professional strengths, to explore overseas markets. At the event, representatives of a number of Mainland and overseas enterprises that have already established a presence in Hong Kong also shared their experiences of developing in Hong Kong and going global. The Hong Kong Investment Corporation Limited, Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited, Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation, Cyberport, and the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park also introduced at the conference Hong Kong's overall advantages in financing, its innovation and technology ecosystem, and policy support. Mr Chan also attended a C-Suite roundtable co-organised by the South China Morning Post and the Hong Kong Investment Corporation Limited today, where he briefed business leaders from the Mainland and overseas on Hong Kong's latest situation and development strategies. In the afternoon, he also attended a sharing session for Hong Kong businesspeople and enterprises in Liaoning, organised by the Beijing Office of the HKSAR Government and its Liaoning Liaison Unit, where he had in-depth exchanges with local Hong Kong businesspeople and Hong Kong people on business experience. In the evening, he also attended an exchange dinner organised by the Hong Kong Chamber of Commerce in Liaoning. Mr Chan will continue his activities in Dalian tomorrow morning (June 25) before proceeding to Xi'an for a visit. Ends/Wednesday, June 24, 2026 Issued at HKT 22:15 NNNN"}, {"title": "Speech by DFS at US Independence Day reception (23.6.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202606/23/P2026062300768.htm", "date": "23.6.2026", "description": "Following is the speech by the Deputy Financial Secretary, Mr Michael Wong, at the United States of America (US) Independence Day reception today (June 23): Consul General Eadeh (Consul General of the US in Hong Kong and Macau, Ms Julie Eadeh), Deputy Commissioner Hua (Deputy Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Mr Hau You), Assistant Secretary Burke (Assistant Secretary of the US Department of the Treasury Mr Jonathan Burke), former Chief Executive Mr Donald Tsang, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, It is my great pleasure to join you to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Independence of the United States of America. This year also marks the 183rd anniversary of the United States' diplomatic presence in Hong Kong. So we indeed have a long history of partnership and friendship that is worth celebrating and nurturing. I would also like to pay tribute to the longstanding and growing ties between the peoples of the United States and Hong Kong. Apart from our strong bilateral business and trade relations, there have always been deep-rooted cultural and people-to-people connections between us. Hong Kong is home to around 80 000 US citizens. Last year, the number of American companies in Hong Kong increased from nearly 1 400 to 1 550, reflecting a year-on-year increase of over 11 per cent. Also last year, Invest Hong Kong, which is the business promotion arm of our Government, assisted over 40 US enterprises to establish or expand their operations in Hong Kong. It is noteworthy in the arena of trade that the United State has consistently enjoyed a significant trade surplus with Hong Kong - over US$250 billion in total in the last 10 years. So Consul General, I think that is good news to you. And I understand that this is actually one of the highest among the trading partners of the United States. Another development in trade that is noteworthy is that Hong Kong's exports of goods to the United States have continued to enjoy very substantial growth despite geopolitics and headwinds. It grew by 80 per cent year on year this March. This April, it grew by another 37 per cent. When I mentioned these figures at a recent gathering hosted by a leading American financial institution in Hong Kong, some members in the audience were surprised. And I said to them that the very healthy growth in our bilateral trade is a testament to the ingenuity and dedication of businesses and enterprises both in Hong Kong and in the United States. Somehow, in an environment of considerable uncertainty, they are able to grasp new business opportunities and forge new partnerships. And what they do bring benefits not only to the business communities of the two places but to the peoples of the two economies. I salute them for their wonderful work and contributions. On the global stage, Hong Kong's strengths as a vibrant and open economy and an international financial centre are increasingly recognised by all major players. The Global Wealth Report 2026, published this May, ranked Hong Kong as the world's largest cross-boundary wealth management centre. The World Competitiveness Yearbook this year ranked Hong Kong as the second economy in the world in terms of our competitiveness. These very positive international assessments are echoed by the business community in Hong Kong. The latest Business Sentiment Survey conducted by AmCham (American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong) released this February reflected a substantive improvement in sentiment. Eighty-six per cent of respondents viewed Hong Kong as highly competitive or competitive as an international business hub, up from 75 per cent last year. So last year was good but this year was even better. Also, an overwhelming 92 per cent of the respondents planned to maintain their regional headquarters in Hong Kong for the next three years. And they cited efficiency, stability and the very safe business environment in Hong Kong as reasons to continue to base their regional operations in this lovely city. The Consul General mentioned the visit to China by the President of the United States early in May. It was historic. It was a landmark. The two leaders expressed support for a constructive relationship of strategic stability. And they reached important understanding on keeping economic and trade ties stable, on expanding practical co-operation in different fields, and on properly addressing each other's concerns. We believe that the certainty and stability that follow their meeting are beneficial not just to Hong Kong, but to the entire world. Ladies and gentlemen, the longstanding ties between the United States and Hong Kong are the result of years of hard work and goodwill by the peoples of the two economies. These ties have been built on a foundation of mutual respect and constructive dialogue. We look forward to their continued growth and positive developments in the years to come. Thank you very much. Ends/Tuesday, June 23, 2026 Issued at HKT 21:14 NNNN"}, {"title": "FS visits Dalian (23.6.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202606/23/P2026062300735.htm", "date": "23.6.2026", "description": "The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, began his visit to Dalian today (June 23). This morning, he attended events related to the World Economic Forum's Annual Meeting of the New Champions 2026 (Summer Davos), including the High-Level Dialogue on China Megacities, where he exchanged ideas with leaders of Mainland cities, business representatives, and international business leaders on the role of China's megacities and regions in the new round of high-level opening up, and how to promote cross-border co-operation and the collaborative development of industrial chains. In his speech, Mr Chan stated that competition among cities in the future will revolve around innovation and technology (I&T), requiring cities to strengthen collaborative development and complementary advantages through a \"city cluster\" model. He said that Hong Kong, building on its status as an international financial and trade centre, is actively promoting I&T as one of the main engines of economic development. This includes accelerating the development of the Northern Metropolis, strengthening collaboration with other cities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, and combining scientific research, the transformation of research outcomes, and advanced manufacturing to promote the deep integration of technological and industrial innovation. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government is also continuously enriching its financial products, including commodities, gold trading, and digital assets, and leveraging its shipping and air transport networks and international regulatory advantages to play the role of a multinational supply chain management centre, supporting Mainland enterprises' overseas expansion amid the reshaping of global supply chains. He further noted that Hong Kong is committed to attracting high-end talent; since the enhancement of the talent admission schemes at the end of 2022, approximately 300 000 people have come to Hong Kong to develop their careers, injecting greater momentum into the city's development through its talent pool. In the morning, Mr Chan met with the President and Chief Executive Officer of the World Economic Forum, Mr Alois Zwinggi. He also met with Vice Mayor of Beijing Mr Sun Shuo and Vice Mayor of Shanghai Mr Lu Shan, respectively, to discuss strengthening exchanges and co-operation between Beijing and Hong Kong, as well as between Shanghai and Hong Kong. In addition, Mr Chan attended the Informal Gathering of World Economic Leaders luncheon at noon. In the afternoon, Mr Chan led members of the Hong Kong delegation to visit the Dalian High-Tech Industrial Zone and held a roundtable meeting with representatives of I&T enterprises from both places. He noted that Liaoning Province has prioritised the building of a modern industrial system anchored by advanced manufacturing as a key task during the 15th Five-Year Plan period, while Dalian is also committed to establishing itself as a regional science and innovation centre with national influence. Meanwhile, under the National 15th Five-Year Plan, Hong Kong is supported to consolidate and enhance its status as an international financial, trade and maritime centre, and to develop into an international I&T centre. He added that the development focuses of both sides are highly aligned, offering vast room for co-operation. Mr Chan pointed out that Dalian and Hong Kong are highly aligned and mutually complementary in their I&T development paths. Under the principle of \"one country, two systems\", Hong Kong possesses unique institutional advantages, characterised by a multi-tiered financial market and a highly internationalised professional services sector. Furthermore, the I&T ecosystem is rapidly expanding; for instance, the Hong Kong Science Park and Cyberport has brought together numerous technology enterprises and research and development (R&D) institutions, providing comprehensive support for start-ups from incubation to scaling. Various leading Mainland and overseas enterprises have chosen Hong Kong as their base for R&D and international expansion. Through facilitating the smooth flow of people, capital, logistics, and data, the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone creates highly favourable conditions for fields such as artificial intelligence and biotechnology. The HKSAR Government is also establishing an ecosystem of \"patient capital\" through the Hong Kong Investment Corporation, driving international long-term capital to invest in early-stage, small high-tech enterprises on a long-term basis , accompanying enterprises to thrive through economic cycles. Mr Chan said that Hong Kong is not only a \"super connector\" and \"super value-adder\" but can also act as an \"adapter\" for Mainland enterprises entering the international market, aligning them with international best standards. He hoped that financial institutions, innovation and technology parks, capital, and enterprises in Hong Kong and Dalian will strengthen co-operation and establish exchange mechanisms to jointly seize the significant opportunities brought by the new round of innovation and technology development. Mr Chan and the delegation attended a dinner hosted by member of the Standing Committee and Head of the United Front Work Department of the CPC Dalian Municipal Committee, Ms Xu Guangxiang, in the evening. Mr Chan will continue his visit to Dalian tomorrow (June 24), which includes attending the opening ceremony of the Summer Davos. Ends/Tuesday, June 23, 2026 Issued at HKT 20:20 NNNN"}, {"title": "FS to visit Dalian and Xi'an (21.6.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202606/21/P2026062100365.htm", "date": "21.6.2026", "description": "​The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, will depart for visits to Dalian and Xi'an tomorrow afternoon (June 22). Mr Chan will lead a delegation of more than 30 people to attend the World Economic Forum's Annual Meeting of the New Champions 2026, also known as the Summer Davos forum, to be held in Dalian from June 23 to 25. Delegation members include senior management personnel from the Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises (OASES), Invest Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Investment Corporation Limited (HKIC), the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation, Cyberport and the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park, as well as heads of innovation and technology enterprises nurtured by them or attracted from overseas, covering areas such as artificial intelligence, biomedical technology, new energy technology and advanced manufacturing. Organisations including Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX) will also send representatives to attend the Annual Meeting. During the Annual Meeting, Mr Chan will attend a number of thematic sessions, deliver speeches and participate in discussions. The delegation will also attend a number of business exchange and enterprise matching activities. The Annual Meeting of the New Champions brings together leaders from government, business, think tanks and academia, as well as representatives of international organisations. Under the theme of \"Innovating at Scale\" this year, the Annual Meeting will gather more than 1 700 guests from over 90 countries and regions to focus discussions on issues including changes in the global trade and industrial landscape, China's economic development, technological output and economic benefits, inclusive growth, and energy and climate transition, contributing wisdom to the recovery and growth of the world economy. During his stay in Dalian, Mr Chan will meet with leaders of relevant central ministries and commissions, Liaoning Province and Dalian Municipality, as well as political and business leaders from different places. From June 25 to 27, Mr Chan will proceed to Xi'an for a visit. During his stay in Xi'an, he will call on leaders of Shaanxi Province and Xi'an Municipality, and visit a local university, where he will deliver a speech to introduce Hong Kong's latest development; the functions Hong Kong will perform under the National 15th Five-Year Plan, especially the development and planning of its financial, trade, shipping, and innovation and technology centres, and an international hub for high-calibre talent, as well as the new opportunities brought about by its own high-quality development. He will also attend the inaugural Western Commercial Aerospace Conference, organised by the Chinese Society of Astronautics and the Commercial Space Innovation Consortium, on June 27, and deliver a speech at the event. During his stay in Xi'an, Mr Chan will also hold a symposium with representatives of innovation and technology enterprises and visit a number of innovation and technology enterprises. Senior management personnel from OASES, the HKIC and HKEX will take part in the Xi'an programme to attract enterprises and investment. Mr Chan will return to Hong Kong in the evening of June 27. During his absence from Hong Kong, the Deputy Financial Secretary, Mr Michael Wong, will act as Financial Secretary. Ends/Sunday, June 21, 2026 Issued at HKT 14:33 NNNN"}, {"title": "FS visits Nanjing (19.6.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202606/19/P2026061900678.htm", "date": "19.6.2026", "description": "​The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, continued his visit programme in Nanjing today (June 19). He called on the Governor of Jiangsu Province, Mr Liu Xiaotao, and the Secretary of the CPC Nanjing Municipal Committee, Mr Zhou Hongbo, respectively, to discuss further deepening co-operation between Jiangsu and Hong Kong, and between Nanjing and Hong Kong. Mr Chan said that Jiangsu and Hong Kong have all along maintained close and multi-level co-operation, with frequent economic and trade exchanges and fruitful results in areas such as finance, innovation and technology (I&T), education, and youth visits and exchanges. He pointed out that Jiangsu has strong capabilities in technological innovation and advanced manufacturing, a solid industrial foundation, and a vibrant innovation and technology ecosystem, with a number of sectors taking leading positions globally. Hong Kong, meanwhile, has the advantages of being an international financial centre and a business environment that is friendly and highly internationalised, making it an important platform for Mainland enterprises to \"go global\". The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government has set up a Go Global Task Force, which co-ordinates at a high level resources in policy, funding, external promotion agencies and professional services, pooling strengths and proactively dovetailing with and better serving the needs of Mainland enterprises going global. He said that, building on the current sound foundation for co-operation, the two places could explore more modes of co-operation and launch more collaborative projects, including organising delegations from Hong Kong's financial, I&T, logistics and professional services sectors to visit Jiangsu, so as to further deepen exchanges and co-operation between the two places. In the morning, Mr Chan attended an exchange session for technology enterprises organised by Huatai Securities, where he had in-depth exchanges with more than 10 I&T entrepreneurs from Jiangsu and other provinces. The participating enterprises covered frontier areas including artificial intelligence, biotechnology, semiconductors, embodied intelligence, the low-altitude economy and advanced manufacturing. They are all industry leaders, and many hold important positions in the global market and relevant production and supply chains. Mr Chan listened to their briefings on trends in the relevant industries and their development plans in the respective areas. He also briefed them on the latest overall economic situation of Hong Kong, as well as the key focuses during the 15th Five-Year Plan period, in particular the four centres and one hub, and the strategy for the integrated development of education, technology, talent and industries. He welcomed them to make good use of Hong Kong's internationalised platform as their first stop and support base for going global and expanding their global businesses. The HKSAR Government has set up a task force to organise cross-sectoral efforts to accompany them in going global. Speaking at the exchange session, Mr Chan noted that the country is accelerating the promotion of high-level self-reliance and self-strengthening in science and technology, and has already taken global leading positions in many I&T areas. As leading Mainland enterprises accelerate innovation and expand into international markets, they need to connect with international capital markets. On the one hand, they can capitalise on the current positive sentiment among international investors towards China's technological development; on the other hand, they can further align their corporate governance with international standards and best practices, gain greater recognition from investors, and enhance their international visibility. He also encouraged enterprises to actively consider listing in Hong Kong, establishing international business headquarters and cross-boundary treasury centres in the city, and making full use of Hong Kong's quality financial and professional services, as well as relevant tax concession policies, to strengthen their own development and better position their production and supply chains in response to geopolitical challenges. Mr Chan also visited two representative I&T enterprises in Nanjing today to gain an in-depth understanding of the city's cutting-edge developments in high-end manufacturing as well as life and health technology. One of the enterprises specialises in intelligent equipment and industrial robots, with products widely applied in advanced manufacturing scenarios. The other focuses on biotechnology research and development and is at the international forefront in areas such as gene and cell engineering. Both enterprises are listed on the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited, leveraging Hong Kong's capital market to accelerate the commercialisation of scientific research and their global deployment. Mr Chan encouraged them to continue to expand and strengthen their businesses through Hong Kong. Mr Chan concluded his visit to Nanjing this evening and will return to Hong Kong tomorrow morning (June 20). Ends/Friday, June 19, 2026 Issued at HKT 21:15 NNNN"}, {"title": "FS continues visit to Shanghai and Nanjing (18.6.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202606/18/P2026061800790.htm", "date": "18.6.2026", "description": "The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, continued his visit to Shanghai today (June 18) to deepen co-operation between Shanghai and Hong Kong in areas including finance, innovation and technology, as well as trade and commerce, and to further leverage Hong Kong's role as a \"super connector\" and \"super value-adder\". ​In the morning, Mr Chan met with the Chairman of the China Securities Regulatory Commission, Mr Wu Qing, who was in Shanghai to attend the Lujiazui Forum. The two sides had in-depth exchanges on issues including continuing to support Mainland enterprises to list in Hong Kong, optimising the mutual market access mechanisms between the Mainland and Hong Kong capital markets, and taking forward financial regulatory co-operation between the two places. The Chief Executive Officer of the Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong, Ms Julia Leung, also attended the meeting. ​Mr Chan then visited the Shanghai Gold Exchange and met with its Chairman, Mr Yu Wenjian, to exchange views on the collaborative development of the gold markets in Shanghai and Hong Kong. He subsequently visited the Shanghai Pudong Development Bank and met with its Chairman, Mr Zhang Weizhong, with discussions focusing on advancing financial co-operation between the two places, in particular supporting finance to better serve Mainland enterprises in expanding their overseas businesses and empowering the innovation and technology ecosystem. ​Mr Chan also visited two leading enterprises in the AI sector. One of them focuses on distributed AI cloud computing services and has established its offshore headquarters in Hong Kong to provide computing power services to overseas users. The other is dedicated to developing next-generation photonic computing chips, seeking to break through computing power bottlenecks with \"optical computing\" technology. ​Mr Chan had detailed exchanges with the persons-in-charge of the two enterprises. He noted that the country's 15th Five-Year Plan clearly sets out the nurturing and strengthening of emerging and future industries, as well as expanding high-level opening-up. Riding on this opportunity, more Mainland innovation and technology enterprises are actively connecting and integrating resources from different places, expanding their global footprint and enhancing their competitive position in the industrial and supply chains. He highlighted that Hong Kong pools capital and top talent from both the Mainland and overseas, and possesses international data resources and rich application scenarios, a robust intellectual property protection regime, and quality, full-fledged financial and professional services. He welcomed the two enterprises' active consideration of listing and raising funds in Hong Kong, and making good use of Hong Kong's unique international advantages to further expand their international businesses. ​In the afternoon, Mr Chan concluded his visit to Shanghai and arrived in Nanjing to continue the next leg of his trip. In the evening, he will meet with the Executive Vice Governor of Jiangsu Province, Mr Ma Xin, to exchange views on deepening co-operation between Jiangsu and Hong Kong. ​Mr Chan will continue his visit programme to Nanjing tomorrow (June 19). Ends/Thursday, June 18, 2026 Issued at HKT 17:30 NNNN"}, {"title": "HKSAR Government expresses gratitude for country's support for launch of Mainland government bond futures in Hong Kong (18.6.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202606/18/P2026061800336.htm", "date": "18.6.2026", "description": "In response to the announcement by the Central Authorities, the Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong issued an announcement today (June 18) that Mainland Government bond futures will be launched in Hong Kong. The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) welcomes this initiative. The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, said, \"The National 15th Five-Year Plan indicates clear support for Hong Kong in consolidating and enhancing its status as an international financial centre. Hong Kong ranks third globally and first in Asia in the Global Financial Centres Index, and is one of the world's leading bond markets. We have been pursuing and working with the Mainland on the introduction of Mainland Government bond futures in Hong Kong. Since the launch of Bond Connect in 2017, the scale of Chinese bond assets held by overseas investors has steadily increased, rising from around RMB0.8 trillion in June 2017 to over RMB3 trillion in April 2026. With growing demand for Renminbi-denominated products and related hedging instruments, the introduction of Mainland Government bond futures in Hong Kong marks an important development milestone, providing an effective offshore risk management tool for investors. It enables investors to manage their interest rate exposures more efficiently and conveniently, further attracts international investors to participate in the Mainland bond market and to hold Renminbi treasury bonds on a long-term basis, and fosters the healthy development of the treasury bond market, thereby further consolidating Hong Kong's position as a bond centre. I sincerely thank the Central People's Government and relevant Mainland regulators for their support all along.\" The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, said, \"The launch of Mainland Government bond futures in Hong Kong not only introduces an additional offshore risk management instrument, but also makes the suite of hedging tools more complete for international investors to manage Renminbi interest rate risks. This will help enhance the liquidity and market depth of treasury bonds, thereby attracting more global capital to participate in the Mainland treasury bond market. Introducing Mainland Government bond futures marks a pivotal step in enhancing Hong Kong's Renminbi product ecosystem and deepening mutual market access. It is conducive to driving the development of structured products, as well as asset management and risk management services in Hong Kong, further consolidating Hong Kong's status as the world's leading offshore Renminbi hub and an international risk management centre. We are grateful for the strong support from the Central Authorities. The HKSAR Government and financial regulators will take forward the implementation of the relevant arrangements expeditiously.\" According to the announcement, a five-year Mainland Government bond futures contract will be launched in Hong Kong. Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited is undertaking the necessary preparatory work, including proposed amendments to relevant rules, and will announce further details of the contract. Ends/Thursday, June 18, 2026 Issued at HKT 17:00 NNNN"}, {"title": "FS attends Lujiazui Forum in Shanghai (17.6.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202606/17/P2026061700871.htm", "date": "17.6.2026", "description": "​ The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, arrived in Shanghai this afternoon (June 17) to begin his visit to Shanghai and Nanjing. In the evening, he attended the Plenary Session of the Lujiazui Forum and delivered a speech on \"Empowering High-standard Financial Opening-up through Shanghai-Hong Kong Financial Synergy\". ​ Mr Chan said that the country has, for the first time, clearly set out in the 15th Five-Year Plan the acceleration of efforts to build a strong financial nation, providing Hong Kong and Shanghai with a shared mission. In the face of a complex geopolitical environment and a new round of technological revolution, international investors have growing demand for diversified asset allocation. Hong Kong and Shanghai should give full play to their complementary strengths and work in synergy to jointly serve the country's high-level two-way opening-up. ​ He pointed out that Hong Kong and Shanghai connect the Mainland's enormous market on the one hand and global capital and international rules on the other, serving as important channels for international capital to allocate into Chinese assets. The mutual market access mechanisms between the two places have continued to expand and deepen. More than 70 per cent of the Mainland stocks held by foreign investors are allocated through Stock Connect, while about two-thirds of the Mainland bonds held by overseas investors are accessed through Bond Connect. This reflects international investors' trust in the institutional arrangements, settlement security and regulatory collaboration of the two places. He welcomed the announcement made today by the Chairman of the China Securities Regulatory Commission, Mr Wu Qing, supporting the launch of trading of five-year Renminbi government bond futures in Hong Kong in the near future, noting that this would help improve risk management tools for the Renminbi bond market and attract more international investors to participate in the Mainland government bond market. ​ Mr Chan said that co-operation between the capital markets of Hong Kong and Shanghai has continued to deepen. As of May this year, 212 Shanghai enterprises were listed in Hong Kong, with a total market capitalisation of over HK$4.3 trillion. Last year, the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the Shanghai Municipal People's Government signed the Action Plan for Collaborative Development of Shanghai and Hong Kong International Financial Centres. This year, Hong Kong and the Shanghai Gold Exchange established a co-operation mechanism, while Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited and China Financial Futures Exchange will also sign a Memorandum of Understanding during this Forum, demonstrating that co-operation between the two places is moving from individual projects towards systematic linkage and synergistic development. ​ Looking ahead, he proposed two directions for co-operation. First, the two places should jointly open up full-chain fundraising and financing channels, promote more innovation and technology enterprises in pursuing two-way financing pathways, and jointly develop exchange-traded funds and index products. They should also promote co-operation in patient capital and long-term capital to support the development of emerging and future industries. Second, the two places should jointly enhance the international functions of Renminbi, enrich investment products and risk management tools, and promote the launch of more \"China price\" products denominated and settled in Renminbi. At the same time, Hong Kong and Shanghai can speed up efforts to promote the synergistic combination of \"industries in Shanghai and offshore treasury in Hong Kong\", supporting enterprises to go global in a steadier and better manner. ​ Mr Chan said that Hong Kong is actively taking forward its first five-year plan to align more closely with the country's 15th Five-Year Plan. Hong Kong and Shanghai have long enjoyed complementary strengths and mutually beneficial co-operation, and there is broad room for synergistic development in the coming five years. He expressed the hope that the two places would make good use of the power of finance to create tangible value for enterprises and the public. ​ Others who delivered speeches in the relevant session of the Forum included the Vice Mayor of Shanghai, Mr Wu Wei; former Vice-Chairman of the China Securities Regulatory Commission and Vice-President of the China Society for Finance and Banking, Mr Fang Xinghai; the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui; the Chief Executive Officer of the Securities and Futures Commission, Ms Julia Leung; and representatives of financial institutions from Hong Kong and Shanghai as well as international think tanks. ​ Mr Chan will continue his itinerary in Shanghai tomorrow morning (June 18) and proceed to Nanjing in the afternoon. Ends/Wednesday, June 17, 2026 Issued at HKT 20:28 NNNN"}, {"title": "FS to visit Shanghai and Nanjing (16.6.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202606/16/P2026061600580.htm", "date": "16.6.2026", "description": "The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, will depart for Shanghai tomorrow afternoon (June 17) to attend the plenary session of the 2026 Lujiazui Forum to be held on the same day. He will deliver a speech on the collaborative development of Hong Kong and Shanghai in the area of finance. During his stay in Shanghai, he will also meet with leaders of Central Authorities and the Shanghai Municipal Government. He will visit local financial institutions as well as enterprises engaged in AI and semiconductors. Mr Chan will then proceed to Nanjing in the afternoon of June 18. During his stay, he will meet with provincial and municipal leaders and industry representatives. He will also visit innovation and technology (I&T) enterprises specialising in embodied intelligence and biotechnology, as well as financial institutions. In addition, he will attend a roundtable discussion with technology enterprises to brief participants on Hong Kong's unique advantages, business environment, I&T ecosystem and latest developments. The Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, will take part in the itinerary involving the Lujiazui Forum on June 17. Mr Chan will return to Hong Kong on the morning of June 20. During his absence, the Deputy Financial Secretary, Mr Michael Wong, will act as Financial Secretary. Ends/Tuesday, June 16, 2026 Issued at HKT 17:30 NNNN"}, {"title": "Task Force for Collaboration on the Northern Metropolis Development Strategy holds meeting in Hong Kong (12.6.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202606/12/P2026061200492.htm", "date": "12.6.2026", "description": "The Deputy Financial Secretary, Mr Michael Wong, and Vice Mayor of the Shenzhen Municipal People's Government (Shenzhen Government) Mr Tao Yongxin, leading delegations of the governments of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and Shenzhen respectively, held the eighth meeting of the Task Force for Collaboration on the Northern Metropolis Development Strategy in Hong Kong today (June 12). At today's meeting, the HKSAR Government presented the latest progress of the development of the Northern Metropolis (NM), including the setting up of Hung Shui Kiu Industry Park Company Limited to promote industry development and attract enterprises to establish a presence, the tendering for the pilot \"large-scale land disposal\" sites of about 11 hectares within the Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen New Development Area, and the ongoing work to formulate dedicated legislation for the NM. The HKSAR Government also briefly introduced the findings of a planning study on the development of the Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen modern logistics cluster. The Shenzhen Government, in turn, presented its development plans for collaborating with the NM. Both sides also exchanged views on cross-boundary railway projects and the planning and development of boundary control points, as well as work relating to the 15th Five-Year Plan. After the meeting, the delegation of the HKSAR Government accompanied the delegation of the Shenzhen Government to visit the exhibition gallery at the Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen New Development Area Community Liaison Centre, followed by a site visit in Hung Shui Kiu to gain a better understanding of the overall planning of the new development area, and the works progress of the NM University Town sites. Mr Wong said, \"The National 15th Five-Year Plan explicitly supports Hong Kong in accelerating the development of the NM. The HKSAR Government is pressing ahead with the formulation of Hong Kong's first five-year plan, in which the NM will be a key chapter. The NM has now entered the stage of substantial construction and development. Through the five-year plan, we aim to further promote industrial collaboration, enhance infrastructure connectivity and drive institutional innovation, thereby injecting new impetus into Hong Kong-Shenzhen co-operation and positioning the NM to become an important engine for high-quality development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.\" Officials of the HKSAR Government attending the meeting today included the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn; the Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung; and the Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Ms Mable Chan, as well as the heads of relevant departments. Ends/Friday, June 12, 2026 Issued at HKT 16:32 NNNN"}, {"title": "HyD celebrates 40th anniversary (1.6.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202606/01/P2026060100560.htm", "date": "1.6.2026", "description": "The Highways Department (HyD) held its 40th Anniversary celebration ceremony today (June 1). The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan; the Deputy Financial Secretary, Mr Michael Wong; the Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Ms Mable Chan; the Permanent Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Mr Vic Yau; and the Director of Highways, Mr Tony Yau, officiated at the ceremony. Over 300 distinguished guests attended the ceremony, including representatives from the Liaison Office, Executive Council members, over 30 Legislative Council members, heads of bureaux and departments, as well as leaders of the construction industry. Officiating at the ceremony, Mr Chan said that over the past four decades, the HyD has been both a participant in and a contributor to Hong Kong's development. With the concerted and unremitting efforts of the department as well as other government bureaux and departments, Hong Kong has developed an extensive road and railway network spanning the territory and connecting with the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. This network has facilitated public mobility, supported economic development, and promoted regional integration. He noted that colleagues have remained steadfast at their posts, monitoring the conditions of roads, bridges, tunnels and street lighting to ensure the smooth and reliable operation of the transport system. He added that the Government will increase investment in public works in the coming years, in particular by expediting the development of the Northern Metropolis so as to pursue infrastructure-led development and create capacity. This will not only lay a more solid foundation for Hong Kong's long-term development but also open up broader opportunities for the relevant trades. He remarked that enhancing the quality and efficiency of infrastructure development requires technology empowerment to continuously elevate standards in design, construction and maintenance. He expressed the hope that the HyD, together with other works departments, would continue to actively explore the adoption of high-quality Mainland standards and technologies so as to enhance project quality while enabling Hong Kong to act as a \"super connector\" and \"super value‑adder\" in aligning national standards, or Guobiao, with international standards and rules, and that the department would continue to uphold its \"pioneering\" spirit, strive for excellence and work in concert with all sectors of the community to build a more liveable, efficient and convenient city for the public. Speaking at the ceremony, Ms Chan remarked that roads and railways are the vital arteries that connect a city, and over the past forty years, the HyD team has quietly contributed to the everyday steps people take towards a better life. She pointed out that Hong Kong's road network has expanded significantly from about 1 323 kilometres when the department was established in 1986 to more than 2 200 kilometres today, representing an increase of 70 per cent. Looking back at the many milestones the HyD has achieved, from the early Island Eastern Corridor, to the Tsing Ma Bridge, the Tung Chung Line, the Airport Express, and Stonecutters Bridge, and more recently completed East Rail Line Cross-Harbour Extension and Central Kowloon Route (Yau Ma Tei Section), as well as the formulation of the Hong Kong Railway Standards, all of these reflect the professional dedication of generations of HyD colleagues and industry partners in their pursuit of excellence. She expressed hope that colleagues of the HyD will continue to adopt a \"policy innovation\" and \"technological innovation\" dual-innovation mindset, and play a more active role in integrating into the national development strategy. Through the advancement of strategic projects including the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Western Rail Link, the Northern Link, Tsing Lung Bridge, and the Northern Metropolis Highway, the Government will build a broad network of roads and railways under the \"Eight Vertical and Eight Horizontal\" layout, fully unlocking Hong Kong's future development potential, deepening connectivity with the Greater Bay Area, and leveraging today's planning to achieve Hong Kong's long-term development. Mr Yau said at the ceremony that 40 years ago today, the Highways Office was upgraded to the HyD, marking the Government's determination to promote transport infrastructure to support Hong Kong's development. Looking back, the department has transformed from an office initially responsible solely for road construction into a multidisciplinary professional team that now drives cross-boundary road projects, plans and advances strategic railway network connectivity, embraces technological innovation, and sets industry standards. Mr. Yau pointed out that every leap in Hong Kong's economy has been underpinned by solid infrastructure, and the HyD has been the \"pioneer\" driving the city's advancement. The department is fully prepared to take forward the major road and railway infrastructure projects for the Northern Metropolis, including the Northern Metropolis Highway, Route 11, Tsing Lung Bridge, the Northern Link, and the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Western Rail Link, opening up new opportunities for Hong Kong's development. At the same time, the department will continue to carry out road maintenance and district works to safeguard the safety of road users. In addition, to celebrate its 40th anniversary, the HyD is holding a roving exhibition, \"Connecting People, Building a Better Life\" at various locations across Hong Kong from the end of May to mid-July this year. The exhibition reviews the department's achievements and future plans since its establishment in enhancing the road network, carrying out maintenance works, and fully advancing railway development. It also displays exhibits such as old street name plates and thematic manhole covers, and features interactive games. Members of the public are welcome to visit. For more details, please visit the HyD's Facebook page ( www.facebook.com/hydgovhk ) or Instagram page ( www.instagram.com/hydgovhk/ ). Ends/Monday, June 1, 2026 Issued at HKT 22:42 NNNN"}, {"title": "Delegation of overseas government officials visits Hong Kong to learn about its strengths and developments (29.5.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202605/29/P2026052900544.htm", "date": "29.5.2026", "description": "A delegation of 13 overseas government officials completed its visit to Hong Kong today (May 29), deepening its understanding of the city's advantages and development opportunities under the \"one country, two systems\" arrangement. The visit was arranged by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which invited government officials from 13 countries in Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, namely Bolivia, Côte d'Ivoire, Ecuador, Equatorial Guinea, Gambia, Guyana, Kenya, Mozambique, Nicaragua, Peru, Republic of the Congo, São Tomé and Príncipe, and Suriname. The visit aims at enhancing exchanges and co-operation between Hong Kong and these countries, as well as expanding the \"circle of friends\" of Hong Kong. During the delegation's stay in Hong Kong, it met with the Acting Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Cheuk Wing-hing; the Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC; and the Deputy Financial Secretary, Mr Michael Wong, to exchange views and learn more about Hong Kong's unique advantages of enjoying strong support of the country while maintaining unparalleled international connectivity under \"one country, two systems\", as well as its dual gateway role between the Chinese Mainland market and the global market. It also met with the Under Secretary for Education, Dr Sze Chun-fai; the Under Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Joseph Chan; the Under Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Dr Bernard Chan; and the Deputy Commissioner for Innovation and Technology, Mr Philip Har, as well as representatives of a number of relevant institutions. The delegation also visited the International Organization for Mediation, the Hong Kong Science Park and the Hong Kong Palace Museum. Through these meetings and visits, the delegation learned about the city's latest developments and opportunities in education, finance, trade, legal services, innovation and technology, as well as arts and culture. The delegation also visited Shenzhen to learn more about the integrated development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. Ends/Friday, May 29, 2026 Issued at HKT 19:30 NNNN"}, {"title": "FS visits Zurich, Switzerland (22.5.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202605/22/P2026052200112.htm", "date": "22.5.2026", "description": "The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, arrived in Zurich, Switzerland, yesterday (May 21, Zurich time) and began his visit. After arrival in Zurich, Mr Chan held a roundtable meeting with representatives of a number of banks, asset management institutions and family offices. He introduced the advantages and new development opportunities of Hong Kong and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area in areas including finance, innovation, trade and advanced manufacturing, and had in-depth exchanges on issues of concern to the participants. In addition, he also met with representatives of a major Swiss bank. At the roundtable meeting, Mr Chan elaborated on Hong Kong's economic and financial situation and latest developments. He pointed out that Hong Kong's economy had maintained steady growth over the past two years or so, while its financial markets had remained active. Against the backdrop of the country's strong support for Mainland enterprises to go global, more enterprises have raised funds in Hong Kong's stock market to develop their overseas businesses. Hong Kong ranked first globally in terms of funds raised through initial public offerings both last year and so far this year, attracting many investors from the Mainland and overseas. At the same time, amid the current geopolitical landscape, many international investors regard Hong Kong as a safe harbour for capital and a springboard for diversified investment into the Mainland market, contributing to the strong performance of Hong Kong's stock market. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government is actively promoting continuous reform of the stock market, expanding connectivity with capital markets around the world, enhancing market liquidity and providing investors with more diversified investment choices. In various areas such as fixed-income and currency markets, asset and wealth management, and green finance, Hong Kong continues to promote product innovation and expand market scale. In addition, Hong Kong is actively developing gold and commodities trading markets to enrich the offerings of its international financial centre. He also said that the substantial demand from high-net-worth individuals in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and Southeast Asia for cross-border asset allocation has prompted many overseas asset and wealth management institutions to expand their businesses in Hong Kong. On financial innovation, Hong Kong adopts a proactive and open attitude, promoting the application and development of digital assets under the principle of placing equal emphasis on prudent regulation and market development. Mr Chan pointed out that China's 15th Five-Year Plan clearly sets out the promotion of the development of a modernised industrial system, high-level opening up and co-ordinated regional development. The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area enjoys strong advantages in frontier technology, advanced manufacturing, investment ecosystem and the pooling of high-end talent, and represents an important opportunity that international investors should not miss. The HKSAR Government is making every effort to promote Hong Kong's innovation and technology development, accelerate the development of the Northern Metropolis and the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone, and actively attract enterprises and high-end talent to establish a presence in Hong Kong, injecting stronger impetus into the city's future economic development. He welcomed Swiss financial institutions and family offices to expand their investment and business scale in Hong Kong, allocate more assets to the Hong Kong and Mainland markets, and seize these vibrant investment opportunities. Yesterday, Mr Chan also called on the Chinese Consul General in Zurich and for the Principality of Liechtenstein, Ms Chen Yun. He introduced Hong Kong's latest economic and social situation, and exchanged views with her on China-Europe relations and the global political and economic landscape. Mr Chan will hold a roundtable meeting with representatives of local venture capital and private equity funds this morning (May 22, Zurich time). He will depart Zurich in the afternoon and arrive back in Hong Kong tomorrow morning (May 23, Hong Kong time). Ends/Friday, May 22, 2026 Issued at HKT 9:00 NNNN"}, {"title": "FS begins visit to Brussels, Belgium (21.5.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202605/21/P2026052100056.htm", "date": "21.5.2026", "description": "The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, yesterday (May 20, Paris time) proceeded to visit Brussels, Belgium, during which he met with a number of European Union (EU) officials and European business leaders to promote Hong Kong's advantages. After arriving in Brussels, Mr Chan met respectively with the Deputy Director-General for Financial Stability, Financial Services and Capital Markets Union of the European Commission, Dr Alexandra Jour-Schroeder; the Managing Director for Asia and the Pacific of the European External Action Service, Mr Erik Kurzweil; and the Hors Classe Adviser in the Directorate-General for Budget of the European Commission, Mr Siegfried Ruhl. They exchanged views on the experience of Hong Kong and Europe in areas including the economy, finance, trade and fiscal policy, and explored ways to further promote co-operation and build closer, mutually beneficial and win-win relations. During the above meetings, Mr Chan briefed them on Hong Kong's economic and financial development. He pointed out that, amid the current challenging international political and economic environment, Hong Kong, under \"one country, two systems\", maintains its status as a free port, with the free flow of capital, information and talent. Hong Kong also adheres to international best practices in business, accounting and professional services, has stable and predictable economic and trade policies, and continues to innovate and develop its financial markets. He welcomed the European business and investment communities to make full use of Hong Kong as a platform to raise funds for developing markets in the Chinese Mainland and Asia. Mr Chan also said that there is room for Hong Kong and Europe to strengthen co-operation in various fields, and that the two sides should engage in more exchanges of experience, mutual learning and joint development. For example, in the financial sector, the two sides could explore arrangements for dual listing by European enterprises in the two markets, develop fixed-income and currency markets, promote green finance and financial innovation, and better channel private savings to support industries and economic development. Mr Chan also met with the Chief Executive Officer of Euroclear, a European financial intermediary institution, Ms Valérie Urbain, to exchange views on the global economic situation and financial market developments. In addition, he met with the representative of a renowned local family to learn about the development of its group's business in Hong Kong and Asia, and introduced Hong Kong's advantages in various aspects. He suggested that the group increase its investment in Hong Kong and use Hong Kong as its regional headquarters for managing its business and treasury activities in the region. He also called on the Head of Mission and Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People's Republic of China to the European Union, Mr Cai Run, and the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People's Republic of China to the Kingdom of Belgium, Mr Fei Shengchao. They had in-depth exchanges on China-Europe relations and the latest developments in Hong Kong. Mr Chan will depart today (May 21, Brussels time) for the visit to Zurich, Switzerland. Ends/Thursday, May 21, 2026 Issued at HKT 9:00 NNNN"}, {"title": "FS continues visit to Paris (20.5.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202605/20/P2026052000077.htm", "date": "20.5.2026", "description": "The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, continued his visit programme in Paris yesterday (May 19, Paris time), including attending the \"No Money for Terror\" Ministerial Conference on Counter-Terrorism Financing hosted by France. He engaged in in-depth exchanges with delegations from over 80 countries and regions on issues including strengthening global co-operation in combating terrorist financing. He also shared his views during a discussion session on financial innovation and terrorist financing. Speaking at the Conference, Mr Chan said that the means of terrorist financing have become increasingly sophisticated, including making use of the anonymity and speed of digital assets to transfer funds across borders and evade tracking. He said that jurisdictions need to, and have the responsibility to, implement relevant international standards, including putting in place appropriate regulation of digital asset platforms and issuers, so as to prevent regulatory arbitrage. Mr Chan said that Hong Kong, China has all along firmly supported and implemented international requirements on anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing. Through a comprehensive legal framework, risk-based regulation, and full inter-agency collaboration, Hong Kong, China has been taking forward relevant work and was assessed as overall compliant in the latest round of mutual evaluation by the Financial Action Task Force. On digital asset regulation, Hong Kong, China follows the principle of \"same business, same risks, same regulation\", and has implemented licensing regimes for digital asset platforms and stablecoin issuers, which include requirements on investor protection and prevention of money laundering. Mr Chan pointed out that, in strengthening international efforts to combat terrorist financing, jurisdictions should deepen cross-border and inter-agency collaboration, strengthen information and intelligence exchange, and expedite the interception and freezing of illicit funds. In addition, they should make full use of frontier technologies, such as applying blockchain analytics to cross-border tracing, so as to enhance law enforcement capabilities and the recovery of illicit assets. In the morning, Mr Chan visited the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and met with its Deputy Secretary-General, Ms Fabrizia Lapecorella. At the meeting, Mr Chan briefed Ms Lapecorella on Hong Kong's economic and financial developments, and said that Hong Kong, China has been actively participating in the work of committees under the OECD. Hong Kong, China has also been taking forward the implementation of Base Erosion and Profit Shifting 2.0 and the relevant amendments to the Common Reporting Standard in accordance with international standards. Mr Chan also met with the President of the Financial Action Task Force, Ms Elisa de Anda Madrazo, and exchanged views on strengthening international co-operation on anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing. At noon, Mr Chan had lunch with local banking and financial leaders. He briefed them on the latest developments of Hong Kong as an international financial centre, as well as the overall direction and opportunities of Hong Kong's economic development. They also exchanged views on the global economic and financial outlook, and investment and development opportunities in China and Asia. Mr Chan will depart for Brussels, Belgium, today (May 20, Paris time) for a visit. Ends/Wednesday, May 20, 2026 Issued at HKT 9:00 NNNN"}, {"title": "FS begins visit to Europe (19.5.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202605/19/P2026051900052.htm", "date": "19.5.2026", "description": "​The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, arrived in Paris, France, yesterday (May 18, Paris time) to begin his visit to Europe. Upon arrival, Mr Chan called on the Chinese Ambassador to France, Mr Deng Li, to exchange views on China-France and China-Europe relations, as well as the latest developments in Hong Kong. In the afternoon, Mr Chan visited the French Asset Management Association and met with a number of representatives from the industry to exchange views on promoting investment co-operation between the two places. The French Asset Management Association is a major professional association representing the French asset management industry, with about 400 members, including about 330 asset management companies. Together, they manage about 90 per cent of the assets of the French asset management industry, with a total scale of 5 trillion euros. At the meeting, Mr Chan pointed out that Hong Kong's economy registered steady growth in 2025 and the first quarter of 2026, and that its financial system remained robust. The International Monetary Fund and two major credit rating agencies have recently given positive assessments of Hong Kong's economic and fiscal policies. Hong Kong's stock market rose by 28 per cent in 2025 as a whole, while its initial public offering fundraising ranked first globally, with a number of leading Mainland innovation and technology enterprises listing in Hong Kong one after another. The asset management industry in Hong Kong has reached nearly 3.9 trillion euros in scale, and there are now over 3 300 family offices, most of which manage assets exceeding US$50 million, demonstrating a thriving asset and wealth management ecosystem. Meanwhile, the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area has a relatively affluent population of 87 million and a Gross Domestic Product of over 1.7 trillion euros, generating substantive demand for offshore asset allocation. Mr Chan said, \"For French investors seeking both capital security and investment returns, Hong Kong is an ideal destination for asset diversification with its advantages under 'one country, two systems', including the free flow of capital and talent, a vibrant financial ecosystem, and capital markets connected to the Mainland and the world. It is an opportune time for French financial institutions to leverage Hong Kong's advantages to expand their asset and wealth management businesses in Asia.\" Mr Chan also visited a think tank, Asia Centre Paris, and met with a number of its board members in the afternoon. The Centre focuses on the study of geopolitical strategy, international relations and governance, and economic and social development dynamics. It is one of the important institutions in France specialising in Asian strategy and geopolitical analysis. At the meeting, Mr Chan shared the latest economic and social situation of Hong Kong, as well as the directions and priority areas for its future development, and exchanged views with the board members on the international economic and trade landscape and China's development. Mr Chan pointed out that the \"one country, two systems\" arrangement in Hong Kong will be upheld in the long run, and that Hong Kong's competitive advantages are built on multiple aspects, including the common law system, free port status, low tax regime, a stable business environment, predictable economic and financial policies, and mutual market access with the Mainland's capital markets, making Hong Kong the best gateway for international capital to connect with China opportunities. In recent years, apart from continuously developing trade and finance, Hong Kong has been actively nurturing the innovation and technology industry, making dedicated efforts to attract enterprises and talent to Hong Kong, and promoting the development of emerging industries such as artificial intelligence and biomedicine. The vast market of the Greater Bay Area and the development of emerging and future industries will create broader application scenarios and development space for European products and enterprises. In addition, under the country's dual circulation strategy, more Mainland enterprises will set up factories and expand their businesses in Southeast Asia and Europe through Hong Kong. He welcomed more multifaceted exchanges between Asia Centre Paris and Hong Kong, including organising delegations to visit Hong Kong, so as to enhance in-depth mutual understanding between the two places and facilitate the financial and business sectors of both sides in exploring more opportunities for mutually beneficial co-operation. Mr Chan will continue his visit in Paris today (May 19, Paris time) and attend the \"No Money for Terror\" Ministerial Conference. Ends/Tuesday, May 19, 2026 Issued at HKT 9:00 NNNN"}, {"title": "Appointment of Executive Directors to SFC (18.5.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202605/18/P2026051800516.htm", "date": "18.5.2026", "description": "The Government announced today (May 18) that the Financial Secretary, under the authority delegated by the Chief Executive pursuant to the Securities and Futures Ordinance (Cap. 571), has reappointed Ms Lisa Chen Ping as the Executive Director (Legal Services) of the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC), and appointed Ms Elisa Ng Ka-li as Executive Director (Investment Products) of the SFC for a term of three years, starting from May 22, 2026, and from June 8, 2026, respectively. A spokesman for the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau said, \"Ms Chen and Ms Ng have in-depth knowledge of the operation and regulation of the securities and futures markets in Hong Kong. We are confident that they will contribute towards the effective performance of the SFC's statutory functions to foster the development and regulation of the markets.\" Ms Chen was appointed as the Executive Director (Legal Services) of the SFC in 2023. She assumes management responsibility for the Legal Services Division. Ms Ng has extensive experience in the financial services industry and held senior executive positions in respect of asset management and the funds business. Ms Ng was selected through an open recruitment exercise led by a selection panel chaired by the Chairman of the SFC. Ends/Monday, May 18, 2026 Issued at HKT 17:00 NNNN"}, {"title": "FS to visit Europe (17.5.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202605/17/P2026051600596.htm", "date": "17.5.2026", "description": "The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, will depart for a visit to three European cities, namely Paris, France; Brussels, Belgium; and Zurich, Switzerland, in the early hours tomorrow (May 18) to introduce and promote Hong Kong's new developments and opportunities as an international financial centre, in order to attract investment and promote exchanges. While in Paris on May 18 and 19, Mr Chan will attend the \"No Money for Terror\" Ministerial Conference on Counter-Terrorism Financing. The conference is organised by France, gathering delegations from over 80 countries and regions to strengthen global collaboration and combat the fundraising of terrorists. Furthermore, Mr Chan will also meet with local political, business, financial and think tank leaders. During his visit to Brussels on May 20, Mr Chan will visit relevant organisations of the European Union, and meet with local political and corporate representatives. During his visit to Zurich on May 21 and 22, Mr Chan will attend a number of roundtable meetings with major local financial institutions, family offices, as well as venture capitals and private equity funds. Mr Chan will depart from Zurich at noon on May 22 (Zurich time) and return to Hong Kong in the morning of May 23 (Hong Kong time). During his absence, the Deputy Financial Secretary, Mr Michael Wong, will be the Acting Financial Secretary. Ends/Sunday, May 17, 2026 Issued at HKT 12:00 NNNN"}, {"title": "IMF commends Hong Kong's resilient economic growth (15.5.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202605/15/P2026051500609.htm", "date": "15.5.2026", "description": "Following the completion of the 2026 Article IV Consultation with the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Staff Mission published the Concluding Statement today (May 15), outlining its assessment on Hong Kong's economic and financial situation. The Mission notes that Hong Kong's economy has continued to recover, supported by robust technology-related exports, improving private demand and a rebound in financial market activity. The Mission reaffirms Hong Kong's role as an international financial centre and a \"super connector\", particularly as a leading fundraising hub and a premier offshore Renminbi centre. The Mission also acknowledges that policy initiatives, including the development of the Northern Metropolis, are conducive to the development of innovation and high-value services in Hong Kong, supporting economic growth and structural transformation. The Mission considers the fiscal stance in 2026 as appropriate given the current economic conditions, while supporting a focus on achieving stronger medium-term consolidation to rebuild fiscal reserves and address rising spending pressures. The Mission acknowledges that financial sector risks are manageable, supported by strong buffers and robust regulatory oversight. As noted by the Mission, banks remain well capitalised, liquid, and profitable, while the Linked Exchange Rate System (LERS) continues to be an appropriate and credible anchor for macroeconomic and financial stability. The Mission commends the continued efforts to strengthen the monitoring framework for the non-bank financial institution sector, noting that expanded risk assessments and targeted stress testing have improved early-warning capabilities. The Mission recognises that Hong Kong is well placed to build further on its digital and sustainable finance agenda, supported by effective implementation and robust systemic oversight. The Mission also highlights that the \"Fintech 2030\" strategy aims to modernise market infrastructure as well as to promote responsible AI innovation and asset tokenisation within a robust regulatory framework. The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, said, \"We welcome the Mission's assessment of Hong Kong's ongoing economic recovery and its support for the Government's fiscal policies to drive economic growth and achieve economic diversification. \"The Hong Kong economy expanded robustly in the first quarter of 2026. Looking ahead, Hong Kong's economic growth outlook is positive, underpinned by strong global demand for AI-related electronics, sustained growth in visitor arrivals and robust cross-boundary financial activities. A favourable business environment and the gradual improvement to consumer sentiment will continue to support domestic demand. We will closely monitor the development of the situation in the Middle East, dynamically assess the economic situation, and react flexibly. \"We note the views in the Concluding Statement on Hong Kong's commercial real estate (CRE) sector. In the post-epidemic era, the global CRE market has generally faced challenges amid changing office work and consumption patterns. The Government has in recent years introduced a series of market-stabilising policy measures, including suspending the sale of commercial land and encouraging developers to convert suitable vacant office space into student hostels. Currently, Hong Kong's CRE market has stabilised, with transaction and leasing volumes rising significantly, and prices and rents becoming steady. \"On the pace of fiscal consolidation, the reinforced fiscal consolidation programme is progressing as planned. According to the Medium Range Forecast set out in the 2026-27 Budget, the Operating Account will record surpluses for each of the next five years, with surpluses increasing year by year, reflecting the effectiveness of the Government's measures to increase revenue and control expenditure. The Capital Account will still record deficits during this period, resulting in a deficit (before issuance and repayment of bonds) in the Consolidated Account, mainly due to the Government's enhanced infrastructure spending in accelerating the development of the Northern Metropolis and proactively creating capacity for Hong Kong's high-quality development. These investments for the future will bring broader economic benefits and tax revenues to Hong Kong. We will make good use of market forces to finance these infrastructure projects. \"In fact, two major credit rating agencies have recently affirmed Hong Kong's credit rating and 'stable' outlook, reflecting Hong Kong's considerable resilience underpinned by its sound economic fundamentals, robust public finances, and a well-established financial system. \"The Government will analyse and study the various recommendations put forward by the Mission.\" The Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, Mr Eddie Yue, said, \"I welcome the Mission's continued support for the LERS, a key anchor of Hong Kong's financial system and economy. I am pleased to note the Mission's recognition of our robust regulatory and supervisory frameworks, underpinned by strong buffers and prudent practices in the banking sector. I also appreciate the Mission's affirmation of Hong Kong's role as an international financial centre and a \"super connector\" between the Chinese Mainland and the rest of the world.\" The Mission visited Hong Kong from March 16 to 27, 2026, with discussions held with HKSAR Government officials, financial regulators and private sector representatives. The Concluding Statement is in the Annex. The relevant full report will be discussed by the IMF Executive Board later this month. Ends/Friday, May 15, 2026 Issued at HKT 17:48 NNNN"}, {"title": "Toll waiver for commercial vehicles to take effect from May 17 for two months (13.5.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202605/13/P2026051200579.htm", "date": "13.5.2026", "description": "The Inter-departmental Task Force on Monitoring Fuel Supply today (May 13) announced that the Government will waive 50 per cent of the toll for all commercial vehicles (including buses, goods vehicles, light buses and taxis as registered under records of the Transport Department (TD)) using all government tolled tunnels and the Tsing Sha Control Area from 0.00am on May 17 (Sunday), excluding private cars and motor cycles/motor tricycles. The temporary measure will last for two months until 11.59pm on July 16 (Thursday). The Government will publish relevant notices in the Gazette on May 15. The Task Force said that the targeted temporary measure aims to alleviate the operating costs of various types of commercial vehicles, and assist drivers and operators in coping with the pressure arising from rising fuel prices. The TD has steered the toll service provider to adjust the HKeToll system to ensure smooth implementation. Commercial vehicle owners are not required to submit any application; they only need to pay the reduced amount as displayed in the system. The payment methods and time limits designated by existing legislation remain unchanged. In addition, taxi passengers are reminded that they must continue to pay the statutory tolls in full during the waiver period. Commercial vehicle drivers can obtain the waiver details via the HKeToll and HKeMobility mobile apps, toll information displays, variable message signs on major trunk roads, tunnel radio break-in messages and letters issued by the TD to the trades concerned. During this period, placards will be displayed in taxi compartments to remind passengers to pay tolls in full. Ends/Wednesday, May 13, 2026 Issued at HKT 10:00 NNNN"}, {"title": "HKSAR Government's Institutional Green Bonds and Infrastructure Bonds Offering (8.5.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202605/08/P2026050800660.htm", "date": "8.5.2026", "description": "The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority: The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China (the HKSAR Government) today (May 8) announced the successful pricing of approximately HK$27.6 billion worth of green bonds (the Green Bonds) and infrastructure bonds (the Infrastructure Bonds) denominated in Hong Kong dollars (HKD), Renminbi (RMB), US dollars (USD), and euro (EUR) under the Government Sustainable Bond Programme and the Infrastructure Bond Programme. Following a virtual roadshow on May 6, 2026, the Green Bonds and Infrastructure Bonds were priced on May 7, 2026 as follows: HKD3 billion 30-year infrastructure tranche at 3.95 per cent; RMB6 billion 20-year infrastructure tranche at 2.60 per cent; RMB6 billion 30-year infrastructure tranche at 2.70 per cent; USD500 million 5-year infrastructure tranche at 4.052 per cent; and EUR750 million 8-year green tranche at 3.119 per cent. The offering attracted participation from a wide spectrum of investors from more than 30 markets across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas, with total orders amounting to around HK$239 billion equivalent, representing a subscription ratio of around 8.6 times. In particular, the issuance size of the 30-year HKD bonds was double that of the inaugural issuance last year, and the long-dated 20-year and 30-year RMB bonds, first introduced in 2024, also continued to attract strong investor interest. The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, said, \"The issuance of infrastructure bonds by the HKSAR Government raises capital for key infrastructure projects, including the Northern Metropolis, thereby facilitating early project completion for the good of the economy and people's livelihood. Also, Government green bonds support green and low-carbon transformation projects, as well as consolidate Hong Kong's development as a green and sustainable finance hub. \"The HKSAR Government has continued to issue longer-tenor HKD and RMB bonds and expanded the scale to meet the demand for longer-tenor bonds from institutional investors, as well as to foster the development of the fixed income and currency markets. Issuance of RMB bonds will further enrich offshore RMB product offerings, improve the offshore RMB yield curve, and promote RMB internationalisation. \"The enthusiastic response from global institutional investors to the subscription reflects their confidence in the development prospects of Hong Kong.\" The Green Bonds and the Infrastructure Bonds are expected to be settled on May 14, 2026 and listed on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited and the London Stock Exchange. The Green Bonds and the Infrastructure Bonds have been assigned credit ratings of AA- by Fitch, Aa3 by Moody's, and AA+ by S&P Global Ratings. The Hong Kong Monetary Authority acted as the HKSAR Government's representative in the offering of the Green Bonds and Infrastructure Bonds. The Green Bonds and the Infrastructure Bonds are governed by the HKSAR Government's Green Bond Framework and Infrastructure Bond Framework, respectively. Proceeds raised will be credited to the Capital Works Reserve Fund to finance or refinance eligible green projects and infrastructure projects in accordance with the relevant frameworks. The HKSAR Government published its Green Bond Framework in March 2019, which sets out how green bond proceeds will be used to fund projects to improve the environment and facilitate the transition to a low carbon economy. This framework was subsequently updated in February 2022. Vigeo Eiris, which is part of Moody's ESG Solutions, has provided a Second Party Opinion for both the original and updated Green Bond Framework. The Green Bonds have also received the Green and Sustainable Finance Certificate (Pre-issuance Stage) from the Hong Kong Quality Assurance Agency. The HKSAR Government publishes the Green Bond Report annually, setting out the allocation of the proceeds raised from green bond issuances and the expected environmental benefits of the projects financed. The HKSAR Government published the Infrastructure Bond Framework in September 2024, setting out how it intends to issue infrastructure bonds under the Infrastructure Bond Programme to fund projects that are conducive to the long-term development of Hong Kong. Allocation of proceeds from infrastructure bond issuances and other relevant details are published in the HKSAR Government's annual Infrastructure Bond Report. The list of Joint Global Coordinators, Joint Bookrunners, Joint Lead Managers, Joint Green and Sustainable Bond Structuring Banks, and Joint Infrastructure Bond Structuring Banks for the offering of the Green Bonds and Infrastructure Bonds are set out at the attached Annex. Investors' Distribution by Category Category HKD Bonds RMB Bonds USD Bonds EUR Bonds Banks 27% 86% 32% 28% Central banks, sovereign wealth funds and international organisations 2% 2% 18% 22% Fund managers, private banks, insurance companies and others 71% 12% 50% 50% The HKD, RMB, and EUR Bonds were offered in Reg S format, and the USD Bonds in 144A / Reg S format (Note). DISCLAIMER: THIS ANNOUNCEMENT SHOULD NOT BE MADE AVAILABLE IN, AND IS NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION, DISTRIBUTION OR DISSEMINATION, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN WHOLE OR IN PART, IN OR INTO THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, CANADA, AUSTRALIA, JAPAN OR ANY OTHER JURISDICTION IN WHICH SUCH RELEASE, PUBLICATION, DISTRIBUTION OR DISSEMINATION WOULD BE PROHIBITED BY APPLICABLE LAW. THIS ANNOUNCEMENT IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED, AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED, AS AN OFFER OF, OR A SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO BUY, SECURITIES IN THE UNITED STATES OR ANY OTHER JURISDICTION. THE SECURITIES DESCRIBED HEREIN HAVE NOT BEEN AND WILL NOT BE REGISTERED UNDER THE UNITED STATES SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED (THE \"SECURITIES ACT\"), OR THE LAWS OF ANY STATE OF THE UNITED STATES, AND MAY NOT BE OFFERED OR SOLD WITHIN THE UNITED STATES EXCEPT PURSUANT TO AN EXEMPTION FROM, OR IN A TRANSACTION NOT SUBJECT TO, THE REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECURITIES ACT AND IN COMPLIANCE WITH ALL APPLICABLE STATE LAWS. THERE WILL BE NO PUBLIC OFFERING OF SUCH SECURITIES IN THE UNITED STATES. Note: Reg S pertains to offerings of securities made outside of the United States. Rule 144A pertains to placements of securities to qualified institutional buyers in the United States meeting the requirements of that Rule. Ends/Friday, May 8, 2026 Issued at HKT 18:58 NNNN"}, {"title": "Inter-departmental Task Force on Monitoring Fuel Supply launches measures to cope with fuel prices (29.4.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202604/29/P2026042900808.htm", "date": "29.4.2026", "description": "The Inter-departmental Task Force on Monitoring Fuel Supply (Task Force), which was set up in response to the conflict in the Middle East region, announced today (April 29) that it will roll out the HK$3 per litre Diesel Subsidy Scheme (the Subsidy Scheme) starting from tomorrow (April 30) as approved by the Chief Executive earlier on. The Subsidy Scheme aims to support public and commercial vehicles and vessels, and related industries that use diesel as fuel, with its estimated expenditure at around HK$1.8 billion as approved by the Finance Committee of the Legislative Council earlier. Furthermore, having considered the five principles announced earlier, in particular on the extent of the impact on society, whether adequate alternatives are available to the public, and whether the support was temporary and time-limited in nature, the Task Force recommended the provision of a fuel subsidy of HK$0.5 per litre of liquified petroleum gas (LPG) for taxis, public buses and school private light buses for a period of two months by end-May 2026, with the exact commencement date to be announced separately. The Chief Executive has accepted this recommendation from the Task Force. The total amount of expenditure for this initiative is approximately HK$38.4 million. The Government will redeploy internal resources to implement this measure. The Government spokesman said that the fuel supply in Hong Kong remains stable. The Task Force will continue to conduct dynamic assessments, closely monitor the international situation and energy price movements, co-ordinate bureaux and departments to prepare contingency plans, formulate forward-looking strategies, and study different measures to alleviate the impact of rising oil prices on the society and people's livelihood. The Diesel Subsidy Scheme ------------------------------- Under the Subsidy Scheme, users who consume diesel locally can receive a subsidy of HK$3 per litre of diesel when they purchase diesel to make the selling price decrease by HK$3 per litre accordingly. The Subsidy Scheme does not apply to diesel used for non-local consumption, resale, and vehicles, vessels and installations of government departments. Diesel used by the two power companies (i.e. CLP Power Hong Kong Limited and the Hongkong Electric Company Limited) and Hong Kong and China Gas Company Limited are also not covered by the Subsidy Scheme. The Subsidy Scheme will last for two months, starting from midnight on April 30 (Thursday) to 11.59pm on June 29 (Monday). Implementation mechanism ------------------------------- In Hong Kong, diesel is generally sold through oil companies and distributors. To ensure that eligible users can benefit as soon as practicable, the subsidy will lower the selling prices of diesel through the following two means: through the sale of diesel by specified oil companies to the users at their diesel filling stations and by means of direct sales; and through the sale of diesel by specified distributors to the users. The following five specified oil companies will participate in the Subsidy Scheme (listed in no particular order): Sinopec (Hong Kong)’s affiliated companies; PetroChina International (Hong Kong) Corporation Limited; Chevron Hong Kong Limited; ExxonMobil Hong Kong Limited; and Shell Hong Kong Limited. Under the Subsidy Scheme, eligible users receive a HK$3 per litre price subsidy by either purchasing diesel from diesel filling stations operated by specified oil companies or specified distributors, or purchasing diesel from specified oil companies or specified distributors delivered for local consumption. The specified oil companies and specified distributors must clearly indicate the subsidy arrangement and the subsidy amount of HK$3 per litre on invoices and bills issued to eligible users for their information. Information and contact details of each specified oil companies and registered specified distributors are at the Annex. As there may be other distributors applying to become a specified distributor, the Environment and Ecology Bureau (EEB) will update the list of specified distributors at its dedicated webpage ( www.eeb.gov.hk/en/energy/Diesel_Subsidy_Scheme.html ) from time to time for public information. Auditing arrangements ------------------------- In order to ensure the proper use of public funds and protect the interests of eligible users, the Government has signed agreements with each specified oil companies and specified distributors, under which responsibilities and terms have been set out on the arrangements of implementing the Subsidy Scheme. These arrangements include the Government's payment of the price difference to the specified oil companies and specified distributors; the requirement for these oil companies and distributors to maintain complete and accurate books and records; the requirement to submit reports to the Government every week, as well as the auditing arrangements upon the completion of the Subsidy Scheme. These measures are to ensure that the subsidy could lower the actual selling prices accordingly. If it is found that there is a breach to the agreement, that there are anomalies in diesel transactions, or that the subsidy may be abused, the Government has the right to refuse or withhold payment of the subsidy amount to the concerned oil company and distributor, as well as to hold them liable. Moreover, the specified oil companies and specified distributors are required to submit to the Government an Assurance Report and an Audit Report prepared by an independent auditor within three months after the end of the subsidy period. Distributor registration arrangement ---------------------------------------- There are some distributors in the market who purchase diesel from the specified oil companies and then sell it to the users. The Government has established a distributor registration arrangement under the Subsidy Scheme to allow eligible users to receive the HK$3 per litre price subsidy from the specified distributors. Under this registration arrangement, distributors are required to provide the Government with their business registration details, confirm that they procure fuel directly from specified oil companies, and comply with the above auditing arrangements, to ensure that the subsidised diesel they supply to users is of known origin and traceable. The specified distributors listed in the dedicated webpage of the Subsidy Scheme have provided information and been registered with the EEB, as well as entered into an agreement with the Government. For distributors who intend to sell subsidised diesel but have not yet been registered, please contact the EEB at diesel@eeb.gov.hk , or call the hotline at 3509 7600 to obtain a registration form, and submit the required information as soon as possible. Upon registration and verification, information of the distributors will be uploaded onto the registry of specified distributors on the Subsidy Scheme's dedicated webpage. The Subsidy Scheme will end after 11.59pm on June 29 (Monday). All diesel sold by the specified oil companies and specified distributors participating in the Subsidy Scheme thereafter will not receive subsidies under the Subsidy Scheme. Supply of LPG --------------- Currently, the LPG supply and stock levels remain generally normal. However, as affected by the situation in the Middle East, the international LPG prices surged in April 2026. The adjusted auto-LPG ceiling prices for Hong Kong's 12 dedicated LPG filling stations will be adjusted upward effective May 1, with an increase of approximately HK$1.06 to HK$1.08 per litre. The adjusted auto-LPG ceiling prices for all dedicated LPG filling stations would range from HK$4.49 to HK$5.43 per litre. Details of the LPG international price and the auto-LPG ceiling price for each dedicated LPG filling station has been uploaded onto the website of the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department ( www.emsd.gov.hk ) and posted at dedicated LPG filling stations to enable the trades to monitor the price adjustment. Provision of LPG fuel subsidy -------------------------------- To alleviate the operating costs of local passenger transport commercial vehicles which primarily use LPG as fuel (namely taxis, public light buses and school private light buses (commonly known as nanny vans)), and reduce the pressure for fare increases, the Government will provide a fuel subsidy of HK$0.5 per litre of LPG for taxis, public light buses and school private light buses for a period of two months. The Government expects that about 16 900 LPG (including LPG-hybrid) taxis, about 3 440 LPG public light buses (including green minibuses and red minibuses), and about 170 LPG school private light buses would benefit from the fuel subsidy. The total amount of expenditure involved is approximately HK$38.4 million. The Government will redeploy internal resources to implement this initiative. To provide the LPG subsidy in a simple and direct manner, the oil companies will provide a discount of HK$0.5 per litre of LPG directly at LPG filling stations for all LPG (including hybrid) taxis, public light buses and school private light buses. No registration or application is required. The Government will reimburse oil companies for the actual amount of LPG subsidies provided under this initiative. The fuel subsidy is expected to be launched within May, with the exact commencement date to be announced separately. The oil companies will make appropriate arrangements and display posters at filling stations to inform taxi, public light bus and school private light bus drivers of the relevant arrangements. The Transport Department will also promote the arrangements to frontline drivers through various channels (including trade circulars). Ends/Wednesday, April 29, 2026 Issued at HKT 19:23 NNNN"}, {"title": "Remarks by SEE and STL at media session after third reading debate on Appropriation Bill 2026 (29.4.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202604/29/P2026042900648.htm", "date": "29.4.2026", "description": "The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan; the Deputy Financial Secretary Secretary, Mr Michael Wong; the Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Mr Tse Chin-wan, and the Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Ms Mable Chan, met the media after the third reading debate on the Appropriation Bill 2026 by the Legislative Council today (April 29). Following are the remarks by Mr Tse and Ms Chan: Reporter: Could you briefly talk more about the considerations for introducing the subsidy for minibuses, school buses and taxis using petroleum gas? How would the Government ensure that oil companies and distributors would not mark up their prices under the diesel subsidy arrangement offered by the Government? Secretary for Environment and Ecology: Our subsidy scheme includes an agreement with the oil companies or the distributors. Under the agreement, they are obliged to submit reports to the Government on a weekly basis about the sources of the oil, the sales volume, the prices, etc, as well as after the scheme, they have to conduct an independent audit to verify all that information. Because the Government knows the price of the oil they buy from the external sources, therefore we can monitor all the changes in oil prices and we know what the changes are. Therefore, with the reporting and auditing system, we are very confident that the oil companies will not be able to rip off the subsidy. Secretary for Transport and Logistics: Public minibuses and taxis are two important components of our public transport system. On the other hand, we have also minibuses providing student service. In order to ensure that they will continue to maintain a stable and steady service for the general members of the public, we will redeploy internal resources within the Government to provide the $0.5 subsidy per litre for the petroleum supplier companies' usage. We will discuss amongst ourselves and identify suitable resources, so as to ensure the measure can be rolled out as soon as possible. (Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the remarks.) Ends/Wednesday, April 29, 2026 Issued at HKT 17:12 NNNN"}, {"title": "Remarks by DFS at media session on follow-up arrangements for Wang Chi House at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po (28.4.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202604/28/P2026042800703.htm", "date": "28.4.2026", "description": "The Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Cheuk Wing-hing; and the Deputy Financial Secretary, Mr Michael Wong, together with the Secretary for Housing, Ms Winnie Ho; and Deputy Secretary for Housing Ms Estrella Cheung, met the media today (April 28) regarding the follow-up arrangements for Wang Chi House at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po. Following are Mr Wong's remarks at the media session: Reporter: What difficulties Wang Chi House residents should expect to face if they want to move back to their homes? Is the Government recommending these residents to join the rehousing offer that you have proposed to the other seven blocks of Wang Fuk Court? Deputy Financial Secretary: Thank you for your two questions. Firstly, we do think the proposal is a good one for them, so that's our basic position. But it doesn't mean that we'd like to force them to accept the proposal. At the end of the day, it is their decision, having regard to their own circumstances. But we do think that what we have put on the table is very reasonable and should actually be quite attractive. Your first question. In terms of actual difficulties, there are actually a lot. In terms of maintenance issues, they will have to put up quite a bit of money in order to carry out all the maintenance works necessary. And there are also, fundamental problems relating to the underlying lease, relating to the underlying deed of mutual covenant which, if they want to modify, under the current law, you require the agreement of each and every one of the 1 984 households, which is really, really, very difficult to reach. And I think Secretary Mak (Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Miss Alice Mak) has explained all these difficulties quite clearly in many different situations. (Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the remarks.) Ends/Tuesday, April 28, 2026 Issued at HKT 21:15 NNNN"}]}