SUCCESS
E-newsletter
16 April 2025
|
The Support and Consultation Centre for SMEs (SUCCESS) run by the Trade and Industry Department (TID) of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (the HKSARG) provides small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with free business information and consultation services.
Our website: https://www.success.tid.gov.hk/en_landing.html
Our email: success@tid.gov.hk
Our customer hotline:（852）2398 5133
(Service hours of hotline and counters: Monday to Friday 8:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m. & 1:30 p.m.-5:45 p.m., other than public holidays)
 More Details
"Four-in-One" Integrated Services of SME Centres
To strengthen support for SMEs and to raise SMEs' awareness of the various funding schemes and support services, the TID consolidated the services of the existing four SME centres, namely, the "SUCCESS" under the TID, the "SME Centre" under the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the "SME One" under the Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) and the "TecONE" under the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP), in October 2019 to provide one-stop "Four-in-One" integrated services for SMEs. Enterprises can obtain business information, funding schemes information and advisory services, etc. at any of the centres. In addition, a web portal called "SME Link" is also established for SMEs to access information and support services provided by the four SME centres and government departments from a single online platform.
The Government provides over 70 funding schemes with different funding scopes, amounts and requirements to promote and support the development of enterprises and industries in Hong Kong. The "Government Funding Schemes" web page of the SME Link features information on these 70+ funding schemes, including overview and useful hyperlinks. The web page's search tool supports multiple search filters to facilitate enterprises identifying suitable funding schemes.
The "Events & Activities" of the SME Link facilitates enterprises to obtain information on activities organised by the four SME centres and various government departments, including seminars, workshops, exhibitions, conferences, training courses, etc., from a single platform, and also provides relevant links to facilitate registration.
What's New
“Four-in-One” Seminar Series
The four SME centres co-organise "Four-in-One" seminar series regularly. Themes of this seminar series in the first half of 2025 are "E-commerce", "Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG)" and "Branding". Upcoming seminars and webinars under this series are listed below. Interested persons are welcome to register at the links shown therein. Admission is Free.
I. “SME ReachOut” FUND x Go-Global Strategies Webinar Series: Eyes on the GBA with Your HK Brand
(This webinar will be live-streamed on 24 April 2025)
This webinar is held by the “SME ReachOut” of the HKPC. This webinar will share the development opportunities and the latest digital marketing solutions for Hong Kong brands in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA), as well as how to make good use of government funding schemes, with a view to assisting SMEs in building their Hong Kong brands and developing new markets. (This webinar will be conducted in Cantonese.)
More Details and Registration
II. Challenges and Opportunities for E-commerce in 2025: Application of Generative AI and Consideration on Cybersecurity (Seminar)
(This seminar will be held at Trade and Industry Tower on 28 April 2025)
This seminar is held by the “SUCCESS” of the TID. In this seminar, an e-commerce and cybersecurity expert will introduce the latest trend in e-commerce and how to utilise generative artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance personalised shopping experience in order to attract customers more effectively, as well as cybersecurity consideration in operating e-commerce businesses, with a view to assisting SMEs in expanding e-commerce markets and understanding necessary cybersecurity measures to protect themselves and their customers. (This seminar will be conducted in Cantonese.)
More Details and Registration
III. “SME LevelUp Workshop” – Embracing Innovation in e-Commerce Strategies Series
(Webinar (1) will be live-streamed on 30 April 2025)
(Webinar (2) will be live-streamed on 23 May 2025)
(Webinar (3) will be live-streamed on 27 June 2025)
This series of “SME LevelUp Workshop” held by the SME One of the HKPC will focus on Xiaohongshu, Douyin, Taobao and JD.com, and reveal the “traffic code” strategies of these e-commerce platforms, as well as share cross-border sales techniques, with a view to assisting SMEs in expanding their e-commerce sales networks, attracting customers and monetising efficiently.
(1) "Xiaohongshu Traffic Code" (webinar) will share tips on how to effectively leverage the Xiaohongshu platform, as well as introduce the creation of artificial intelligence (AI) content creation and creative strategies for boosting traffics.
(2) "Douyin Short Video Algorithm Strategy" (webinar) will analyse short video algorithm and content customisation strategies of the Douyin platform, as well as explore efficient techniques for retaining viewers during live streaming.
(3) "The Power of Cross-Border Livestreaming to New Heights of Success" (webinar) will explore marketing strategy on Taobao and JD.com e-commerce platforms and tips for cross-border live streaming, as well as explain how to collaborate with key opinion leader (KOL).
This series of webinars will be conducted in Cantonese.
More Details and Registration
IV. What SMEs Need to Know about ESG (Seminar)
(This seminar will be held at Trade and Industry Tower on 7 May 2025)
This seminar is held by the “SUCCESS” of the TID. In this seminar, an expert will introduce the concept of ESG and explain its implications for Hong Kong SMEs, as well as how SMEs, as suppliers, can help their listed company customers implement ESG and benefit from it themselves, with a view to assisting SMEs in understanding the importance of ESG in their business operations. (This seminar will be conducted in Cantonese.)
More Details and Registration
SUCCESS-supported Activity
Webinar on Competition Ordinance
(This webinar will be live-streamed on 25 April 2025)
This webinar is organised by the Competition Commission. SUCCESS is one of the supporting organisations. In this webinar, representatives from the Competition Commission will provide an overview of the Competition Ordinance, dos and don’ts under the Ordinance, red flags of anti-competitive practices and Leniency and Cooperation Policies, as well as competition law case studies. (This webinar will be conducted in English.)
More Details
Meeting the “BRANDers” – Ms Diane van Zwanenberg, Founder of Coconut Matter, a local personal care products retailer
To encourage and assist Hong Kong enterprises in developing their own brands and promoting their brands in the Mainland and overseas markets, the TID conducts interviews with representatives of local brands and experts so as to share their success stories and business strategies with the industries. The TID has earlier on interviewed Ms Diane van Zwanenberg, the founder of Coconut Matter, for sharing experience in starting up and developing business, and the key success factors for brand development.
More Details (in Chinese only)
“Young Industrialist Awards of Hong Kong” (YIAH) & “Industrialist of the Year Award” (IOY) 2025 are now open for nominations
Federation of Hong Kong Industries (FHKI) launched in 1988 the YIAH which has awarded over 260 young industrialists aged between 21 and 45 over the years. FHKI introduced the IOY in 2002 to honour an exemplary industrialist with outstanding achievements to Hong Kong’s industry and society each year.
The Awards give recognition to industrialists who have made distinguished contributions to Hong Kong’s economic and social development. The Awards also aim to enhance public recognition of industrial sector’s commitment to Hong Kong’s continuing prosperity and inspire more young people to build their career in industrial sectors so as to promote innovation and continue the sterling work of veteran industrialists.
YIAH & IOY 2025 are now open for nominations. The nomination deadline is 16 May 2025. For details of eligibility and nomination procedures, please visit the Awards website www.yiah.org/en/.
Digital Policy Office strengthens co-operation on digital economy with Shanghai Municipal Bureau of Data
The Digital Policy Office and the Shanghai Municipal Bureau of Data signed the Memorandum of Understanding between Shanghai and Hong Kong on Digital Economy Co-operation (the MoU) in Hong Kong on 13 April 2025 to jointly promote and deepen co-operation in areas such as digital economy, digital transformation and data element development between the two places.
At the Kick-off Ceremony of the Hong Kong/Shanghai Co-operation Open Data Challenge 2025 and the Signing Ceremony of the MoU held during the period of InnoEX, the Commissioner for Digital Policy, Mr Tony Wong, and the Director of the Shanghai Municipal Bureau of Data, Dr Shao Jun, signed the MoU. Both sides will strengthen collaboration on various fronts, including the promotion of the synergistic development of Hong Kong and Shanghai in digital economy, data element market collaboration and digital identity authentication; jointly taking forward the cross-boundary public services for the convenience and benefit of the public and businesses, co-operation in digital infrastructure, industrial spaces and communication platform; and deepen exchanges and talent cultivation in innovation and technology between the two places.
"The signing of the MoU will further deepen co-operation in innovation and technology between Hong Kong and Shanghai, explore more collaboration opportunities and promote joint development of the digital economy in both places, thereby opening up broader prospects for the development of innovation and technology industries between the two places," said Mr Wong.
For relevant press release, please visit https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202504/13/P2025041100681.htm.
Air Pollution Control (Amendment) Ordinance 2025 came into operation
The Air Pollution Control (Amendment) Ordinance 2025 (the Amendment Ordinance) came into operation on 11 April 2025 to update the Air Quality Objectives (AQOs) and strengthen the control of unlicensed specified process (SP) operations.
The Amendment Ordinance tightens five existing AQOs and adds three parameters newly introduced by the World Health Organization (WHO) to the WHO Global Air Quality Guidelines (see Annex). In addition, the Amendment Ordinance provides transitional arrangements for designated projects for which environmental permits (EPs) have been issued under the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (Cap. 499) before 11 April 2025. If applications for variation of EPs of these projects are submitted within 36 months from the day that the new AQOs come into operation, the Government will adopt the pre-amended AQOs as the approval criteria.
As regards the tightened control over unlicensed SP operations, after the Amendment Ordinance come into operation, the Director of Environmental Protection may issue a closure notice to the operator of a premise if he believes that a SP is being carried out on any premises without a SP licence. If the operator fails to comply with the requirements of the closure notice to stop the conduct of the concerned SP, a maximum penalty, upon conviction, is a fine of $1,000,000 and imprisonment for 12 months. The Amendment Ordinance also amends the scope of "cement works" and the definition of "premises", including regulating "cement works" carried out on ships or barges, which are subject to control of the SP licensing regime.
A spokesman for the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) said, "To enable cement operators brought under the control of the Amendment Ordinance to apply for SP licences from the EPD in a timely manner, the EPD will put in place a six-month transitional arrangement, during which the cement operations newly brought under control will not be regarded as unlicensed operations. The transitional arrangement does not apply to cement operations that are already subject to control under the original Air Pollution Control Ordinance."
For relevant press release, please visit https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202504/11/P2025041000558.htm.
Rates and Government rent due 30 April 2025
Demands for rates and/or Government rent for the quarter from April to June 2025 have been issued, and payment should be made by 30 April 2025.
The demands have reflected the rates concession for this quarter, subject to a ceiling of $500 for each rateable tenement. Any unused concession cannot be used to offset outstanding rates in other quarters. There is no concession for Government rent.
The demands show the rateable values following the 2025-26 General Revaluation. The new rateable values are also available on the Rating and Valuation Department (RVD)'s website (www.rvd.gov.hk). Members of the public wishing to object to the new rateable values must lodge a proposal by 31 May. They can lodge a proposal by submitting an electronic form (Form e-R20A) using the Electronic Submission of Forms on the RVD's website, or submitting a completed specified form (Form R20A) to the RVD in person or by post. The demands must be paid by the last day for payment shown on the demands, whether or not a proposal has been lodged.
Payment can be made:
(1) by using autopay, the Faster Payment System (FPS), PPS, Internet banking or bank automated teller machines (ATMs);
(2) by uploading an e-Cheque/e-Cashier Order via the Pay e-Cheque portal: (www.payecheque.gov.hk);
(3) by sending a crossed cheque to the Treasury, PO Box No. 28000, Sham Shui Po Post Office, Hong Kong (mail with insufficient postage will be rejected); or
(4) in person at any post office or designated convenience store in Hong Kong (i.e. 7-Eleven, Circle K, VanGo or U select). For the addresses and opening hours of post offices, please call Hongkong Post enquiry hotline on 2921 2222 or visit its website (www.hongkongpost.hk).
If payers have not received the demands, they may obtain replacement demands or enquire as to the amount payable by (i) visiting the RVD's website; (ii) calling 2152 0111; (iii) faxing 2152 0113; or (iv) visiting the RVD, 15/F, Cheung Sha Wan Government Offices, 303 Cheung Sha Wan Road, Kowloon.
Non-receipt or late receipt of demand does not alter the requirement that the total amount due must be paid by 30 April 2025. A surcharge of 5 per cent will be imposed for late payment. A further surcharge of 10 per cent will be levied on the amount (including the 5 per cent surcharge) which remains unpaid six months after the last day for payment.
For payment by autopay, the rates and/or Government rent will be debited from payers' bank accounts on 30 April 2025. Payers should ensure that there are sufficient funds in their bank accounts to meet the payments on that date until settlement.
To support environmental protection, payers are encouraged to utilise the RVD's free eRVD Bill service to receive e-bills and make payments, and to settle bills by autopay or other means of e-payment (e.g. FPS, PPS, Internet banking, ATMs or e-Cheque/e-Cashier Order) to save queuing time. Application forms for autopay can be obtained by downloading from the RVD's website, visiting the RVD, District Offices and banks or by calling 2152 0111.
For relevant press release, please visit https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202504/11/P2025041000507.htm.
Employment (Amendment) Bill 2025 gazetted
The Government published the Employment (Amendment) Bill 2025 (the Bill) in the Gazette on 11 April 2025.
The Bill seeks to revise the working hours threshold of the "continuous contract" requirement under the Employment Ordinance (Chapter 57) (EO), making it easier for employees to meet the revised "continuous contract" requirement and thus be able to enjoy comprehensive employment benefits.
A spokesman for the Labour Department said, "The weekly working hours threshold of the 'continuous contract' requirement will be lowered from 18 hours to 17 hours. Moreover, a week with less than 17 working hours will still be regarded as a period under the 'continuous contract' of employment once the sum of the working hours of that week and those of the three weeks immediately preceding it reaches 68 hours. The Labour Advisory Board has reached a consensus on the proposed amendments."
The spokesman added, "The existing eligibility criteria for employees to enjoy various statutory benefits under the EO will remain unchanged. Subject to a smooth passage of the Bill, the amendment ordinance will come into operation on the first Sunday after six months upon its gazettal. During this period, the Labour Department will widely publicise the salient features of the amendments to employers and employees through various channels, facilitating both parties in getting prepared."
The Bill will be introduced into the Legislative Council (LegCo) for first and second readings on 16 April.
For relevant press release, please visit https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202504/11/P2025041000265.htm.
Government steps up support for enterprises in coping with US tariffs
The Commerce and Economic Development Bureau (CEDB) announced on 10 April 2025 that in view of the reckless tariff imposition by the United States (US), including the further increase in the so-called reciprocal tariffs, the Hong Kong Export Credit Insurance Corporation (ECIC) will introduce a new round of enhanced measures to support the export trade in Hong Kong and help enterprises in expediting expansion into new markets.
The Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development (SCED), Mr Algernon Yau, said, "The US has been repeatedly changing its policies, increasing tariffs within days and imposing the so-called reciprocal tariffs against Hong Kong notwithstanding that we have never implemented any tariffs. It is totally illogical and ungrounded, once again showing the US's bullying act for suppressing its competitors. I call upon the business community to unite and face the challenges together with a view to jointly counteracting the unreasonable coercion of the US. Further to the Policy Address initiative on increasing the maximum indemnity percentage of the ECIC to 95 per cent, the three enhanced measures introduced by the ECIC will help accelerate Hong Kong enterprises' expansion into new and diversified markets."
To support Hong Kong enterprises (especially SMEs) in coping with the current challenges, the ECIC will, with immediate effect, introduce three enhanced measures, including (1) extend the free pre-shipment cover for holders of the Small Business Policy (SBP) which is tailor-made for the SMEs until 30 June 2026; (2) offer a 50 per cent discount on pre-shipment risks to cover premiums for non-SBP holders; and (3) reduce the premium rates for new markets to be in line with those for traditional major markets to reduce the costs and support exporters in tapping into the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) market. Please click here for more details.
Since the US's announcement of the so-called reciprocal tariffs last week, the SCED has separately met with the representatives of major local chambers of commerce, SME associations, and representatives of industries that are more affected by the tariffs (including jewellery, textiles and garment, food and aluminium industries) to listen to their views and discuss measures in response to the incident. The CEDB will continue to maintain close liaison with the business community to jointly respond to the unreasonable coercion of the US and provide support to the SMEs through various funding schemes and support measures, including the SME Financing Guarantee Scheme and the Dedicated Fund on Branding, Upgrading and Domestic Sales, etc in managing cash flow, enhancing competitiveness and expanding into more diversified markets.
For relevant press release, please visit https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202504/10/P2025041000263.htm.
HKMA and banking sector support SMEs from various industries
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA), together with the banking sector, introduced on 8 April 2025 sector-specific support measures to further assist more SMEs in obtaining bank financing and in their upgrade and transformation. The measures were introduced following meetings held by the Banking Sector SME Lending Coordination Mechanism (Mechanism) and the Taskforce on SME Lending (Taskforce) on the same date.
Since the launch of the "9+5" (Note 1) SME support measures by the HKMA and the banking sector in 2024, more than 39 000 SMEs have benefitted from these measures, involving an aggregate credit limit of over HK$95 billion. The total amount of dedicated funds for SMEs set aside by the participating banks in the Taskforce in their loan portfolio has increased from HK$370 billion in October 2024 to more than HK$390 billion at present.
With the establishment of the Taskforce in August 2024, the HKMA and the banking sector have been actively strengthening the work of supporting SMEs at both the individual case and the industry levels. Up until the end of March 2025, the Taskforce has received around 590 enquiries and cases from various industries through different channels, of which nearly 90 per cent have been handled. At the industry level, the Taskforce has held more than 160 engagement events with trade associations and representatives from different industry sectors―including the retail and wholesale, import and export and manufacturing, construction, and transport sectors ― to gain a deeper understanding of the operations of SMEs in various industries.
In the light of the current trade tension and uncertainties surrounding the external economic environment, and after taking into account and discussing the views of the commercial sectors in the Mechanism and Taskforce meetings, the banking sector reaffirmed its commitment to actively implement the "9+5" SME support measures previously launched. The banking sector will continue to be accommodative in offering credit reliefs, including flexible repayment arrangements and deferment of repayment period, referencing the principles under the Pre-approved Principal Payment Holiday Scheme, to assist corporates in coping with their liquidity needs. Furthermore, banks will introduce more targeted support for various industries under the overarching principle of prudent risk management:
-
Import and export and manufacturing sectors: The commercial sectors reflected their concerns about the current global trade frictions during the meeting. The participating banks agree to provide flexible extensions to trade facilities (e.g. 90 or 120 days), or offer alternative suitable credit arrangements (such as repaying the trade loans by instalments, providing partial principal repayment options, or even offering principal moratorium), to assist individual customers experiencing short-term cashflow pressure due to trade frictions. The Mechanism and the Taskforce will closely monitor the latest developments regarding global tariff disputes and maintain dialogue with the import and export and manufacturing sectors.
-
Construction sector: The participating banks will assist corporates facing cashflow pressure, particularly subcontractors in the construction sector that may be experiencing sudden cashflow pressure due to capital chain rupture, through a collaborative mechanism. The banks will collaboratively offer flexible financial arrangements as far as practicable to alleviate customers' cashflow pressure.
-
Transport sector: The participating banks will actively consider introducing financing products that are better suited to the transport sector, with a view to supporting the Government's implementation of measures to enhance taxi services. The banks will offer more flexible repayment arrangements to assist customers in coping with operational challenges, taking into account individual circumstances. The banks will also consider correspondingly extending the loan tenor to support the development of the sector (Note 2).
Furthermore, the HKMA and the banking sector will support the economic development of Hong Kong in other areas, including:
-
Lease extension: The banking sector will strengthen the promotion of the Extension of Government Leases Ordinance (the Ordinance) (Note 3). Banks will ensure that frontline staff are familiar with land lease extension matters under the Ordinance, so that they can properly address customers' mortgage enquiries related to land leases and offer suitable services to them.
-
Northern Metropolis development: With the HKMA's facilitation, the Hong Kong Association of Banks and the Chinese Banking Association of Hong Kong have recently engaged with the Development Bureau to gain an understanding of the latest development of the Northern Metropolis. The banking sector will explore ways to provide suitable financing support to tie in with the Government's implementation of large-scale land disposal and other developments.
The HKMA and the banking sector will maintain close communication with the commercial sectors through the Mechanism and the Taskforce and work in concert to support the business development and transformation of SMEs.
Background
--------------
The Banking Sector SME Lending Coordination Mechanism
The Banking Sector SME Lending Coordination Mechanism was established by the HKMA in October 2019. Participants include 11 banks (Note 4) that are most active in SME lending, the Hong Kong Association of Banks (HKAB) and the HKMC Insurance Limited. Since its establishment, the HKMA and the Mechanism have rolled out several rounds of relief measures for corporates, including the Pre-approved Principal Payment Holiday Scheme and the nine SME support measures launched in March 2024.
The Taskforce on SME Lending
The Taskforce on SME Lending was jointly established by the HKMA and HKAB in August 2024. Participants include representatives of the HKMA, HKAB and 18 banks (Note 5) that are active in SME lending. The Taskforce aims to further strengthen the related work for supporting SMEs at both the individual case and the industry levels. These include setting up a mechanism to handle individual cases of SMEs encountering difficulties when obtaining bank financing, working out appropriate solutions across banks and enhancing communication among the HKMA, the banking industry and the commercial sector so as to understand the financing needs of SMEs in a more timely manner.
Note 1: The HKMA and the banking sector introduced nine measures to support SMEs' access to financing and continuous development in March 2024, and another five measures to support SMEs' upgrade and transformation in October 2024.
Note 2: The above-mentioned arrangements are also applicable to taxi loans, public light bus loans and commercial vehicle loans taken out by personal customers.
Note 3: Under the Ordinance, which came into effect on 5 July 2024, general purpose leases (i.e. general residential, commercial, industrial leases) will be extended upon expiry for a term of 50 years without payment of any additional premium, but subject to an annual payment of Government rent at 3 per cent of rateable value. The encumbrances, interests and rights under the original lease (such as mortgages) will be carried forward to the extended lease term without being affected, and owners are no longer required to execute lease extension documents with the Government or re-arrange mortgages. The Ordinance is not applicable to special purpose leases (SPL) (including purposes such as petrol filling station, education, recreation, public utility, welfare and special industries). The Lands Department has made an "SPL identification note" in the Land Registry register for SPLs for identification.
Note 4: Bank of China (Hong Kong), Bank of East Asia, China Construction Bank (Asia), Citibank, Dah Sing Bank, DBS Bank (Hong Kong), Hang Seng Bank, The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation, Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (Asia), OCBC Bank (Hong Kong), and Standard Chartered Bank (Hong Kong).
Note 5: Including the 11 banks participating in the Mechanism, and Bank of Communications (Hong Kong), China CITIC International, Fubon Bank (Hong Kong), Fusion Bank, Nanyang Commercial Bank, PAO Bank and Shanghai Commercial Bank.
For relevant press release, please visit https://www.hkma.gov.hk/eng/news-and-media/press-releases/2025/04/20250408-8/.
Business of Innovation and Technology Week in April to showcase Hong Kong's innovation and technology strengths
The Business of Innovation and Technology Week (BIT Week), organised by the Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau (ITIB), will make a grand return in April 2025. A series of mega innovation and technology (I&T) events will be organised, including the government-funded flagship event, InnoEX, as well as the highly anticipated second edition of the Hong Kong World Youth Science Conference. The World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit will also take place concurrently.
The third InnoEX, co-organised by the ITIB and the HKTDC, will occur from 13 to 16 April at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). This annual event brings together I&T elites, enterprises and buyers from the Mainland and overseas to jointly promote I&T advancements and applications and explore global collaboration opportunities. Themed "Innovation • Automate • Elevate", this year's InnoEX will showcase cutting-edge technology solutions across five key areas: low-altitude economy, AI, robotics, cybersecurity and smart mobility. A highlight of the event is the Smart Hong Kong Pavilion set up by the Digital Policy Office, which will showcase over 100 I&T solutions, including those developed by different government departments in relation to citizens' daily lives, as well as award-winning I&T projects by local innovators and students, demonstrating Hong Kong's achievements in I&T and smart city development.
The second Hong Kong World Youth Science Conference and the Xiangjiang Nobel Forum 2025 will also take place from 13 to 16 April at the HKCEC. Organised by the Hong Kong Alumni Association of Beijing Universities with the full support of the ITIB, the event will gather top-notch I&T talent and renowned scientists, including laureates of the Nobel Prize and Turing Award, in Hong Kong. Through keynote speeches, roundtable forums and other formats, participants will tap into global wisdom on cutting-edge topics in the areas of big data, AI, biotechnology, new materials and large models, thereby enhancing Hong Kong's status in the international scientific arena.
Meanwhile, another major I&T highlight this April - the World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit - a high-level global Internet conference, will take place on 14 and 15 April at the HKCEC. Under the theme "Integration of AI and Digital Technologies Shaping the Future - Jointly Building a Community with a Shared Future in Cyberspace", the Summit will focus on forward-looking discussions in large AI models, digital finance, and digital government and smart life, attracting around 1 000 participants from the Mainland and overseas, including representatives from governments and enterprises, international organisations, internet giants, experts and scholars to attend in person.
The Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, said, "This April, Hong Kong's BIT Week will bring together I&T elites from 29 countries and regions and over 2 800 exhibitors. Through a series of exhibitions, forums, seminars, business networking, talent matching and industry events, we will showcase Hong Kong's I&T strengths and unique edge to the world. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government is particularly delighted to co-organise the Asia-Pacific Summit with the World Internet Conference for the first time in Hong Kong, creating a top-notch platform for exchanges, dialogue and co-operation in I&T, and further strengthening Hong Kong's position as an international I&T centre."
Other major industry events during the BIT Week include the HKTDC's Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Spring Edition) and Smart Lighting Expo, as well as the Hong Kong Web3 Festival cohosted by Wanxiang Blockchain Labs and HashKey Group and organised by W3ME, all contributing to the prosperous development of Hong Kong's I&T ecosystem and greater synergies.
Details of the BIT Week events can be found at bitweek.hktdc.com/en.
For relevant press release, please visit https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202504/08/P2025040800441.htm.
Gas Safety (Amendment) Bill 2025 gazetted
The Government gazetted on 3 April 2025 the Gas Safety (Amendment) Bill 2025 to regulate the safe use of hydrogen used or intended to be used as fuel.
The Bill aims to amend the Gas Safety Ordinance (Cap. 51) to establish a regulatory framework governing the importation, manufacture, storage, transport, supply and use of hydrogen that is used or intended to be used as fuel.
A Government spokesperson said, "The Government has been actively promoting the development of hydrogen energy in Hong Kong. Establishing a comprehensive and holistic regulatory framework to regulate the use of hydrogen as fuel can enhance public confidence in hydrogen safety and create an environment conducive to the local development of hydrogen energy in Hong Kong. The framework covers a range of safety aspects, including gas quality, safety of installations and facilities, personnel and emergency handling, etc.
"The Government promulgated the Strategy of Hydrogen Development in Hong Kong in June 2024, setting out the four major strategies of improving legislation, establishing standards, aligning with the market, and advancing with prudence to create an environment conducive to the development of hydrogen energy in Hong Kong, so that Hong Kong would be able to capitalise on the environmental and economic opportunities brought about by the recent development of hydrogen energy in different parts of the world, and in our country in particular. The Bill will provide a clear legal framework and stable regulatory environment for the local hydrogen energy industry, enabling both local and international investors to develop hydrogen-related businesses in Hong Kong with greater confidence," the spokesperson supplemented.
The Bill will be introduced into the LegCo for the First Reading and the Second Reading on 16 April.
For relevant press release, please visit https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202504/03/P2025040300579.htm.
Extended Designated Application Period for Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles announced
The Transport Department announced on 3 April 2025 that, starting from 14 April, the arrangements for balloted new and renewal applicants for the Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles (the Scheme) will be further enhanced. The current designated application periods of three and six calendar days respectively for new and renewal applicants will be both extended to 13 calendar days to allow sufficient time for applicants to prepare the necessary application documents.
The eligibility, procedures and balloting of applications of the Scheme will remain unchanged. Applicants may refer to the Scheme's website (www.hzmbqfs.gov.hk/en/) for details. The governments of Guangdong and Hong Kong will continue to monitor the operation of the Scheme and maintain close liaison to review and enhance the arrangements of the Scheme in a timely manner.
For relevant press release, please visit https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202504/03/P2025040300275.htm.
Privacy Commissioner’s Office publishes Checklist on Guidelines for the Use of Generative AI by Employees
The Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data (PCPD) published the Checklist on Guidelines for the Use of Generative AI by Employees (Guidelines) on 31 March 2025 to assist organisations in developing internal policies or guidelines on the use of Gen AI by employees at work while complying with the requirements of the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance.
Apart from publishing the Guidelines, the PCPD launched the “AI Security Hotline” (2110 1155) on 31 March for organisations to make enquiries and to assist organisations in adopting AI while safeguarding the personal data privacy of individuals.
For relevant press release, please visit https://www.pcpd.org.hk/english/news_events/media_statements/press_20250331.html.
EPD launches Packaging Reduction Charter with over 100 businesses pledging to reduce packaging
The EPD has officially launched the Packaging Reduction Charter to encourage businesses to reassess and reduce their packaging usage, foster a waste reduction culture in commercial activities, and support Hong Kong's long-term goals of "zero landfill" and carbon neutrality. So far, 102 local and multinational companies have already undertaken the initiative.
The Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Mr Tse Chin-wan, officiated at the launching ceremony on 31 March 2025. In his speech, he highlighted that while packaging plays a crucial role in protecting products during transportation, most packaging materials are discarded after a single or limited use, placing a significant burden on the environment.
He stated, "The launch of the Packaging Reduction Charter aims to encourage businesses to adopt sustainable packaging reduction practices, including reviewing their packaging designs to minimise unnecessary material usage, enhancing the recyclability and reusability of their packaging, as well as exploring innovative solutions. These efforts not only alleviate the pressure on landfills, but also help businesses fulfil their social responsibilities, contributing to Hong Kong's long-term goals of 'zero landfill' and carbon neutrality."
Signatory companies to the Charter undertake to submit to the EPD their annual total packaging material usage, implement measures to reduce packaging or adopt sustainable packaging solutions, as well as encourage their upstream and downstream suppliers, business partners and customers to reduce packaging materials and enhance packaging management.
To assist businesses in packaging reduction and management, the EPD has published the Practical Guides on Packaging Reduction and Management (Practical Guides) for eight specific sectors (Note) on its website. The EPD has also conducted briefing sessions for relevant trades and will closely monitor their progress in packaging reduction.
The Packaging Reduction Charter also serves as a platform for knowledge exchanges and collaboration, enabling businesses to connect and share experiences through various activities, promote industry partnerships, and drive innovation in developing efficient and eco-friendly packaging solutions. Furthermore, the initiative will assist local businesses in preparing relevant data to meet ESG reporting requirements on product packaging.
Details of the Packaging Reduction Charter and the Practical Guides are available on the Hong Kong Waste Reduction website: www.wastereduction.gov.hk/en-hk. For enquiries, please contact the Charter's Secretariat at 5279 1936 or by email to lesspackagingcharter@bec.org.hk.
Note: The eight specific sectors covered by the Practical Guides are supermarkets and grocery stores, logistics, e-commerce, hotel and hospitality, electronics and electrical appliances, beverage manufacturing, food manufacturing, and importers.
For relevant press release, please visit https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202503/31/P2025032800341.htm.
For more recent news, please visit the "What's New" web page of the SUCCESS Website or the "News" web page of the SME Link.
Topical Issues
Support Measures relating to Liquidity
In view of the cash-flow pressure of SMEs, SUCCESS has compiled a summary of support measures relating to liquidity.
More Details
SME ReachOut
“SME ReachOut”, a dedicated service team operated by HKPC, has commenced operation since 1 January 2020 to enhance SMEs’ understanding of the Government’s funding schemes, with a view to encouraging better utilisation of the support provided by the Government. The team would help SMEs identify funding schemes that suit their needs, and answer questions relating to applications.
The Government has allocated $100 million to HKPC to gradually enhance the services of “SME ReachOut” in the ensuing five years starting from 2023. HKPC has enhanced the services of “SME ReachOut” in October 2023, including arranging visits to more chambers of commerce, commercial and industrial buildings and co-working spaces, and increasing the publicity in social media so as to step up the promotion of government funding schemes. At the same time, more one-on-one consultation sessions will be provided to assist SMEs in applying for government funding and building their capacities, focusing on areas such as ESG, technology transformation, digitalisation and cyber security, with a view to enhancing their competitiveness through leveraging new technologies.
For further information or enquiries on “SME ReachOut”, please contact “SME ReachOut” Hotline / WhatsApp (Text Message Only) at 2788 6868 or email by sme_reachout@hkpc.org or visit https://smereachout.hkpc.org/en.
Dedicated Fund on Branding, Upgrading and Domestic Sales (BUD Fund)
To support enterprises to develop the markets of Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) through electronic commerce (e-commerce) business, the geographical coverage of “E-commerce Easy” was expanded to the 10 ASEAN countries on 14 March 2025.
The HKPC as the BUD Fund implementation partner regularly organises seminars/webinars in order to enhance enterprises’ understanding of the BUD Fund, including “Easy BUD” and “E-commerce Easy”. For more details of the BUD Fund, please visit its website (www.bud.hkpc.org/en) or contact the HKPC at 2788 6088.
Business News
GDETO Newsletter
The latest issue of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Guangdong (GDETO) Newsletter has been published.
More Details (in Chinese only)
Commercial Information Circulars (CICs) of the Mainland
The TID issued a number of Commercial Information Circulars (CICs) on the Mainland's trade and economic rules and regulations. The latest CICs have been published.
More Details
|
