SUCCESS-supported Activities

I. The New Era of Human-AI Collaboration: New Opportunities to Multiply Productivity with AI (Online Course)

(This course will be live-streamed on 10 June 2026)

This course is offered by the HKPC. SUCCESS is one of the supporting organisations. This online course will explore the opportunities and risks associated with AI productivity, helping employees leverage AI to build their strengths and enhance their competitiveness. The course will also share the strategic role of HR in coordinating within an enterprise and leveraging AI to help employees build a lasting advantage. (This course will be conducted in Cantonese.)

More Details and Registration (in Chinese only)

II. Rapidly Create AI Tools for Your Enterprise, Without Coding (Online Course)

(This course will be live-streamed on 17 June 2026)

This course is offered by the HKPC. SUCCESS is one of the supporting organisations. Designed for participants without relevant technical backgrounds, this online course will explain the trend of vibe coding and demonstrate how to use Google AI Studio to quickly build small tools suitable for SMEs, enabling enterprises to automate daily tasks and improve efficiency. (This course will be conducted in Cantonese.)

More Details and Registration (in Chinese only)

Traffic and public transport arrangements upon commissioning of Hong Kong International Airport Terminal 2

The Transport Department (TD) said on 25 May 2026 that upon the commissioning of the new departure facilities at Terminal 2 (T2) of Hong Kong International Airport, respective traffic and public transport arrangements will be implemented to provide convenience for the public and travellers.

Traffic arrangements

Sky Plaza Road, which connects the drop-off area of T2, has been opened from 0.00am on 27 May 2026 (Wednesday). Appropriate traffic signs and road markings have been put in place to guide motorists.

Public transport arrangements

(1) Railway: Platform 3 (AsiaWorld-Expo Station bound) and Platform 4 (Hong Kong Station bound) at Airport Station of the MTR Airport Express, which connect to T2, have commenced service;

(2) Franchised buses: Starting from their first departures on 27 May 2026, the airport-bound services of 29 airport bus A routes and 17 overnight airport bus NA routes operated by Citybus and Long Win Bus (see details at Annex) will serve the T2 drop-off area after stopping at T1. Services towards urban areas and the New Territories will remain unchanged and passengers may continue to board at the Airport (Ground Transportation Centre). The TD has steered operators to closely monitor passenger demand and strengthen services when necessary.

The TD reminded passengers to refer to notices, websites or mobile apps of the MTR Corporation Limited and bus operators, scan the QR codes on board, or heed the announcement system to take note of the terminal of their airlines and bus stop locations in advance;

(3) Non-franchised buses: The indoor Coach Waiting Hall at T2 has come into operation. Passengers should refer to the ticketing arrangements of respective operators; and

(4) Taxis: The location of the taxi stand outside the Arrivals Hall of T1, and the Prebooked Taxi Pick-up Zone adjacent to Car Park 1 remain unchanged.

A spokesman for the TD said, "In the initial period upon the commissioning of T2, traffic in the vicinity may be busier during certain periods. The Emergency Transport Co-ordination Centre will closely monitor traffic and public transport conditions in the airport area. Members of the public and travellers should plan their journeys ahead and reserve time to adapt to the new arrangements."

The public and travellers may refer to the latest traffic news through radio and TV broadcasts, the TD's website (www.td.gov.hk) and the HKeMobility mobile app.

For relevant press release, please visit https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202605/25/P2026052200278.htm.

FEHD releases Guidelines on Good Practices and Behaviour for allowing dogs to enter permitted food premises

For allowing dogs to enter permitted food premises, the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) released on 22 May 2026 the Guidelines on Good Practices and Behaviour, which have been uploaded to the FEHD's dedicated webpage (www.fehd.gov.hk/english/licensing/dog_restaurants/guidelines.html) to facilitate restaurant operators in making preparations and for public reference.

The spokesman of the FEHD said, "The regulatory framework for allowing dogs to enter food premises comprises legislation, licensing conditions and the Guidelines. The legislative amendments have already been completed, and the relevant licensing conditions have also been announced. The Guidelines released today (22 May 2026) consist of three parts: Part One provides reference for restaurant operators when formulating operational arrangements and house rules; Part Two sets out good practices for customers bringing dogs to manage them properly at permitted food premises; and Part Three offers advice on interactions between other diners and dogs. Through the Guidelines, the department hopes to foster mutual respect and understanding among all parties.

"The Guidelines list out matters that restaurants intending to allow dogs to enter should pay attention to and consider, enabling operators to prepare according to their circumstances. Examples include the number of dogs each adult customer may bring, whether dogs are allowed to be placed on customer seats, and whether dog-friendly zones or sessions will be designated. Operators are also reminded to adopt measures to safeguard food safety and environmental hygiene, and to provide staff training.

"Apart from restaurants making adequate preparations, public co-operation is equally important. The Guidelines therefore also cover points to note for both customers bringing dogs and those without dogs. For instance, customers bringing dogs are reminded to properly control their dogs and co-operate with the restaurant arrangements, while customers without dogs should pay attention to signage displayed at permitted restaurants and the points to note when interacting with dogs. The Guidelines aim to help all parties fulfil their responsibilities, respect one another, and promote pet inclusivity."

In addition to the Guidelines released on 22 May 2026, the FEHD held three briefing sessions for the trade from 11 to 13 May 2026, and will hold the fourth session on 28 May 2026 to set out relevant application procedures, eligibility criteria, licensing conditions and matters that require restaurant operators' attention, as well as to answer questions from attendees. A total of 368 persons have attended the briefing sessions in person, while more than 17 000 viewers watched the live broadcast or replay online. The department has taken into account the views and concerns raised by the trade in preparing the Guidelines, and will review and update the content from time to time in light of the operational circumstances of the restaurants.

The FEHD is accepting applications from restaurants for allowing dogs to enter their premises. As of noon of 22 May 2026, the department has received over 1 400 applications. The application period will end on 8 June 2026. Interested restaurants may submit their applications electronically through the FEHD's dedicated webpage. The first batch of permission is expected to be granted in mid-June 2026, with dogs allowed to enter permitted food premises starting from a specified date in July 2026. The exact date will be announced in due course. Information has been uploaded to the FEHD's dedicated webpage for public browsing. Enquiries about the applications can be made from 9am to 5pm from Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) through the dedicated hotlines (2867 5912 and 2867 2836).

For relevant press release, please visit https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202605/22/P2026052200722.htm.

Ensuring proper implementation of diesel subsidy through "pay later" arrangement

The spokesperson for the Environment and Ecology Bureau said on 22 May 2026 that to ensure the proper implementation of the diesel subsidy, the Government has been enforcing the "pay later" arrangement for reimbursing the price difference to oil companies in order to ensure the proper use of public funds.

The Government has, since 30 April 2026, been implementing the Diesel Subsidy Scheme, which runs for a period of two months, with a view to supporting public and commercial vehicles and vessels and related industries that use diesel as fuel. Under the Subsidy Scheme, users who consume diesel locally may receive a subsidy of HK$3 per litre of diesel when they purchase diesel to reduce the selling price by HK$3 per litre accordingly.

Recently, there have been views suggesting that the increase in diesel prices is due to oil companies and distributors profiteering from the subsidy scheme by increasing prices in advance since the announcement of the Subsidy Scheme on 10 April 2026. There are also claims that the pump price of diesel had already increased by almost HK$3 per litre within the intervening 20 days. The spokesperson emphasised that these claims do not correspond with the facts, and it is necessary for the Government to make clarifications to set the record straight.

Firstly, the prices of fossil fuels have been rising around the world, as affected by the situation in the Middle East, and the price rises are by no means unique to Hong Kong. It is necessary to consider the broader picture and the situation in other regions instead of inferring that oil companies might increase their prices in advance to profiteer merely based on the fact that fuel prices are on the rise. If compared with the position before the conflict in the Middle East, the international refined oil product price (including Means of Platts Singapore) for diesel had increased by around HK$10 per litre at most, whilst the maximum increase of the local diesel pump price was HK$7.5. From mid-April 2026 to now, the international refined oil product price has increased by around HK$0.5 (+6.67%). Over the same period, the maximum retail price of diesel in the Chinese Mainland had increased twice by a total of around HK$0.4 (+4.0%), while the local diesel pump prices had increased by HK$0.6 (+1.66%). Furthermore, some oil companies have reduced their diesel retail pump prices as of 22 May 2026, but it is expected that the diesel price may fluctuate as affected by the conflict in the Middle East.

Secondly, it is the Government’s responsibility to ensure the proper use of public funds. In designing the Subsidy Scheme, the Government has introduced multiple layers of safeguards to ensure that users will benefit from the subsidy. Among the safeguards, the Subsidy Scheme has introduced a “pay later” arrangement, where oil companies and distributors must first sell subsidised diesel to consumers at a price reduced by HK$3 per litre, and specify the subsidy amount and the selling price on the receipts issued to their customers. Oil companies and distributors must then submit a report to the Government one week later to apply for reimbursement of the amounts they have advanced. The Government will then verify the reports, sales records and invoices submitted by the oil companies and distributors, and will only reimburse the price difference if the information provided is confirmed to be accurate. Should there be issues arising, the Government reserves the right to refuse to reimburse the price difference, and to refer the case to law enforcement agencies for follow-up. Therefore, should oil companies attempt to profiteer, they will not be reimbursed the price difference they have advanced. The operation of the Subsidy Scheme has been largely normal and smooth since its implementation. The Government is receiving weekly reports from the oil companies and distributors, and is conducting the necessary checks.

Thirdly, upon the completion of the Subsidy Scheme, oil companies and distributors will need to submit to the Government an audited audit report, which will require them to state the comparison of the change in the average retail price after deducting all discounts (excluding the HK$3 per litre subsidy) with the corresponding import prices before and during the subsidy period. Should there be changes in this ratio, these may suggest profiteering which can be easily detected by auditors. The Government may then use the audit report to take the necessary follow-up action with the oil companies and distributors.

The Government will spare no effort to implement the above arrangements by gatekeeping to ensure that the Subsidy Scheme will benefit users who are affected by surging diesel prices.  

For relevant press release, please visit https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202605/22/P2026052200723.htm.

IMF commends Hong Kong's resilient economic growth and financial system

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) Staff Mission published on 15 May 2026 the Concluding Statement on the 2026 Article IV Consultation with the HKSAR. Following the IMF Executive Board's conclusion of its discussion, the IMF will publish a Staff Report shortly to elaborate on its assessment, commending Hong Kong's resilient economic growth and financial system, and reaffirming the city's position as an international financial centre with advanced digital finance initiatives to position the financial sector at the forefront of regulated innovation in Asia.

The IMF notes that Hong Kong's economy has continued to recover, with growth in 2025 stronger than expected. Reaffirming Hong Kong's position as an international financial centre, the IMF underscores its "super connector" role as a key advantage, while recognising that Hong Kong has advanced digital finance initiatives to position its financial sector at the forefront of regulated innovation in Asia, and has strengthened its role as a regional sustainable finance hub. The IMF acknowledges that policy initiatives, including the development of the Northern Metropolis, can further strengthen cross-boundary integration, support innovation and promote high value-added services. 

The IMF recognises that Hong Kong's financial system,  supported by strong buffers and robust regulatory oversight, remains resilient, and the risks are manageable. The Linked Exchange Rate System (LERS) remains appropriate and continues to serve as a credible anchor for economic and financial stability. The IMF also commends the efforts in strengthening the monitoring framework for the non-bank financial institution sector, as well as enhancing systemic risk assessments and market-wide monitoring of higher-risk activities.

The IMF considers the fiscal stance in 2026 as appropriate, and highlights that Hong Kong's strong macroeconomic policy framework, anchored by the credibility of the LERS, a record of prudent fiscal management, robust financial regulation and flexible markets, provides a solid foundation for rebuilding fiscal buffers in the medium term.

The IMF Staff Mission visited Hong Kong from 16 to 27 March 2026. Discussions were held with HKSARG officials, financial regulators and private sector representatives. The Concluding Statement of the Mission's assessment was published on 15 May 2026. The Staff Report was endorsed by the IMF Executive Board on 18 May 2026.

The IMF's press release on the Staff Report is available at the following link. The Staff Report can be accessed from the websites of the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau (www.fstb.gov.hk) and the IMF (www.imf.org) after its publication.

For relevant press release, please visit https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202605/22/P2026052200570.htm.

Gazettal of subsidiary legislation under risk-based capital regime for insurance industry

The Government published in the Gazette on 22 May 2026 the following pieces of subsidiary legislation made by the Insurance Authority (IA) under the Insurance Ordinance (Cap. 41) to implement public disclosure requirements under Pillar 3 of the risk-based capital (RBC) regime and to introduce enhancements following the IA's review of the regime:

(i) Insurance (Public Disclosure) Rules; 

(ii) Insurance (Valuation and Capital) (Amendment) Rules 2026; and

(iii) Insurance (Maintenance of Assets in Hong Kong) (Amendment) Rules 2026.

The Insurance (Public Disclosure) Rules prescribe detailed requirements for insurers (except those under transitional arrangements, marine insurers, captive insurers and special purpose insurers) to disclose to the public their audited financial statements and a disclosure statement covering key information such as corporate governance, financial position, investments, insurance liabilities, financial performance, pricing adequacy for general business (if applicable), capital adequacy level and risk management. The disclosure requirements will apply to financial years commencing on or after 1 January 2025, with disclosures to be made on the insurer's or its group company's website and archived for public inspection.

The Insurance (Valuation and Capital) (Amendment) Rules 2026 make amendments to Insurance (Valuation and Capital) Rules (Cap. 41R) arising from the IA's review of the RBC regime. These include offering preferential capital treatment for eligible infrastructure investments located on the Chinese Mainland or in Hong Kong (HK) (or issued/listed in Hong Kong), with additional incentives for Hong Kong dollar infrastructure bonds issued by the Government. The amendments also include making technical refinements to reduce risk capital amounts for natural catastrophe, man-made non-systemic catastrophe risks and reserve risk; providing relief to offshore reinsurance business for HK insurer or designated insurer being a member of a non-HK insurance group; allowing a matching adjustment to be applied for indexed universal life business; updating the capital treatment for crypto assets and specified stablecoins; introducing refinements to the countercyclical adjustment; and making miscellaneous amendments.

The Insurance (Maintenance of Assets in Hong Kong) (Amendment) Rules 2026 will make consequential amendments to the Insurance (Maintenance of Assets in Hong Kong) Rules (Cap. 41T).

A spokesman for the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau said, "Transparency and market discipline will be further strengthened through the implementation of Pillar 3 public disclosure requirements. At the same time, enhancements to the RBC regime will better support insurers' long-term capital deployment, particularly in infrastructure projects that align with Hong Kong's economic development needs. These measures will improve insurers' capital efficiency, suitably reduce their compliance burdens, and further consolidate Hong Kong's position as an international risk management centre, while maintaining robust prudential safeguards for policyholders."

The rules relating to the disclosure of information to the public will commence upon publication in the Gazette, while the amendments relating to the review of the RBC regime will commence on 31 December 2026.

The three pieces of subsidiary legislation will be tabled at the Legislative Council (LegCo) for negative vetting on 27 May 2026.

For relevant press release, please visit https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202605/22/P2026052200317.htm

Demand notes for government rent issued

The Lands Department announced on 22 May 2026 that demand notes for government rent in excess of $100 per annum for the half year ending 24 June 2026 in respect of properties subject to the Government Leases Ordinance (Cap. 40) and certain other properties have been issued.

Payers can settle government rent through various electronic means, including autopay, bank automated teller machines, e-cheque/e-cashier's order, the Faster Payment System, payment by phone service (PPS), and bill payment services provided by banks and PPS on the Internet. Payment may also be made in person and in cash or through the Easy Pay System at designated convenience stores. For details, please visit the Treasury's website at www.try.gov.hk.

Payment may be made by sending a crossed cheque to PO Box No. 28000, Sham Shui Po Post Office, Hong Kong, or in person to any post office. Please ensure sufficient mailing time and postage to make the delivery in order. Underpaid mail will be rejected. For locations of post offices and their opening hours, please call Hongkong Post's enquiry hotline at 2921 2222 or visit its website at www.hongkongpost.hk.

Government rent payers who have not received their demand notes should enquire at the Government Rent and Premium Unit of the Lands Department at 1/F, North Point Government Offices, 333 Java Road, North Point, Hong Kong, or call 2231 3033.

Purchasers of properties are strongly advised to instruct their solicitors to ensure that government rent has been paid to date at the time of purchase. Enquiries on outstanding accounts can be made at 2231 3033 or by email to landsd@landsd.gov.hk. An enquiry fee is payable for each property if a written confirmation of accounts position is needed.

For relevant press release, please visit https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202605/22/P2026052100676.htm

Inland Revenue (Amendment) (Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework and Amended Common Reporting Standard) Bill 2026 gazetted

The Inland Revenue (Amendment) (Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework and Amended Common Reporting Standard) Bill 2026, which aims to implement the Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework (CARF) and the latest amendments to the Common Reporting Standard (CRS) developed by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) in Hong Kong, was gazetted on 22 May 2026 and will be introduced into the LegCo for first reading on 3 June 2026.

In light of the rapid development of digital asset markets in recent years, the OECD published CARF in 2023 to provide for the automatic exchange of tax information on crypto-asset transactions with relevant jurisdictions on an annual basis, and incorporated into the CRS new digital financial products and enhanced requirements regarding reporting and due diligence.

The Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, said, "Hong Kong has been supporting international efforts in enhancing tax transparency and combating cross-border tax evasion. To fulfil our international obligations and support international efforts in combating cross-border tax evasion, we propose amending the Inland Revenue Ordinance (Cap. 112) for implementing CARF and the amended CRS. This is of paramount importance in maintaining Hong Kong's reputation as an international financial and commercial centre.

"CARF will be implemented next year (2027). Crypto-asset service providers with reporting nexus with Hong Kong will be required to register with the Inland Revenue Department (IRD), and fulfil requirements including due diligence, return filing and record keeping. Subject to the implementation progress of the relevant jurisdictions, we plan to commence the automatic exchange of tax information on crypto-asset transactions with them starting from 2028, and implement the amended CRS in the same year. Hong Kong will implement the automatic exchange of tax information with suitable partners on the premise of data confidentiality and security and on a reciprocal basis."

The Government conducted a public consultation between December 2025 and February 2026. Stakeholders, including professional bodies and the financial and crypto-asset sectors, generally support the above legislative proposals. The Government has duly taken into account their views on the implementation details when drafting the Bill.

To assist the industry in adapting to the new requirements, the IRD will issue relevant guidance in due course and provide technical support to the industry and address their enquiries.

Since 2018, Hong Kong has been conducting automatic exchange of financial account information with partner jurisdictions on an annual basis, in accordance with the CRS developed by the OECD. This enables the relevant tax authorities to conduct assessment on their tax residents, in order to detect and combat tax evasion.

For relevant press release, please visit https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202605/20/P2026052000240.htm.

Government welcomes passage of Stamp Duty (Amendment) Bill 2026

The Government welcomed the passage of the Stamp Duty (Amendment) Bill 2026 by the LegCo on 20 May 2026 to increase the stamp duty rate for residential property transactions with an amount or value of consideration (whichever is higher) above $100 million from 4.25 per cent to 6.5 per cent with effect from 26 February 2026, as proposed in the 2026-27 Budget.
      
A Government spokesperson said, "The measure upholds the principle of 'affordable users pay', and is expected to increase government revenue by about $1 billion per year. Only about 0.3 per cent of the highest-priced residential property transactions will be affected."
      
The above legislation as passed will be gazetted on 29 May 2026. In respect of the applicable transactions with instruments executed between 26 February and 28 May 2026, the IRD will issue letters to the relevant solicitors, requesting the buyers or sellers of those transactions to pay the difference between the old and new stamp duty by 29 June 2026. If the difference is not paid within the time limit, the IRD will impose a late stamping penalty of up to 10 times the difference, and may recover the outstanding stamp duty through civil proceedings.

For relevant press release, please visit https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202605/20/P2026052000329.htm.

Registration system for dental care professionals (dental hygienists) under Dentists Registration Ordinance to take effect from 24 August 2026

The Government announced on 20 May 2026 that the provisions on dental care professionals (DenCPs) in the Dentists Registration Ordinance (Cap. 156) (DRO) will come into effect on 24 August 2026, with a view to implementing a statutory registration system for DenCPs in the class of dental hygienist. The commencement notice was gazetted on 22 May 2026 and will be tabled at the LegCo for negative vetting on 27 May 2026.  

This initiative follows the phased implementation of the Dentists Registration (Amendment) Ordinance 2024, which was passed by the LegCo in July 2024. The new registration system marks a significant step in recognising the professional status of DenCPs (now comprised of dental hygienists and dental therapists) and ensures that their service quality is maintained through a formalised regulatory framework.

Under the new statutory system, dental hygienists and dental therapists will be retitled as DenCPs and they will be required to register afresh, with practising certificates to be renewed annually thereafter. The Dental Council of Hong Kong (DCHK) has been empowered to accredit their training programmes, benchmark the qualifications for the purpose of registration and take disciplinary actions where circumstances warrant. 

With the relevant provisions of the DRO coming into effect on 24 August 2026, sufficient time will be allowed for the DCHK to complete the necessary administrative and preparatory work, including drawing up detailed registration procedures, conducting accreditation for relevant local dental hygiene programmes, developing and promulgating professional codes and guidelines for DenCPs, and facilitating the early processing of applications for registration from dental hygienists already on the roll, thereby providing sufficient time for graduates of the local dental hygiene programmes recognised by the DCHK to apply for registration upon graduation.

Relevant provisions on DenCPs in the class of dental therapist (who are currently allowed to work only in the Department of Health) will commence at a later stage, following the enhancement of their training and professional development pathways. By then, dental therapists will be able to work in the public or private sector to tie in with their enhanced roles in providing dental care services.

For relevant press release, please visit https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202605/20/P2026052000368.htm.

Government introduces proposed legislative amendments into LegCo to implement smoking ban in all construction sites

The Government introduced three legislative amendments into the LegCo on 19 May 2026, including the Smoking (Public Health) Ordinance (Amendment of Schedule 2) Order 2026 (Amendment Order), the Fixed Penalty (Smoking Offences) (Specification of Authorities and Public Officers) (Amendment) Notice 2026 (Amendment Notice), and the Construction Sites (Safety) (Amendment) Regulation 2026 (Amendment Regulation). The above legislative amendments would impose clear legal obligations on principal contractors of construction works, subcontractors and any persons to strictly prohibit smoking in all construction sites, with a view to reducing fire risks and safeguarding the safety of workers and the public.
      
The Government published the Amendment Order and the Amendment Notice in the Gazette on 22 May 2026. The Amendment Order designates construction sites as no smoking areas and the Amendment Notice specifies Occupational Safety Officers (OSOs) of the Labour Department to carry out enforcement work related to all smoking offences in construction sites under the Fixed Penalty (Smoking Offences) Ordinance (Cap. 600). Any person smoking in a construction site commits an offence. OSOs can issue a fixed penalty notice under Cap. 600 to offenders with a fixed fine of $3,000. The Amendment Order is applicable to all types of construction sites, including building maintenance sites, except domestic premises and private quarters that are being occupied by their residents for residential purposes.
      
Meanwhile, the Amendment Regulation requires that contractors and subcontractors must take all reasonable steps to ensure that no person smokes or carries a lighted specified smoking product; or uses a naked light for lighting a specified smoking product in a construction site. Otherwise, those violating the Amendment Regulation are liable on conviction to a maximum fine of $400,000.
      
The Amendment Order and the Amendment Notice will be subject to the negative vetting procedure, while the Amendment Regulation will be subject to the positive vetting procedure.
      
The Government will strive to facilitate the scrutiny work of the LegCo and looks forward to the LegCo's support for early passage of the three legislative amendments, enabling the Government to implement the smoking ban in all construction sites as soon as possible.

For relevant press release, please visit https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202605/19/P2026051900283.htm.

Practice Note on use of integrated Court Case Management System for case commencement in High Court

The Judiciary issued a Practice Note on 18 May 2026 setting out a new requirement on use of the integrated Court Case Management System (iCMS) for case commencement in the High Court for all legal representatives, in preparation for the mandatory use of iCMS in the last quarter of 2026.

To encourage the migration towards using iCMS as the primary litigation platform, the Judiciary has continually been taking various promotion and facilitation measures. They include maintaining a dedicated information webpage (www.judiciary.hk/en/e_courts/index.html), operating the iCMS Help Centre and enquiry/technical hotlines, organising pilot runs and series of training and demonstration sessions, as well as reaching out to law firms to offer on-site technical support on case commencement via iCMS and immediate account registration assistance.

To further facilitate the mandatory use of iCMS by legal representatives later in 2026, the Judiciary will introduce a new requirement for all law firms to register under iCMS and familiarise themselves with the system, especially in commencing new cases.

Starting from 1 June 2026, unless prior permission has been granted by the Court, a law firm that has not previously commenced a case using the iCMS will be required to do so when it next commences a new case in any iCMS-enabled case type in the High Court. Once a firm has commenced a case using the iCMS, this requirement will no longer apply; however, firms are strongly encouraged to continue using the iCMS during the lead-in to its mandatory implementation later in 2026.

Specifically, the requirement applies to the commencement of new cases in the following types of proceedings in the High Court (Specified Proceedings):

1. civil appeal cases in the Court of Appeal;

2. commercial cases, construction and arbitration cases, intellectual property cases, personal injuries cases, and civil action cases in the Court of First Instance; and

3. a proceeding to which the Rules of the High Court (Cap. 4A) apply and for which the use of electronic technology has been implemented under a notice published under section 32(2) of the Court Proceedings (Electronic Technology) Ordinance (Cap. 638).

For information on the application for permission to commence a new case in the Specified Proceedings by conventional mode and other details, please refer to the Practice Note, which is available on the Judiciary's website at www.judiciary.hk/doc/en/e_courts/uoicms_lrl_e.pdf.

The Practice Note will take effect on 1 June 2026.

As part of the Judiciary's ongoing efforts to facilitate court users in handling court businesses electronically, the Judiciary will continue to provide support to law firms in using the iCMS. In addition to the prevailing technical/enquiry hotlines and regular briefing-cum-demonstration sessions, on-site guidance will be available at the High Court Building's Training Centre (Room LG101) during office hours starting from June 2026. Law firms may also schedule appointments with the Judiciary's outreach teams for support at their own offices. For law firms that have not yet registered for iCMS accounts, the outreach teams will process their registration on the spot, enabling them to proceed with the electronic case commencement without delay.

For enquiries, please call 2867 2251 or email to enquiry@judiciary.hk.

For relevant press release, please visit https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202605/18/P2026051800282.htm.

IMF commends Hong Kong's resilient economic growth

 

Following the completion of the 2026 Article IV Consultation with the HKSAR, the IMF Staff Mission published the Concluding Statement on 15 May 2026, 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 16 to 27 March 2026, with discussions held with HKSARG 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 in May 2026.

For relevant press release, please visit https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202605/15/P2026051500609.htm.

Cross-Agency Steering Group welcomes first sector-based operational guide on transition finance

The Hong Kong Green and Sustainable Finance Cross-Agency Steering Group (Steering Group) welcomed on 15 May 2026 the release of Transition Finance Operational Reference Guide - Phase 1 Report: Mobilising Finance for the Transition of the Technology Sector (the Report). The Report was developed by an industry working group under the Steering Group's transition finance workstream to drive the development of transition finance in Hong Kong.
      
Building on the Steering Group's strategic priorities for 2026 to 2028 to scale up transition finance with practical guidance, the Report provides a useful toolkit for financial institutions and corporates to operationalise global frameworks and principles in this respect, and promotes good practices through a sector-based approach. 
      
The working group has selected information and communications technology (ICT) as a pilot sector to develop the operational guidance. The first-phase Report focuses on entity-level financing and investment, exploring how financial institutions can support a company's overall climate transition strategy through general corporate-purpose financing.

For relevant press release, please visit https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202605/15/P2026051500271.htm.

Government welcomes passage of Inland Revenue (Amendment) (Tax Concessions, Concessionary Deductions and Allowances) Bill 2026

The Government welcomed the passage of the Inland Revenue (Amendment) (Tax Concessions, Concessionary Deductions and Allowances) Bill 2026 by the LegCo on 13 May 2026 to implement the concessionary tax measures proposed in the 2025 Policy Address and the 2026-27 Budget.
      
A Government spokesperson said, "The measures include increasing the basic allowance, married person's allowance, single parent allowance, basic and additional child allowance, basic and additional allowance for dependent parent/grandparent and the deduction ceiling for elderly residential care expenses, as well as extending the claim period for additional child allowance for newborns starting from the year of assessment 2026/27. About 2.09 million taxpayers will benefit, reducing tax revenue by about $5.51 billion per year.
      
"The measures also include a one-off 100 per cent reduction of salaries tax, tax under personal assessment and profits tax for the year of assessment 2025/26, subject to a ceiling of $3,000 per case. It is expected to benefit about 2.12 million taxpayers and 170 000 businesses, with about 24 per cent of the taxpayers and 18 per cent of the businesses not needing to pay tax for the year of assessment 2025/26. The government revenue will be reduced by about $5.78 billion."
      
The above legislation as passed was gazetted on 22 May 2026. The one-off tax concessions, increased allowances and deduction ceilings will be reflected in taxpayers' final tax payable for the year of assessment 2025/26 and the tax payable for the year of assessment 2026/27 respectively.

For relevant press release, please visit https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202605/13/P2026051300280.htm.
 

Toll waiver for commercial vehicles from 17 May 2026 for two months

The Inter-departmental Task Force on Monitoring Fuel Supply announced on 13 May 2026 temporary toll waiver for commercial vehicles. The Government published relevant notices in the Gazette on 15 May 2026. The Government has waived 50 per cent of the toll for all commercial vehicles (including buses, goods vehicles, light buses and taxis as registered under records of the TD) using all government tolled tunnels and the Tsing Sha Control Area from 0.00am on 17 May 2026 (Sunday), excluding private cars and motor cycles/motor tricycles. The temporary measure will last for two months until 11.59pm on 16 July 2026 (Thursday).

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.

For relevant press release, please visit https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202605/13/P2026051200579.htm.
 

 

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