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Category: Asia

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ4: Use of mechanised and automated cleaning technologies

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Andrew Lam and a reply by the Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Mr Tse Chin-wan, in the Legislative Council today (May 7):
     
    Question:
     
         The 2017 Policy Address proposed to explore the introduction of automated cleaning machines or technology for trial use at suitable venues or after large scale events. According to the Government’s paper submitted to the Subcommittee on Issues Relating to the Improvement of Environmental Hygiene and Cityscape of this Council in 2021, the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) has in recent years fully deployed technologies for mechanisation and automation of cleaning operations. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of the items of cleaning machinery or technology deployed by the FEHD in various districts of Hong Kong, and the average annual utilisation rates of such items, with breakdowns by each of the 18 districts across the territory; and
     
    (2) whether the Government has regularly promoted and monitored the deployment of mechanised and automated technologies in cleaning operations by outsourced service contractors; if so, of the details; if not, how the Government will step up monitoring efforts?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         In recent years, the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) has been actively introducing new technologies to improve the quality and efficiency of street cleansing and refuse collection services, enhance the occupational safety of frontline staff and strengthen enforcement effectiveness.
     
         My reply to the question raised by the Hon Andrew Lam is as follows:
     
    (1) The FEHD has widely adopted the following technologies and equipment in public cleansing services, including:
     
    (i) Mini street washing vehicles equipped with high pressure hot water cleaners and pressure washer surface cleaners have been introduced in various districts, which can quickly remove dirt from pavements and come with the advantages of saving time and energy, being flexible, reducing disturbances to pedestrians, etc. Since early this year, 67 teams have been using mini street washing vehicles with pressure washer surface cleaners for street washing across the territory, and the locations covered by these vehicles have increased to about 3 600, including those with stubborn dirt or moss, with a view to bringing substantial enhancement to the cleanliness of such locations;
     
    (ii) Litter sweeping plays an important role in street cleansing. The FEHD has widely deployed 11 teams of new mechanical street sweepers in various districts to sweep roads, footbridges and central dividers. It has also provided 118 low-entry driver cab type refuse collection vehicles to enable drivers and cleaning workers in collecting and transporting refuse;
     
    (iii) To improve the refuse collection facilities in rural or remote sites and for better environmental hygiene, the FEHD is implementing a scheme to improve waste collection facilities, under which 287 solar-powered aluminium refuse collection points as well as 51 solar-powered compacting refuse bins and solar-powered refuse compactors have been set up in rural sites. These facilities feature a solar sensor or a foot pedal for touchless control of the inlet openings, and are more convenient and hygienic to use. Their enclosed design can also reduce odour emission and prevent pest infestation. Some of these collection facilities are equipped with a compacting function which will compact refuse to increase storage capacity when the refuse yield reaches a certain level, thereby reducing the need for provision of more refuse containers or more frequent refuse collection; and
     
    (iv) The FEHD also utilises technologies to monitor the cleanliness condition in order to step up the combat against illegal deposit of refuse. Currently, Internet Protocol (IP) cameras have been installed at over 500 illegal refuse deposit blackspots in various districts. The footage captured will be analysed by artificial intelligence to identify the acts of illegal deposit of refuse so that the Department can plan more effective enforcement actions, and institute prosecutions directly. Recently, IP cameras have been installed on traffic roads at over 30 suitable locations in various districts to combat littering from vehicles by irresponsible drivers or passengers. The footage captured will be used for prosecution. In 17 remote coastal sites, 360-degree cameras are used to remotely monitor their cleanliness for timely removal of refuse.
     
         Given the extensive use of the above technologies and equipment in the discharge of regular duties, the FEHD does not keep any specific statistics on their utilisation rates. The summary of the utilisation of the equipment is set out in Annex.
     
         The FEHD has made continuous effort in examining and testing out new technologies not only for greater work efficiency, but also for enhanced protection of the safety of frontline staff, who will have a reduced chance of sustaining work-related strains and injuries. For example:
     
    (i) The FEHD is working with the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) on the application of automated sweeping robots, which will be used for street cleansing so as to reduce the physical exertion of cleansing staff. The robots have been tested in the Hong Kong Science Park, and will undergo the second phase of testing on suitable pavements in due course;
     
    (ii) Electrically assisted trolleys are introduced to ease the physical burden on frontline street cleansing staff. These trolleys, apart from being electrically assisted, are equipped with indicator lights, buffers, reflective stickers, etc, which help enhance safety and work efficiency; and

    (iii) The FEHD is also bringing in the most advanced industrial grade robot dogs from the Mainland with a view to enhancing the efficiency in transportation of refuse and reducing the risk of injuries of cleansing workers caused by handling heavy objects. The Department will conduct tests on the refuse handling capacity of the robot dogs at specific locations, such as slopes, stairs and rugged areas. It will also explore ways to upgrade the ancillary facilities.
     
         In addition, the FEHD plans to, in collaboration with the EMSD, commence a trial on hydrogen fuel cell street washing vehicles in Yuen Long District and North District in mid-May this year to promote the use of cleaner hydrogen energy, which will contribute to achieving the carbon neutrality target of Hong Kong.

         After the trial use of new technologies, the FEHD will review their effectiveness and solicit views from different stakeholders for consideration of whether and how they should be put into wider use. It will also continue to identify technologies and equipment for improving street cleansing service and refuse collection work through various channels, such as drawing on the local, Mainland and overseas experiences.
     
    (2) The FEHD encourages the contractors bidding for service contracts to put forward suggestions on innovative applied technologies. If any suggestion(s) is/are rated as effective and practical, extra scores will be given to the tender. If the contractor is awarded the contract, such suggestion(s) will become the contract terms that shall be implemented. Innovative applied technologies proposed by contractors in recent years include the use of on-board refuse bin cleaners, which can help reduce the need for manual washing and enhance efficiency. The FEHD will progressively extend their scope of application in view of the satisfactory results.
     
         On the monitoring of contractors, the FEHD’s public cleansing service contracts will clearly set out the mechanical and automated cleaning equipment that shall be provided by contractors. The FEHD will monitor contractors’ performance (including whether applied technologies and equipment are provided as required in the contracts) through site inspections, surprise checks and examination of job records. In the event of any non-compliance with the contract requirements, the Department will take follow-up actions, which include the issue of warnings, default notices as well as deduction of monthly service charges. Contractors’ service performance records will also have a bearing on their eligibility or rating in future bidding for the FEHD’s outsourced service contracts.
     
         Thank you, President.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Tender of 2-year RMB HKSAR Institutional Government Bonds to be held on May 13

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Tender of 2-year RMB HKSAR Institutional Government Bonds to be held on May 13 
    A total of RMB1.5 billion 2-year RMB Bonds will be tendered. The Bonds will mature on May 17, 2027 and will carry interest at the rate of 1.71 per cent per annum payable semi-annually in arrear.
     
    Tender is open only to Primary Dealers appointed under the Infrastructure Bond Programme. Anyone wishing to apply for the Bonds on offer can do so through any of the Primary Dealers on the latest published list, which can be obtained from the Hong Kong Government Bonds website at www.hkgb.gov.hk 
    Tender results will be published on the HKMA’s website, the Hong Kong Government Bonds website, Bloomberg (GBHK ) and Refinitiv (IBPGSBPINDEX). The publication time is expected to be no later than 3pm on the tender day. 

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ22: Aviation safety

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Following is a question by Professor the Hon Chow Man-kong and a written reply by the Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Ms Mable Chan, in the Legislative Council today (May 7):

    Question:

    ​It has been reported that a major air disaster occurred in South Korea in December last year, killing 179 passengers and crew members on board an aircraft, raising global concern about aviation safety. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

    (1) as it has been reported that Boeing 737-800, the model of the aircraft involved in the aforesaid air disaster, accounts for approximately 15 per cent of the world’s passenger aircraft in service, whether the authorities have compiled statistics on the respective numbers of passenger aircraft of this model owned by the various airlines currently using Hong Kong as an operating base, and the specific information thereof (including the years of service of each aircraft, whether there have been any incidents on flights in the past, and whether safety inspections have been stepped up recently);

    (2) whether it has compiled statistics on the number of bird strike warnings issued by the air traffic control towers of the Civil Aviation Department (CAD) in each of the past three years, as well as the number of reports received from flight crews regarding bird strike encounters or potential bird strike encounters; if so, of the details of each bird strike warning or report;

    (3) as it is learnt that the aforesaid air disaster has aroused grave public concern about the impact of birds on the landing and take-off of passenger aircraft, what measures are currently being taken by the Airport Authority Hong Kong and the CAD to reduce the impact of birds on the aviation safety in Hong Kong’s airspace; whether the authorities and relevant departments will strengthen the existing preventive measures against bird strikes on aircraft, so as to further reduce the risk of bird strikes; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;

    (4) as it has been reported that a concrete wall located about 250 metres from the end of the runway at the airport concerned might have been one of the causes contributing to the eventual crash of the aircraft in the aforesaid air disaster, whether the authorities will consider conducting a comprehensive inspection of the runways at Hong Kong International Airport for the existence of similar potential safety hazards; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and

    (5) as it has been reported that the aircraft involved in the air disaster had operated 13 flights in 48 hours prior to the incident, arousing public concern about whether airlines have sufficient time to conduct routine inspections and maintenance on their aircraft, whether the authorities will formulate measures to step up the monitoring of flight safety for flights to and from Hong Kong, and to ensure that the necessary safety inspections are properly conducted before each flight operation, so as to minimise navigational risks and allay passengers’ concerns about aviation safety; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?

    Reply:

    President,

    As the regulatory body of civil aviation affairs, the Civil Aviation Department (CAD) has been strictly regulating the operational safety and airworthiness of all aircraft registered in Hong Kong in accordance with the Air Navigation (Hong Kong) Order 1995 (Cap. 448C) and the requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

    In consultation with the CAD and the Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK), the reply to Professor the Hon Chow is as follows:

    (1) and (5) Every aircraft registered in Hong Kong is required to comply with the safety and design standards of the ICAO and the civil aviation authority of the State of Design, and must also comply with Hong Kong’s airworthiness standards in accordance with Cap. 448C and those issued by the CAD. These include relevant maintenance and operational records. 

    Currently, there are eight Boeing 737-800 aircraft registered in Hong Kong. To ensure the safe operation of all aircraft registered in Hong Kong, including the Boeing 737-800 aircraft, the CAD will continue to monitor incidents involving various aircraft models, assess the latest developments, and take appropriate follow-up measures in a timely manner.

    In addition, in order to strengthen the safety oversight of foreign-registered aircraft, the CAD will continue to conduct safety assessment inspections on foreign-registered aircraft under a risk-based principle to ensure that aircraft operating at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) comply with international safety standards.

    (2) and (3) The AAHK and CAD have been closely monitoring bird strike reports and trends at HKIA. According to the Aerodrome Licensing Requirements Document, the AAHK is required to formulate procedures for bird strike hazard assessment at HKIA and implement corresponding control measures. The major bird control measures implemented by the AAHK include:
     

    • a Wildlife Hazard Management Plan has been developed specifically for HKIA based on the ICAO guidelines to control safety risks posed by wildlife (including birds) at the airport. The AAHK also hires bird experts to regularly observe bird activities within the airport and nearby areas, collect and analyse relevant data, and assist in formulating bird control measures to reduce the risk of bird strikes;
    • the Bird Control Unit has been established to implement bird control measures, including patrolling the runways and apron every day to ensure that there are no bird activities on the runways and apron and there are no creatures or objects that may attract birds. If Bird Control Unit officers find any bird near the runways or taxiways, they will drive away the birds by means of using horn, emitting strong light, firing crackers, etc. The Bird Control Unit also extends patrol hours during bird migration seasons to strengthen bird control;
    • with regard to plantation species and plant maintenance, the AAHK will only grow plant species that are less attractive to birds in the airport area, and will limit the grass height within the airfield area to between 100 millimetres and 200mm to avoid attracting birds;
    • contractors have been hired to clean up the garbage in the airfield area from time to time and conduct pest control regularly to avoid attracting birds to enter the airport area;
    • bird scaring and deterrent devices have been installed on all runways at HKIA; and
    • procedures have been established such that when air traffic controllers or airport staff receive bird strike reports, they will immediately notify relevant parties and personnel.

    According to the record in the past three years (i.e. from 2022 to 2024), there was an average of only approximately one bird strike report for every 10 000 aircraft movements each year at HKIA, and none of these reported events had caused serious damage to aircraft. It demonstrated that the above measures are effective in mitigating safety risks. The CAD will continue to review the AAHK’s bird control measures to ensure their effectiveness. 

    (4) The design of HKIA and its operations comply fully with ICAO runway design standards, including equipping each end of the runways with a runway end safety area, and there are no physical barriers near the runways. The AAHK has reviewed the equipment and installations at the runway end safety area and its extended area of HKIA, and confirmed that there are no concrete barriers in place. As for the navigation equipment and essential installations (such as meteorological instruments) that must be installed on the runways and in adjacent areas, they were designed and installed in accordance with the relevant guidance of the ICAO. The structure meets the frangibility requirement to reduce flight safety risks. The AAHK will continue to closely monitor the runways and their surrounding areas, as well as carry out maintenance works as necessary, to ensure that the pavement and surface remain smooth.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences revives two rare Ayurvedic manuscripts: Dravyaratnākara Nighaṇṭu and Dravyanamākara Nighaṇṭu

    Source: Government of India

    Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences revives two rare Ayurvedic manuscripts: Dravyaratnākara Nighaṇṭu and Dravyanamākara Nighaṇṭu

    Manuscripts will inspire scholarly exploration and deeper engagement with India’s classical medical literature

    Posted On: 07 MAY 2025 2:44PM by PIB Delhi

    In a significant stride toward preserving India’s rich legacy in traditional medicine, the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), under the Ministry of Ayush, has revived two rare and significant Ayurvedic manuscripts—Dravyaratnākara Nighaṇṭu and Dravyanamākara Nighaṇṭu.

    The publications are unveiled during an event organised by the RRAP Central Ayurveda Research Institute in Mumbai. The event was graced by Prof. Vd. Rabinarayan Acharya, Director General, CCRAS, New Delhi, who also delivered the keynote address highlighting the ‘Activities of CCRAS, Ministry of Ayush’, in research, digitisation, and revival of traditional Ayurvedic literature.

    The manuscripts were critically edited and translated by renowned manuscriptologist and veteran Ayurveda expert, Dr. Sadanand D. Kamat of Mumbai. The release ceremony saw the presence of dignitaries, including Shri Ranjit Puranik, President, Ayurvidya Prasarak Mandal and Managing Director, Shri Dhootapeshwar Limited; Dr. Ravi More, Principal, Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, Sion; Dr. Shyam Nabar and Dr. Ashanand Sawant from Ayurvidya Prasarak Mandal; and Dr. R. Govind Reddy, Assistant Director (Ayu), CARI, Mumbai.

    Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Vd. Rabinarayan Acharya emphasised the importance of such revivals in bridging India’s ancient wisdom with contemporary research frameworks. He said that “These texts are not just historical artefacts—they are living knowledge systems that can transform contemporary healthcare approaches when studied and applied thoughtfully”.

    These critical editions are expected to serve as invaluable resources for students, researchers, academicians, and Ayurveda practitioners, further inspiring scholarly exploration and deeper engagement with India’s classical medical literature.

    About the Manuscripts

    Dravyaratnākara Nighaṇṭu:

    Authored by Mudgala Paṇḍita in 1480 AD, this previously unpublished lexicon consists of eighteen chapters offering in-depth knowledge on drug synonyms, therapeutic actions, and medicinal properties. A widely referenced text in Maharashtra until the 19th century, it draws from classical Nighaṇṭus like Dhanvantari and Raja Nighaṇṭu while documenting numerous novel medicinal substances from plant, mineral, and animal origins. This critical edition, revived by Dr. S. D. Kamat, is a monumental contribution to Dravyaguna and allied Ayurvedic disciplines.

    Dravyaratnākara Nighaṇṭu—a revived 15th-century Ayurvedic lexicon

    Dravyanamākara Nighaṇṭu:

    Attributed to Bhisma Vaidya, this unique work serves as a standalone appendix to the Dhanvantari Nighaṇṭu, focusing exclusively on homonyms of drug and plant names—a complex area of study vital to Ayurveda. Encompassing 182 verses and two colophon verses, the text has been meticulously edited and commented upon by Dr. Kamat, enhancing its utility for scholars of Rasashastra, Bhaishajya Kalpana, and classical Ayurvedic pharmacology.

    Dr. Kamat, known for his authoritative work on Saraswati Nighaṇṭu, Bhāvaprakāsha Nighaṇṭu, and Dhanvantari Nighaṇṭu, once again brings his deep scholarship and commitment to preserving India’s Ayurvedic heritage.

    Dravyanāmākara Nighaṇṭu—an erudite supplement to Dhanvantari Nighaṇṭu, exploring Ayurvedic homonyms with precision

    These critical editions are more than scholarly achievements; they are beacons for future Ayurvedic practitioners, researchers, and educators. By digitising, editing, and interpreting these works, CCRAS and its collaborators are not only safeguarding literary treasures but also enriching India’s traditional healthcare system with validated ancient insights.

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    MV/AKS

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ6: Northern Metropolis University Town

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Following is a question by the Hon Lau Kwok-fan and a reply by the Secretary for Education, Dr Choi Yuk-lin, in the Legislative Council today (May 7):

    Question:

    The Government has reserved sites in the Northern Metropolis for the development of the Northern Metropolis University Town (NMUT) and plan to publish the Northern Metropolis University Town Development Conceptual Framework in the first half of 2026. According to the current plan, NMUT will be spread over three sites, namely, about 46 hectares in Ngau Tam Mei New Development Area, about 40 hectares in New Territories North New Town and about five hectares in Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen New Development Area (HSK/HT NDA). In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

    (1) of the development timeline, infrastructure details, and estimated commencement date for the three aforesaid sites; given the positive response from local and overseas institutions towards NMUT, how will the Government expedite the development, including advancing the publication of the Northern Metropolis University Town Development Conceptual Framework within this year to meet demand;

    (2) given that there are views pointing out that the development of HSK/HT NDA is ahead of the other two sites, and that the MTR Hung Shui Kiu Station is expected to be completed in 2030, will the Government give priority to the development of the site for education purpose in that area; if so, of the specific plans; if not, the reasons for that; and
    ​
    (3) as the area of the site for education purpose in HSK/HT NDA is only five hectares, will the Government, in the light of the latest developments, dynamically plan and consolidate the site and expand it to a size comparable to the other two sites (i.e. over 40 hectares); if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?

    Reply:

    President,

    Education is the key to nurturing talent. Hong Kong’s post-secondary education is highly internationalised and diversified. As the only city with five universities in the world’s top 100, Hong Kong is an international hub for exchange and collaboration among high-calibre talent. For two consecutive years, the Chief Executive has put forward in the Policy Address the goal of developing Hong Kong into an international education hub and a cradle for future talent, and making good use of the Northern Metropolis (NM), with new land, new population, excellent connectivity, development opportunities of different industries and close connections with the Mainland, to provide space for the post-secondary education sector to develop and enhance its quality and capacity. 

    At present, the Government has reserved about 90 hectares (ha) of land in the Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen New Development Area (HSK/HT NDA), the Ngau Tam Mei New Development Area (NTM NDA) and the New Territories North New Town (NTN New Town) in the NM for developing the Northern Metropolis University Town (NMUT). The Government will encourage local post‑secondary institutions to introduce more branded programmes, research collaborations and exchange projects on a self-financing basis with renowned Mainland and overseas institutions in a flexible and innovative manner. The Government will also progressively take forward the NMUT development in accordance with four objectives and strategies, including:

    (1) industry-led; 
    (2) supporting Hong Kong’s development into an international post-secondary education hub; 
    (3) aligned with the national development strategies; and 
    (4) industry-driven, step by step.

    The Education Bureau (EDB) plans to release the NMUT Development Conceptual Framework in the first half of 2026. 

    In consultation with the Development Bureau (DEVB), our consolidated reply to the question raised by the Hon Lau Kwok-fan is as follows: 

    (1) About five ha of land within the HSK/HT NDA has been planned for the NMUT, which can be made available for the development of a new campus for self financing post-secondary institution(s), with a view to supporting the parallel development of the self-financing and publicly-funded post-secondary education sectors. The statutory town plan for the HSK/HT NDA has been formulated, and the first stage of site formation works commenced in 2020. The Stage 2 works, including those for the NMUT land, have commenced progressively from the first half of 2024. It is expected that the NMUT land will be formed within 2026 at the earliest for the construction of a campus.

    As for NTM NDA and NTN New Town, the NMUT land currently under planning is about 46 ha and 40 ha in size respectively. In end-2024, the DEVB announced the development proposals for these two NDAs. Upon completion of the statutory planning procedures, the DEVB will accord priority to the delivery of the NMUT land within these two NDAs. It is anticipated that government-led site formation works in NTM NDA can commence in 2027 at the earliest, with the first batch of land for the NMUT formed in 2029 at the earliest. The NMUT land in NTN New Town is proposed to be included in the Priority Development Area thereof, and government-led site formation works therein can commence in 2028/29 at the earliest, with the first batch of land for the NMUT formed in 2030/31 at the earliest.

    (2) and (3) Land is a valuable social resource. With respect to the overall framework and planning for the development of post-secondary education in the NM, we have made reference to the preliminary development intentions on the NMUT submitted by relevant institutions. To take forward the development in a pragmatic and steady manner, having holistically considered various factors and development priorities, the Government has increased the site area of the NMUT from about 60 ha initially to about 90 ha at present to meet the needs of the post-secondary sector. Moreover, the EDB will continue to adhere to the principle of “industry-led, step by step” and take forward the planning of the NMUT in phases in accordance with the development strategies and paces of different zones in the NM.

    As indicated in the Approved Hung Shui Kiu and Ha Tsuen Outline Zoning Plan and the NM Action Agenda, which were formulated by relevant departments after conducting extensive consultation and consolidating various policy considerations, the Government has reserved about five ha of land in the HSK/HT NDA for the development of a new self-financing post-secondary institution campus, with a view to supporting the parallel development of the self-financing and publicly-funded post-secondary education sectors. Since the relevant site formation works are expected to complete in 2026, it is anticipated that the relevant site can be ready for launch earlier than the ones in the NTM NDA and the NTN New Town. We are discussing planning matters with relevant bureaux/departments, including the specific location, area, use and density of the reserved land, and will invite eligible self-financing post-secondary institutions to submit expressions of interest for the site in due course, depending on the planning progress.

    The approved Hung Shui Kiu and Ha Tsuen Outline Zoning Plan was promulgated in October 2018, which sets out the uses, such as domestic, industrial and government/community facilities uses, and development parameters of different land parcels in the area. The DEVB will conduct a timely review of planning matters, such as land uses and development parameters, in the light of the latest social and economic developments. It will propose amendments to the plan where necessary and will take into account the views of various sectors in the process. If the development plan of an institution requires a site area of more than five ha and meets the relevant criteria for consideration, such as feasibility, cost-effectiveness and making good use of existing campus facilities and public resources, the EDB will assess with relevant bureaux/departments whether there is room for revising the land use planning for the HSK/HT NDA so as to accommodate the development plan of the institution.

    Thank you, President.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ14: Regulation on disposable plastic products

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Chan Siu-hung and a written reply by the Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Mr Tse Chin-wan, in the Legislative Council today (May 7):

    Question:
     
         The Environment and Ecology Bureau implemented the first phase regulation on disposable plastic products (the Regulation) in late April last year. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of the number of verbal warnings issued and prosecutions initiated to catering premises violating the Regulation to date;
     
    (2) given that some catering premises have reportedly purchased through online shopping platforms products claimed to be paper straws and paper tableware for use in their premises, but it is difficult to tell simply by visual inspection whether such products contain plastic components or other impurities, how the authorities ensure that the tableware used by these catering premises is in compliance with the “plastic-free” requirement of Hong Kong;
     
    (3) as there are views pointing out that replacing plastic tableware with paper tableware may result in waste diversion, and it is learnt that paper tableware can be recycled into paper hand towels after proper cleaning, whether the authorities have plans to step up efforts to promote the clean recycling of paper tableware, and provide appropriate support to reduce the cost burden on the industry; and
     
    (4) given that the Government advised in its reply to a question raised by a Member of this Council on the 16th of last month that before implementing the second phase of the Regulation, it would thoroughly consider the maturity, availability, and affordability of the non-plastic alternatives and would consider the programme of further regulation in light of the prevailing circumstances, of the current progress of the Government’s evaluation of such alternatives, and the estimated timeline for implementing the second phase of the Regulation?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         The regulation on disposable plastic products (the Regulation) commenced its first phase on April 22, 2024. It regulates the supply of disposable plastic tableware and other plastic products and encourages the public to go “plastic-and-disposable-free”. Since the implementation of the Regulation, the trades have actively complied with the Regulation by stopping the sale or provision of regulated disposable plastic products. The public’s habit of using relevant products in their daily lives has also changed, with “bring your own reusable tableware” and “plastic-free” cultures being developed gradually in the society, resulting in effective waste reduction.
     
         The reply to the question raised by the Hon Chan Siu-hung is as follows:
     
    (1) Since the implementation of the Regulation, the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) has arranged for staff to inspect about 48 000 catering premises, retail stores, hotels and guesthouses in Hong Kong. As at April 22, 2025, the EPD issued a total of 144 written warnings to cases of suspected violations, requiring the persons-in-charge to make improvements within 10 working days; otherwise, a fixed penalty notice would be issued. The EPD has followed up all the cases, of which 21 premises being persistently incompliant after receiving written warnings were issued with fixed penalty notices of $2,000 by the EPD staff. The incompliances have then been corrected.
     
    (2) According to the Regulation, should relevant disposable tableware be wholly or partly made of plastic (including plastic lining), it will be regarded as regulated disposable plastic tableware. Testing or material analysis could determine whether or not a product contains plastic content. The EPD had engaged the Hong Kong Quality Assurance Agency to establish the Green Tableware Platform (the Platform) (www.greentableware.hk) in January 2022. Currently, the Platform has enlisted more than 170 tableware suppliers and more than 2 000 non-plastic disposable tableware products for the catering trade’s reference. We encourage the catering trade to use the Platform to source non-plastic alternatives (such as paper straws and paper spoons) which meet their operational needs in terms of quality and functionality, or to contact the EPD for enquiries through the hotline at 2838 3111. 
     
         The EPD will also continue to monitor the latest development of the non-plastic alternatives market and identify alternatives which meet the needs of the trades and the public. If a paper tableware is suspected of containing plastic content during our inspections, the EPD will collect samples for testing and notify the relevant persons-in-charge of the result for switching to an alternative fulfilling the requirement of “plastic-free”.
     
    (3) As mentioned above, the primary objective of the Regulation is to reduce the use of plastic at source with a view to minimising the harm brought by waste plastics to the environment and human health. As such, we encourage the public to reduce waste at source by bringing their own reusable tableware and avoiding the use of any disposable tableware. Only if the use of disposable tableware is unavoidable should non-plastic tableware be used, rather than a mere waste diversion.
     
         Paper-based disposable tableware is one of the common types of non-plastic alternative tableware nowadays. Given that used paper-based disposable tableware is likely to have residual grease or oil and is prone to mould growth in case they are not dried after washing, it would cause potential contamination of other waste papers (such as cardboard, office paper or newspapers) during the recycling process, thus affecting the recovery process and quality. We therefore do not recommend the recycling of the relevant paper-based disposable tableware. 
     
         In fact, since the commencement of the first phase of the Regulation on disposable plastic tableware, the public has progressively switched to reusable tableware. Some businesses reported that a surging number of customers not requiring disposable cutlery when ordering takeaways, indicating that the society has begun to accept and develop the habit of using reusable tableware which is conducive to the environment in the long run. The EPD will continue to strengthen publicity and education, and encourage the members of the public to use reusable tableware.
     
    (4) Since March 2025, the EPD has been meeting with various catering trade associations to gather their views and concerns regarding the second phase of the Regulation, as well as to exchange on the latest development of non-plastic alternatives. While there are currently several alternative options available in the market with steady reduction in prices, the diverse range of food items provided by the catering industry necessitates varying requirements for food containers. As the second phase of the Regulation would cover soup containers and plastic lids etc., some members of the trade reflected that such takeaway containers used for serving items like sauces, soups and beverages require a higher standard of safety and sealing performance, and thus requiring identification of suitable and practical alternatives. The Government will continue to actively collaborate with the suppliers of non-plastic alternatives to explore ways to enhance the quality of their products, accommodating the practical needs of the catering trade. We expect to partner with some large chain restaurant groups to conduct testing of various alternatives available in the market in mid-2025, and review the testing outcomes afterwards. 
     
         Before implementing the second phase of the Regulation, the Government will thoroughly consider the maturity, availability and affordability of the relevant non-plastic alternatives with a view to striking a balance between environmental protection and sustainable development of the trades. While there is no implementation timetable at the moment, we will consider the progress of further regulation in light of the prevailing circumstances. The Government will continue to promote going “plastic-and-disposable-free” and join hands with different sectors of the community to promote a culture of green and low-carbon living in Hong Kong.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: INTERNATIONAL MARITIME DEFENCE EXHIBITION (IMDEX) – 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 MAY 2025 2:54PM by PIB Delhi

    Indian Naval Ship INS Kiltan arrived in Singapore to participate in IMDEX Asia 2025 at the Changi Exhibition Centre.

    The visit is part of the Indian Navy’s operational deployment and underscores the robust maritime partnership between India and Singapore.

    During the stay, the ships’ crew will engage in a series of bilateral/ multilateral activities, including professional exchanges with the Republic of Singapore Navy and other participating navies of IMDEX Asia 2025.

    These engagements aim to strengthen naval cooperation, enhance interoperability, and promote mutual understanding between the two navies.

    Guided tours for school children, cross deck visits with participating Navies and curated visits for defence industries are planned to foster greater awareness of maritime security and India’s naval heritage.

    The visit highlights the Indian Navy’s commitment to regional security, stability, and the longstanding friendship between the two maritime partners India and Singapore.

    ****

    VM/SKS                              

    (Release ID: 2127494) Visitor Counter : 90

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Online auction of vehicle registration marks to be held from May 22 to 26

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Online auction of vehicle registration marks to be held from May 22 to 26 (5) A VRM can only be assigned to a motor vehicle registered in the name of the purchaser. Relevant information on the Certificate of Incorporation must be provided by the successful bidder in the Purchaser Information of the Memorandum of Sale if the VRM purchased is to be registered under the name of a body corporate.

    (6) Successful bidders will receive a notification email around seven working days after payment has been confirmed and can download the Memorandum of Sale from the E-Auction. The purchaser must apply for the VRM to be assigned to a motor vehicle registered in the name of the purchaser within 12 months from the date of issue of the Memorandum of Sale. If the purchaser fails to do so within the 12-month period, in accordance with the statutory provision, the allocation of the VRM will be cancelled and a new allocation will be arranged by the TD without prior notice to the purchaser.Issued at HKT 15:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ18: Supported employment training for persons with disabilities

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by Dr the Hon Ngan Man-yu and a written reply by the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Chris Sun, in the Legislative Council today (May 7):

    Question:

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ3: Promoting development of innovation and technology enterprises

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by Professor the Hon William Wong and a reply by the Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, in the Legislative Council today (May 7):

    Question:

         In the country’s Report on the Work of the Government this year, the Central Government for the first time highlights the need to support the development of gazelle enterprises. Gazelle enterprises refer to high-growth small and medium-sized scientific and technological enterprises characterized by strong innovation capabilities, new fields of expertise and great development potential. It is learnt that a number of Mainland provinces and municipalities have introduced preferential measures such as incentive subsidies and interest-free loans to accelerate the development of gazelle enterprises. In particular, Hangzhou implemented support policies for eligible gazelle enterprises as early as 2020, encouraging them to collaborate with higher education institutions and scientific research institutes on research and development. This, complemented by other innovation and technology (I&T) support, has fostered a robust innovation ecosystem in Hangzhou, thereby nurturing a number of I&T enterprises, among which the six companies collectively known as Hangzhou’s “Six Little Dragons” are particularly outstanding. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

    (1) whether it will set a definition for gazelle enterprises in Hong Kong and compile statistics on the number of gazelle enterprises in the territory;

    (2) whether it has studied the provision of targeted policy support for gazelle enterprises; if so, of the details; if not, whether it will conduct a study; and

    (3) as it has been reported that Hangzhou’s “Six Little Dragons” are interested in strengthening cooperation with Hong Kong, and the Chief Executive has also indicated that assistance will be provided to them, whether the Government will take the initiative to liaise with and invite such enterprises to establish a presence in Hong Kong, so as to inject new momentum into the I&T ecosystem?

    Reply:

    President,

         Thank you Professor the Hon Wong Kam-fai for the question. My consolidated reply is as follows.

         The National “Government Work Report” of this year strongly supports the development of innovation and technology (I&T) enterprises of all development stages, comprehensively planning to accelerate the growth of emerging and future industries. To proactively align with the national development strategy and to promote technological and industrial innovation, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government has been adopting a multi-pronged strategy under the overarching framework of the Hong Kong I&T Development Blueprint over the past two years. On one hand, we are striving to nurture local I&T start-ups; on the other hand, we are actively attracting enterprises to set up businesses in Hong Kong. This fully leverages our unique advantages under the “one country, two systems” principle, that is, enjoying strong support from the Motherland and being closely connected to the world, with a view to seizing the historic opportunity of this new round of technological innovation and industry transformation.

         On nurturing Hong Kong’s I&T start-ups, the Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau (ITIB) has provided a full range of support services to start-ups through the two Hong Kong I&T flagships, namely the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTPC) and Cyberport. The HKSTPC has been committed to providing support for entrepreneurial technology talent through various incubation programmes, including the provision of research and development (R&D) space and supporting facilities, funding, technical and management assistance, investor matching, mentorship support, promotion and business development support. Meanwhile, Cyberport has provided different financial and professional support through various public mission-driven incubation, accelerator, and support programmes tailored to the different development stages of start-ups. Also, with the imminent opening of the Hong Kong Park in the Loop within this year, the HSITPL (i.e. the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Parks Limited) will also launch an incubation programme to provide funding support and comprehensive support services to start-up teams and enterprises in the Park that have development potential and are engaged in life and health technologies. The number of start‑ups in Hong Kong surged from around 1 000 in 2014 to around 4 700 in 2024, reflecting the increasingly vibrant I&T ecosystem in Hong Kong. Our policy objective is to nurture I&T start-ups with independent R&D capabilities which can make substantive contributions to the economy and society, with a view to fostering the high-quality development of Hong Kong’s economy.

         We also recognise the importance of and the long-term need for supporting the development of start-ups as well as the necessity to keep abreast of the times in our policy initiatives. In recent years, the ITIB and the Innovation and Technology Commission have introduced and implemented a number of policies to enhance support for start-ups at various development stages, including the nurturing of start-ups. For example, the $10 billion Research, Academic and Industry Sectors One-plus Scheme was launched in 2023, which aims to fund, on a matching basis, research teams from universities with good potential to become successful start-ups to transform and commercialise their R&D outcomes.  To attract more venture capital to co-invest in local I&T start-ups, we launched the Innovation and Technology Venture Fund enhanced scheme in end-2024 by redeploying up to $1.5 billion to set up funds jointly with the market, on a matching basis, to invest in start-ups of strategic industries, thereby empowering start-ups with more financing support.

         Furthermore, we are preparing for the launch of the Pilot I&T Accelerator Scheme, which aims to attract professional start-up service providers with proven track records in and beyond Hong Kong to set up accelerator bases in Hong Kong to foster the robust growth of start-ups and enhance the I&T ecosystem.

         Apart from nurturing Hong Kong’s I&T start-ups, we have also taken the initiative to assist Mainland enterprises to “go global” and attract overseas resources, and strive to play the roles of “super connector” and “super value-adder”, thereby bringing new opportunities and opening up new horizons for Hong Kong’s I&T development. As at April 2025, in collaboration with other government departments, the ITIB has negotiated with more than 200 high-potential or representative enterprises to set up or expand their businesses in Hong Kong. During his recent visit to Zhejiang, the Chief Executive invited I&T enterprises such as “Hangzhou’s Six Little Dragons” to set up businesses in Hong Kong, encouraging them to make use of Hong Kong’s strengths to actively expand their business overseas. The ITIB is following up on these co-operation opportunities with a view to bringing them to fruition as soon as possible. We believe that the establishment of more I&T enterprises in Hong Kong will further promote the vibrant development of Hong Kong’s I&T ecosystem, bring new impetus to the local I&T ecosystem, and further enhance the development of related industries.

         We will continue to strengthen our I&T ecosystem in the following ways: first, continue to optimise our existing policies to enhance our support for I&T start-ups; second, facilitate more I&T enterprises in strategic industries to set up their businesses in Hong Kong; and third, engage with enterprises through various channels to understand their needs timely, dynamically adjust relevant policies and roll out new initiatives so as to ensure that our support measures align with industry needs to accelerate Hong Kong’s I&T development.

         Thank you.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ10: Reverse mortgages and withdrawal of Mandatory Provident Fund contributions for home purchase

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Paul Tse and a written reply by the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, in the Legislative Council today (May 7):
     
    Question:
     
         Recently, I, together with representatives of The Hong Kong Mortgage Corporation Limited (HKMC), have organised a community talk on “Wills and Reverse Mortgages” to promote early retirement planning and legal knowledge of estate inheritance among the public. During the session, many members of the public have expressed keen interest in the “Reverse Mortgage Programme” (RMP) of “housing-for-pension”, and the demand for reverse mortgages is particularly high among those who do not intend for their children or family members to inherit their owner-occupied property upon their death. In addition, many members of the public have further inquired why the Government does not allow them to use their Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF) contributions to purchase their first home, so that they can buy their own home during a property price downturn and use the property for a reverse mortgage in their old age, thereby ensuring a comprehensive and adequate retirement protection. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of the expenditure and manpower allocated in each of the past three years to promote the “Retire 3” Programme operated by HKMC (i.e. the HKMC Annuity Plan, the RMP and the Policy Reverse Mortgage Programme) (set out by year and plan/programme); the results of the promotional efforts; whether performance indicators have been established for such promotional efforts;
     
    (2) as there are views that reverse mortgages have not yet gained popularity in Hong Kong, whether the Government has studied the underlying reasons;
     
    (3) whether it has studied if allowing members of the public to use MPF contributions for first home purchases, thereby enabling them to “reverse-mortgage their homes” upon retirement, can help develop the reverse mortgage market and alleviate the Government’s burden in meeting the housing needs of the elderly; if such studies have been conducted, of the findings; if not, whether the Government can commence such a study immediately; and
     
    (4) some members of the public have reflected that the Government has repeatedly “backtracked” on the issue of using MPF contributions for first home purchases in the past (including the former Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury indicating in his reply to my question on November 29, 2017 that the issue would be studied, and the Chief Executive also stating prior to the delivery of this year’s Budget that the Government would study the issue), with none of the commitments having been implemented to date, and there are views pointing out that each instance of “backtracking” by the Government has left the public deeply disappointed, whether the authorities will, in the light of the potentially significant public demand for a housing-for-pension scheme coupling MPF first home purchases with reverse mortgages, listen carefully to public opinion and consider the home for retirement plan of “MPF first home purchases plus reverse mortgages”; if not, of the reasons for that?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         In consultation with the Housing Bureau and the Hong Kong Mortgage Corporation Limited (HKMC), the reply to the four parts of the question is as follows:
     
    (1) One of the missions of the HKMC is to promote the development of the retirement planning market. To this end, the HKMC launched the brand of “HKMC Retire 3” in mid-2021 to promote the HKMC Annuity Plan, the Reverse Mortgage Programme (RMP) and the Policy Reverse Mortgage Programme (PRMP). With ongoing efforts in promotion and education, public receptiveness to the three products has been enhanced. The business performance of the three products over the past three years is tabled below:
     

      2022 2023 2024
    RMP
    (Number of approved
    applications)    		 938 797 1 033
    PRMP
    (Number of approved
    applications)    		 41 44 55
    HKMC Annuity Plan
    (Number of policies)    		 3 254 2 205 10 835

     
         The daily operations of the HKMC Annuity Plan, the RMP and the PRMP involve various areas of work, including customer service, promotion, underwriting, finance, actuarial analysis, and information systems. The HKMC and its relevant subsidiaries deploy manpower resources as appropriate according to actual needs to properly operate and promote the products. For instance, as the Hong Kong community returned to normalcy after the epidemic, the HKMC has resumed promoting the “HKMC Retire 3” substantially since 2023, with 76 and 133 promotional events held in 2023 and 2024 respectively, including seminars and information booths. There were about 15 staff members directly planning and organising the promotional events. The expenses for the promotional activities were absorbed by HKMC’s internal resources.
     
    (2) The RMP has become increasingly popular since its launch in 2011. As of end-April 2025, a total of over 8 200 applications have been approved, with a year-on-year increase by around 30 per cent in the number of approved applications in 2024. As the RMP is by nature a loan arrangement, its demand depends on various factors, such as the personal needs of individual retired homeowners, the condition of the residential property and financial markets (including interest rate fluctuation), etc. The HKMC will continue its public education and promotion to help the elderly make proper financial arrangements for retirement.
     
    (3) and (4) The Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF) system is set up to assist the public to save up for their retirement. Any proposals allowing early withdrawal of accrued benefits, including for the purpose of first-time home ownership, must take into consideration the corresponding reduction of scheme members’ accrued benefits meant for their retirement. The MPF is a long-term investment with compounding effect, designed to allow the MPF benefits to accumulate steadily and be kept in the accounts for value growth during the working life of scheme members. Therefore, accrued benefits should be preserved in the system as far as possible and should only be withdrawn upon retirement of the employed persons. If we were to relax the preservation requirement on accrued benefits and allow scheme members to make early withdrawal to meet home ownership needs, the accrued benefits would be leaked from the system and fail to accumulate for value growth, thereby undermining the integrity of the MPF system and rendering it difficult to achieve the purpose of assisting the working population to save for their retirement.
     
         Therefore, we should carefully assess the implications of allowing scheme members to withdraw their the MPF accrued benefits early for the purposes of first-time home ownership and future application for reverse mortgage on their retirement savings. These considerations include: when comparing with other countries and regions, Hong Kong’s current MPF mandatory contribution rate is relatively low, and it may undermine the intended purpose of the MPF of providing basic retirement protection for employed persons if the preservation requirement on accrued benefits were relaxed; investments in real estate bear higher risks than those in the MPF funds, and purchasing properties with the MPF would diminish the MPF system’s benefits of investment risk diversification; the arrangements regarding whether the proceeds from the sale of a property of which the down payment for its purchase was paid for with the MPF funds should be reinvested in MPF, etc. The Government and the Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority will continually review the operation of the MPF system taking into account different factors, and welcome views regarding the MPF system reform from various sectors.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ15: Promoting pop culture industry

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Following is a question by the Hon Kenneth Fok and a written reply by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, in the Legislative Council today (May 7):
     
    Question:
     
    The Government in the Blueprint for Arts and Culture and Creative Industries Development (the Blueprint) published in November last year explicitly proposed that Hong Kong should be developed into a “capital of pop culture”. Measures include promoting the development of the pop culture industry, supporting the innovative development of pop culture, and promoting the organisation of more events such as concerts and music festivals. However, some members of the industry have relayed that the existing measures on venue provision, ancillary support and talent nurturing are not in line with the policy objectives, which affect the competitiveness of Hong Kong’s pop culture. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of the details of the use of the venues under the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) for organising pop culture activities in the past three years, including the venues involved, the number of sessions of the programmes held, the types of activities, the number of participants and the utilisation rates of seats (set out in a table);
     
    (2) as some members of the industry have relayed that it is difficult for emerging artists and independent groups to be allocated time slots in LCSD venues, whether the Government will review the existing venue allocation mechanism and scoring criteria, so as to address the industry’s demand for small and medium-sized commercial performance venues; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;
     
    (3) given that the 2022 Policy Address has proposed to increase the number of seats at performance venues by about 50 per cent, of the number of newly-built or converted venues and the number of additional seats at present, and whether it has reviewed if the progress of work in achieving this policy objective is in line with expectations;
     
    (4) whether the authorities will comprehensively enhance the relevant measures to solve the problem of insufficient performance venues for the pop culture industry (including reviewing the Venue Partnership Scheme to increase the quota for small and medium-sized performing groups; enhancing the transparency of the scoring criteria for booking LCSD venues; relaxing the restriction on the use of some government venues (e.g. sports grounds and vacant school premises) for performances; and studying the provision of dedicated venues for pop culture); if so, of the specific plans; if not, the reasons for that; and
     
    (5) given that the Blueprint has proposed to promote the private sector to organise more pop culture events in Hong Kong, of the authorities’ specific plans in place to encourage enterprises and investors to support the development of local pop culture, and whether it will provide incentives to attract more market resources, so as to assist the industry in exploring commercial performance opportunities and support the nurturing of talents for the industry?
     
    Reply：
     
    President：
     
    Hong Kong’s unique pop culture is an important brand of our culture. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region  Government endeavours to promote the development of pop culture, with a view to developing Hong Kong into the “capital of pop culture”, in accordance with the Blueprint for Arts and Culture and Creative Industries Development (the Blueprint), consolidating Hong Kong’s role as an East-meets-West Centre for international cultural exchange.
     
    In consultation with the Development Bureau, my reply to the question raised by the Hon Kenneth Fok is as follows:
     
    (1) The number of performances and attendance of pop culture activities held at the performance venues under the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) in the past three years are tabulated as follows (with numbers of attendance in parenthesis):
     

    Venue / Year 2022 (Note 3) 2023 2024
    Stadia (Note 1) 90
    (667 954)    		 114
    (803 632)    		 117
    (938 522)
     
    Performing arts venues (Note 2) 420
    (82 562)    		 607
    (125 764)    		 721
    (133 318)
     

     
    Note 1: Stadia include the Hong Kong Coliseum and the Queen Elizabeth Stadium.
    Note 2: Performing arts venues include the Hong Kong Culture Centre, the Hong Kong City Hall, the Sheung Wan Civic Centre, the Sai Wan Ho Civic Centre, the Ko Shan Theatre, the Ngau Chi Wan Civic Centre, the Sha Tin Town Hall, the North District Town Hall, the Tsuen Wan Town Hall, the Kwai Tsing Theatre, the Tuen Mun Town Hall and the Yuen Long Theatre. The Sai Wan Ho Civic Centre was closed for the renovation and improvement project since April 2022.
    Note 3: Owing to COVID-19, all performance venues were closed for 104 days in 2022.
     
    (2) to (4) The Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau (CSTB), the LCSD and the West Kowloon Cultural District (WKCD) etc., endeavour to provide venues for various arts and culture activities. We are aware that there has been a strong demand for performance venues from the public as well as the arts and culture sectors. Therefore, we have been building new performance venues and upgrading existing facilities over the past few years. The newly built East Kowloon Cultural Centre and the upgraded Tai Po Civic Centre and Sai Wan Ho Civic Centre are expected to open in full this year; The WestK Performing Arts Centre is expected to be completed in 2026; and we are also building the New Territories East Cultural Centre. A total of around 8 300 seats will be available at these performance venues. Besides, the Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP) officially commissioned on March 1, 2025, providing venues for hosting large-scale pop culture events.
     
    Since its full commissioning in March 2025, the KTSP has provided an option of a brand-new and attractive venue for sports and cultural mega events in Hong Kong, including concerts and pop culture events. The KTSP features a 50 000-seat Kai Tak Stadium, a 10 000-seat Kai Tak Arena, a 5 000-seat Kai Tak Youth Sports Ground and other ancillary facilities. In the past two months, various large-scale concerts of various renowned international, Asian and local bands and singers took place at the Kai Tak Stadium and Kai Tak Arena.
     
    The Government has also been supporting small and medium-sized arts groups and emerging artists through various measures, such as providing funding support for large-scale and cross-year arts and cultural initiatives/activities through the Arts Capacity Development Funding Scheme. Programme offices of the LCSD also provide support to local small and medium-sized arts groups and emerging artists through different modes of collaboration to promote continuous innovation and development of arts groups in Hong Kong.
     
    We are reviewing the usage and hiring arrangements of our venues (including reviewing the Venue Partnership Scheme), with an aim to make more effective use of venues resources, offer more booking slots for use of different arts groups and cater for the needs of the arts and culture sectors, thereby building a vibrant, diverse and flourishing ecosystem. On setting up of a dedicated venue for pop culture, the LCSD is currently identifying a suitable site for the Pop Culture Centre, and will discuss with and consult various stakeholders and expert advisers on related matters, such as the long-term planning and facilities of the Pop Culture Centre etc., with a view to formulating appropriate plans for developing it into a cultural landmark and tourism hotspot.
     
    The public pleasure grounds under the LCSD have all along been open to applications for non-designated uses, such as charitable activities or festive celebrations. When processing relevant applications, the LCSD will consider factors such as the proposed duration of hire, the area to be hired, as well as the purpose and nature of the activity. Given the very keen public demand for sports facilities, the LCSD will strive to strike a balance to meet the needs of different venue users.
     
    On the use of school venues, the Government has launched the Pilot Scheme on the Use of School Venues by Arts Groups in 2024 to open up parts of school venues for rehearsals by arts groups after school hours on a pilot basis. Any organisation/institution that wishes to use vacant school premises (VSP) for long-term or short-term uses could liaise and seek support from the relevant policy bureau(s) for its application of using the VSP.
     
    (5) On promoting the development of local pop culture and industries, LCSD has been collaborating with the sector to organise the annual Hong Kong Pop Culture Festival (PCF) since 2023. The first two editions of PCF attracted about 530 000 and over 640 000 participants respectively. The third edition of PCF is being held from April to July 2025 with the theme “More Than Joy” to promote Hong Kong’s unique comedy. PCF offers rich and diverse activities, supports local young artists and emerging art groups, and promotes cross-generation and cross-genre collaboration. We will step up the promotion of pop culture programmes to the Mainland and overseas facilitate Hong Kong’s pop culture to “go global”, thereby establishing overseas collaboration networks for local artists and the brand of PCF.
     
    The CSTB has been supporting mega arts and cultural events organised by the private sector or non-governmental organisations in Hong Kong through the Mega Arts and Cultural Events (ACE) Fund, including mega events on pop culture such as ComplexCon Hong Kong 2025 and Hypefest Hong Kong 2024. The Mega ACE Fund has enhanced its operation since January 1, 2025. To enhance the level of participation of commercial organisations, matching grant has been introduced in the new application mechanism. The initiative aims to encourage the event organisers to solicit commercial sponsorship, thereby boosting the market feasibility and business potential of events and to follow the over-arching principle of industry building.
     
    Besides, the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority (WKCDA) actively makes use of its museums, performing arts venues and public spaces to promote pop culture through various cultural and artistic programmes. For example, the WKCDA held “WestK POPFEST” in 2023 and 2024, which has been sponsored by private enterprises for two consecutive years, has brought together local young singers and groups, blending pop culture with artistic creation. The events were well-received by music fans, attracting over 60 000 participants in 2024, breaking the attendance record for different types of music festivals held in the WKCD over the years.
     
    The Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) continues supporting the co-production of television variety programmes by local television stations with their counterparts in the Mainland and Asia through the CreateSmart Initiative, so as to help the industry explore business showcasing opportunities in the Mainland and overseas, uplift the soft power of Hong Kong pop culture and enhance economic benefits. The scheme has so far accepted two rounds of applications. Eight project had been approved, among which five were broadcast.
     
    On talent nurturing, sponsored by the CCIDA, the “Make Music Work – Music Creation and Production Talents Nurturing Scheme” was launched in 2019 to support the development of emerging local music talent. In the latest edition, 12 units each comprising a composer, lyric writer and arranger were matched with experienced music producers and singing units for a series of support and training to produce original songs, and were provided with a platform and live concert to release and perform their original songs, so as to promote local original music development. 
     
    We will continue to foster the industry to explore private market and investment actively, as well as exploring business showcasing opportunities and support talent nurturing of the industries, so as to align with the strategic directions of the Blueprint.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs detects two illicit cigarette exporting cases and shuts down illicit cigarette packaging and storage centre with seizure worth about $16 million (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Hong Kong Customs earlier detected two cases of exporting smuggled cigarettes in Kwai Chung and, upon a follow-up investigation, dismantled an illicit cigarette packaging and storage centre in Yuen Long last night (May 6). A total of about 3.6 million suspected illicit cigarettes with an estimated market value of about $16 million and a duty potential of about $12 million were seized and two persons were arrested.
     
    Customs earlier detected two cases of exporting smuggled cigarettes at a logistics centre in Kwai Chung. A total of about 1.9 million suspected illicit cigarettes were seized in two batches of goods destined for Australia.
     
    After a follow-up investigation, Customs took action last night and raided a metal warehouse in Tai Tong, Yuen Long, seizing about 1.7 million suspected illicit cigarettes and a batch of packaging tools. A 46-year-old man and a 75-year-old woman, who claimed to be a worker in a vehicle repair workshop and a retiree respectively, were arrested.
     
    Initial investigations revealed that the syndicate used a remote metal warehouse to collect and store illicit cigarettes. After repackaging, the illicit cigarettes were transported to the logistics centre concerned in Kwai Chung and were disguised as legitimate goods for exporting to Australia for profit.
     
    Investigations of the cases are ongoing, and the two arrested persons were released on bail pending further investigation.

    Customs will continue its risk assessment and intelligence analysis, and step up enforcement actions to combat cross-boundary illicit cigarette activities. Smuggling is a serious offence. Under the Import and Export Ordinance, any person found guilty of importing or exporting unmanifested cargo is liable to a maximum fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years upon conviction.

    Under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance, anyone involved in dealing with, possession of, selling or buying illicit cigarettes commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $1 million and imprisonment for two years.

    Members of the public may report any suspected illicit cigarette activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hongkong Post to issue “Victoria Harbour Promenades” special stamps (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    ​Hongkong Post announced today (May 7) that a set of special stamps and associated philatelic products on the theme of “Victoria Harbour Promenades” will be released for sale on May 22 (Thursday).
     
    Victoria Harbour is a world-famous natural harbour recognised as an icon of Hong Kong. The Government and the Harbourfront Commission have been committed to enhancing the harbourfront of Victoria Harbour for the past 20 years, with a view to creating an attractive, vibrant, accessible and sustainable harbourfront. Hongkong Post will release a set of four stamps, a stamp sheetlet and associated philatelic products themed on “Victoria Harbour Promenades”, which feature the scenic waterfronts on both sides of the Harbour. The stamps showcase the stunning harbour views by day and night and highlight the achievements in enhancing the promenades, thereby encouraging the public to appreciate and enjoy the quality and diversified harbourfront spaces.
     
    To enhance youth participation, the design of the $10 stamp sheetlet is based on the winning entry of the Student Group in the Victoria Harbourfront Photo and Short Video Competition jointly organised by the Harbourfront Commission and the Harbour Office of the Development Bureau in 2023. The award-winning photograph captures Victoria Harbour at sunset, with the sun casting glowing beams between the skyscrapers, illuminating a boat on the water and showcasing the stunning sunset view of Victoria Harbour.
     
    Official first day covers for “Victoria Harbour Promenades” will be on sale at all post offices and Hongkong Post’s online shopping mall ShopThruPost (shopthrupost.hongkongpost.hk) from tomorrow (May 8). This set of special stamps and associated philatelic products will be on sale at all post offices and ShopThruPost from May 22, while serviced first day covers affixed with the special stamps and postage prepaid picture cards (air mail) will be available at philatelic offices only.
     
    A hand-back date-stamping service will be provided on May 22 at all post offices for official first day covers/souvenir covers/privately made covers bearing the first day of issue indication and a local address.
     
    Information about this set of special stamps and associated philatelic products is available on the Hongkong Post Stamps website (stamps.hongkongpost.hk).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ5: Combating offences of voyeurism and clandestine recording of intimate parts

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Doreen Kong and a reply by the Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung, in the Legislative Council today (May 7):
     
    Question:
     
         There are views pointing out that although criminal offences of voyeurism and unlawful recording of intimate parts came into force in 2021, incidents involving clandestine recording of intimate parts of others in public places or private spaces still continue to occur from time to time following rapid technological development and widespread application of smart devices. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) since the offence of unlawful recording of intimate parts came into force, of the number of reports received by the Police regarding such an offence, and the number of cases in which prosecutions were instituted against the persons involved;
     
    (2) given that it is learnt that mini recording devices currently available on the market are mainly sourced from Mainland e-commerce platforms, of the measures the Government has put in place to prevent members of the public from using recording devices purchased through such channels for the purpose of clandestine recording; and
     
    (3) whether it will enhance the design of public places to prevent clandestine recording, and formulate building and design standards against clandestine recording, such as installing detection devices against clandestine recording (e.g. infrared scanners) in schools, shopping malls and other venues, as well as conducting improvement works to address design flaws in partition panels in certain restrooms and changing rooms?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         The act of clandestine photography seriously invades the victims’ privacy and often inflicts incurable physical and mental harm on them. In 2021, the Security Bureau amended the Crimes Ordinance (Cap. 200) to introduce four new offences to combat voyeurism-related acts: (1) the offence of voyeurism, which deals with the act of peeping or clandestine photography in circumstances that give rise to a reasonable expectation of privacy; (2) the offence of unlawful recording or observation of intimate parts; (3) the offence of publication of intimate images originating from commission of the above two offences; and (4) the offence of publication or threatened publication of intimate images without consent.
     
         The four new offences carry a maximum penalty of five years of imprisonment. The Government seeks to convey a clear message to the community that clandestine photography or malicious dissemination of intimate images will not be tolerated and that there are serious consequences for committing the relevant offences, thereby achieving a deterrent effect and protecting possible victims. Through high-profile law enforcement actions as well as publicity and education, the Police have been combatting voyeurism-related acts on all fronts to protect the privacy of the public.
     
         The reply to the Member’s question is as follows:
     
    (1)  The statistics on cases received by the Police, and the relevant numbers of arrests, prosecutions and convictions since voyeurism-related offences since the Crimes Ordinance (Cap. 200) came into effect in October 2021 are tabulated at Annex. In 2024, for the offence of voyeurism, the Police received 172 cases and arrested 107 persons; 59 persons were prosecuted. For the offence of unlawful recording or observation of intimate parts, the Police received 350 cases and arrested 252 persons; 193 persons were prosecuted.
     
    (2)  According to the Police’s statistics, in nearly 98 per cent of the offences of voyeurism and unlawful recording or observation of intimate parts in the past year, offenders used smartphones with camera functions that they carried with them to commit the crimes. Most of these cases occurred in places with high pedestrian flow, such as public transport, transport stations, and shopping malls. The offenders took the advantage of the crowdedness to follow the victims when boarding or alighting from the vehicles or when taking the escalators, and surreptitiously took photos with their smartphones, which were handy and not easily spotted.
     
         There are of course still cases involving the use of other general photographic equipment, which can be purchased from various channels. Similar to smartphones, the intended purposes of most of these types of photographic equipment are proper and legitimate. For example, to provide better care for elderly living alone, many families install video cameras at home, so that family members can render timely assistance to the elderly persons when they need help. Therefore, we are of the view that regulation on photographic equipment or its purchasing channels may not be the most direct and effective way to combat such crime. The Government needs to strike a balance between combatting crime and protecting the rights of the public to reasonably use technology products.
     
    (3)  On using architectural designs that prevent clandestine photography, the Police will continue to strengthen collaboration with public transport operators, shopping malls, public housing estates, private residential buildings and property management agencies, encouraging them to take into consideration the prevention of voyeurism-related offences in their overall crime prevention plan. The Police will also advise and encourage different stakeholders to conduct on-site reviews to ensure the safety of their venues. The Police are ready to offer advice on access control, illumination, mirror installation, coverage of closed circuit televisions, etc. to minimise the risks of crime. If necessary, professional advice can be sought from the Crime Prevention Bureau of the Police.
     
         On law enforcement, the Police have been stepping up efforts to combat voyeurism-related acts, particularly targeting high-risk places such as public transport, shopping malls and changing rooms. The Police have also been implementing anti-crime operations and intelligence-led operations to enhance the effectiveness of law enforcement.
     
         As for preventive measures, through ongoing collaboration with various stakeholders by way of publicity and education, the Police seek to heighten public vigilance and proactively disseminate messages on alertness against clandestine photography. Topics such as ways to identify suspected acts of clandestine photography and self-protection measures in different places (such as changing rooms and toilets) are covered. The Police also encourage citizens to come forward to report crimes.
     
         The Police have also produced posters, videos and publicity stickers on prevention of voyeurism-related acts, and distributed them through channels such as schools, shopping malls, public transport and government venues. Besides, the Police regularly organise crime prevention seminars and community activities to brief the public on relevant legislation and ways of self-protection. To further boost the publicity effects, the Police have uploaded relevant information, including educational videos and publicity posters, on the offence of voyeurism and prevention of clandestine photography on the website SafeCity.HK for public access and downloading.
     
         The Police call on members of the public to heighten their vigilance. In case suspected acts of clandestine photography are identified, they should not hesitate to report the crime and provide evidence to assist in the Police investigation. We will continue to combat voyeurism-related acts on all fronts through high-profile law enforcement actions, publicity and education to protect the privacy of the public.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Provisional statistics of restaurant receipts and purchases for first quarter of 2025

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Census and Statistics Department (C&SD) released the latest provisional figures on restaurant receipts and purchases today (May 7).
     
         The value of total receipts of the restaurants sector in the first quarter of 2025, provisionally estimated at $28.0 billion, decreased by 0.6% over a year earlier. Over the same period, the provisional estimate of the value of total purchases by restaurants decreased by 1.5% to $8.8 billion.
     
         After netting out the effect of price changes over the same period, the provisional estimate of the volume of total restaurant receipts decreased by 1.8% in the first quarter of 2025 compared with a year earlier.
     
         Analysed by type of restaurant and comparing the first quarter of 2025 with the first quarter of 2024, total receipts of Chinese restaurants decreased by 4.9% in value and 6.5% in volume. Total receipts of non-Chinese restaurants increased by 2.4% in value and 2.1% in volume. Total receipts of fast food shops increased by 1.9% in value and 0.3% in volume. Total receipts of bars increased by 6.5% in value and 4.0% in volume. As for miscellaneous eating and drinking places, total receipts decreased by 1.8% in value and 3.8% in volume.
     
         Based on the seasonally adjusted series, the provisional estimate of total restaurant receipts decreased by 1.3% in value and 1.2% in volume in the first quarter of 2025 compared with the preceding quarter.
     
         To facilitate further understanding of the short-term business performance of the restaurants sector, statistics in respect of the restaurant receipts and purchases in individual months of the reference quarter are also compiled.
     
         Analysed by month, it was provisionally estimated that the value of total receipts of the restaurants sector increased by 4.4%, decreased by 5.9% and decreased by 0.6% respectively in January, February and March 2025, compared with the corresponding months in 2024.
     
         After discounting the effect of price changes, it was provisionally estimated that the volume of total restaurant receipts increased by 2.9%, decreased by 6.9% and decreased by 1.7% respectively in January, February and March 2025, compared with the corresponding months in 2024.
     
    Commentary
     
         A Government spokesman said that the value of total restaurant receipts saw a modest year-on-year decline of 0.6% in the first quarter of 2025, after registering a mild increase in the preceding quarter.
     
         Looking ahead, the change in consumption patterns continues to affect the performance of the restaurants sector. While the increased uncertainties in the external environment may affect consumer confidence, the rise in local employment earnings, the Government’s proactive efforts to promote mega events and tourism, as well as the sustained steady growth of the Mainland economy, will help boost consumption sentiment in the domestic market, providing support to the business of restaurants.
     
    Further information
     
         Table 1 presents the revised figures of restaurant receipts by type of restaurant and total purchases by the restaurants sector for the fourth quarter of 2024 as well as the provisional figures for the first quarter of 2025.
     
         Table 2 and Table 3 present the revised value and volume indices respectively of restaurant receipts by type of restaurant for the fourth quarter of 2024 and the provisional indices for the first quarter of 2025.
     
         Table 4 presents the year-on-year rate of change in total restaurant receipts in value and volume terms based on the original quarterly series, as well as the quarter-to-quarter rate of change based on the seasonally adjusted series.
     
         The revised figures on restaurant receipts and purchases for the first quarter of 2025 (with breakdown by month) will be released through the website of C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/scode540.html) and relevant publications of the Department from June 20, 2025.
     
         The classification of restaurants follows the Hong Kong Standard Industrial Classification (HSIC) Version 2.0, which is used in various economic surveys for classifying economic units into different industry classes.
     
         More detailed statistics are given in the “Report on Quarterly Survey of Restaurant Receipts and Purchases”. Users can browse and download the publication at the website of the C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/EIndexbySubject.html?pcode=B1080002&scode=540).
     
         Users who have enquiries about the survey results may contact the Distribution Services Statistics Section of C&SD (Tel.: 3903 7401; e-mail: qsr@censtatd.gov.hk).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Cabinet approves Revised SHAKTI (Scheme for Harnessing and Allocating Koyala Transparently in India) Policy for Coal Allocation to Power Sector

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 MAY 2025 12:07PM by PIB Delhi

    The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs chaired by the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has approved grant of fresh coal linkages to Thermal Power Plants of Central Sector/State Sector/ Independent Power Producers (IPPs).  Following two windows have been proposed under the Revised SHAKTI policy:

    1. Coal Linkage to Central Gencos/States at Notified price: Window–I
    2. Coal Linkage to all Gencos at a Premium above Notified price: Window–II

    Window-I (coal at notified price):

    1. Existing mechanism for grant of coal linkage to Central Sector Thermal Power Projects (TPPs) including Joint Ventures (JVs) & their subsidiary to continue.
    2. Coal linkages to be earmarked to States and to an agency authorized by group of States as per existing mechanism, on the recommendation of Ministry of Power. Coal linkage earmarked to States may be utilized by States in its own Genco, Independent Power Producers (IPPs) to be identified through Tariff Based Competitive Bidding (TBCB) or existing IPPs having Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) under Section 62 of the Electricity Act, 2003 for setting up of a new expansion unit having PPA under Section 62.

    Window-II (premium over notified price):

    Any domestic coal-based power producer having PPA or untied and also Imported coal-based power plants (if they so require) can secure coal on auction basis for a period upto 12 months or for the period of more than 12 months upto 25 years by paying premium above the notified price and providing the power plants the flexibility to sell the electricity as per their choice.

    Implementation strategy:

    Directions would be issued to Coal India Limited (CIL)/ Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) for implementation of the aforesaid decisions. Besides, the concerned Ministries and all the States shall also be apprised of the revised SHAKTI Policy for further dissemination to the concerned Departments / Authorities and also to the Regulatory Commissions.

    Major impact, including employment generation potential:

    1. Simplification of the linkage process: With the introduction of Revised SHAKTI Policy, existing eight paras, for coal allocation, have been mapped to only two Windows, in the spirit of ease of doing Business. Window-I (coal linkage at notified price) and Window-II (coal linkage at premium above notified price).
    2. Caters to the dynamic coal requirement of the Power Sector: Revised SHAKTI Policy shall enable the Power Plants to plan for meeting their coal requirement depending upon their demand for Long-Term / Short – Term.
    3. Central Sector Thermal Power Projects (TPPs) shall continue to get coal linkage on nomination basis on the recommendation of Ministry of Power, whereas, the linkages earmarked to the States on nomination basis on the recommendation of Ministry of Power may be utilized by the States in the State Generating Company.
    4. No requirement of PPA in Window-II: Requirement of PPA has been entirely done away for selling the electricity generated through the coal secured under Window-II, thereby providing the power plants the flexibility to sell the electricity as per their choice.
    5. Enabling Independent Power Producers (IPPs)/Private Developers for thermal capacity addition:  Allowing flexible linkage for new capacity addition with or without PPA with a tenure ranging from 12 months to 25 years will encourage IPPs to plan new thermal capacities, which will help in achieving the future thermal capacity addition.
    6. Promote Coal Import Reduction/Substitution: Imported Coal Based (ICB) plants can secure domestic coal under Window-II, subject to the technical constraints of ICB plants, thereby reducing their import coal dependency.  The benefits accrued, on account of import coal substitution, would be determined by Appropriate Regulatory Commission and passed on to the electricity consumers/beneficiaries.
    • vii. Preference to ‘Pithead’ power plants: The revised SHAKTI Policy, besides supporting Brownfield expansion, will promote setting up of Greenfield Thermal Power Projects primarily at pithead sites i.e. nearer to the coal source.
    1. Linkage Rationalization: With an aim to reduce the ‘landed cost’ of coal at thermal power plant end, coal source rationalization will be done. This will not only ease up railway infrastructure but would also ultimately result in reduced tariff for electricity consumers.
    2. Delegation of power: – The revised SHAKTI Policy provides for delegation of powers for enabling minor changes, in the policy, at the level of concerned Ministries (MoC and MoP). Further, for dealing with operational/implementation issues, an “Empowered Committee” comprising of Secretary (Power), Secretary (Coal) and Chairperson, CEA is proposed.
    3. Flexibility to Existing FSA holders: Participation of existing Fuel Supply Agreement (FSA) holders beyond 100 % of their Annual Contracted Quantity (ACQ) of coal under Window-II will benefit power producers. Upon expiry of coal linkages secured under old policies, power producers [Central Gencos, State Gencos and Independent Power Producers (IPPs)] may apply under the present proposed revised policy, as applicable, to secure fresh linkages.
    4. Allowing Un-requisitioned Surplus in Power Markets: This will enable sale of power generated through linkage coal in power markets. This will not only deepen power markets by increasing availability of power in power exchanges but will also ensure optimum utilization of generating stations.

    Expenditure involved:

    Revised SHAKTI Policy would not involve any additional cost to the coal companies.

    No. of beneficiaries:

    Thermal Power Plants, Railways, Coal India Limited / Singareni Collieries Company Limited, End Consumers and State Governments would be benefitted.

    Background:

    With the introduction of SHAKTI Policy, 2017, there was a paradigm shift of coal allocation mechanism from a nomination-based regime to a more transparent way of allocation of coal linkages through an auction / tariff-based bidding. Nomination based allocation continued only for the Central / State Sector power plants. SHAKTI Policy has been amended in 2019 on the recommendations of Group of Ministers. SHAKTI Policy was further amended in 2023. SHAKTI Policy has various Paras for allocation of a coal linkage to the various categories of Power Plants, subject to meeting the eligibility  criteria. With the introduction of Revised SHAKTI Policy, existing eight Paras of the SHAKTI Policy, for coal allocation, have been mapped to only two Windows, in the spirit of ease of doing Business.

    *****

    MJPS/SKS

    (Release ID: 2127408) Visitor Counter : 390

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected illicit cigarettes worth about $220 million in “Cutflow” operation (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Hong Kong Customs recently mounted an operation codenamed “Cutflow” to combat illicit cigarette smuggling activities and dismantled a transnational illicit cigarette smuggling syndicate. During the operation, Customs seized a total of about 49 million suspected illicit cigarettes from 20 containers, with an estimated market value of about $220 million and a duty potential of about $162 million, and arrested two men.
     
    Through risk assessment and intelligence analysis, Customs on March 28 selected and inspected a 40-foot container, arriving from Singapore to Hong Kong and declared as carrying tumbler mug, at the Kwai Chung Customhouse Cargo Examination Compound. Upon inspection, Customs officers found about 4.7 million suspected illicit cigarettes in the container.
     
    After a follow-up investigation, Customs officers on the same day seized about 8.2 million suspected illicit cigarettes, believed to have come from two containers, inside a logistic warehouse in Yuen Long and arrested two men who came to pick up the goods.
     
    Subsequently, Customs further seized large batches of illicit cigarettes in 17 containers arriving from Singapore within a month. 
     
    Investigations revealed that the illicit cigarettes were originated from different Southeast Asian countries, and some of the brands were uncommon in Hong Kong. It is not ruled out that part of the illicit cigarettes would be transshipped overseas.
     
    Investigations of the cases are ongoing. Customs will continue to trace the source and flow of the illicit cigarettes. The likelihood of further arrests is not ruled out.
     
    The outcomes of the operation fully illustrate Customs’ enforcement effectiveness in intercepting illicit cigarettes at the source. Customs will continue its risk assessment and intelligence analysis for interception at the source, as well as through its multipronged enforcement strategy targeting storage, distribution and peddling, to spare no effort in combating illicit cigarette activities.
     
    Customs stresses that smuggling is a serious offence. Under the Import and Export Ordinance, any person found guilty of importing or exporting unmanifested cargo is liable to a maximum fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years upon conviction. Moreover, under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance, anyone involved in dealing with, possession of, selling or buying illicit cigarettes commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $1 million and imprisonment for two years.
    ​
    Members of the public may report any suspected illicit cigarette activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CE leads delegation to visit Qatar and Kuwait

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, will lead a business delegation to visit Qatar and Kuwait on May 10. The visit aims to further strengthen exchanges and connections with the Middle East region in areas such as finance, trade, investment, and innovation and technology (I&T), and to promote the latest advantages and opportunities in Hong Kong to local political and business communities.
     
    Noting that the Middle East region is experiencing rapid development with abundant capital, Mr Lee said the region is actively seeking to diversify risks, particularly by channelling investments into China and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region(HKSAR), aligning with the global economic shift towards the East. Qatar and Kuwait are both economically vibrant and fast-growing countries in the Middle East region. Qatar boasts the highest Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita among the member states of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC) and serves as a crucial aviation hub in the Middle East. Meanwhile, Kuwait, currently the rotating President of the GCC, ranks third in GDP per capita among GCC member states and possesses one of the world’s largest sovereign wealth funds.
     
    He highlighted that this marks his first time leading Mainland enterprises in addition to leaders from industry and commerce and professional sectors of Hong Kong in an outbound mission, aiming to leverage Hong Kong’s strengths under the “one country, two systems” principle in connecting the Mainland and the world. It also aims to give full play to Hong Kong’s role as a “super connector” and a “super value-adder” by deepening international exchanges and co-operation, acting as a bridge to serve enterprises in going global and attracting external investment. At the same time, it also demonstrates the complementary advantages of co-operation between Mainland and Hong Kong enterprises, creating synergies and providing comprehensive supply chain services.
     
    The HKSAR Government officials joining the Business Delegation from Hong Kong and the Mainland led by the Chief Executive of the HKSAR include the Deputy Financial Secretary, Mr Michael Wong; the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui; the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau; the Director of the Chief Executive’s Office, Ms Carol Yip; the Commissioner for Belt and Road, Mr Nicholas Ho; and the Director of Information Services, Mrs Apollonia Liu.
     
    Members of the delegation include more than 50 representatives from the business community of Hong Kong and Mainland enterprises. This includes over 30 leaders from industry and commerce and professional sectors of Hong Kong and over 20 entrepreneurs from Mainland provinces such as Zhejiang, Fujian, and Guangdong. The delegation spans fields including finance, industry and commerce, trade, infrastructure, I&T, energy, and transport and logistics.
     
    Mr Lee will visit Qatar on May 11 and 12 and depart for Kuwait on the evening of May 12. During the visit, he will meet with local government leaders to enhance communication and establish collaborative consensus, enabling businesses to clearly understand the policy directions of co-operation between the HKSAR Government and the governments of both countries, and leading the promotion of cultural exchanges. He will also lead the delegation to visit facilities and enterprises to gain insights into the latest developments in such areas as finance, trade, and I&T, exploring new opportunities. He will also attend exchange events to introduce Hong Kong’s advantages and investment opportunities to the local business community.
     
    Mr Lee will return to Hong Kong on May 15. During his absence, the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, will be the Acting Chief Executive.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Interdepartmental pre-typhoon tabletop exercise concludes successfully

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Security Bureau held an interdepartmental pre-typhoon tabletop exercise today (May 7) at the Emergency Monitoring and Support Centre (EMSC) in the Central Government Offices to enhance the emergency response and collaboration of bureaux, departments and other parties concerned in handling possible emergency situations if Hong Kong is struck by a super typhoon.
     
         According to the Hong Kong Observatory’s forecast, five to eight tropical cyclones are expected to hit Hong Kong this year. The tropical cyclone season will begin in June or earlier, and end in October or later. To ensure comprehensive preparedness, representatives from around 40 bureaux, departments and other parties concerned participated in this year’s exercise. 
     
         The exercise simulated a scenario in which a super typhoon and heavy rainstorm battered Hong Kong, causing widespread destruction, property damage and serious blockage of main thoroughfares. Participants were required to outline their response measures under different scenarios. The exercise served as an interdisciplinary platform for the participants to share their experience and expertise, and allowed the participating parties to gain a deeper understanding of the operation of the EMSC as well as their respective roles and responsibilities, with a view to enhancing the preparedness and interdepartmental collaboration in responding to threats posed by super typhoons. 
     
         The Government will continue to strengthen the overall preparedness and response capabilities to address the challenges posed by extreme weather, protecting Hong Kong people’s lives and properties.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ17: Pilot Scheme for Direct Cross-boundary Ambulance Transfer in the Greater Bay Area

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by Professor the Hon Chan Wing-kwong and a written reply by the Secretary for Health, Professor Lo Chung-mau, in the Legislative Council today (May 7):

    Question:

         The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) Government, in collaboration with the Guangdong Provincial Government, the Shenzhen Municipal Government and the Macao SAR Government, launched the Pilot Scheme for Direct Cross-boundary Ambulance Transfer in the Greater Bay Area (the Pilot Scheme) on November 30 last year to implement the arrangement for the direct cross-boundary ambulance transfer of patients from designated sending hospitals in Shenzhen and Macao (i.e. the University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital and the Conde S. Januario Hospital of Macao) to designated public hospitals in Hong Kong. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

    (1) of the number of cases in which Hong Kong residents who were injured or suffering from illness in the Mainland required emergency medical and ambulance arrangements upon returning to Hong Kong in the past three years;

    (2) of the number of requests received by the two designated sending hospitals in Shenzhen and Macao for the cross-boundary ambulance transfer of patients since the launch of the Pilot Scheme and, among such cases, the respective numbers of those confirmed by the sending hospitals after assessment to have (i) met and (ii) failed to meet the conditions for activating the cross-boundary ambulance mechanism; and

    (3) whether the authorities have publicised and promoted the Pilot Scheme to members of the public, in particular those residing on the Mainland on a long-term basis; if so, of the details?

    Reply:

    President,

         The study on the provision of land-based cross-boundary transfer for non-emergency and non-critically ill patients and the exploration of rolling out a pilot co-operation scheme for cross-boundary referral of patients between designated public hospitals were put forward in the Outline Development Plan for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA). The Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) also put forward in the 2023 Policy Address the initiative to explore cross-boundary ambulance transfer arrangements between hospitals in the GBA. With the support of various national ministries, the Hong Kong SAR Government, in collaboration with the Guangdong Provincial Government, the Shenzhen Municipal Government and the Macao SAR Government, officially launched the one-year Pilot Scheme for Direct Cross-boundary Ambulance Transfer in the GBA (the Pilot Scheme) on November 30, 2024.

         The first phase of the Pilot Scheme starts by arranging direct cross-boundary ambulance transfer of patients from designated sending hospitals in Shenzhen and Macao (i.e. the University of Hong Kong – Shenzhen Hospital (HKU-SZH) and the Conde S. Januario Hospital (CHCSJ) of Macao) to designated public hospitals in Hong Kong.

         Under the Pilot Scheme, upon assessment and agreement by the teams of designated cross-boundary collaborating hospitals, arrangements can be made for patients with specific clinical needs and suitable clinical conditions to be transferred directly to Hong Kong between designated hospitals in a point-to-point mode without the handover of patients between ambulances at boundary control points, thus minimising risks posed to patients during transfer.

         Subject to the effectiveness and operational experience of the Pilot Scheme, the governments of Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao will consider how to expand the scheme, such as including more designated hospitals (including Mainland cities in the GBA other than Shenzhen) and/or extending the Pilot Scheme to a two-way arrangement.

         In consultation with the Security Bureau and the Hospital Authority (HA), the reply to the question raised by Professor the Hon Chan Wing-kwong is as follows:

    (1) Apart from the aforementioned Pilot Scheme for transfer of patients between hospitals under specific circumstances, if Hong Kong residents are injured or suffered from an illness on the Mainland and require emergency medical and ambulance arrangements upon returning to Hong Kong, in accordance with the established arrangement, they may raise the request on the Mainland by contacting the Assistance to Hong Kong Residents Unit of the Immigration Department. The residents may also request assistance from the officers of boundary control points upon arrival or dial the hotline at 999 during emergency. The departments concerned will provide assistance to the residents according to their actual circumstances. In case of a genuine need, based on the established arrangement between the Fire Services Department (FSD) and the HA, residents will be transferred by an ambulance from the boundary control points to the Accident and Emergency Department of a nearby HA hospital for treatment. 

         According to the figures of the FSD, the number of calls for emergency ambulance services handled by the FSD at Hong Kong ports of various land boundary control points from 2022 to 2024 are tabulated as follows:
     

    Year  Number of cases
    2022 1 038
    2023 4 868
    2024 5 581

    (2) Since the implementation of the Pilot Scheme (up to end-April 2025), the HA has received a total of 11 cross-boundary ambulance transfer cases, of which eight were referred by the HKU-SZH, and three were referred by the CHCSJ of Macao. Among the cases, the patients were aged between 15 and 79, and the medical conditions involved included respiratory failure, atrial fibrillation, respiratory support through a ventilator. According to professional medical assessment, patients of the above cases have a need for continuous hospitalisation for treatment. Their conditions were relatively stable, but were unable to return to Hong Kong on their own and were unsuitable for transfer to Hong Kong ambulances via the existing boundary control points. Separately, a patient as referred by the HKU-SZH was considered not meeting the criteria for transfer after the joint assessment of the case by the medical teams of the two places, and hence, the mechanism of transfer arrangement was not activated. It must be emphasised that not all patients with the aforementioned conditions are necessarily suitable for cross-boundary ambulance transfer. The sending and receiving hospitals will make professional and careful assessments based on the individual patient’s current clinical conditions to determine whether it is necessary to arrange a cross-boundary inter-hospital transfer for the patient to receive continuous treatment or rehabilitation.

    (3) The Government has explained the Pilot Scheme and its activation mechanism through press releases and the social media platforms of the Health Bureau prior to and after the launch of the Pilot Scheme. On January 10, 2025, immediately after the successful point-to-point transfer of the first patient from the HKU-SZH to an HA public hospital, the HA held a press conference jointly with the HKU-SZH to explain in detail to the general public the arrangements for the first case of patient transfer by cross-boundary ambulance under the Pilot Scheme. The Government will continue to closely communicate with the HA and the designated sending hospitals.

         The direct cross-boundary ambulance transfer arrangement is not an emergency ambulance call service, but a cross-boundary inter-hospital transfer arrangement made by the relevant professional medical teams according to the medical conditions of individual patients. In-patients or their families may directly consult the doctors of the designated sending hospitals whether cross-boundary transfer is necessary and appropriate. Since conditions and medical needs vary among patients, doctors of the sending hospital will assess, on a case-by-case basis, the need for the patient to have cross-boundary inter-hospital transfer for continuous treatment or recovery services, taking the patient’s clinical diagnosis and actual conditions into consideration. The medical department of the sending hospital will communicate with the Major Incident Control Centre of the HA for joint assessment, information exchange and co-ordination with the receiving hospital to decide whether the transfer mechanism should be activated. The sending and receiving hospitals will also ensure that the patient’s relatives and/or the patient have given consent to the relevant arrangements and are informed of the risks involved in the transfer.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Text of PM’s address at the Global Conference on Space Exploration via video message

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 MAY 2025 12:46PM by PIB Delhi

    Distinguished delegates, Esteemed scientists, Innovators, Astronauts, And, Friends from across the globe,

    Namaskaar ! 

    It is a great pleasure to connect with all of you at the Global Space Exploration Conference 2025. Space is not just a destination. It is a declaration of curiosity, courage, and collective progress. India’s space journey reflects this spirit. From launching a small rocket in 1963, to becoming the first nation to land near the South Pole of Moon, our journey has been remarkable. Our rockets carry more than payloads. They carry the dreams of 1.4 billion Indians. India’s achievements are significant scientific milestones. Beyond that, they are proof that the human spirit can defy gravity. India made history by reaching Mars on its first attempt in 2014. Chandrayaan-1 helped discover water on the Moon. Chandrayaan-2 gave us the highest-resolution images of the Moon. Chandrayaan-3 increased our understanding of the lunar South Pole. We built cryogenic engines in a record time. We launched 100 satellites in a single mission. We have launched over 400 satellites for 34 nations on our launch vehicles. This year, we docked two satellites in space, a major step forward.  

    Friends,

    India’s space journey is not about racing others. It is about reaching higher together. Together, we share a common goal to explore space for the good of humanity. We launched a satellite for the South Asian nations. Now, the G20 Satellite Mission, announced during our Presidency, will be a gift to the Global South. We continue to march ahead with renewed confidence, pushing the boundaries of scientific exploration. Our first human space-flight mission, ‘Gaganyaan’, highlights our nation’s rising aspirations. In coming weeks, an Indian astronaut will travel to space as part of a joint ISRO-NASA Mission to the International Space Station. By 2035, the Bharatiya Antariksha Station will open new frontiers in research and global cooperation. By 2040, an Indian’s footprints will be on the Moon. Mars and Venus are also on our radar.

    Friends,

    For India, space is about exploration as well as about empowerment. It empowers governance, enhances livelihoods, and inspires generations. From fishermen alerts to GatiShakti platform, from railway safety to weather forecasting, our satellites look out for the welfare of every Indian. We have opened our space sector to startups, entrepreneurs, and young minds. Today, India has over 250 space start-ups. They are contributing to cutting-edge advancements in satellite technology, Propulsion systems, imaging, and much more. And, you know, it is even more inspiring that many of our missions are being led by women scientists. 

    Friends,

    India’s space vision is grounded in the ancient wisdom of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’, that is, the world is one family. We strive not just for our own growth, but to enrich global knowledge, address common challenges, and inspire future generations. India stands for dreaming together, building together, and reaching for the stars together. Let us together write a new chapter in space exploration, guided by science and shared dreams for a better tomorrow. I wish you all a very pleasant and productive stay in India. 

    Thank you. 

    ***

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ11: Measures to revitalise industrial buildings

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Jimmy Ng and a written reply by the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn, in the Legislative Council today (May 7):

    Question:

    The 2024 Policy Address proposed to extend an array of measures to revitalise industrial buildings (IBs) until the end of 2027, including continuing to allow an increase in plot ratio of up to 20 per cent for IB redevelopment projects and exempting the restriction that 10 per cent of the gross floor area of IBs constructed before 1987 (pre-1987 IBs) be used for purposes designated by the Government after conversion. Moreover, at the end of 2023, the Government has extended the arrangement for charging land premium at standard rates for lease modifications to IBs for special industrial use. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

    (1) of the number of applications under the various IB revitalisation measures received, approved and rejected by the Government in the past three years, with a breakdown by individual measure; the average time required to vet and approve applications under the various IB revitalisation measures;

    (2) given that the authorities currently allow an increase in plot ratio of up to 20 per cent for redevelopment projects of pre-1987 IBs, whether it will consider extending the scope of the relevant arrangement to include IBs constructed after 1987 (post-1987 IBs); if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;

    (3) of the number of applications received, approved and rejected by the Government to date under the arrangement for charging land premium at standard rates in respect of lease modifications involving IBs for special industrial use; whether it will study extending the scope of the arrangement to include post-1987 IBs; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;

    (4) as the Government indicated last year that it would consider approving individual units on the lower floors of IBs to be used as eating places, whether any such cases have been approved to date; if so, of the details of such cases; whether it will consider allowing lower floor units in IBs that meet the relevant safety standards to be used for more purposes, e.g. retail and exhibition use; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;

    (5) given that the Development Blueprint for Hong Kong’s Tourism Industry 2.0 proposes to encourage the trade to develop tourism products featuring the elements of Made in Hong Kong industries, whether the Government will introduce further IB revitalisation measures to support the aforesaid work, e.g. whether it will consider relaxing the policy on waivers of land lease restrictions to allow enterprises in the industrial tourism sector to operate in individual units within existing IBs without having to separately apply for waivers of land lease restrictions or pay the waiver fee; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;

    (6) whether it will study extending the scope of the Youth Hostel Scheme and the student hostel pilot scheme to include IBs after wholesale conversion; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and

    (7) whether it will regularise all existing measures to revitalise IBs; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?

    Reply:

    President,

    The Government reactivated the Revitalisation Scheme for Industrial Buildings (Revitalisation Scheme) in 2018 which encourages redevelopment or wholesale conversion of aged industrial buildings (IB), mainly to make more effective use of the sites on which IBs are situated or the existing IBs per se to optimise the use of precious land resources, and to address fire safety and unauthorised use issues of aged IBs more effectively.

    ​My reply to various parts of the question is as follows:

    (1) On the redevelopment of IBs, the prevailing policy allows relaxation of the maximum permitted non-domestic plot ratio up to 20 per cent to provide incentives to private owners to redevelop IBs constructed before 1987 (pre-1987 IBs). In the past three years (viz. April 2022 to end-March 2025), excluding applications withdrawn by applicants, the Town Planning Board (TPB) received a total of 11 applications for relaxation of plot ratio for redevelopment of IBs, among which nine cases (involving eight sites) were approved, and the remaining two cases are being processed. Planning applications submitted in accordance with section 16 of the Town Planning Ordinance are to be considered by the TPB within two months upon receipt. Among the nine approved planning applications, six of them have applications made to the Lands Department (LandsD) for lease modification which shall be subject to payment of premium, among which two cases have been withdrawn by the applicants and four cases have been approved and are currently under land premium assessment. The owners of these four applications opted for conventional premium assessment (viz. not opting for standard rates arrangement for charging land premium). As for the remaining three cases among the aforesaid nine approved planning applications, the LandsD has yet to receive relevant application for lease modification.

    For wholesale conversion of IBs, the prevailing policy exempts waiver fees so as to encourage private owners to convert IBs aged 15 years or above in “Commercial”, “Other Specified Uses” annotated “Business” and “Industrial” zones for uses permitted under the relevant Outline Zoning Plans. The condition is that for IBs constructed in or after 1987, not less than 10 per cent of the converted floor space must be used for purposes designated by the Government (such as arts and cultural studios, incubators for innovation and technology start-ups). Such requirement on 10 per cent floor space does not apply to pre-1987 IBs. In the past three years (viz. April 2022 to end-March 2025), excluding applications withdrawn by applicants, the LandsD received a total of two applications for wholesale conversion of IBs, with one case approved and the other one being processed. The processing time for the approved case was around 20 months. The relatively long time taken was mainly due to the negotiations regarding the specified use and the related arrangement for the 10 per cent designated floor space when the owner submitted the waiver application to the LandsD. It is worth noting that, under the first round of Revitalisation Scheme launched by the Government from 2010 to 2016, around 110 applications for wholesale conversion were received. We do not rule out the possibility that a significant portion of the IBs suitable for wholesale conversion in the market may have already undergone conversion works. After the Revitalisation Scheme was reactivated in 2018, the number of applications received and cases approved for redevelopment of IBs have been significantly higher than that of the first round, reflecting greater market interest in the redevelopment measure in the current round.

    (2) The measure for encouraging redevelopment of IBs as mentioned in part (1) above targets pre-1987 IBs situated outside “Residential” zones in main urban areas and new towns. We have designated 1987 as the dividing line because the fire safety installations and equipment of pre-1987 IBs may not comply with the Code of Practice for Minimum Fire Service Installations and Equipment as revised by the Fire Services Department (FSD) in 1987, including the requirement of installing automatic sprinkler systems. From the perspective of public safety, there is a need to provide policy incentives to encourage foremost the redevelopment of pre-1987 IBs so as to meet modern standards of fire safety installation. As for post-1987 IBs, the Government currently has no plan to extend the measure concerning redevelopment to these IBs. Nevertheless, if owners wish to redevelop these IBs for non-industrial uses, they may still submit a planning application to the TPB for increasing the plot ratio. The TPB will consider the applications from a planning perspective based on the actual circumstances of each case.

    (3) The Government provides a regularised standard rates arrangement for charging land premium for the redevelopment of pre-1987 IBs as an alternative to the conventional premium assessment mechanism. The policy objective is to continuously incentivise the redevelopment of aged IBs, giving IB owners greater certainty in planning redevelopment. This encourages the redevelopment of aged IBs for optimising land utilisation, expediting urban renewal and revitalisation of IBs to meet the current needs of the society.

    The Government announced in December 2023 to expand the coverage of the standard rates arrangement for charging land premium to cover redevelopment of pre-1987 IBs for special industrial uses (e.g. leather tanning, garment manufacturing and food production). Regarding IBs for special industrial uses, in the past three years (viz. April 2022 to end-March 2025), the LandsD has received a total of four applications for lease modification for redevelopment of such pre-1987 IBs, among which one case is currently under land premium assessment with the applicant having opted for conventional premium assessment. The remaining three cases are being processed.

    The policy objective as mentioned in part (2) above, viz. to encourage redevelopment of pre-1987 IBs, also applies to the lease modification of IBs for special industrial uses. Therefore, we currently have no plan to extend the standard rates arrangement for charging premium to post-1987 IBs for special industrial uses.

    The Government will continue to closely monitor the implementation of standard rates arrangement for charging premium for redevelopment of IBs and make adjustments as and when necessary. The latest enhancement measure was rolled out last month, which separated the standard rates for the two uses under the previous “commercial/modern industrial” use after lease modification, into “modern industrial” and “commercial” uses respectively. Such separation can better reflect the land value of redeveloped IBs intended for modern industrial use and cope with the increasing demand for modern industrial sites.

    (4) Having balanced the need for public safety and optimisation of IB floor space, the Government would also exercise discretion in allowing the co-existence of industrial and non-industrial uses. Under the Revitalisation Scheme, apart from the measures mentioned in part (1) above, the Government has since 2018 relaxed the waiver application policy for IBs with fragmented ownership and yet to undergo wholesale conversion, so as to allow individual units of existing IBs to be used for specified non-industrial uses other than those permitted under the relevant land leases. Specifically, owner of individual IB units may use the units, without having to apply for a short-term waiver from the LandsD and pay waiver fees, for five specified non-industrial uses, which include “Art Studio”, “Office (Design and Media Production)”, “Office (Audio-visual Recording Studio)”, “Office (used by “specific creative industries” including design and media production companies, printing and publishing, film companies and industry organisations related to the film industry), as well as “Research, Design and Development Centre”.

    As IBs are supposed to be used for industrial purposes, and the risk of fire and other accidents involved in these industrial purposes is relatively higher, in view of public safety, the uses covered by the above relaxation measure do not include any uses or activities that directly provide services or goods to attract public visits. If IB owners intend to convert some units for industrial tourism uses (e.g. opening up production line for the public and tourists to visit), we will consult the FSD and relevant departments when we receive the waiver applications.

    If there is a buffer floor within an IB which completely separates the lower floors from the upper portion with industrial uses, an owner may convert the premises on the lowest three floors of the IB to other non-industrial uses, including shops and services, restaurants, or arts and cultural activities, subject to payment of waiver fees and compliance with planning and other relevant requirements. Earlier, we have also broadened the permissible uses of buffer floors to cover “telecommunications exchange centres” and “computer/data processing centres”. In the past three years (viz. April 2022 to end-March 2025), the LandsD has not received any waiver application for partial conversion of the lowest three floors of IBs (including for eating place use). 

    (5) The Development Blueprint for Hong Kong’s Tourism Industry 2.0 promulgated by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau in December 2024 puts forward four major development strategies covering product development, visitor source expansion, technological innovation and service enhancement, as well as 133 measures to be implemented between 2025 and 2029 to promote development, including promoting the development of tourism products related to “Made in Hong Kong” industrial elements. The Development Bureau (DEVB) will provide facilitation as and when necessary. 

    (6) As announced in the 2024 Policy Address, in order to strengthen the position of Hong Kong as an international hub for post-secondary education, the Education Bureau and the DEVB will launch a scheme in the first half of 2025 to streamline the processing of approvals in respect of planning, land administration and approval of building plans, so as to encourage the market to convert hotels and other commercial buildings into student hostels on a self-financing and privately-funded basis, thereby increasing the supply of student hostels. This scheme will apply to commercial buildings which are wholesale-converted from aged IBs.

    On the other hand, in response to young people’s aspirations of having their own living space, the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau (HYAB) will, as announced in the 2022 Policy Address and the Youth Development Blueprint, expand the Youth Hostel Scheme (YHS) and continue fully funding non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to construct youth hostels on under-utilised sites, and subsidise NGOs to rent suitable hotels and guesthouses for converting into youth hostels. The HYAB will also explore with the DEVB the launching of a site under the Land Sale Programme whereby developers will be required to reserve a certain number of flats to support the YHS on a pilot basis. So far, seven youth hostels have been launched for operation under the YHS, and the number of hostel places has increased substantially from 80 at the commencement of the current-term Government to about 3 000 at present. 

    (7) To continue encouraging redevelopment and wholesale conversion of aged IBs, the Government announced in the 2024 Policy Address the extension of the time-limited revitalisation measures for IBs up to December 2027, with enhancement of the measure on wholesale conversion. We will review the effectiveness of the Revitalisation Scheme in transforming industrial areas, and make reference to the results of a territory-wide Area Assessment on industrial land to be carried out by the Planning Department, with a view to announcing the way forward for the revitalisation measures before expiry in end-2027.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addresses the Global Conference on Space Exploration (GLEX) 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addresses the Global Conference on Space Exploration (GLEX) 2025

    Space is not merely a destination but a declaration of curiosity, courage, and collective progress: PM

    Indian rockets carry more than payloads—they carry the dreams of 1.4 billion Indians: PM

    India’s first human spaceflight mission – Gaganyaan, reflects the nation’s growing aspirations in space technology: PM

    Many of India’s space missions are being led by women scientists: PM

    India’s space vision is rooted in the ancient philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’: PM

    Posted On: 07 MAY 2025 12:37PM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressed the Global Conference on Space Exploration (GLEX) 2025 via videoconferencing today. Welcoming the distinguished delegates, scientists, and astronauts from across the globe, he highlighted India’s remarkable space journey at the GLEX 2025, stating that, “space is not merely a destination but a declaration of curiosity, courage, and collective progress”. He emphasized that India’s space achievements reflect this spirit, from launching a small rocket in 1963 to becoming the first nation to land near the Moon’s South Pole. “Indian rockets carry more than payloads—they carry the dreams of 1.4 billion Indians”, he remarked, stating that India’s space advancements are significant scientific milestones and proof that the human spirit can defy gravity. He recalled India’s historic achievement of reaching Mars on its first attempt in 2014. He highlighted that Chandrayaan-1 helped discover water on the Moon, Chandrayaan-2 provided the highest-resolution images of the lunar surface, and Chandrayaan-3 furthered understanding of the Moon’s South Pole. “India developed cryogenic engines in record time, launched 100 satellites in a single mission, and successfully deployed over 400 satellites for 34 nations using Indian launch vehicles”, he pointed out, underlining India’s latest accomplishment—docking two satellites in space this year—calling it a major step forward in space exploration.

    Shri Modi reaffirmed that India’s space journey is not about competing with others but about reaching greater heights together. He emphasized the collective goal of exploring space for the benefit of humanity. He highlighted India’s commitment to regional cooperation, recalling the successful launch of a satellite for South Asian nations. He announced that the G20 Satellite Mission, introduced during India’s Presidency, would be a significant contribution to the Global South. He remarked that India continues to advance with renewed confidence, constantly pushing the boundaries of scientific exploration. “India’s first human spaceflight mission, ‘Gaganyaan,’ reflects the nation’s growing aspirations in space technology”, he pointed out. Shri Modi revealed that, in the coming weeks, an Indian astronaut would travel to space as part of a joint ISRO-NASA mission to the International Space Station. He further outlined India’s long-term vision, stating that by 2035, the Bharatiya Antariksha Station would facilitate groundbreaking research and international collaboration. He declared that by 2040, an Indian astronaut would leave footprints on the Moon and added that Mars and Venus remain key targets in India’s future space ambitions.

    Emphasizing that for India, space is not just about exploration but also empowerment, the Prime Minister highlighted how space technology enhances governance, improves livelihoods, and inspires generations. He noted the vital role of satellites in ensuring the welfare of every Indian, citing their contributions to fishermen alerts, the GatiShakti platform, railway safety, and weather forecasting. He underscored India’s commitment to fostering innovation by opening its space sector to startups, entrepreneurs, and young minds. He pointed out that India now has over 250 space startups, contributing to advancements in satellite technology, propulsion systems, imaging, and other pioneering fields. “Many of India’s space missions are being led by women scientists”, he proudly acknowledged.

    “India’s space vision is rooted in the ancient philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’”, reaffirmed Shri Modi, stressing that India’s space journey is not just about its own growth but about enriching global knowledge, addressing shared challenges, and inspiring future generations. He emphasized India’s commitment to collaboration, stating that the nation stands for dreaming together, building together, and reaching for the stars together. Concluding his remarks, he called for a new chapter in space exploration, guided by science and the collective aspiration for a better future.

     

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Cabinet approves National Scheme for Industrial Training Institute (ITI) Upgradation and Setting up of Five National Centres of Excellence for Skilling

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 MAY 2025 12:12PM by PIB Delhi

    In a major step towards transforming vocational education in India, the Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the National Scheme for Industrial Training Institute (ITI) Upgradation and the Setting up of five (5) National Centres of Excellence for Skilling as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme.

    National Scheme for Industrial Training Institute (ITI) Upgradation and Setting up of five (5) National Centres of Excellence (NCOE) for Skilling will be implemented as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme as per announcement, made under Budget 2024-25 and Budget 2025-26 with outlay of Rs.60,000 crore (Central Share: Rs.30,000 crore, State Share: Rs.20,000 crore and Industry Share: Rs.10,000 crore), with co-financing to the extent of 50% of Central share by the Asian Development Bank and the World Bank, equally.

    The scheme will focus on upgradation of 1,000 Government ITIs in hub and spoke arrangement with industry aligned revamped trades (courses) and Capacity Augmentation of five (5) National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs), including   setting up of five National Centres of Excellence for Skilling in these institutes.

    The Scheme aims to position existing ITIs as government-owned, industry-managed aspirational institutes of skills, in collaboration with State Governments and industry. Over a five-year period, 20 lakh youth will be skilled through courses that address the human capital needs of industries. The scheme will focus on ensuring alignment between local workforce supply and industry demand, thereby facilitating industries, including MSMEs, in accessing employment-ready workers.

    The financial assistance provided under various schemes in the past was suboptimal to meet the full upgradation needs of ITIs, particularly in addressing growing investment requirements for infrastructure upkeep, capacity expansion, and the introduction of capital-intensive, new-age trades. To overcome this, a need-based investment provision has been kept under the proposed scheme, allowing flexibility in fund allocation based on the specific infrastructure, capacity, and trade-related requirements of each institution. For the first time, the scheme seeks to establish deep industry connect in planning and management of ITI upgradation on a sustained basis.   The scheme will adopt an industry-led Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) model for an outcome-driven implementation strategy, making it distinct from previous efforts to improve the ITI ecosystem.

    Under the scheme, infrastructure upgradation for improved Training of Trainers (ToT) facilities will be undertaken in five National Skill.  Training Institutes (NSTIs), namely Bhubaneswar, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kanpur, and Ludhiana. Additionally, pre-service and in-service training will be provided to 50,000 trainers.

    By addressing long-standing challenges in infrastructure, course relevance, employability, and the perception of vocational training, the scheme aims to position ITIs at the forefront to cater to skilled manpower requirement, aligned to the nation’s journey to becoming a global manufacturing and innovation powerhouse.  It will create a pipeline of skilled workers aligned with industry demand, thereby addressing skill shortages in high-growth sectors such as electronics, automotive, and renewable energy. In sum, the proposed scheme aligns with the  Prime Minister’s vision of Viksit Bharat, with skilling as a key enabler to meet both current and future industry needs.

    Background:

    Vocational education and training can be an immense driver of economic growth and productivity, as India embarks on its aspirational journey towards a developed nation by 2047. Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) have been the backbone of vocational education and training in India since the 1950s, operating under State Governments. While ITI network has expanded by nearly 47% since 2014, reaching 14,615 across with 14.40 lakh enrolment, vocational training via ITIs remains less aspirational and have also suffered from lack of systemic interventions to improve their infrastructure, and appeal.

    While in the past there have been schemes to support the upgradation of ITIs, it is perhaps, the best time to scale incremental efforts of the last decade through a nationally scalable program for ITI re-imagination with course content and design aligned with industry needs to create a pool of skilled workforce as one of the key enablers to realize the goal of Viksit Bharat.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Cabinet approves expansion of academic and infrastructure capacity of five Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) established in Andhra Pradesh (Tirupati), Chhattisgarh (Bhilai), Jammu & Kashmir (Jammu), Karnataka (Dharwad) and Kerala (Palakkad)

    Source: Government of India

    Cabinet approves expansion of academic and infrastructure capacity of five Indian  Institutes of Technology (IITs) established in Andhra Pradesh (Tirupati),  Chhattisgarh (Bhilai), Jammu & Kashmir (Jammu),  Karnataka (Dharwad) and Kerala (Palakkad)

    Expansion to facilitate more than 6500 students to study in these premier Institutes

    Five new state-of-art  research parks are also coming up to strengthen industry-academia linkage

    Posted On: 07 MAY 2025 12:10PM by PIB Delhi

    The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, today approved expansion of academic and infrastructure capacity (Phase-`B’ construction) of five new IlTs which had been established in the States/UT of Andhra Pradesh (IIT Tirupati), Kerala (IIT Palakkad), Chhattisgarh (IIT Bhilai), Jammu & Kashmir (IIT Jammu) and Karnataka (HT Dharwad).

    The total cost for the same is Rs.11,828.79 crore over a period of four years from 2025-26 to 2028-29.

    The Cabinet has  also approved creation of 130 faculty posts (at the level of Professor i.e. Level 14 & above) in these IlTs.

    Five new state-of-art research parks are also coming up to strengthen industry-academia linkage.

    Implementation strategy and targets:

    Student strength in these IITs will be increased by more than 6500 in the next four years with enhancement of 1364 students in 1st year, 1738 students in 2nd year, 1767 students in 3rd year and 1707 students in 4th year across Under Graduate (UG), Post Graduate (PG) and PhD program put together.

    Beneficiaries:

    On completion of construction, these five IITs shall be able to cater 13,687 students as against current student strength of 7,111 i.e. an increase of 6,576 students. With this increase in the total number of seats, additional more than 6,500 students will now be able to fulfil their aspirations of studying in the most prestigious and sought-after educational institutions in the country. This will foster nation-building by creating a skilled workforce, driving innovation, and boosting economic growth. It enhances social mobility, reduces educational inequality, and strengthens India’s global position.

    Employment Generation:

    Direct employment will be generated through the hiring of faculty, administrative staff, researchers, and support personnel to manage the increased number of students and facilities. Also, the expansion of IIT campuses stimulates local economies by generating demand for housing, transportation, and services. The increased number of graduates and postgraduates from IITs further fuels innovation and startup ecosystems, contributing to employment generation across diverse sectors.

    States and districts:

    These five IITs are situated in the States/UT of Andhra Pradesh (IIT Tirupati), Kerala (IIT Palakkad), Chhattisgarh (IIT Bhilai), Jammu & Kashmir (IIT Jammu) and Karnataka (IIT Dharwad). However, admission to IITs, is on pan-India basis and hence this expansion will benefit all states/UTs across the country.

    Budget Announcement of 2025-26 stated:

    ‘Total number of students in 23 IlTs has increased 100 per cent from 65,000 to 1.35 lakh in the past 10 years. Additional infrastructure will be created in the five IlTs started after 2014 to facilitate education for 6,500 more students.’

    Background:

    These five new IlTs had been established in the States/UT of Andhra Pradesh (IIT Tirupati), Kerala (IIT Palakkad), Chhattisgarh (IIT Bhilai), Jammu & Kashmir (IIT Jammu) and Karnataka (IIT Dharwad). The academic session of IlTs at Palakkad and Tirupati started in 2015-16 and that of remaining three in 2016-17 from their temporary campuses. These IITs are now functioning from their permanent campuses.

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  • MIL-OSI China: ROC (Taiwan) government congratulates Singapore on successful completion of general election

    Source: Republic of Taiwan – Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    ROC (Taiwan) government congratulates Singapore on successful completion of general election

    • Date：2025-05-04
    • Data Source：Department of East Asian and Pacific Affairs

    May 4, 2025
    No. 134

    Singapore smoothly completed the election of its 15th Parliament on May 4. The result was a victory for Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and the People’s Action Party that he leads. On behalf of the government of the Republic of China (Taiwan), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses its sincere congratulations to the people and government of Singapore on the successful conclusion of yet another parliamentary election.

    Taiwan and Singapore have long shared cordial ties. Bilateral cooperation has developed steadily in recent years, with the two sides maintaining close exchanges in economics, trade, semiconductors, technology, culture, and other domains. Taiwan looks forward to building on the existing foundations to further deepen collaboration with Singapore, jointly respond to global and regional challenges, and contribute to the advancement of peace, stability, and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific. (E) 

     

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  • MIL-OSI China: MOFA congratulates Australia on successful completion of federal election

    Source: Republic of Taiwan – Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    MOFA congratulates Australia on successful completion of federal election

    • Date：2025-05-04
    • Data Source：Department of East Asian and Pacific Affairs

    May 4, 2025
    No.136

    Australia held a federal election on May 3 to elect its 48th Parliament, including all 150 seats of the House of Representatives and 40 of the 76 seats in the Senate. According to the results, the ruling Australian Labor Party won a majority of seats. The smooth and peaceful election process was characteristic of a mature democracy. On behalf of the government of the Republic of China (Taiwan), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses sincere congratulations to the people and government of Australia.

    Taiwan and Australia share the universal values of democracy, freedom, the rule of law, and human rights. Bilateral relations have continued to steadily grow in recent years. Collaboration is close in such fields as economics and trade, science and technology, information security, energy, and whole-of-society defense resilience. Last August, the Australian Senate passed an urgency motion refuting China’s flagrant misrepresentation of United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758. The passage of the motion underlined the staunch cross-party support for Taiwan in the Australian Parliament.

    Building on these robust foundations, the government of Taiwan hopes to further enhance cooperation in all domains with the new government of Australia and jointly work to promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. (E)

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: GlobalData revises down global MAT insurance industry growth forecast due to increased US tariffs

    Source: GlobalData

    The global marine, aviation, and transit (MAT) insurance industry, which was forecasted to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.9% before the imposition of the reciprocal tariff from the US, is now expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.4% during 2025-29, in terms of written premiums, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    On April 02, 2025, the US President announced “reciprocal” tariffs on imports. These tariffs include a base 10% plus additional tariffs ranging from 10% to 245%. Higher tariffs are typically imposed on specific products, but the blanket tariff rate of 10% on all countries will negatively impact the global economy. The countries that are mostly dependent on exports to the US will be severely impacted. However, there is a hold on this tariff for 90 days, except for China.

    According to GlobalData’s Insurance Database, the US accounted for around 50% of the global MAT insurance premiums in 2024. As per the revised forecast, high reciprocal tariffs will reduce US MAT insurance premiums by 1.4% in 2025, whereas the premiums of global MAT insurance will be impacted by 0.7%. The US is the largest importer in the world, with Mexico, China, Canada, Germany, and Japan being the top 5 exporting countries in 2023, accounting for 53% of the total US imports.

    GlobalData expects the CAGR of MAT insurance premiums during 2025-29 to reduce by 0.5pp in Mexico, 0.6pp in China, 0.5pp in Canada, 0.5pp in Germany, and 0.2pp in Japan.

    Swarup Kumar Sahoo, Senior Insurance Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “The ‘Liberation Day’ tariff will disrupt the global MAT insurance as the premium growth will slow down in 2025 and subsequent years compared to the previous forecast. Although the global MAT business will experience a temporary surge during April-June 2025 due to the 90-day pause in the tariff, the growth will slow down once the tariff is in place. This will also impact the profitability of MAT insurers across the world.”

    The US has imposed a tariff in the range of 20% (Germany and Italy) to 245% (China) on the top 10 exporters, which contribute 69% of the total US imports, according to the Observatory of Economic Complexity (OEC). Marine cargo business of all the markets except Canada and Mexico will be impacted, whereas for Mexico and Canada, which account for 29% of the total US imports, the aviation cargo and transit insurance will be disrupted.

    Sahoo adds: “The decline in MAT premiums growth rate will be due to both a decline in exports and the value of exported goods. In case the exporter absorbs the cost of the tariff, the cost of goods will go down, and this will reduce the sum insured and the respective premium amount. On the other hand, if the importer bears this, it will be passed on to the consumer, leading to a decline in demand.”

    To offset higher tariffs, importers have started either consolidating shipments or increasing the order size. The risk of theft and damage has increased due to the concentration of high-value goods at various points. Furthermore, the imposition of revised tariffs across countries will create complexities in customs clearance, leading to an increase in demurrage and detention fees.

    Insurers are expected to incur additional costs to rewrite such policies by considering the complexities and associated additional risks. Additionally, increased claims in marine cargo, aviation cargo, and transit will impact the profitability of insurers.

    Starting May 02, 2025, the US will eliminate the exemption of import tariffs on goods under $800 from China and Hong Kong. Due to this, DHL has suspended high-value business-to-consumer shipments to the US. Also, various airlines have suspended air cargo services for high-value goods. This will directly impact the air cargo insurance business.

    Sahoo concludes: “The imposition of the higher tariff will disrupt the global MAT insurance, impacting premiums growth, while increasing the associated risks. Insurers need to be vigilant as higher claims would erode profitability. Furthermore, MAT insurers in the US will lose their global market share as they write half of the global MAT business.”

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Suntory’s advertising campaigns emphasize refreshment, tradition, and social connections to engage diverse audiences, reveals GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Suntory’s advertising campaigns emphasize refreshment, tradition, and social connections to engage diverse audiences, reveals GlobalData

    Posted in Business Fundamentals

    Suntory Holdings Ltd’s (Suntory) YouTube advertising campaigns of Q1 2025 (January – March 2025) focused on delivering refreshing beverages, celebrating Japanese heritage, and fostering meaningful connections through shared experiences. Suntory’s campaigns showcase a wide range of offerings, from Craft Boss World Tea to Suntory Whisky Hibiki Harmony, emphasizing the company’s dedication to quality and authenticity. Targeting young adults, families, and connoisseurs, Suntory presents its products as perfect for unwinding, social events, and celebrating cultural heritage, reveals Global Ads Platform of GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    Satya Prasad Nayak, Ads Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Suntory’s advertisements effectively blend modernity with tradition, showcasing products like Iyemon Green Tea alongside offerings such as The Premium Malt’s Japanese Ale. The use of strategic celebrity endorsements, including Tommy Lee Jones and Muto Keiji, created relatable yet aspirational narratives. Campaigns like Tennensui’s Hello Kitty partnership and Jim Beam’s focus on camaraderie reflect Suntory’s dedication to diverse consumer values, from family well-being to refined craftsmanship, fostering trust and engagement across varied demographics.”

    Below are the key focus areas of Suntory’s advertisements, revealed by GlobalData’s Global Ads Platform:

    Celebrating Togetherness: The Craft Boss World Tea, with its range of Fruit Tea Ade and Milk Tea, invites families to connect over diverse flavors. Just as Jim Beam bourbon brings friends together, fostering camaraderie through shared experiences. Whether it’s a family gathering or a business trip toast, both brands understand the importance of shared moments, offering the perfect drinks to celebrate every bond.

    Healthy Lifestyle: Suntory Tennensui Marushibori SPARK Unsweetened promotes a balanced lifestyle with its unsweetened, whole-pressed fruit sparkling water. The natural ingredients and invigorating sparkle appeal to health-conscious consumers seeking refreshing, sugar-free beverages that align with their wellness goals.

    Cultural Heritage and Craftsmanship: Suntory leveraged traditional Japanese elements in advertisements like Iyemon Green Tea and Hibiki Whisky. From showcasing Nishijin-ori dyeing in Hibiki to Kyoto’s tea traditions in Iyemon, the brand appealed to those who value artistry, legacy, and cultural depth—strengthening emotional ties to its premium product lines.

    Family Well-being: The collaboration between Tennensui and Hello Kitty promoted emergency preparedness through a lighthearted lens. By featuring family-friendly characters and emphasizing hydration during crises, Suntory demonstrated care for household safety, making its water products essential and relatable for families with young children.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –