2016 HONG KONG in brief

Information Services Department

Brand HK’s visual identity and brandline have become familiar to people at home and around the world — the flying dragon and ’Asia’s world city’ have become synonymous with Hong Kong.

The blue and green ribbons that extend from the dragon symbolise blue sky and a sustainable environment, while Lion Rock — the famous landmark that represents Hong Kong people’s ’can-do’ spirit — is silhouetted by the red ribbon. The fluid shape of the ribbons evokes versatility, and the multiple colours signify the city’s diversity and dynamism. Contents ABOUT HONG KONG 4 Location Population Language Climate International Trading Centre Global Services Centre International Corporate Base Free Trade and Free Market Efficient Government Monetary System Rule of Law Airport Hong Kong Port ECONOMIC COMPETITIVENESS 9 Economic Development Economic Policy International Financial Centre Economic Links with Mainland LIVING IN HONG KONG 16 Government Structure Legal System Employment Education Health Housing Transport Pollution and Environmental Control Law and Order Tax System Mandatory Provident Fund Media Telecommunications COMING TO HONG KONG 32 Tourism Immigration Leisure and Culture Traditional Festivals FUTURE OF HONG KONG 38 Capitalising on Existing Advantages to Unleash Hong Kong’s Potential Asia’s Cyber City for the Cyber Century Infrastructure Projects for the 21st Century HONG KONG: THE FACTS 44 USEFUL CONTACTS 46

3 About Hong Kong 5 Global Services Centre exporter of Hong Kong was the world’s 15th largest business and services in 2014. Travel, transport, financial, of the trade-related services are the main components city’s trade in services. Climate is sub-tropical, tending towards Hong Kong’s climate half the year. Temperatures can temperate for nearly and often exceed drop below 10 degrees Celsius in winter per cent of the 31 degrees Celsius in summer. About 80 rainfall occurs between May and September. International Trading Centre economy Hong Kong is the world’s ninth largest trading in 2013, in 2014, fifth largest foreign exchange market 2015 seventh largest banking centre as at September 2015. It is also and fourth largest stock market in Asia in wide range of one of the world’s leading exporters of a consumer goods. Language and English Chinese are the official English languages. within is widely used the Government the legal, and also by and professional business sectors. There is no shortage of well-educated, competent bilingual who speak English, or even trilingual professionals — important for doing Cantonese and Putonghua or with the Mainland and Taiwan. business in Hong Kong Described as a ‘barren Described 150 years rock’ some Kong is a ago, Hong financial, world-class business trading and and, centre today indeed, a great world city. There are not many natural resources, and yet great harbour is one of the finest deep- water ports in the world. A hardworking, entrepreneurial water ports in the world. of more than 7.31 million and well-educated population of Hong Kong’s productivity people forms the foundation and creativity. a Special Administrative Region Hong Kong became Republic of China (PRC) on July (HKSAR) of the People’s rule. Under 1, 1997, after a century and a half of British Basic Law, Hong Kong’s constitutional document, the will be the existing economic, legal and social systems a high degree maintained for 50 years. The HKSAR enjoys affairs. of autonomy except in defence and foreign As at mid-2015, the population was about 7.31 million, As at mid-2015, the population was about including predominantly of Chinese ethnicity but also foreign 623 730 non-PRC nationals. The three largest Indonesia groups were from the Philippines (180 780), (165 750) stood at and India (30 870). Average people per square 760 population density was kilometre. 6 Population Location tip of China Hong Kong’s position, at the south-eastern Asia, gives it and in the heart of rapidly developing East proportion to economic and strategic importance out of the territory its size. Covering 1 105.62 square kilometres, Peninsula, the comprises Hong Kong Island, the Kowloon Hong Kong — New Territories — the more rural part of and 262 outlying islands. About Hong Kong Hong About ABOUT HONG KONG HONG ABOUT 4 About Hong Kong 7 Rule of Law Hong Kong has a well- established and trusted legal system based on the common law. The of rights and freedoms are Hong Kong residents rule safeguarded by the of law, an independent judiciary, and legal aid, a free and active press. Airport regional aviation Hong Kong is a major international and is the hub. Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) and among world’s busiest international cargo gateway It is served the world’s 10 busiest passenger airports. and/orby over 100 airlines providing passenger freight including services to around 195 destinations worldwide, 48 cities on the Mainland. with all three HKIA achieved a successful year in 2015 During traffic categories setting new annual records. Monetary System Monetary maintain policy is to monetary Kong’s of Hong The aim Rate System, The Linked Exchange currency stability. by this aim in October 1983, accommodates introduced US exchange rate to the Hong Kong dollar’s linking the at HK$7.8 to US$1. dollar, set The HKSAR Government is well known for its efficiency, The HKSAR Government is well known for takes an transparency and fairness. The Government lends a ’appropriately’ proactive approach and readily It works hard to hand to business people and companies. fair competition. remove market restrictions and promote Efficient Government Free Trade and Free Market trade. It hasHong Kong advocates and practises free a virtually no trade free and liberal investment regime with discrimination against non-local investors. barriers or well-established There is freedom of capital movement, a regulations, rule of law, transparent and straight-forward and a simple, low-tax system. In 2015, the HKSAR Government helped a record 375 In 2015, the HKSAR their expand companies set up or overseas and Mainland companies came from a These Kong. Hong in presence business and professional variety of sectors, including: creative industries; financial services; consumer products; and communications technology; services; information tourism and hospitality; and innovation and technology; Taken together, they accounted transport and industrial. and will for direct investment of over HK$10 billion first two years of create nearly 7 000 new jobs within the operation or expansion in Hong Kong. to 7 904 As at June 1, 2015, Hong Kong was home their overseas and Mainland companies representing Kong. Of those, parent companies located outside Hong regional offices. 3 798 served as regional headquarters or International Corporate Base Corporate International ABOUT HONG KONG HONG ABOUT 6 Economic Competitiveness 9 consecutive year. The Fraser Institute in Canada, consecutive year. The nd Economic Development Economic and cosmopolitan city, is an international Hong Kong environment, rule of its business-friendly known for and information, open and free flow of law, free trade and comprehensive well-established fair competition, transport and communications financial networks, superb support services, a flexible infrastructure, sophisticated well-educated and highly motivated labour market with a of energetic entrepreneurs. Hong workforce, and a pool foreign exchange reserves, a fully Kong has substantial currency, and a simple, low-tax convertible and stable system. Economy Free and Competitive was ranked the world's freest In 2016, Hong Kong Heritage Foundation for the economy by the US-based 22 Economic Competitiveness Economic has also consistently ranked Hong Kong number one has also consistently ranked Hong Kong in 2015. in the world in terms of economic freedom Management Moreover, the International Institute for the fourth Development recognised Hong Kong as and second in most competitive economy in the world Asia in its 2014 Yearbook while The Global Financial by the Z/YenCentres Index 16 Group ranked Hong Kong third globally, after New York and London, and first in Asia. Hong Kong was also the world’s fourth largest foreign direct investment destination and the second largest in Asia in 2013, after only the Mainland, according to the World Investment Report 2014 on Trade published by the United Nations Conference and Development. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) Real Growth economy has Over the past two decades, the Hong Kong at an average nearly doubled in size, with GDP growing This means that annual rate of 3.4 per cent in real terms. the world’s busiest container ports. The nine container the world’s busiest container ports. The by five terminals at Kwai Chung-Tsing Yi are managed provide 24 berths operators. They cover 279 hectares and depth at the with a frontage of 7 694 metres. The water Kwai Chung-Tsing Yi basin is 15.5 metres. 26 753 ocean In 2015, 100 547 cargo vessels, comprising the Hong Kong vessels and 73 794 river vessels, called at of cargo. port. Together they carried 257 million tonnes vessels In addition, there were 2 258 ocean passenger about 30.3 and 84 714 river passenger vessels carrying million cross-boundary ferry and cruise passengers. Hong Kong Port harbour handled 20.1 million TEUs In 2015, Hong Kong’s of containers, making it one of (20-foot equivalent units) the year, the HKIA welcomed 68.5 million passengers million passengers 68.5 welcomed the HKIA the year, representing movements, 048 aircraft 406 and handled respectively over of 8.1% and 3.8% annual growth was 4.38 million tonnes, cargo throughput 2014. Annual up 0.1% year-on-year. the has been named in July 1998, HKIA Since opening in different surveys. airport over 50 times world’s best ABOUT HONG KONG HONG ABOUT 8 Economic Competitiveness 11 Hong Kong is an international financial centre with an Hong Kong is an international financial centre and markets. integrated network of financial institutions develop a The Government’s policy is to maintain and administrative sound legal, regulatory, infrastructural and for all, framework and provide a level playing field monetary maintain the stability of the financial and effectively systems, and to enable Hong Kong to compete against other financial centres. of a In addition, Hong Kong enjoys the advantages the time favourable geographical position that bridges International Financial Centre In addition, the Government has a special responsibility to special responsibility has a Government the In addition, fair competition. and promote restrictions market remove facilitating the considerable strides It has made in a fair and efficient of financial markets development information and in opening up the manner, and and broadcasting technology telecommunications to has a responsibility Government also markets. The enjoys competitive where Hong Kong help industries markets. advantages to tap new The Government protects Kong’s and promotes Hong in the commercial interests international arena through forums or participation in such Trade institutions as the World the Asia- Organization (WTO), Pacific Economic Cooperation and the Pacific Economic and by Cooperation Council, negotiating and entering into bilateral arrangements with other economies. Prudent Fiscal Management management The Government adheres to prudent fiscal with low tax while maintaining a simple tax structure to work and rates that provide people with the incentive tax rate of entrepreneurs to invest. The corporate profits per cent are low 16.5 per cent and salaries tax rate of 15 by international standards. 09. Economic vitality is the key to maintaining 09. Economic vitality is the key to maintaining - Hong Kong’s competitiveness and prosperity. Level Playing Field the most The HKSAR Government aims to provide include the business-friendly conditions possible. These the rule of law, fundamental software of personal liberty, a level playing a clean and efficient administration and hardware field for all businesses, as well as infrastructural Kong’s growth. such as schools and roads vital to Hong Hong Kong has long been well known for its market- Hong Kong has long been well known for has driven economic policy. The market mechanism to respond served Hong Kong well and is the best way will, effectively in a fast-changing age. The Government are in place for however, ensure that the right conditions the proper and efficient functioning of markets. measures Where necessary, the Government introduces stability in the to safeguard macro-economic and social financial crisis face of external shocks, such as the global of 2008 Economic Policy Hong Kong has outperformed most of the economies of the economies most outperformed Kong has Hong and Co-operation for Economic Organisation of the more capita GDP rose by Hong Kong’s per Development. of annual growth rate cent with an average than 60 per Hong the same period. in real terms during 2.5 per cent US$42,400 at current capita GDP rose to Kong’s per in 2015. market prices ECONOMIC COMPETITIVENESS ECONOMIC 10 Economic Competitiveness 13

second largest economy in the world. has the unique Hong Kong, with its international outlook, As an advantage of having the Mainland as its hinterland. business and international financial centre and a regional to trading hub, Hong Kong will continue to contribute on the and benefit from the rapid economic developments Mainland. Economic Links with Mainland and investment Hong Kong is the premier gateway for trade the rest of the on the Mainland, and for Mainland trade with reform and world. Since the Mainland adopted its economic Hong Kong open-door policy in 1978, economic links with have gone from strength to strength. the success China’s accession to the WTO in 2001 signalled economic growth of its economic reform policies. With rapid is now the over the past three decades, the Mainland Hong Kong's position as an international financial centre centre financial an international as Kong's position Hong Renminbi(RMB) premier offshore and a hub. At the public companies were 2015, 1 866 end of December and Clearing Limited. Kong Exchanges listed on Hong at HK$24,683 billion capitalisation stood Total market largest Kong the fourth billion), making Hong (US$3,185 in Asia. stock market has been promoting the Government In recent years, of the bond market through the further development Programme. It has provided the the Government Bond and tax incentives, in necessary financial infrastructure addition to promoting the local bond market overseas In June 2015, the Government and on the Mainland. 'sukuk' under the Government Bond issued Islamic bonds billion, five-year government Programme. The US$1 structure, making Hong Kong 'sukuk' was in Wakalah sukuk issuer to adopt the first AAA-rated government the flexibility of Hong this structure and demonstrating There are also ongoing efforts Kong's issuance platform. investment. By to enhance investor education on bond of Hong the end of 2015, the total outstanding amount billion. Kong dollar debt had reached HK$1,525 The international financial The international financial community has a strong presence in Hong Kong. At the end of December 2015, there were 157 licensed banks, of which 150 were foreign-owned. Of the world’s top 100 gap between North America and Europe, strong links strong and Europe, America North gap between in Southeast economies and other the Mainland with with the rest of communications Asia and excellent into on capital flows There are no restrictions the world. Hong Kong. and out of a Kong to become have enabled Hong These factors centre. financial leading international Financial Markets markets are distinguished by a Hong Kong’s financial They operate under effective high degree of liquidity. that meet international and transparent regulations workforce and ease of standards. A highly educated further contribute to the entry for overseas professionals markets. development of financial Banking Sector A further banks, 74 had operations in the HKSAR. here. 63 foreign banks had representative offices Foreign Exchange Market exchange Hong Kong has a mature and active foreign market. Links market, that is an integral part of the global dealing with centres overseas facilitate foreign exchange the world’s fifth 24 hours a day worldwide. Hong Kong is according largest centre for foreign exchange trading, Bank for to the 2013 triennial global survey by the International Settlements. Stock and Bond Markets world's largest in Hong Kong's stock market is one of the terms of market capitalisation. The Shanghai-Hong Kong reinforces Stock Connect, launched in November 2014, ECONOMIC COMPETITIVENESS ECONOMIC 12 Economic Competitiveness 15 Offshore RMB business Offshore RMB business financial regulators and the Together with relevant has been promoting markets, the HKSAR Government RMB business in Hong Kong the development of offshore expanding use of RMB in cross-border since 2004. With the RMB business in Hong Kong has transactions, the offshore in recent years. Hong Kong is now the been growing rapidly RMB business hub, and financing world’s largest offshore centre. As at the end of 2015, RMB and asset management outstanding RMB certificates of customer deposits and RMB1,010.4 billion, accounting for deposit issued totalled offshore pool of RMB liquidity. A some 60 per cent of the dim sum bonds, wide range of RMB products ranging from products, listed and unlisted investment funds, insurance shares and currency futures, real estate investment trusts, derivative products are available in the market. Under the framework of CEPA, the Mainland and Hong Kong Hong Kong and the Mainland of CEPA, the framework Under Agreement) (the in Services on Trade the Agreement signed of liberalisation achieve 2015 to basically November on 27 places. The Agreement between the two trade in services the trade sectors on or partially 153 services opens up fully industry, accounting the Hong Kong services Mainland to is The Agreement of all services trade sectors. for 95.6% from 1 June 2016. implemented The Mainland is also a major investor in Hong Kong’s The Mainland is also a major investor in Hong economy. As at June 2015,Mainland companies 091 1 and local operate regional headquarters, regional offices offices in Hong Kong. amounted to Total direct investment from the Mainland second largest US$450.4 billion at end-2014, making it the source of inward direct investment. CEPA has significantly enhanced economic links between CEPA has significantly enhanced economic implemented Hong Kong and the Mainland since it was Hong on 1 January 2004. Under this free-trade pact, tariff-free Kong goods meeting CEPA rules of origin enjoy suppliers access to the Mainland, while Hong Kong service sectors to the enjoy preferential access in almost all service Mainland market beyond China’s WTO commitments. Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Economic Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA) Investments between Hong Kong and the Mainland Investments between largest source of realised Hong Kong is the Mainland’s According to the Mainland’s foreign direct investment. value of Hong Kong’s realised direct statistics, the cumulative to US$839.8 billion, accounting for investment amounted value of inward direct investment 51 per cent of the total Guangdong’s economic links with as at end-January 2016. amongst the Mainland provinces. Hong Kong are the closest billion, of Hong Kong accounted for 63 per cent, or US$239 investment as at Guangdong Province's total realised direct end-2015. Hong Kong is a major services centre for the Mainland for the Mainland is a major services centre Hong Kong Delta in particular, providing for the Pearl River generally and and other business support a wide range of financial and finance, insurance, transport, services such as banking promotion. accounting and sales The Mainland is Hong Kong’s largest trading partner, accounting accounting largest trading partner, Kong’s is Hong The Mainland in Kong’s total trade value more than half of Hong for slightly Kong’s re-export 90 per cent of Hong 2015. About is trade for both the largest market Mainland, making it linked to the re-exports. source of Hong Kong’s and the largest Trade with the Mainland with the Trade ECONOMIC COMPETITIVENESS ECONOMIC 14 Living in Hong Kong 17 Legal System of law and The legal system is firmly based on the rule the ‘One the independence of the judiciary. Under by the Country, Two Systems’ principle, sanctioned Republic of National People’s Congress of the People‘s legal system China, the HKSAR maintains a separate based on common law. Judiciary success is A key element in the HKSAR’s continuing principle of its judicial system, which operates on the branches independence from the executive and legislative the common of government — factors fundamental to in law system. The courts make their own judgments bodies or disputes involving private individuals, corporate the Government itself. Court of Final Appeal appellate The Court of Final Appeal (CFA), the highest Justice. The court in the HKSAR, is headed by the Chief responsibility for matters falling within their respective responsibility for matters additional layers of political portfolios. In 2008, two Deputy Directors of Bureau and appointees, namely created to help them carry out Political Assistants, were Service, the backbone of the political work. The Civil to assist in policy formulation and Government, continues implementation.

Council’s sixth government. The Legislative government. The Legislative and Council enacts laws, examines and approves taxation government budgets, and public expenditure. All 70 members of the Legislative Council are elected, with four-year terms of office. The Legislative 4 September, 2016. At the local level, 18 District Councils advise on the term election was held on Government Structure Government enjoys a high degree Basic Law, the HKSAR Under the The affairs and defence. except in foreign of autonomy and independent executive, legislative HKSAR exercises final adjudication. including that of judicial power, The Chief Executive is the head of the HKSAR and is The Chief Executive by the Executive Council, the advised on major decisions appointed by the Chief Executive. members of which are Representative Government system of representative The HKSAR has a two-tier Living in Hong Kong Hong in Living implementation of policies in their respective districts. implementation of policies in their respective was held The fifth-term District Council ordinary election of 458 seats, on 22 November 2015. There are a total seats. comprising 431 elected seats and 27 ex-officio 1 January 2016 to Their term of office is four years from 31 December 2020. Administrative Structure Appointment The Government introduced the Political of System in 2002. Under the system, the offices of Bureau Secretaries of Department and Directors political are held by political appointees, who assume LIVING IN HONG KONG HONG IN LIVING 16 Living in Hong Kong 19 12 Years’ Free Education education Starting from the 2008-09 school year, free senior was extended from nine years to 12 to include secondary education provided by public-sector secondary full schools. The Government also began providing by the subvention for full-time programmes offered 3 school Vocational Training Council for Secondary free avenue leavers, thus making available an alternative than through for students to further their studies other mainstream education. Higher Education education Hong Kong has 20 degree-awarding higher academy for institutions, including 10 universities, an institutions. performing arts and nine post-secondary among In 2015, two of the institutions were ranked the world’s top 50 universities and four institutions among were also rated second, fifth, sixth and ninth Asian universities by Quacquarelli Symonds. Education spending, government of largest element is the Education of total government for about one-fifth accounting provides in 2015-16. The Government expenditure ensure that no student assistance to student financial and to lack of means to education due is denied access maintain a high standard various measures to implements of education. and

1 A five-judge bench A five-judge rules on hears and the court appeals, and invite may, as required, Hong a non-permanent Kong judge or a non- permanent judge from other common law jurisdictions to sit on per cent in financing @ per cent worked in the @ per cent in transportation, per cent in import / export, @ @

per cent in public administration, and @ The accommodation services sector covers hotels, guesthouses, boarding houses and other The accommodation services sector covers hotels, guesthouses, boarding establishments providing short-term accommodation. on. Figures refer to the third quarter of 2015 and are subject to revision later

social and personal services; 20 storage, postal and courier services, and information storage, postal and courier services, and and communications. Only 3 wholesale and retail trades, and accommodation and insurance, real estate, and professional and and insurance, real estate, and professional business services; and 11 CFA consists of three permanent judges, a panel of a panel judges, three permanent of CFA consists non- and 10 Kong judges Hong four non-permanent common law jurisdictions. judges from other permanent Justice heads the Judiciary, assisted the court. The Chief by the Judiciary Administrator. in overall administration 1 @ In May-June 2015, the median monthly wage of non- (US$1,999). Government employees was HK$15,500 Employment most valued asset and key to Manpower is Hong Kong’s The Government strives its economic competitiveness. remains dynamic, well- to ensure that the workforce and has ample opportunity for motivated and adaptable, continuous improvement. Labour Market and Wages million, of In 2015, the labour force was about 3.91 cent women. which 51 per cent were men and 49 per in the The majority of employed people were engaged services sector, with 31 food services; 26 manufacturing sector. LIVING IN HONG KONG HONG IN LIVING 18 Living in Hong Kong 21 15. - stock; and (3) to stabilise the stock; and (3) to stabilise residential property market supply through steady land and appropriate demand-side and management measures, to promote good sales and tenancy practices for private residential properties. Housing per accounted for 5.7 spending on housing Government in 2014 public expenditure cent of total the Long Term Housing The government announced Strategy elements are: (1) to in December 2014. Its major housing (PRH) units and to ensure build more public rental resources; (2) to provide more the rational use of existing expand the forms of subsidised home subsidised sale flats, the market circulation of existing ownership and facilitate Public Rental Housing The PRH is the first rung of the housing ladder. to low-income Government’s objective is to provide PRH accommodation. families who cannot afford private rental of the As at December 2015, about 30 per cent under the population lived in about 790 000 PRH flats the Hong Hong Kong Housing Authority (HKHA) and Kong Housing Society (HKHS). Subsidised Home Ownership essential Subsidised home ownership is one of the as the first elements of the housing ladder. It serves achieve home step for low to middle-income families to for PRH tenants ownership. It also provides an opportunity to achieve whose financial conditions have improved PRH units to home ownership, thereby releasing their As at December those who are waiting for PRH allocation. Health Service, the School Dental Care Service and many and many Service Dental Care the School Service, Health to Hong contribute They health services. community other maternal mortality low infant and Kong’s remarkably the best in the world. are comparable to rates, which . The bed-population ratio was about 5.2 beds . The bed-population 1 The number of hospital beds includes all hospital beds in Hospital Authority hospitals, private The number of hospital beds includes all hospital beds in Hospital Authority coverage of the Hospitals, hospitals, nursing homes and correctional institutions, which follows the of Hong Kong. Nursing Homes and Maternity Homes Registration Ordinance (Cap. 165)

1 Private Services for a There are 11 private hospitals. The daily charge Patients pay for hospital bed depends on the room type. and drugs in hospital services such as diagnostic tests addition to the doctor’s fee. Community Health Services to extensive Hong Kong people enjoy good health, thanks through its preventive measures by the Government the Student Family Health Service, the Port Health Service, per 1 000 people. There were 13 726 registered doctors, per 1 000 people. There per 1 000 people. or about 1.9 doctors Public Services and institutions. Fees in There are 42 public hospitals clinics are heavily subsidised. For public hospitals and in general Hong Kong residents, the residential charge $68 per day wards is $100 per day for ‘acute beds’ and fee of for ‘non-acute beds’, with a general admission tests, $50 covering diet, X-ray examinations, laboratory many forms of medicine within the range provided, and and special treatment, including surgery, radiotherapy physiotherapy. The Government’s healthcare healthcare The Government’s to ensure that no policy aims adequate medical one is denied due to lack of means. treatment a range of services To this end, is provided to and facilities those in the private complement to meet healthcare sector and who cannot the needs of patients afford medical attention. the number of hospital beds was At the end of 2015, 38 287 Health LIVING IN HONG KONG HONG IN LIVING 20 Living in Hong Kong 23 Railways public transport part of the important are an Railways per cent of the total for nearly 41 system, accounting 2015. transport volume in daily public the Mass Transit rail network comprises Hong Kong’s and Light Rail. Airport Express Railway (MTR), of system consisting a heavily used railway The MTR is Tong Line, Tsuen Wan Line, Island nine lines — the Kwun Tseung Kwan O Line, Disneyland Line, Tung Chung Line, Line, Ma On Shan Line and West Resort Line, East Rail length is currently about 177 Rail Line. The total route more than 80 stations. kilometres and comprises between central Hong Kong and The Airport Express plies Airport and AsiaWorld-Expo on a Hong Kong International In 2015, there were recorded about 35.2-kilometre route. trips daily on the MTR and Airport 4.7 million passenger Express networks. route network of 36.2 kilometres The Light Rail, with a Territories. It with 68 stops, serves the northwest New 2015. carried about 482 600 passengers daily in Island since Trams have been running on Hong Kong largest fleet of 1904. The 166 trams make up the world’s 180 000 double-decker trams in operation, with about passenger trips daily in 2015. A cable-hauled funicular tramway operates between This Central and The Peak. tram climbs 373 metres on a gradient as steep as one-in-two on the 1.4 kilometre line, which began operating in 1888. The Peak Tram carried about 17 500 passengers a day in 2015, mainly tourists and local sightseers. Transport systems Hong Kong has one of the best public transport passenger in the world. People make over 12.6 million and journeys daily, using an efficient, economical railways, multimodal public transport system that includes ferries. Public trams, buses, public light buses, taxis and operators or transport services are provided by private subsidies. public corporations without direct Government 2015, about 17 per cent of per cent of about 17 2015, Kong’s population Hong sale flats lived in subsidised and HKHS. of the HKHA Private Housing per cent of About 54 lived in the population private residential premises as at December 2015. is to maintain a free, stable The Government’s policy to facilitate the healthy and transparent environment private residential property market, development of the buyers have access to accurate and to ensure that home information. and comprehensive property (First-hand Sales) Ordinance The Residential Properties 2013. The ordinance and the came into effect in April First-hand Residential Properties work of the Sales of the transparency and fairness Authority have enhanced consumer of sales in first-hand homes, strengthened for vendors. protection and provided a level playing field LIVING IN HONG KONG HONG IN LIVING 22 Living in Hong Kong 25

Hong Kong is one of Hong Kong is one of Asia’s leading cities in terms of vehicle emission control and fuel quality standards. Diesel vehicles are responsible for most of the roadside pollution in urban areas, and government strategies on vehicle emissions and introducing include tighter control Besides, Hong Kong is the first city in cleaner-fuel vehicles. vessels to use low- sulphur Asia mandating ocean-going caps on power fuels while berthing, and imposed emission plants to restrict air pollutant emissions. to collect The Harbour Area Treatment Scheme aims Victoria Harbour sewage generated from all districts around of for centralised treatment. A total of 45 kilometres and a major large tunnels under the central urban area Island have been sewage treatment works on Stonecutters caused by urban commissioned to combat water pollution Government development around Victoria Harbour. The to improve the has also commissioned for a study on how caused by the problem of pollution and odour nuisance urban coastal discharge of urban residual pollutants into waters. Kong has To tackle regional environmental issues, Hong The joint been cooperating with Guangdong Province. reduction efforts in implementing air pollutants emission Pearl River Delta measures have borne fruit. Results of the to 2014 show regional air monitoring network from 2006 concentration a substantial reduction in the average annual of the major air pollutants in the region. Pollution and Environmental Control Environmental and Pollution in the up efforts stepping has been The government much late 1980s. It has pollution since the battle against sound and environmentally in providing safe achievements in reducing street-level handling waste, and systems for pollution. air and noise Control Pollution Buses, Public Light Buses and Taxis Buses, Public Light for 31 per cent of the total daily Franchised buses account or some 3.92 million passengers public transport volume, bus companies operate about every day. Five franchised companies manage a fleet of 560 bus routes. These about 5 900 buses, most of which are air-conditioned light buses, double-deckers. There are also 4 350 public 1.9 million which have up to 16 seats. They carry about passengers daily. of about There are 18 138 taxis carrying a daily average one million passengers. Ferries to the outlying Ferries provide an essential transport link transport in the islands and an alternative means of public 2015, about inner harbour and to some new towns. In 134 000 passengers used ferry services daily. Road Network of kilometres 101 In 2015, Hong Kong had about 2 332 flyovers and bridges, three roadways, including 1 through hills cross-harbour road tunnels, 12 road tunnels and five major cable-supported bridges. 521 852 There are 782 263 licensed vehicles, including private cars. LIVING IN HONG KONG HONG IN LIVING 24 Living in Hong Kong 27 Tax System of the most Hong Kong’s simple, low-tax system is one levied only on business-friendly in the world. Taxes are and profits. three types of income — salaries, property gains tax or There is no value-added tax, sales tax, capital Kong inheritance tax. Only income sourced in Hong is taxable. Profits Tax from a Profits are taxed if they arise in or are derived The tax rate trade, profession or business in Hong Kong. per cent for is 16.5 per cent for corporations and 15 individual. Law and Order Law is lower crime rate The overall safe city. Kong is a Hong strict the world. There are of the major cities in than many difficult to own a gun. makes it very firearms controls of Illegal possession a serious a firearm is conduct offence. Police urban patrols in both and rural areas to maintain law and order. As such, Hong Kong’s streets are safe for anyone to walk, day and night. Against Corruption (ICAC) The Independent Commission of enforcement, prevention adopts a holistic strategy Hong Kong's culture probity. and education to safeguard the ICAC fights corruption As an independent agency, and ensures that government impartially and effectively and private firms operate fairly and honestly. vigorous action The Customs and Excise Department takes against copyright piracy and trademark counterfeiting, fight against making Hong Kong regional a leader in the pirated goods. , namely, reduction at source, reuse donation, recyclable collection, and turning food donation, recyclable collection, and turning LIVING IN HONG KONG HONG IN LIVING In order to face the challenge of food waste, four strategies In order to face the challenge of food waste, have been mapped out Environmental Protection Environmental wastereduce solid action to is taking The government at targeted campaigns, legislation and source through such and glass bottle food waste reduction as those on infrastructure. to enhance waste-related recycling; and of capita disposal rate is to reduce the per The target by 2022 compared with solid waste by 40% municipal 2011. recovery play an important role in Waste reduction and The plastic shopping bag charging waste management. excessive use of plastic bags scheme, aimed at reducing disincentive, now covers the through a direct economic distribution of plastic bags at some entire retail sector. The has been reduced by up to 3 500 retail outlets regulated of the scheme. 90% after the launch The government is also working on introducing mandatory producer responsibility schemes on waste electrical and electronic equipment and glass beverage containers, and quantity- making the necessary preparations to adopt based municipal solid waste charging. encourages The Source Separation of Waste Programme and industry residential buildings and the commercial facilities, sectors to set up waste separation and recovery to promote waste separation at source and to so as recycling. The broaden the types of waste collected for Kong’s programme now covers over 80% of Hong population. and waste into energy, to reduce the amount of food waste waste into energy, to reduce the amount disposed at landfills by 40% by 2022. 26 Living in Hong Kong 29 As at end-December 2015, 2015, end-December As at were 53 newspapers there in Chinese, 12 in including 26 bilingual and five English, 10 and 683 in other languages; of which 442 were periodicals, 101 in English, in Chinese, and 11 in other 129 bilingual Broadcasting broadcasting hub, with 18 satellite Hong Kong is a regional signals from the territory. Satellite broadcasters uplinking more thanoffer and cable operators together 800 channels, entertainment with programmes on news and information, and more. and infotainment, sports, movies, documentaries programme There are two free-of-charge domestic television and one service licensees, each providing one Cantonese On average English-language analogue channel in 2015. weekly, they broadcast more than 670 hours of programmes television reaching 6.47 million viewers, or 2.41 million terrestrial households. The two licensees launched digital simulcasting television on 31 December 2007. Apart from the licensees the four analogue channels in digital format, 11 digital provide another seven digital channels.These hours per week. channels provide a total of 1 845 broadcast including Hong Kong has 13 analogue radio channels, independent seven operated by a publicly funded, editorially broadcaster whose mission is to inform, educate objective and entertain the public through balanced, programmes. been Digital audio broadcasting (DAB) services have DAB channels, launched. As at 2015, Hong Kong had 15 including five operated by the public broadcaster. languages. Magazines cover a wide range of subjects from languages. Magazines and entertainment. public affairs to technology media organisations maintain About 90 international which is also the base for regional offices in Hong Kong, Times, The Wall Street Journal, publications. The Financial International New York Times and USA Today International, in Hong Kong. The NIKKEI are also printed must contribute 5 per cent of their relevant must contribute 5 per contribution of income, up to a maximum an HK$1,500 per month. This is matched by equal contribution from the employer. As at April 2016, 100 per cent of employers Media The media plays a key role in Hong Kong’s success, since an unrestricted flow of information and ideas support a free economy, especially one now centred on information and services. This role will remain crucial an even in the years to come, as information becomes more important factor in economic development. The Press most vibrant Hong Kong’s print media are among the in Asia. Under the Mandatory Provident Fund System, all Under the Mandatory 64, unless specifically exempted, employees aged 18 to of self-employed and relevant employees, and 68 per cent Fund people were enrolled in Mandatory Provident schemes. Mandatory Provident Fund Mandatory Provident Owners of land and/or buildings in Hong Kong are charged Owners of land and/or rental income from property. property tax based on of the actual rent received after The rate is 15 per cent for repairs and outgoings. allowing 20 per cent Salaries Tax Salaries from any or derived arising in income with an Everyone to in Hong Kong is liable or pension office, employment rates at progressive Salaries tax is calculated salaries tax. tax but the total salaries chargeable income, on the net cent of a person’s net not exceed 15 per charged will income after deductions. assessable Property Tax LIVING IN HONG KONG HONG IN LIVING 28 Living in Hong Kong 31 extend free Wi-Fi service to more government premises; extend free Wi-Fi service industry to facilitate and promote collaborate with the for Wi-Fi services which are a common Wi-Fi branding and private sectors completely free offered by the public a time limit; and or free of charge within facilitate the partnering of government-related to provide organisations with Wi-Fi service operators at their time-limited free access of public Wi-Fi services facilities. • • • Internet and all households virtually covers network A broadband buildings. commercial about 2.34 million 2015, there were As at December broadband internet customer accounts for registered from a few Mbps with speeds ranging access services, rate penetration The broadband household to 10 Gbps. of the highest in the world. Public was 83.8 per cent, one by both the Government and Wi-Fi services are provided over 39 850 Wi-Fi hotspots across the private sector, with the city. Kong's position as a highly To further advance Hong has taken steps to: connected city, the Government Hong Kong is a global communications hub with excellent Hong Kong is a global It was the first major city communications infrastructure. a fully digitised telephone network in the world to have number portability. and to implement operator Telephone Services fixed-line As at December 2015, Hong Kong had a household penetration rate of 94.9 per cent. was about The number of subscribers to cellular phones 229 per cent 16.73 million, a penetration rate of about them, about — one of the highest in the world. Among 14.11million were 3G/4G service customers. of the Long Subsequent to the progressive deployment operators Term Evolution technology by mobile network in the 900MHz, 1800MHz, 2.3GHz and 2.5/2.6GHz services with bands, consumers can enjoy mobile data popularity of downlink speeds of up to 300 Mbps. The of smartphones has prompted the rapid development the averge mobile data services in Hong Kong. In 2015, about monthly mobile data usage was 20 011 terabytes, the same period 1.3 times the data usage recorded during in 2014. Telecommunications LIVING IN HONG KONG HONG IN LIVING 30 Coming to Hong Kong 33 football, rugby and golf tournaments. The “FIA Formula E Championship” and “Lumières Hong Kong” will be introduced to Hong Kong for the first time in late 2016. The Michelin Guide Hong Kong Macau 2016 The Hong Kong Disneyland Resort launched its 10th its Resort launched Disneyland Kong The Hong a new unveiled year and last celebration anniversary new Book”, a “Mickey and the Wondrous stage show “Fairy Tale attraction new castle Forest”, and which video projections the night- blend with show time fireworks In “Disney in the Stars”. addition, a new themed area based on Marvel’s and a new hotel with a theme “Iron Man” franchise of exploration will open in 2016 dedicated to the spirit Looking ahead, the Government and 2017 respectively. overall development of the resort is discussing the future Company. with The Walt Disney first hotel, the new waterpark in As for Ocean Park, its second hotel are scheduled for Tai Shue Wan and its the second half of 2018 and 2020 completion by 2017, respectively. a leading wine Hong Kong is a gourmet’s paradise and hub. the Hong features 305 local culinary attractions, and a number Kong Wine and Dine Festival, which received food and wine such as “one of the top 10 international , has become an festivals of 2009” by ForbesTraveler.com in 2009. annual signature event since its inception Kong is To enrich visitors’ travel experience, Hong from the developing more signature events, ranging Kong Pulse debut “Hong Kong Cyclothon”, “Hong and 3D Light Show”, “Chinese New Year Parade” international “Hong Kong Dragon Boat Carnival”, to Hong Kong received 59.3 million visitors in 2015, Hong Kong received 59.3 million visitors spending slightly below the 60.8 million in 2014. Total around $330 by inbound tourists was estimated to be source of billion. The Mainland remained the largest of Hong Kong’s visitors, representing around 77 per cent total visitor arrivals. Tourism Development to enhancing The Government attaches great importance and Hong Kong’s attractiveness as a travel destination visitors. It has increasing Hong Kong’s capacity to receive infrastructure invested heavily in the city’s tourism-related over the past few years. Hong Kong The Government is committed to developing in June into a leading cruise hub in Asia. Commissioned two berths 2013, the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal provides ships in the which can accommodate the largest cruise world simultaneously. Tourism of Hong Kong is a blend tourist destination, A premier traditions, European featuring Chinese East and West, and Cantonese gusto. modernity heritage, high-tech exciting travel experience offers a diverse and Hong Kong theme parks, countryside — great shopping, dining, and sports events. It also has many pursuits, arts, culture in the form of temples, monasteries, heritage attractions halls and colonial structures. walled villages, clan Coming to Hong Kong to Hong Coming COMING TO HONG KONG HONG TO COMING 32 Coming to Hong Kong 35 Hong Kong, — Harbour Race, Hong Kong Open Championship (golf), Hong Kong Squash Open, Hong Kong Open Badminton Championships (Part of the BWF World Super Series), Hong Kong ITU Triathlon Asian Cup and Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races. Leisure and Culture Leisure and appeal is evident in a variety of Hong Kong’s universal a reflection of the city’s leisure and cultural options, and its diverse range of cosmopolitan population nurtures an environment in pastimes. The Government pluralistic development of the which artistic freedom, community recreation and arts, sporting excellence, thrive. sports programmes can Events Cultural and Leisure of Hong Kong hosts a variety cultural and leisure events, arts events including the premier of the annual Hong Kong Arts Festival, Hong Kong International Film Festival, Le French May, Chinese Opera Festival, FestivalInternational Arts Carnival, New Vision Arts / Flower Show, World Cultures Festival and the Hong Kong as well as many traditional festive programmes. Sporting Events includeMajor sporting events held in Hong Kong the Kongannual Hong Kong Sevens (rugby), Hong Marathon, FIVB Volleyball World Grand Prix arrived and departed from Hong Kong, carrying about carrying Hong Kong, from and departed arrived cruise passengers. ferry and million cross-boundary 30.3 is one of the busiest International Airport Hong Kong passengers passed In 2015, 68.5 million in the world. totalled 406Aircraft movements airport. through the 020. establish or join any business or take up residence in the HKSAR are required to obtain an appropriate visa or entry permit before arrival. Cross-boundary Traffic crossing handled In 2015, the Lo Wu rail-based boundary The Lok Ma an average of 228 000 passengers daily. boundary Chau Spur Line — the second rail-based average of about crossing to the Mainland — handled an 95 900 cross-boundary passengers daily. Hong There are four road-based crossings between Chau, Sha Tau Kong and the Mainland, namely Lok Ma These four Kok, Man Kam To and Shenzhen Bay Port. travellers and crossings handled an average of 200 800 41 500 vehicles daily. ports and Cross-boundary ferry services to 11 Mainland in Kowloon Macao run from the China Ferry Terminal on Hong and the Hong Kong-Macao Ferry Terminal to the Kong Island. In 2015, the passenger throughput and 21.19 Mainland and Macao was about 4.55 million million respectively. Inward and Outward Traffic ports in terms of Hong Kong is one of the world’s busiest 042 vessels vessel arrivals and departures. In 2015, 376 Hong Kong maintains autonomy over its immigration its immigration over autonomy Kong maintains Hong of policy allows nationals open immigration control. An visa-free visits ranging countries and territories about 170 to 180 days. from seven knowledge or experience with special skills, Professionals and in Hong Kong, and not readily available of value to can make substantial contributions business people who are welcome to work and to Hong Kong’s economy, Persons coming to work, study or invest in Hong Kong. Immigration COMING TO HONG KONG HONG TO COMING 34 Coming to Hong Kong 37 occurs on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month, when many people visit their ancestors’ graves or hike up mountains to commemorate a legendary Chinese family’s escape from the plague. metre visitor centre with metre visitor - square - Geopark Geopark of China includes two The Hong Kong Global geo-areas in the eastern part of Hong regions covering eight geological features. One is the Sai Kong, each with unique with hexagonal volcanic rock Kung Volcanic Rock Region columns, considered world-class in coverage. terms of both size and New The other is the Northeast Rock Territories Sedimentary the most Region, which represents of comprehensive stratigraphy Kong. sedimentary rocks in Hong Traditional Festivals calendar. There are five major festivals in the Chinese festival, people During Lunar New Year, the most important while children exchange gifts and visit friends and relatives, During the Ching receive ‘lucky money’ in red paper packets. graves. On the Ming Festival in spring, people visit ancestral dragon fifth day of the fifth lunar month in early summer, and the sea boats race across Hong Kong’s waterways Festival during the Dragon Boat Festival. The Mid-Autumn when gifts falls on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, and adults of mooncakes, wine and fruit are exchanged, parks, beaches and children carrying colourful lanterns visit Yeung Festival and the countryside to see the moon. Chung Hong Kong Wetland Park Kong Wetland Hong aims to area which a special Park is Kong Wetland Hong education and tourism. conservation, promote wetland a 10 000 It comprises of functions and value showcasing the exhibition galleries to reserve for visitors a 60-hectare wetland wetlands, and in Hong Kong. amazing wetland wildlife explore the showcases 1 Hong Kong’s mix Kong’s mix Hong — of traditions Western, Chinese and modern historical and be seen — can also The in its museums. Museum Hong Kong of Art . The Hong Kong Museum of History and . The Hong Kong Museum 2 The Hong Kong Museum of Art is closed for expansion and renovation until 2019 The Hong Kong Museum of Art is closed Hong Kong Space Museum are closed for renovation until late The permanent exhibition halls of the 2016.

magnificent collections of ancient and modern works of art. magnificent collections interactive exhibits at the Hong Kong There are stimulating Omnimax films at the Hong Kong Science Museum and Space Museum Mai Po Inner Deep Bay Ramsar Site a ‘Wetland of The Mai Po Inner Deep Bay area is listed as Convention. It International Importance’ under the Ramsar sites in Asia for is one of the most important over-wintering the Ramsar migratory birds. Covering some 1 500 hectares, and fish ponds, Site comprises intertidal mudflats, mangroves and resident providing diverse habitats for both migratory recorded in the birds. About 390 species of birds have been 000 to 80 000 area. In winter, the wetland is home to 50 waterbirds. About 40 per cent of Hong Kong’s total land area is reserved About 40 per cent of Hong Kong’s total land 24 country for conservation and recreation. Encompassing green belt parks and 22 special areas, Hong Kong’s extensive There are is popular with hikers, nature lovers and tourists. occupying also four marine parks and one marine reserve, comprise scenic a total area of about 2 430 hectares. They coastal areas, seascapes and important eco-habitats. 2 Country Parks 1 Museums the Hong Kong Heritage Museum present the historical and the Hong Kong Heritage Kong. The fascinating Flagstaff cultural aspects of Hong House of Tea Ware, housed in a historical building Museum the history and importance of tea at Hong Kong Park, shows in Chinese culture. COMING TO HONG KONG HONG TO COMING 36 Future of Hong Kong

39 centre for innovation and technology in East Asia — a cyber city in the cyber century. Much is being done to realise this goal and to capitalise on the enormous opportunities presented by the information revolution. Cyberport Cyberport is a creative To establish a new overseas Hong Kong Economic Kong Economic a new overseas Hong To establish Office (ETO) and Trade with a view in Indonesia, ties to strengthening countries; to with ASEAN set up an ETO in Seoul to enhance trade and cultural exchanges with South Korea. location filming and film To develop and promote Hong Kong and the Pearl River production services in view to attracting overseas Delta Region, with a shoot films in the region and production crews to activities in Hong Kong. encouraging film production for the Innovation and Technology To reserve $2 billion universities to carry out more Bureau to encourage are mid-stream applied research projects which translational and theme-based in key technology and areas, to promote the development of innovation technology in Hong Kong. arrangements for Hong Kong to join the AIIB and ways and ways the AIIB to join Hong Kong for arrangements Hong Kong’s on by leveraging its work to support centre. international financial status as an • • • Asia’s Cyber City for the Cyber Century the Hong Kong has set itself on a course to become digital community with a cluster of over 600 technology digital community with a cluster of over Kong and digital tenants. It is managed by Hong which is Cyberport Management Company Limited, To discuss with the Central Government and the To discuss with the Central Government the specific Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) To establish a Hong Kong Maritime and Port Board to To establish a Hong Kong Maritime and to formulate enhance engagement with the industry of high and implement strategies to foster the growth talent, value-added maritime services and nurture services and promoting the development of maritime enhancing Hong Kong’s position as an international maritime and aviation centre. To further promote Hong Kong’s legal and dispute To further promote Hong Kong’s legal and the Mainland resolution services so that enterprises on will make and in jurisdictions along the Belt and Road in their use of Hong Kong’s professional services and Road business development pursuant to the Belt Initiative. • • • Continuous and sustainable economic growth is a and sustainable economic Continuous Hong development. for Hong Kong's further prerequisite a business-friendly to maintaining Kong is committed to invest in world-class environment and continuing the economic development. infrastructure to support services, trading and logistics, For many years, financial services have served as Hong tourism and professional As ‘Asia’s World City‘, Hong Kong’s four pillar industries. enhance existing advantages and Kong will continue to for continuous and sustainable explore new opportunity economic growth. those industries, the Apart from strengthening the Innovation and Technology Government established the application of innovation Bureau in 2015 to promote overall and technology so as to enhance Hong Kong’s Commission competitiveness. The Economic Development are and the Financial Services Development Council policy and tackled with formulating a holistic industrial economic identifying ways to further Hong Kong’s success. Some initiatives are: Capitalising on Existing Advantages to Unleash to Unleash on Existing Advantages Capitalising Potential Hong Kong’s Future of Hong Kong Hong of Future FUTURE OF HONG KONG HONG OF FUTURE 38 Future of Hong Kong 41 16 reached - Tuen Mun-Chek Lap Kok Link Tuen Mun-Chek Section of Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Hong Kong Rail Link Kong Express Bridge Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Lok Ma Chau Loop Liantang/Heung Boundary Control Point and Yuen Wai associated works District West Kowloon Cultural Kai Tak Development New Development Areas Island — Tung Chung New Development of Lantau Town Extension Scale Outside Victoria Reclamation on an Appropriate Harbour Rock Cavern and Underground Space Development South Island Line (East) Island Line South Link to Central Sha Tin • • • • • • • • • • • • • By improving transport and other infrastructure, these By improving transport and other infrastructure, development projects will enable Hong Kong’s further activities. In and foster more socio-cultural and business and transport addition, with closer and more efficient rail regions links between Hong Kong and the neighbouring of Shenzhen and the Pearl River Delta, cross-boundary integration will be strengthened. multi-pronged The Government will continue to adopt a housing and approach and step up its efforts to meet will other needs. For this purpose, the Government and increase the supply of land in the short, medium land and long terms through optimal use of developed the same time. identifying new land for development at other works Apart from the major infrastructure projects, environment. are also in progress to improve the urban Annual expenditure on capital works in 2015 more than $70 billion, and this amount of spending is more than $70 billion, and this amount of bringing a expected to continue in the next few years, industry and continuous driving force to the construction economic development. Infrastructure Projects for the 21st Century Infrastructure Projects for the 21st a key Efficient and reliable infrastructure has played as a leading role in maintaining Hong Kong’s position in the region. trade, finance, business and tourism centre Kong to meet Infrastructure development enables Hong and helps demands arising from population growth support economic and trade development. number of major The Government is moving ahead with a infrastructure projects, including: wholly owned by the owned by wholly Government. HKSAR to establishing With a view itself as a leading and global innovation technology Cyberport hub, is facilitating committed to by the local economy nurturing ICT industry driving collaboration to start-ups and entrepreneurs, business opportunities, and pool resources and create through strategic initiatives accelerating digital adoption and partnerships. Science Park Park is developing five technology Hong Kong Science technology, electronics, green clusters, namely biomedical and communications technology, technology, information engineering. In addition, three and material and precision are being developed in robotics, cross-cluster platforms phases of the healthy ageing and smart city. The first two of floor Science Park offer over 220 000 square metres area for research and development. is progressing The development of Science Park Phase 3 officially opened on schedule. Its first three buildings were were in September 2014, the remaining two buildings completed in May 2016. area of the Upon completion of Phase 3, the gross floor metres, expected Park will be increased to 330 000 square and provide to accommodate 700 technology companies about 14 000 employment opportunities. FUTURE OF HONG KONG HONG OF FUTURE 40 Future of Hong Kong 43 2017. As for the Tuen 2017. - 2017 whilst the 2017 - Road Projects Road and urban congestion reduce new roads Strategic Territories and beyond. new links to the New provide vital and reconstruction road projects, including Some major Hong Territories and on works in the New improvement are also being implemented. Kong Island, in traffic demand an anticipated increase To cope with of Tolo Highway Territories, the widening in the New Interchange and Tai Hang was between Island House 2014. The widening works of completed in March Tai Hang and Wo Hop Shek Fanling Highway between July 2013 and is anticipated to be Interchange started in completed in 2019. on Hong Kong Island, the To relieve traffic congestion and Island Eastern Corridor Link Central-Wan Chai Bypass to connect Rumsey Street Flyover are under construction Eastern Corridor in North Point. in Central and the Island completed, it will take only about When this project is from Central to the Island Eastern five minutes to drive Corridor in North Point. For local projects related to the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Boundary Bridge, it is anticipated that the Hong Kong Link Road Crossing Facilities Project and the Hong Kong Project would be completed by end Connection Mun-Chek Lap Kok Link Project, the Southern is forecast to be completed by end in 2018. Northern Connection is targeted for completion Railways play a vital role in serving the transport needs of Railways play a vital fast, reliable and comfortable Hong Kong. They provide on the road network and are services, reduce pressure more environmentally friendly. rapidly Hong Kong’s railway development has progressed up a long- over the past few years. In order to draw Government term railway development blueprint, the update the commissioned a consultant to review and “Railway Development Strategy 2000”and announced September 2014. Having the new 2014 strategy on 17 and the regard to transport demand, cost-effectiveness Areas and other development needs of New Development recommends new development projects, the new strategy by 2031. that seven new railway projects be completed Tung Station; The projects are the Northern Link and Kwu Line; Tung Tuen Mun South Extension; East Kowloon South Chung West Extension; Hung Shui Kiu Station; When all these Island Line (West) and North Island Line. network will new projects are completed, the railway increase from 270km 2021 to over 300km in length in by 2031. Railway Development Railway FUTURE OF HONG KONG HONG OF FUTURE 42 Hong Kong: The Facts

45

@ 8% 31% 26% 20% 11%

% of total

HK$15,500 per month (1)

@ term accommodation. - Accommodation services cover hotels, guesthouses, boarding houses and other Accommodation services cover hotels, guesthouses, boarding houses establishments providing short Figures refer to the third quarter of 2015 and are subject to revision later on. Figures refer to the third quarter of 2015 and are subject to revision

employment courier services, and information and communications Construction (1) @ Air movements million passengers; 406 048 flights; 68.5 freight 4.38 million tonnes of Shipping movements Arrival: 011 ocean vessels; 158 508 river vessels; 29 257 million tonnes port cargo throughput Container throughput equivalent units) 20.1 million TEUs (20-foot Employment in 2015 million Total employment: 3.80 Major employment sectors Import/export, wholesale and retail trades, and accommodation and food services Public administration, and social and personal services Financing and insurance, real estate, and professional and business services Transportation, storage, postal and 3% Manufacturing Median wage 2015) (Non-government employees) (May - June Ting Kau Bridge (two main spans totalling 923 metres) — 923 spans totalling (two main Bridge Ting Kau bridge road cable-stayed 1 018 metres) — span Bridge (main span Stonecutters road bridge cable-stayed 210 metres) — single Bay Bridge (main span Shenzhen road bridge plane cable-stayed

80.68 square km 46.94 square km 748.06 square km 230.01 square km Bridges — the world’s Tsing Ma Bridge (main span 1 377 metres) longest road-rail suspension bridge — road-rail Kap Shui Mun Bridge (main span 430 metres) cable-stayed bridge Roads 863 licensed vehicles kilometres of roads, 728 101 2 About 2.11 million people live in 782 400 public rental About 2.11 million people live in 782 400 housing flats Transport Tate’s Cairn (Typhoon Wanda, 1 September,1962) Public Housing 0.0°C (18 January,1893) Highest wind speed km/h at 259 km/h at Hong Kong Observatory, 284 Highest temperature 36.3°C (8 August, 2015) Lowest temperature Annual rainfall (2015) 1 874.5mm Weather Hong Kong Island Overall density per square kilometre 6 760 people kilometres Area: 1 105.69 square Kowloon New Territories — mainland New Territories — islands Population: 7.31 million (mid-2015) Population: Hong Kong : The Facts The : Kong Hong HONG KONG: THE FACTS THE KONG: HONG 44 Useful Contacts 47

Unit 4303,Tower I, New World International Trade Tower Unit 4303,Tower I, New World International No.568 Jianshe Avenue Jianghan District, Wuhan, China Postal Code: 430022 Phone: (86) 27 6560 7300 Fax: (86) 27 6560 7301 E-mail: [email protected] 38/F, Tower 1, Plaza Central 38/F, Tower Street, Yan Shi Kou 8 Shuncheng China Chengdu, 610016 Postal Code: 8301 Phone: (86) 28 8676 Fax: (86) 28 8676 8300 E-mail: [email protected] and Trade Office Hong Kong Economic in Guangdong Plaza Flat 7101, 71/F, Citic 233 Tian He North Road Guangzhou, China Postal Code: 510613 1220 Phone: (86) 20 3891 Fax: (86) 20 3891 1221 E-mail: [email protected] in Shanghai Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office 21/F, The Headquarters Building 168 Xizang Road (M) Huangpu District Shanghai, China Postal Code: 200001 Phone: (86) 21 6351 2233 Fax: (86) 21 6351 9368 E-mail: [email protected] in Wuhan Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office Hong Kong Economic and Trade Offices and Trade Kong Economic Hong of China Mainland Office in Chengdu Economic and Trade Hong Kong No.71 Di’anmen Xidajie Xicheng District Beijing, China Postal Code: 100009 Phone: (86) 10 6657 2880 Fax: (86) 10 6657 2821 E-mail: [email protected] The Office of the Government of the The Office of the Government of Region Hong Kong Special Administrative in Beijing Invest Hong Kong Phone: (852) 3107 1000 E-mail: [email protected] www.investhk.gov.hk Brand Hong Kong Management Unit Brand Hong Kong Phone: (852) 2842 8849 E-mail: [email protected] www.brandhk.gov.hk Phone: (852) 2842 8747 Fax: (852) 2845 9078 E-mail:[email protected] www.isd.gov.hk www.gov.hk Services Department Information Hong Kong Special Administrative Special Administrative Hong Kong (HKSARG) Government Region Useful Contacts Useful USEFUL CONTACTS USEFUL 46 Useful Contacts 49 San Francisco Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office 130 Montgomery Street San Francisco, CA 94104, USA Phone: (1) 415 835 9300 Fax: (1) 415 421 0646 E-mail: [email protected] Geneva and Trade Office Hong Kong Economic 5 Allée David-Morse 1211 Geneva 20 Switzerland Phone: (41) 22 730 1300 Fax: (41) 22 730 1304 E-mail: [email protected] London and Trade Office Hong Kong Economic 18 Bedford Square London WC1B 3JA UK Phone: (44) 20 7499 9821 Fax: (44) 20 7323 2336 E-mail: [email protected] North America New York Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office 115 East 54th Street New York, NY 10022, USA Phone: (1) 212 752 3320 Fax: (1) 212 752 3395 E-mail: [email protected] Brussels Trade Office and Kong Economic Hong 118 Rue d’Arlon 1040 Brussels Belgium 2 775 0088 Phone: (32) 770 0980 Fax: (32) 2 E-mail: [email protected]

Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office Economic and Trade Hong Kong E-mail: [email protected] Asia-Pacific Jakarta Europe Berlin Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office Jaegerstrasse 33 10117, Berlin Germany Phone: (49) 30 22 66 77 228 Fax: (49) 30 22 66 77 288 E-mail: [email protected] Tokyo Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office Building 30-1 Sanban-Cho Chiyoda-ku Tokyo 102-0075 Japan Phone: (81) 3 3556 8980 Fax: (81) 3 3556 8968 E-mail: [email protected] Sydney and Trade Office Hong Kong Economic Level 1, Hong Kong House 80 Druitt Street Sydney, NSW 2000 Australia Phone: (61) 2 9283 3222 Fax: (61) 2 9283 3818 E-mail: [email protected] Singapore Office Economic and Trade Hong Kong Tower 2 #34-01, Suntec 9 Temasek Boulevard Singapore 038989 Phone: (65) 6338 1771 Fax: (65) 6339 2112 E-mail: [email protected] USEFUL CONTACTS USEFUL 48 USEFUL CONTACTS

Washington Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office 1520 18th Street, NW Washington, DC 20036, USA Phone: (1) 202 331 8947 Fax: (1) 202 331 8958 E-mail: [email protected] Toronto Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office 174 St George Street Toronto, Ontario M5R 2M7, Canada Phone: (1) 416 924 5544 Fax: (1) 416 924 3599 E-mail: [email protected] Hong Kong Economic, Trade and Cultural Office (Taiwan) 25/F, President International Tower 11 Songgao Road Xinyi District Taipei, Taiwan Postal Code: 11073 Phone: (886) (2) 2720 0858 Fax: (886) (2) 2720 8658 E-mail: [email protected]

Related organisations Hong Kong Tourism Board Phone: (852) 2807 6543 E-mail: [email protected] www.discoverhongkong.com Hong Kong Trade Development Council

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