2014 KONG in brief

Information Services Department

Brand Hong Hong’s visual identity — a powerful and energetic dragon — was designed to communicate the city’s historic link with a mythical icon.

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 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 The Rule of Law Airport Hong Kong Port ECONOMIC COMPETITIVENESS 9 Economic Development Economic Policy International Financial Centre Economic Links with the 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 The Media Telecommunications COMING TO HONG KONG 32 Tourism Immigration Leisure and Culture Traditional Festivals THE 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 47

3 About Hong Kong 5 Global Services Centre exporter of Hong Kong was the world’s 10th largest services, services in 2012. Travel services, trade-related services transportation services, financial and business in services. are the main components of the city’s trade Climate is sub-tropical, tending towards Hong Kong’s climate can temperate for nearly half the year. Temperatures often exceed drop below 10 degrees Celsius in winter and cent of 31 degrees Celsius in summer. About 70 per in 2013. the rainfall occured between April and September International Trading Centre economy, Hong Kong is the world’s eighth largest trading eighth largest its fifth largest foreign exchange market, stock market banking centre and is the second largest top in Asia. Hong Kong is also one of the world’s jewellery, exporters of garments, watches and clocks, light toys, games, electronic products and certain industrial products. Language and Chinese English are the official languages. English is widely the used within and Government also by the legal, professional and business sectors. of well-educated, competent There is no shortage professionals whobilingual or even trilingual speak English, — a vital requirement for and Putonghua business in Hong Kong or with any enterprise doing the Mainland and Taiwan. Described as a ‘barren Described as 150 years rock’ some Kong is today ago, Hong financial, a world-class business trading and indeed, centre and, a great world city. Hong Kong does not have many natural resources except for its great harbour Hong Kong’s population was about 7.19 million in mid- Hong Kong’s population was about 7.19 but including 2013, predominantly of Chinese ethnicity, foreign 603 203 non-PRC nationals. The three largest Indonesia groups were from the Philippines (168 850), population (165 170) and India (28 920). The average density was 6 650 people per square kilometre. 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 1 104 square kilometres, and the comprises , Peninsula, Hong Kong — — the more rural part of and 262 outlying islands. About Hong Kong Hong About — one of the finest deep-water ports in the world. — one of the finest and well-educated A hardworking, entrepreneurial than 7.19 million people forms the population of more Kong’s productivity and creativity. foundation of Hong a Special Administrative Region Hong Kong became Republic of China (PRC) on (HKSAR) of the People’s British rule. July 1, 1997, after a century and a half of the Basic Under Hong Kong’s constitutional document, systems will Law, the existing economic, legal and social enjoys a high be maintained for 50 years. The HKSAR foreign affairs. degree of autonomy except in defence and About hong kong hong About 4 About Hong Kong 7 The Rule of Law Hong Kong has a well- legal established and trusted common system based on the law. The rights and freedoms are of Hong Kong residents rule of safeguarded by the judiciary, law, an independent and legal aid, and a free 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 airport The the world’s 10 busiest passenger airports. and/ is served by over 100 airlines providing passenger worldwide, or freight services to around 180 destinations including 43 cities in the Mainland. Monetary System Monetary maintain policy is to monetary Kong’s of Hong The aim externally oriented Given the highly currency stability. by is accommodated economy, this aim nature of the exchange rate to the ’s linking the The Linked Exchange set at HK$7.8 to US$1. US dollar, October 1983. was introduced in Rate System In 2013, the HKSAR the HKSAR In 2013, helped a Government overseas, record 337 companies and Mainland their set up or expand Hong Kong. presence in came These companies from a variety of business 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 has Hong Kong advocates and practises free virtually no a free and liberal investment regime with against overseas trade barriers. There is no discrimination investors. There is freedom of capital movement, and well-established rule of law, transparent low-tax system. straight-forward regulations, and a simple, International Corporate Base Corporate International sectors, including: business and professional services; sectors, including: business creative industries; financial services; consumer products; technology; innovation information and communications and hospitality; and transport and technology; tourism accounted for direct investment and industrial. They and will create more than of about HK$12.5 billion the first two years of operation 6 000 new jobs within Kong. or expansion in Hong survey, as at June 1, 2013, According to a government to 7 449 overseas and Mainland Hong Kong was home located companies, representing parent companies as regional outside Hong Kong. Of those, 3 835 served headquarters or regional offices. About hong kong hong About 6 Economic Competitiveness 9 consecutive year. th 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. workforce, and a pool foreign exchange reserves, Hong Kong has substantial stable currency, and a simple, a fully convertible and low-tax system. Economy A Free and Competitive was In 2014, Hong Kong ranked the world's freest economy by the US-based Heritage Foundation for the 20 Economic Competitiveness Economic The Fraser Institute in Canada, in conjunction with the Cato Institute in the United States has and more than 80 economic institutes worldwide, one in the also consistently ranked Hong Kong number International world in terms of economic freedom. The advanced Monetary Fund classifies Hong Kong as an for economy. Moreover, the International Institute Kong as the Management Development recognised Hong and first third most competitive economy in the world Economic in Asia in its 2013 Yearbook while the World the world’s Forum gave Hong Kong the top rank among in both leading financial systems and capital markets 2012. Hong its Financial Development Index 2011 and direct Kong was also the world’s third largest foreign largest in Asia investment (FDI) destination and the second to the World in 2012, only after the Mainland, according Investment Report 2013 published by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). In 2013, Hong Kong’s harbour handled 22.35 million In 2013, Hong Kong’s harbour handled making TEUs (20-foot equivalent units) of containers, The nine it one of the world’s busiest container ports. Yi are managed container terminals at -Tsing and provide by five operators. They cover 279 hectares The water 24 berths with a frontage of 7 694 metres. is 15.5 metres. depth at the Kwai Chung- basin In 2013, about 104 400 cargo vessels, comprising called at 27 000 ocean vessels and 77 400 river vessels million Hong Kong Port. Together they carried 276 about 2 800 tonnes of cargo. In addition, there were passenger ocean passenger vessels and 80 300 river vessels carrying about 28.8 million passengers. Hong Kong Port In 2013, the HKIA welcomed 59.9 million passengers passengers 59.9 million welcomed the HKIA In 2013, representing movements, 080 aircraft 372 and handled over 2012. 6.1% and 5.8% respectively growth of 4.13 million tonnes, throughput was Annual cargo trips and aircraft Both passenger up 2.4% year-on-year. set new records. movements HKIA has been named in July 1998, the Since opening surveys. times in different best airport over 50 the world’s About hong kong hong About 8 Economic Competitiveness

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Level Playing Field Playing Level business- the most to provide aims Government The HKSAR the fundamental These include friendly conditions. and the rule of law, a clean of personal liberty, ‘software’ all level playing field for and a efficient administration as ‘hardware’ such as well as infrastructural businesses, Kong’s growth. roads vital to Hong schools and In addition, the Government has a special responsibility to remove market restrictions and promote fair competition. It has made considerable strides facilitating financial the development of markets in a fair and in efficient manner, and opening up the information and telecommunications technology (ICT) and also has a broadcasting markets. The Government Kong enjoys responsibility to help industries where Hong competitive advantages to tap new markets. Hong Kong’s The Government protects and promotes arena commercial interests in the international the through participation in such forums as World Trade Organization (WTO), the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation and the Pacific Economic and entering Co-operation Council, and by negotiating into bilateral arrangements. 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. 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 however, ensure that the right conditions of markets. for the proper and efficient functioning 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 to maintaining of 2008-2009. Economic vitality is the key Hong Kong’s competitiveness and prosperity. Economic Policy Gross Domestic Product (GPD) Growth Product Domestic Gross Kong economy the Hong decades, the past two Over with GDP growing at doubled in size, has more than cent in real terms. annual rate of 3.6 per an average of outperformed most that Hong Kong has This means for Economic of the Organisation the economies Hong Kong’s per capita and Development. Co-operation with an average annual nearly 70 per cent GDP rose by cent in real terms during the same growth rate of 2.6 per per capita GDP rose to US$38,100 period. Hong Kong’s in 2013. at current market prices ss ene etitiv Comp Economic 10 Economic Competitiveness

13 Foreign Exchange Market Foreign Exchange and active foreign exchange Hong Kong has a mature integral part of the global market. market, which is an facilitate foreign exchange Links with centres overseas worldwide. Hong Kong is the dealing 24 hours a day centre for foreign exchange trading, world’s fifth largest triennial global survey by the Bank according to the 2013 for International Settlements. Stock and Bond Markets world’s largest Hong Kong’s stock market is one of the end of in terms of market capitalisation. At the were listed on December 2013, 1 643 public companies market Exchanges and Clearing Limited. Total Kong Hong (US$3,101 billion), capitalisation stood at HK$24,043 billion market in Asia. making Hong Kong the second largest stock promoting In recent years, the Government has been through the further development of the bond market provided the Government Bond Programme. It has tax incentives, the necessary financial infrastructure and market overseas in addition to promoting the local bond efforts to and in the Mainland. There are also ongoing the At enhance investor education on bond investment. amount ofend of December 2013, the total outstanding billion. Hong Kong dollar debt had reached HK$1,419 Hong Kong’s financial markets are distinguished by a high degree of liquidity. They operate effective under and transparent regulations that meet international standards. A highly educated workforce and ease of standards. A highly educated workforce to the entry for overseas professionals further contribute development of financial markets. The Banking Sector a strong The international financial community has 2013, presence in Hong Kong. At the end of December 147 were Hong Kong had 156 licensed banks, of which 70 had foreign-owned. Of the world’s top 100 banks, banks had operations in the HKSAR. A further 62 foreign representative offices here. Hong Kong is an international financial centre with an centre financial international Kong is an Hong institutions and markets. network of financial integrated maintain and develop policy is to The Government’s and regulatory, infrastructural a sound legal, provide a level playing framework and administrative of the financial and maintain the stability field for all, Hong Kong to compete systems, and enable monetary financial centres. effectively against other enjoys the advantage of In addition, Hong Kong position that the time a favourable geographical America and Europe, strong links with gap between North economies in Southeast Asia and the Mainland and other with the rest of the world. excellent communications on capital flows into and out of There are no restrictions have enabled Hong Kong to Hong Kong. These factors financial centre. become a leading international Financial Markets International Financial Centre Financial International ss ene etitiv Comp Economic 12 Economic Competitiveness 15 Guangdong on all fronts to a national strategic level, strategic to a national all fronts on Guangdong various of implementation the early for and provides in Guangdong. measures in Hong Kong’s is also a major investor The Mainland were 901 regional As at June 2013, there economy. and local offices with regional offices headquarters, Mainland. located in the parent companies direct investment from the Mainland The position of total billion at end-2012, making it one amounted to US$460 of external direct investment. of the largest sources the Closer Economic Partnership Implementation of Arrangement (CEPA) enhanced economic links between CEPA has significantly Mainland since it came into full Hong Kong and the 2004. Under this free-trade pact, effect on January 1, CEPA rules of origin enjoy Hong Kong goods meeting Mainland, while designated tariff-free access to the preferential access beyond China’s service sectors enjoy over WTO commitments. CEPA has been expanded the two sides the years, with Supplement X signed by and in August 2013, adding 73 services liberalisation Including the trade and investment facilitation measures. liberalisation measures in Supplement X, there are 403 measures for trade in services under CEPA. Offshore RMB business in Hong Kong the markets, Together with relevant financial regulators and the development the HKSAR Government has been promoting Kong since of offshore Renminbi (RMB) business in Hong 2004. With the expanding use of RMB in cross-border Kong has transactions, the offshore RMB business in Hong is now been growing rapidly in recent years. Hong Kong and financing the world’s largest offshore RMB business hub, of March 2014, and asset management centre. As at the end certificates of RMB customer deposits and outstanding RMB for deposit issued totalled RMB1,158 billion, accounting A wide range 70 per cent of the offshore pool of RMB liquidity. investment of RMB products ranging from dim sum bonds, currency funds (both listed and unlisted), insurance products, and derivative futures, real estate investment trusts, shares products are available in the market. Hong Kong is the premier gateway for trade and investment investment trade and gateway for premier Kong is the Hong trade with the rest and for Mainland in the Mainland, adopted its economic Since the Mainland of the world. with 1978, economic links open-door policy in reform and to strength. have gone from strength Hong Kong success 2001 signalled the to the WTO in China’s accession policies. With rapid economic of its economic reform three decades, the Mainland is now growth over the past in the world. Hong Kong, the second-largest economy outlook, has the unique advantage of with its international as its hinterland. As an international having the Mainland regional business and trading hub, financial centre and a to contribute to and benefit from Hong Kong will continue in the Mainland. the rapid economic developments Trade with the Mainland Kong’s largest trading partner, The Mainland is Hong more than half of Hong Kong’s accounting for slightly cent of Hong total trade value in 2013. About 90 per making Kong’s re-export trade is linked to the Mainland, source of it both the largest market for and the largest Hong Kong’s re-exports. the Mainland Hong Kong is a major services centre for particular, generally and for the in other business providing a wide range of financial and insurance, support services such as banking and finance, transport, accounting and sales promotion. the Mainland Investments between Hong Kong and investors Hong Kong companies are the largest external statistics, in the Mainland. According to the Mainland’s direct the cumulative value of Hong Kong’s realised accounting for investment amounted to US$666 billion, direct investment 48 per cent of the total value of inward links with as at end-2013. Guangdong’s economic provinces in Hong Kong are the closest amongst the 62 per cent the Mainland. Hong Kong accounted for investment (or US$201 billion) of total inward direct of the Plan in Guangdong as at end-2013. The Outline Pearl River for the Reform and Development of the Kong and Delta elevates co-operation between Hong Economic Links with the Mainland with Links Economic ss ene etitiv Comp Economic 14 Living in Hong Kong 17 Legal System on the rule of The HKSAR’s legal system is firmly based Under the law and the independence of the judiciary. by ‘One Country, Two Systems’ principle, sanctioned Republic the National People’s Congress of the People‘s legal system of China, the HKSAR maintains a separate based on common law. The 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 citizens, corporate the Government itself. Administrative Structure Administrative the Political Appointment The Government introduced the system, the offices of System in 2002. Under and Directors of Bureau Secretaries of Department appointees, who assume political are held by political falling within their respective responsibility for matters additional layers of political portfolios. In 2008, two Deputy Directors of Bureau and appointees, namely them in Political Assistants, were created to assist of the political work. The Civil Service, the backbone formulation Government, continues to assist in policy and implementation. At the local level, 18 District Councils advise on the implementation of policies in their respective districts. The District Councils are composed of 412 elected members, 27 ex-officio members and 68 appointed members. Their term of office is from January 1, 2012 to December 31, 2015. Government Structure Government of enjoys a high degree Basic Law, the HKSAR Under the HKSAR and defence. The except in foreign affairs autonomy independent judicial legislative and exercises executive, that of final adjudication. power, including The Chief Executive the head of the HKSAR and is advised The Chief Executive is the Executive Council, the members on major decisions by by the Chief Executive. of which are appointed Representative Government system of representative The HKSAR has a two-tier Council enacts laws, government. The Legislative government budgets, taxation examines and approves All 70 members of the Legislative and public expenditure. with four-year terms of office. Council are elected, was held on The Legislative Council’s fifth term election September 9, 2012. Living in Hong Kong Hong in Living ong Kong Hong in Living 16 Living in Hong Kong 19 Education Education total area of the Government’s is the largest of for about one-fifth in 2014-15, accounting expenditure The Government government expenditure. the total recurrent assistance to ensure that no provides student financial to education due to lack of means student is denied access measures to ensure Hong Kong and implements various of education. maintains a high standard 12 Years’ Free Education education Starting from the 2008-09 school year, free senior was extended from nine to 12 years to include sector secondary secondary education provided by public Government schools. From the same school year, the programmes has provided full subvention for full-time for Secondary offered by the Vocational Training Council alternative 3 school leavers, thus making available an studies other free avenue for students to further their than through mainstream education. In May - June 2013, the median monthly wage of wage monthly the median - June 2013, In May Kong was in Hong employees non-Government (US$1,817). HK$14,100

and

1 judge from other common law jurisdictions to sit on the court. The Chief Justice heads the Judiciary, assisted in overall administration by the Judiciary Administrator. Accommodation services sector covers hotels, guesthouses, boarding houses and other Accommodation services sector covers hotels, guesthouses, boarding houses establishments providing short-term accommodation

The Court of Final Appeal of Final The Court appellate highest (CFA), the Appeal of Final The Court by the Chief Justice. HKSAR, is headed court in the judges, a panel of three permanent The CFA consists judges and Hong Kong of six non-permanent other common law judges from 12 non-permanent hears and rules on A five-judge bench jurisdictions. required, invite the court may, as appeals, and Kong judge or a non-permanent a non-permanent Hong 1 Employment asset and key to Manpower is Hong Kong’s most valued The Government the HKSAR’s economic competitiveness. dynamic, strives to ensure that the workforce remains opportunity for well-motivated, adaptable and has ample continuous improvement. Labour Market and Wages 3.86 million, In 2013, Hong Kong’s labour force was about per cent of which 51.6 per cent were men and 48.4 were engaged women. The majority of employed people import / export, in the services sector, with 32 per cent in wholesale and retail trades, and accommodation food services; 26 per cent in public administration, food services; 26 per cent in public administration, in financing and social and personal services; 19 per cent and business and insurance, real estate, and professional storage, postal services; and 12 per cent in transportation, communications. and courier services, and information and sector. Only 3 per cent worked in the manufacturing ong Kong Hong in Living 18 Living in Hong Kong 21 Housing on housing accounted for Government spending in 2014-15. 5.7 per cent of total public expenditure his 2014 Policy As announced by the Chief Executive in housing Address, the Government has adopted the units in the supply target to provide a total of 470 000 both coming 10 years, with public housing (comprising sale flats) public rental housing (PRH) and subsidised target, accounting for 60 per cent. To meet the average of the Government aims to provide an annual Home about 20 000 PRH units and about 8 000 Ownership Scheme (HOS) units. Public Rental Housing PRH is the basic stratrum of the housing ladder. The Government’s objective is to provide PRH to low-income families who cannot afford private rental accommodation. As at December 2013, about 29 per cent of Private Services Private for daily charge The hospitals. are 11 private There to hundred dollars bed varies from several a hospital on the room type. dollars, depending several thousand as services such to pay for the hospital Patients have fee. to the doctor’s tests and drugs in addition diagnostic Health Services Community good health, thanks to Hong Kong people enjoy measures by the Government extensive preventive Service, the Port Health Service, through its Family Health the School Dental Care the Student Health Service, community health services. Service and many other Kong’s remarkably low infant They contribute to Hong rates, which are comparable to and maternal mortality the best in the world.

doctors

. The bed-population ratio was 1 beds per 1 000 people. There were about beds per 1 000 people. There were about

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)

about 5.1 Higher Education Higher higher education 17 degree-awarding Kong has Hong a teacher including nine universities, institutions, for performing arts, an academy training institution, In 2013, three institutions. and six post-secondary the world’s top 50 were ranked among institutions second and seventh and also rated first, universities Symonds. universities by Quacquarelli among Asian 1 Health The Government’s healthcare policy aims to ensure that no one is denied adequate medical treatment due to lack of means. of To this end, a range is provided to complement those services and facilities sector and to meet the needs in the private healthcare of patients who cannot afford medical attention. beds At the end of 2013, the number of hospital was about 36 700 13 200 registered doctors, or about 1.8 per 1 000 people. Public Services in Hong Kong. There are 42 public hospitals and institutions subsidised. Fees in public hospitals and clinics are heavily charge in For Hong Kong residents, the residential beds’ the general wards is $100 per day for ‘acute a general and $68 per day for ‘non-acute beds’, with examinations, admission fee of $50 covering diet, X-ray provided), laboratory tests, medicine (within the range surgery, and many forms of special treatment, including radiotherapy and physiotherapy. ong Kong Hong in Living 20 Living in Hong Kong 23 Transport public transport systems has one of the best Hong Kong 12 million passenger People make over in the world. economical and using an efficient, journeys daily, system that includes railways, multimodal public transport light buses, taxis and ferries. Public trams, buses, public provided by private operators or transport services are direct Government subsidies. public corporations without Railways Railways are an important part of the public transport system, accounting for nearly 40 per cent of the total daily public transport volume in 2013. Hong Kong’s rail network Airport Express comprises the Mass Transit Railway (MTR), and Light Rail. of The MTR is a heavily used railway system consisting Line, Island Line, nine lines — Line, Resort Line, , Disneyland West Rail Line. Line, , Ma On Shan Line and about The total route length of the MTR is currently stations. 175 kilometres and comprises more than 80 central The Airport Express provides services between Airport and Hong Kong and Hong Kong International In 2013, AsiaWorld-Expo, on a 35.2-kilometre route. trips daily on there were about 4.39 million passenger the MTR and Airport Express networks. kilometres with Light Rail, with a route network of 36.2 It carried 68 stops, serves the northwest New Territories. about 470 300 passengers daily in 2013. properties providing better protection to first-hand to first-hand protection better providing properties level playing creating a and purchasers properties residential properties. of first-hand residential field for vendors Hong Kong’s population lived in PRH and interim housing housing and interim lived in PRH Kong’s population Hong (HKHA) Authority Housing Hong Kong the flats under Kong Housing Society flats under the Hong and rental about 2013, there were the end of December (HKHS). At HKHA and HKHS. units under the 780 300 rental Home Ownership Subsidised (as at 31 December about 470 000 units Since 1978, to eligible families/persons at 2013) have been sold various subsidised home discounted prices under These include flats under the HOS ownership schemes. Scheme introduced by and the Tenants Purchase Flat-for-Sale Scheme and Sandwich the HKHA, as well as introduced by the HKHS. As at Class Housing Scheme 2013, about 17 per cent of the end of December lived in subsidised sale flats of Hong Kong’s population the HKHA and HKHS. ownership aspirations of low to In response to the home time home buyers and youngsters, middle-income first of HOS the Government has resumed the production new HOS flats units flats. The first batch of about 2 200 is scheduled will be completed in 2016/17 and pre-sale for end 2014. Private Housing About 54 per cent (as at December 2013) of Hong Kong’s population lives in private residential premises. The Government’s policy is to maintain a free, stable and transparent environment to facilitate the healthy development of the private residential property market, and to ensure that home buyers have access to accurate and comprehensive property information. Ordinance The Residential Properties (First-hand Sales) aims came into effect in April 2013. The ordinance the sales to enhance transparency and fairness of residential arrangements and transactions of first-hand ong Kong Hong in Living 22 Living in Hong Kong 25 Pollution and Environmental Control Pollution and Environmental stepping up efforts in the battle The Government has been the late 1980s. There have been against pollution since of safe and environmentally achievements in the provision waste, and in reducing sound systems for handling pollution. street-level air and noise Pollution Control in terms Hong Kong is one of Asia’s leading cities standards. of vehicle emission control and fuel quality the roadside Diesel vehicles are responsible for most of strategies pollution in the urban areas, and government and include tighter control on vehicle emissions practicable, introducing cleaner-fuel vehicles wherever vehicles phasing out pre-Euro IV diesel commercial through an incentive-cum-regulatory approach, years for and setting a maximum service life of 15 and tax newly registered diesel commercial vehicles concession to encourage the use of environmentally- friendly vehicles. aims The Harbour Area Treatment Scheme (HATS) around to collect sewage generated from all districts So far, Victoria Harbour for centralised treatment. central 24 kilometres of large tunnels under the works at urban area and a major sewage treatment to combat have been commissioned around water pollution caused by urban development in 2008 Victoria Harbour. Stage 2A of HATS commenced Road Network Road of kilometres about 2 093 Kong had Hong In 2013, and bridges, three including 1 326 flyovers roadways, hills road tunnels through road tunnels, 12 cross-harbour bridges. cable supported and five major including 680 914 licensed vehicles, There are Kong one of cars, making Hong 475 752 private cities in the world. the least car-dependent remains high because of the Although traffic density area, traffic generally flows relatively small urban peak hours, aided by the highly smoothly even during network. efficient public transport Ferries provide an essential transport link to the outlying Ferries provide an essential transport link transport in islands and as alternative means of public In 2013, the inner harbour and to some new towns. daily. about 135 700 passengers used ferry services Trams have been running on running have been Trams since 1904. Kong Island Hong 164 trams is the The fleet of fleet of double- world’s largest in operation, decker trams 198 000 passenger with about in 2013. trips daily funicular tramway A cable-hauled and the operates between Central 373 metres Peak. This tram climbs as one-in- on a gradient as steep line, two on the 1.4 kilometre in 1888. The Peak Tram carried which began operating a day in 2013 — mainly tourists about 17 100 passengers and local sightseers. Buses and Taxis Buses, Public Light for 32 per cent of the total Franchised buses account volume, or some 3.9 million daily public transport are operated passengers every day. About 560 bus routes companies by five franchised bus companies. These majority of manage a fleet of about 5 800 buses, the There are also which are air-conditioned double-deckers. not more than 4 350 public light buses, (light buses with daily. 16 seats). They carry about 1.9 million passengers of about There are 18 138 taxis carrying a daily average one million passengers. Ferries ong Kong Hong in Living 24 Living in Hong Kong 27 Tax System of the most Hong Kong’s simple, low-tax system is one only business-friendly in the world. Taxes are levied and profits. on 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 trade, Profits are taxed if they arise in or derived tax rate profession or business in Hong Kong. The per cent for is 16.5 per cent for corporations and 15 persons other than corporations. Law and Order Law is lower crime rate The overall safe city. Kong is a Hong in the world, including of the major cities than many Paris. There are strict York, London and Tokyo, New making it very difficult in Hong Kong, firearms controls of a firearm is a serious Illegal possession to own a gun. conduct offence. Police urban and patrols in both suburban areas to maintain law and order. As such, are Hong Kong’s streets safe for anyone to walk, day and night. Against Corruption (ICAC) The Independent Commission of enforcement, prevention adopts a holistic strategy corruption well under control. and education to keep impartially and effectively and The ICAC fights corruption and private firms operate ensures that government fairly and honestly. vigorous The Customs and Excise Department takes action against copyright piracy and trademark in the region counterfeiting, and Hong Kong is a leader in the fight against pirated goods. and its major construction major construction and its by will be completed works The Government end-2014. a review has completed 2B and will of HATS Stage findings of consider the and propose the the review of the water quality required to further improve measures the sewerage network and Victoria Harbour. Meanwhile, in other parts of Hong Kong sewage treatment facilities and upgraded. are being expanded issues, Hong Kong To tackle regional environmental with Guangdong Province has been co-operating Group on Sustainable through the Joint Working Protection. The two Development and Environmental to press ahead with reduction governments continue Regional Air Quality Management measures under the the emission reduction Plan with a view to achieving 2020 endorsed by the two sides in targets for 2015 and to November 2012, to bring continuous improvement the regional air quality. monitoring Since November 2005, a regional air quality the entire network with 16 monitoring stations covering report, the Pearl River Delta has provided a daily public Regional Air Quality Index. in collaboration The Environmental Protection Department, industry with the Guangdong authorities and major Production associations in Hong Kong, launched a Cleaner five-year Partnership Programme in April 2008. This Hong Kong- programme provides technical support to region to adopt owned factories in the Pearl River Delta cleaner production technologies and practices. period, On completion of the five-year programme In light of over 2 000 applications were approved. programme the environmental benefits brought by the the industries, and the positive feedback received from for the Government has extended the programme two years to March 2015. ong Kong Hong in Living 26 Living in Hong Kong 29 The Press media Kong’s print Hong the most are among vibrant in Asia. As at end-December were 55 there 2013, including 28 newspapers 12 in English, in Chinese, in ten bilingual and five 715 periodicals, of which 474 were other languages; and 130 bilingual and 12 in other in Chinese, 99 in English, cover a wide range of subjects languages. Magazines technology and entertainment. from public affairs to 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 Asia, USA Today International, are also printed in Hong Kong. Times and The NIKKEI Broadcasting with 19 satellite Hong Kong is a regional broadcasting hub, Satellite broadcasters uplinking signals from the territory. 600 channels, and cable operators together offer more than entertainment with programmes on news and information, and infotainment, sports, movies and documentaries/ learning, etc. There are two free-of-charge domestic television one Cantonese programme service licensees, each providing On average and one English-language analogue channel. they broadcast more than 670 hours of programmes million weekly, reaching 6.4 million viewers or 2.34 digital television households. The two licensees launched Apart from terrestrial television on December 31, 2007. digital format, simulcasting the four analogue channels in channels. the licensees provide another seven digital 1 845 broadcast These 11 digital channels provide a total of hours per week. Under the Mandatory Provident Under the Mandatory aged 18 Fund System, all employees exempted) to 65 (unless specifically cent of their must contribute 5 per relevant income, up to a maximum contribution of HK$1,500 per month. This is matched by an equal contribution from the employer. By April 2014, 99 per cent of employers, 100 per cent of By April 2014, 99 per cent of employers, 100 people relevant employees and 61 per cent of self-employed schemes. had enrolled in the Mandatory Provident Fund The 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 years to come, services. This role will remain crucial in the factor in as information becomes an even more important economic development. Mandatory Provident Fund Mandatory Provident Salaries Tax Salaries derived from in or income arising with an Everyone or pension from any office, employment Hong Kong is calculated at salaries tax. Salaries tax is liable to the income, but rates on the net chargeable progressive of a exceed 15 per cent tax charged will not total salaries after deductions. assessable income person’s net Property Tax buildings in Hong Kong are charged Owners of land and/or rental income from property. property tax, based on on the actual rent received after The rate is 15 per cent cent for repairs and outgoings. an allowance of 20 per ong Kong Hong in Living 28 Living in Hong Kong 31 facilitate other government-related organisations facilitate other government-related organisations provide to partner with Wi-Fi service operators to at time-limited free access of public Wi-Fi services their facilities. extend the free Government Wi-Fi Programme extend the free Government Wi-Fi Programme (GovWiFi) service to more government premises; and promote collaborate with the industry to facilitate which are a common Wi-Fi branding for Wi-Fi services completely offered by the public and private sectors free or time-limited free of charge; and • • • Internet covers virtually all households A broadband network and commercial buildings. there were about 2.23 million As at December 2013, accounts for broadband internet registered customer speeds ranging from a few Mbps access services, with broadband household penetration to 1 000 Mbps. The in the world. rate was 83.2 per cent, one of the highest the Government Public Wi-Fi services are provided by both hotspots and the private sector, with over 20 300 Wi-Fi across the city. as a highly To further advance Hong Kong's position in the 2014 connected city, the Government proposed Digital 21 Strategy to:

Hong Kong has 13 analogue radio channels, including channels, radio 13 analogue Kong has Hong editorially funded, by a publicly operated seven mission is to inform, broadcaster, whose independent through balanced, entertain the public educate and four operators have Moreover, objective programmes. The (DAB) services. audio broadcasting launched digital of 18 DAB channels. will comprise a total new service Telecommunications communications hub and has an Hong Kong is a global infrastructure. It was the first excellent communications to have a fully digitised telephone major city in the world operator number portability. network and to implement Telephone Services Hong Kong had a fixed-line As at December 2013, rate of 102.6 per cent. household penetration about was to cellular phones The number of subscribers about 238 per cent — a penetration rate of million, 17.2 them, the world. Among one of the highest in about 11.9 million were 3G/4G service customers. million 11.9 about Subsequent to the progressive deployment of the Long Term Evolution technology by mobile network operators in the 1800MHz, 2.3GHz and 2.5/2.6GHz bands, consumers can enjoy mobile data services with downlink speed up to 150 Mbps. The popularity of smart phones has prompted the rapid development of 2013, December at mobile data services in Hong Kong. As monthly mobile data usage was 12 073 Terabytes, the during the same about 1.6 times the data usage recorded period in 2012 . ong Kong Hong in Living 30 Coming to Hong Kong 33 features Michelin Guide Hong Kong 2014 be able to accommodate the largest cruise ships in the cruise ships the largest to accommodate be able works dredging the relevant of upon completion world in 2015. in the seabed of the new The launch ‘Mystic themed area 2013, Point’ in May the together with openings of respective ‘Toy Story Land’ and ‘Grizzly Gulch’ in 2011 and 2012, marked the completion of the at previous phase of expansion enlarged the Park by about (HKDL). The expansion added more than 30 new 23 per cent and has and interactive experiences, attractions, entertainment of attractions to over 100. bringing the total number appeal to visitors, HKDL will To further enhance its parade ‘Disney Paint the Night’ launch a new nighttime the Marvel in late 2014. A new themed area featuring world, will also hero ‘Iron Man‘, the first of its kind in the of its Master be open by end-2016.With the completion Park is now Redevelopment Plan in mid-2012, Ocean more than a world-class marine-themed park featuring Ocean Hotel 80 attractions. The Park will construct the waterpark. and an all-weather indoor-cum-outdoor a leading wine Hong Kong is a gourmet’s paradise and has become hub. The Hong Kong Wine and Dine Festival festival treated an annual signature event. In 2013, the in a new locals and visitors to a gourmet extravaganza which is located venue — the New Central Harbourfront centre with in the heart of Hong Kong’s commercial Besides, the iconic view of the Victoria Harbour. the 284 local culinary attractions. Hong Kong To enrich the visitor’s travel experience, from is developing more signature events, ranging Kong the ‘ Parade’ and ‘Hong rugby Well-wishing Festival’, to international football, and golf tournaments. A premier tourist destination, Hong Kong is a blend of A premier tourist destination, Chinese traditions, European East and West, featuring and Cantonese gusto. heritage, high-tech modernity diverse and exciting travel experience Hong Kong offers a theme parks, countryside — great shopping, dining, It also has many pursuits, arts, culture and sports events. monasteries, heritage attractions in the form of temples, walled villages, clan halls and colonial structures. in Given rising tourism demand in Asia, especially recorded the Mainland, total visitor arrivals in 2013 an increase of 12 per cent over 2012, reaching tourists was 54.3 million. Total spending by inbound remained estimated to exceed $340 billion. The Mainland million visiting the largest source of visitors, with 40.75 cent in 2012. Hong Kong in 2013, an increase of 16.7 per Tourism Development to enhancing The Government attaches great importance and Hong Kong’s attractiveness as a travel destination visitors. The increasing Hong Kong’s capacity to receive city’s tourism Government has invested heavily in the infrastructure over the past few years. Hong Kong The Government is committed to developing building into a leading regional cruise hub. The terminal Terminal and the first berth of the new Kai Tak Cruise with the has come into operation since June 2013, Both berths will completion of the second berth in 2014. Tourism Coming to Hong Kong to Hong Coming ong Kong Hong to Coming 32 Coming to Hong Kong 35

Leisure and Culture 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 arts, which artistic freedom, community recreation and sports sporting excellence, programmes can thrive. Events Cultural and Leisure leisure events, Hong Kong hosts a variety of cultural and Hong Kong including the premier arts event, the annual Festival, Arts Festival, Hong Kong International Film Arts Le French May, Chinese Opera Festival, International Cultures Festival Carnival, New Vision Arts Festival /World as many and the Hong Kong Flower Show, as well traditional festive programmes. Sporting Events Major sporting events held in Hong Kong include the annual Hong Kong Sevens (rugby), the Hong Kong Marathon, FIVB Volleyball World Grand Prix — Open Hong Kong, Harbour Race, the Hong Kong Open, Championship (golf), the Hong Kong Squash the Hong Kong Open Badminton Championships Hong Kong ITU (Part of the BWF World Super Series), the International Triathlon Asian Cup and the Hong Kong Dragon Boat Races. Inward and Outward Traffic and Outward Inward in terms ports world’s busiest of the Kong is one Hong In 2013, some and departures. of vessel arrivals from Hong Kong, arrived and departed 376 100 vessels 28.8 million passengers. carrying about in is one of the busiest International Airport Hong Kong passengers passed In 2013, 59.9 million the world. movements totalled 372 080. through the airport. Aircraft Hong Kong Hong maintains over autonomy its immigration open control. An policy immigration allows nationals of about 170 countries and territories visa-free visits ranging from seven to 180 days. territories visa-free visits skills, knowledge or experience Professionals with special available in Hong Kong, and of value to and not readily can make substantial contributions business people who are welcome to work and to Hong Kong’s economy Persons coming to work, study, invest in Hong Kong. business or take up residence in establish or join any to obtain an appropriate visa the HKSAR are required arrival. or entry permit before Cross-boundary Traffic the Lo Wu For cross-boundary passenger traffic in 2013, 000 passengers land crossing handled an average of 252 second rail link daily. The Spur Line — the of about 69 000 to the Mainland — handled an average passengers daily. Hong Kong There are four road crossing points between Tau Kok, and the Mainland, namely Lok Ma Chau, Sha The total daily Man Kam To and the Shenzhen Bay Port. 179 300 traveller flow across the four crossings averaged handled per day. while an average of 42 600 vehicles were 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 Kong Island. In 2013, the passenger throughput million and the Mainland and Macao was about 4.97 20.99 million respectively. Immigration ong Kong Hong to Coming 34 Coming to Hong Kong 37 Geopark Kong Global The Hong China Geopark of includes two regions covering eight geo-areas in the eastern part of Hong Kong, each with Traditional Festivals There are five major festivals in the Chinese calendar. During Lunar New Year, the most important festival, people exchange gifts and visit friends and relatives, while children receive ‘lucky money’ Festival in red paper packets. During the Ching Ming the fifth day in spring, people visit ancestral graves. On dragon boats of the fifth lunar month in early summer, the sea during race across Hong Kong’s waterways and Festival the Dragon Boat Festival. The Mid-Autumn month, when falls on the 15th day of the eighth lunar and gifts of mooncakes, wine and fruit are exchanged, visit parks, adults and children carrying colourful lanterns Chung beaches and the countryside to see the moon. the ninth lunar Yeung Festival occurs on the ninth day of graves or month, when many people visit their ancestors’ Chinese hike up mountains to commemorate a legendary family’s escape from the plague. It comprises a 10 000-square metre visitor centre with visitor centre metre 000-square a 10 It comprises of value functions and the showcasing galleries exhibition to reserve for visitors and a 60-hectare wetland wetlands, in Hong Kong. amazing wetland wildlife explore the One is the Sai Kung Volcanic unique geological features. volcanic rock columns, Rock Region with hexagonal both in terms of size and coverage. considered world-class New Territories Sedimentary The other is the Northeast the most comprehensive Rock Region which represents rocks in Hong Kong. stratigraphy of sedimentary Museums of Kong’s mix Hong — Chinese traditions historical and Western, — can and modern in its also be seen The Hong museums. of Art Kong Museum showcases magnificent collections of ancient and modern showcases magnificent stimulating interactive exhibits at works of art. There are Museum and Omnimax films at the Hong Kong Science Museum. The Hong Kong Museum the Hong Kong Space Kong Heritage Museum present of History and the Hong aspects of Hong Kong. The the historical and cultural House Museum of Tea Ware, housed fascinating Flagstaff at Hong Kong Park, shows the in a historical building of tea in Chinese culture. history and importance Country Parks Hong Kong’s total land area is About 40 per cent of Encompassing reserved for conservation and recreation. Kong’s 24 country parks and 22 special areas, Hong nature lovers extensive green belt is popular with hikers, parks and and tourists. There are also four marine of about one marine reserve, occupying a total area areas, 2 430 hectares. They comprise scenic coastal seascapes and important eco-habitats. Mai Po Inner Deep Bay Ramsar Site as a ‘Wetland of The Mai Po Inner Deep Bay area is listed Convention. International Importance’ under the Ramsar sites in It is one of the most important over-wintering 1 500 hectares, Asia for migratory birds. Covering some mangroves the Ramsar Site comprises intertidal mudflats, for both and fish ponds, providing diverse habitats species of birds migratory and resident birds. About 380 the wetland is have been recorded in the area. In winter home to 80 000 to 90 000 waterbirds. Hong Kong Wetland Park which aims to Hong Kong Wetland Park is a special area and tourism. promote wetland conservation, education ong Kong Hong to Coming 36 The Future of Hong Kong 39 Launching a public consultation exercise on proposals to exercise on proposals a public consultation Launching of the auditor regime. the independence further enhance Establishing a framework for information and and for information a framework Establishing recognition professional technology communications in Hong Kong. • Cyber Century City for the Asia’s Cyber on a course to become the centre Hong Kong has set itself in East Asia — a cyber city for innovation and technology Much is being done to realise this in the cyber century. on the enormous opportunities goal and to capitalise revolution. presented by the information Cyberport the Cyberport — one of and leading information communication technologies (ICT) hubs of the Asia-Pacific by region — is managed Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited and wholly-owned by the HKSAR Government. digital It is home to a strategic cluster of ICT and Cyberport content tenants. At end-December of 2013, 154 office was home to 176 companies, including about tenants and 22 on-site incubatees, occupying This clustering 92 per cent of the existing office space. talent of local and overseas companies and creative of acts as a catalyst and hub for the development games, ICT applications, information services, digital Cyberport animation and other multimedia industries. creative helps commercialise creative ideas, incubating lifestyle in startups and promoting a creative digital the wider community. •

Conducting a study on the feasibility of establishing Conducting a study on the feasibility of a civil aviation training institute. of Formulating initiatives to promote the development the local film industry. Taking forward a consultancy recommendation to examine Taking forward a consultancy recommendation to drive the feasibility of setting up a statutory body Kong. the development of maritime services in Hong Establishing an advisory committee to advise on and co-ordinate development and promotion of Hong Kong as an international arbitration centre in the Asian Pacific region. Setting up new liaision units and an Economic and Setting up new liaision Trade Office in the Mainland. for a free trade agreement with Starting negotiations and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Services conintuing to participate in the Trade in more Agreement (TISA) negtotiations to secure for favourable access to the relevant markets Hong Kong businesses. • • • • • • Hong Kong keeps enhancing existing advantages and Hong Kong keeps enhancing and sustainable economic growth. exploring for continuous established the Economic The Government has and the Financial Services Development Commission to formulate a holistic industrial Development Council to further Hong Kong’s policy and identify ways new initiatives are: economic success. Some For many years, financial services, trading and logistics, trading and logistics, financial services, For many years, have served as Hong professional services tourism and ‘Asia’s World City‘, pillar industries. As Kong’s four Capitalising on Existing Advantages to Unleash to Unleash on Existing Advantages Capitalising Potential Hong Kong’s The Future of Hong Kong Hong of Future The ong Kong Hong e of Futur The 38 The Future of Hong Kong 41 Cultural District West Kowloon Kai Tak Development Areas New Development Island — Tung Chung New Development of Lantau Town Extension Scale Outside Victoria Reclamation on an Appropriate Harbour Space Development Rock Cavern and Underground Lok Ma Chau Loop Lok Ma Point Control Boundary Yuen Wai / Heung Liantang works and associated • • • • • • • • By improving transport and other infrastructure, By improving transport Hong Kong’s further these projects will enable more socio-cultural and business development and foster with closer and more efficient activities. In addition, between Hong Kong and rail and transport links of Shenzhen and the Pearl River the neighbouring regions strengthened. Delta, cross-boundary integration will be a multi-pronged The Government will continue to adopt housing and approach and step up its efforts to meet will other needs. For this purpose, the Government medium and increase the supply of land in the short, 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 the Annual expenditure on capital works reached compared to target of around $70 billion in 2013-14, $62.4 billion in 2012-13. expenditure In the next few years, the capital works bringing a is expected to be over $70 billion per year, industry continuous driving force to the construction and economic development. Science Park Science the Also using concept, clustering Science Hong Kong Park has boosted the city’s technology focusing platform by IT and on electronics, telecommunications, Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao -Chek Lap Kok Link Hong Kong Section of Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link South Island Line (East) to Central Link biotechnology, precision engineering, and green biotechnology, precision two phases of Science Park offer technology. The first metres of floor space for research over 220 000 square Park which is now about 96 per and development. The more than 440 local, Mainland and cent full, is home to companies. These companies have overseas technology 9 000 jobs. provided more than Science Park Phase 3 is under way. The development of on the development of the green This phase will focus 3 will be available to tenants technology cluster. Phase Phase 3 is from 2014 to 2016. When fully occupied, 150 technology expected to accommodate an additional companies and provide 4 000 jobs. • • • • • 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 The Government is moving ahead with a major infrastructure projects, including: ong Kong Hong e of Futur The 40 The Future of Hong Kong 43 To ease congestion on Hong Kong Island, the Central- Island, the Kong on Hong congestion To ease Link are Corridor Eastern and Island Chai Bypass Wan Street Flyover and the to connect Rumsey being built Point. Commissioning Corridor at North Island Eastern for 2017. is scheduled Bridge (HZMB), For the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao bridge and the Hong Kong construction of the main at end-2009 and end-2011 related projects commenced of respectively to meet the target commissioning the HZMB by end-2016. Road Projects and Strategic new roads reduce urban congestion and beyond. provide vital new links to the New Territories reconstruction Other major ongoing road projects include and and improvement works in the New Territories on Hong Kong Island. arising from To cope with anticipated traffic demand Tolo the future development of the New Territories, of Tuen Mun were upgraded and two sections The works for Road are being upgraded and widened. quarter of were completed by the first be completed 2014 while works for Tuen Mun Road will from Tai by end-2014. The widening of in Hang to Wo Hop Shek Interchange commenced July 2013 for completion by end-2018. Railway Development Railway needs the transport serving vital role in play a Railways reliable and They provide fast, of Hong Kong. on the road services, reduce pressure comfortable are more environmentally-friendly. network and rapidly has progressed railway development Hong Kong’s has been billion few years. Over $100 over the past five railway projects. invested in territory wide long-term railway In order to draw the the Government has commissioned development blueprint, a review and update study of a consultant to conduct Strategy 2000‘. the ‘Railway Development ong Kong Hong e of Futur The 42 Hong Kong: The Facts

45 8% 3% 32% 26% 19% 12% % of total June 2013) -

HK$14,100 per month (1) Accommodation services cover hotels, guesthouses, boarding houses and other Accommodation services cover hotels, guesthouses, boarding houses establishments providing short term accommodation.

employment (1) Air movements million passengers; 372 080 flights; 59.9 freight 4.13 million tonnes of Shipping movements vessels; 157 700 river vessels; Arrival: 29 920 ocean 276 million tones port cargo throughput Container throughput equivalent units) 22.35 million TEUs (20-foot Employment in 2013 3.74 million Total number employed: Major employment sectors Import/export, wholesale and Bridge (two main spans totalling 923 metres) — metres) — 923 spans totalling (two main Bridge road cable-stayed 1 018 metres) — Bridge (main span Stonecutters road bridge span cable-stayed 210 metres) — Bay Bridge (main span Shenzhen bridge cable-stayed road single plane 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 courier services, and information and communications Construction Manufacturing Median wage (Non-government employees) (May 80.67 square km 46.94 square km 748.06 square km 228.79 square km acts Bridges — (main span 1 377 metres) the world’s longest road-rail suspension bridge — Bridge (main span 430 metres) road-rail cable-stayed bridge Roads vehicles 2 093 kilometres of roads, 680 914 licensed About 2.09 million people live in 780 300 public rental About 2.09 million people live in 780 300 housing flats Transport 259 km/h at , 284 km/h at 259 km/h at Hong Kong Observatory, 284 1, 1962) Tate’s Cairn (Typhoon Wanda, September Public Housing 0.0°C (January 18, 1893) Highest wind speed Highest temperature 1990) 36.1°C (August 19, 1900 and August 18, Lowest temperature Annual rainfall (2013) 2847.3mm Weather Area: 1 104.43 square kilometres Area: 1 104.43 square Hong Kong Island Overall density per square kilometre 6 650 people Kowloon New Territories — mainland New Territories — islands Population: 7.19 million (Mid-2013) Population: Hong Kong : The Facts The : Kong Hong e F Th Kong: Hong 44 Useful Contacts 47 E-mail: [email protected] www.wheto.gov.hk 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 ACTS 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 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 UL CONT USEF 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 6 Grafton Street London W1S 4EQ UK Phone: (44) 20 7499 9821 Fax: (44) 20 7495 5033 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] ACTS Asia-Pacific Singapore 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] Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office Economic and Trade Hong Kong Tower 2 #34-01, Suntec Boulevard 9 Temasek 038989 Singapore 6338 1771 Phone: (65) 2112 Fax: (65) 6339 E-mail: [email protected] UL CONT USEF 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 July 2014 Phone: (852) 1830 668 Copyright in this publication belongs to the HKSAR Government. Information in the publication may be used freely, and may be Fax: (852) 2824 0249 reproduced solely for non-commercial purposes on condition that the source www.hktdc.com and copyright ownership are acknowledged.

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