News Spring 2018

Issued by the Kong Economic and Trade Office, Brussels

Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Edward Yau, met with Belgium’s ’s Chief Executive, Mrs Carrie Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Lam, at the World Economic Forum Affairs, Mr Didier Reynders, in Brussels (page 2). Annual Meeting in Davos (page 4).

Prime Minister of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Mr Mark Rutte, visited Hong Kong (page 5). Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development in Brussels

Mr Edward Yau (centre), with the Vice President for Jobs, Growth, Investment and Competitiveness of the European Commission, Mr Jyrki Katainen (right),

Hong Kong’s Secretary for Commerce and Economic the preferential treatments in trade and investment Development, Mr Edward Yau, visited Brussels on 22-23 offered to companies based in Hong Kong under the January 2018 to promote closer ties between Hong Kong Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership the EU and Belgium. Arrangement and make use of the city’s professional services to expand their operation in Asia, particularly Mr Yau met with the Belgian Deputy Prime Minister in Mainland. and Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Affairs, Mr Didier Reynders. Mr Yau said Hong Kong had At the European Commission, Mr Yau met with the always played an important role as a gateway for Vice President for Jobs, Growth, Investment and many European companies, including companies Competitiveness, Mr Jyrki Katainen. Mr Yau highlighted from Belgium interested in the Chinese and Asian the importance of Hong Kong’s trade and economic markets. He encouraged Belgian companies to ride on relationship with the EU and updated Mr Katainen that

Mr Yau attended a luncheon co-hosted by the Belgium-Hong Kong Society and HKETO, Brussels.

2 Hong Kong News Spring 2018 Hong Kong was taking an active and unique Spring 2018 role in the national policy of the Belt and Road Contents Initiative, which would present enormous collaboration opportunities between Europe and Hong Kong, notably in green financing Cover stories and infrastructural projects. Mr Yau and Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development in Brussels 2 Mr Katainen also exchanged views on the Hong Kong has embarked on fourth industrial revolution, Chief Executive issues ahead in global trade and affirmed says at WEF Annual Meeting in Davos 4 the commitment of both sides towards the Prime Minister of the Netherlands in Hong Kong – Working Holiday Scheme rule-based multilateral trading system in the agreement signed 5 next stage of work after the 11th World Trade Organization Ministerial Conference held in Secretary for the Civil Service in France Buenos Aires. Secretary for the Civil Service visited France in connection with plan to establish college for Hong Kong civil servants 7 Mr Yau also had a meeting with the Director-General for Trade of the European Budget, Finance and Taxation Commission, Mr Jean-Luc Demarty, with Luxembourg Finance Minister welcomes stronger links between whom he exchanged views on matters Luxembourg and Hong Kong financial sectors 8 relating to the development opportunities 2018-19 Budget to diversify the economy, invest for the future and enhance for EU member states and companies in liveability of Hong Kong 9 Hong Kong. GDP grew by 4.7% in first quarter of 2018 11 Two-tired profits tax rates regime implemented since 1 April 2018 11 At a luncheon co-hosted by the Belgium-Hong Kong Society and the Hong Kong Economic Innovation and Technology and Trade Office, Brussels (HKETO, Brussels), Chief Executive outlined plans to boost innovation and technology 12 Mr Yau briefed the attending board members on the latest developments in Hong Kong in Hong Kong and Ireland areas such as creative industries and tourism Chief Executive met Ireland’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for as well as Hong Kong’s unique role in the Foreign Affairs 13 Belt and Road Initiative. Ireland-based international aircraft leasing company has set up regional office in Hong Kong 14 Visiting the Belgian Comic Strip Centre/ Irish Fintech company of the year, Global Shares, has launched Hong Kong Brussels Comics Art Museum, which has a office 15 good relationship with Hong Kong’s Comix Enterprise Ireland targeting 50% growth in Irish exports to Asia with Home Base, Mr Yau noted that various improved connectivity to Hong Kong 15 exhibitions of Belgian comics had been held in Hong Kong, and said he looked forward to Brussels-Hong Kong air route opened more such collaborations in the near future. First direct air route opened between Brussels and Hong Kong 16

Chinese New Year in Europe HKETO, Brussels hosted Chinese New Year events in 15 European cities 17

Education and Careers European talents encouraged to seize Hong Kong study and employment opportunities 20

Culture and Sport “Legends of Lion Dance” exhibition showcased Hong Kong’s crafts and cultural heritage in Belgium 21 HKETO, Brussels supported “Lines in Motion: East Meets West” exhibition in Amsterdam 22 Hong Kong films brought toE uropean festival audiences in Dublin, Mr Yau (second left) and Special Representative for Hong Kong Amsterdam, Brussels, Udine, Florence and Prato 23 Economic and Trade Affairs to the European Union, Ms Shirley Creative achievements of Hong Kong publishing industry at Bologna Lam (first left), were briefed by Belgian Comic Strip Centre Children’s Book Fair 27 President, Mr Ferry Van Vosselen (second right), and Deputy France’s Patrice Delaveau is victorious at Longines Masters of Hong Kong 28 Director and Head of Education of the Brussels Comics Art Museum, Ms Tine Anthoni (first right).

Hong Kong News Spring 2018 3 Hong Kong has embarked on fourth industrial revolution, Chief Executive says at WEF Annual Meeting in Davos

The Chief Executive, Mrs Carrie Lam, chatting with the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund, Ms Christine Lagarde, and the President of WEF, Mr Borge Brende, at the WEF Annual Meeting in Davos.

Hong Kong is embarking on the journey of its own fourth Mrs Lam also participated in another WEF session, on industrial revolution to diversify the economy and to “Global Economic Outlook”. Noting that Hong Kong, a boost further development in various areas through small and externally-oriented economy, is among the the application of innovation and technology, including freest and most competitive economies in the world, Fintech, Biotech, Edutech, smart city and Gerontech, the she said that the city has benefited from the world’s Chief Executive, Mrs Carrie Lam has said. economic recovery and will strengthen its economic foundation to seize the many opportunities arising Addressing the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual from China’s and Asia’s economic development. China’s Meeting in Davos on 26 January 2018, she said with economic development has a big impact globally and the young people’s enthusiasm in innovation and she believed that China will continue to uphold free technology, the demand for quality service of the trade and economic globalisation, delivering the benefits growing middle class population and, most important of economic growth to all. of all, its interconnectivity, she is very optimistic about the development of Asia in the fourth industrial As the world is seeing some driving forces for growth, revolution. she said the opportunity should be taken to improve governance, focus on trade rules, strengthen regulatory Noting that Hong Kong has entered into a Free Trade collaboration and put in place sound social policies Agreement and an Investment Promotion and Protection to address poverty, income disparity and the lack of Agreement with the Association of Southeast Asian opportunities for young people. She said her government Nations (ASEAN) which firmly connect the city with the ten would embrace those values to put in place necessary ASEAN nations, she said she believed the Belt and Road social policies, making timely investment in education, Initiative will further link up Asia and all other countries enhancing connectivity with the rest of the world, in along the Belt and Road and enable them to complement particular, with ASEAN, to boost social development in each other to boost growth and exchanges. various areas.

4 Hong Kong News Spring 2018 Prime Minister of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Hong Kong

Acting Chief Executive, Mr Matthew Cheung Kin-chung, welcomes Prime Minister Mark Rutte to Government House.

The Prime Minister of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, 17th century when trade between the Netherlands and Mr Mark Rutte, visited Hong Kong on 9 April 2018, where southern China, including Hong Kong, boomed. Today, he received a warm welcome from Acting Chief Executive, the Netherlands, is Hong Kong’s third largest trading Mr Matthew Cheung Kin-chung. partner in the European Union, while Hong Kong is the Netherlands’ fifth largest trading partner in Asia. New Consulate The Netherlands has a notable presence in finance, After a meeting and a luncheon at Government House, trade, transportation, wholesaling and retailing as well Mr Cheung and Mr Rutte jointly officiated at the opening as other sectors including technology, innovation and ceremony of the new premises of the Consulate General design in Hong Kong. Currently, there are over 200 Dutch of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Central Plaza, firms in Hong Kong, including ABN AMRO, KLM Royal Wan Chai. Dutch Airlines, Philips, Shell, Heineken and many more.

Mr Cheung noted that Mr Rutte was the first Dutch Mr Cheung said he had no doubt that bilateral relations Prime Minister ever to visit Hong Kong. The trade would continue to develop and thrive in the years relationship between the two places dated back to the ahead. Hong Kong stands ready to partner with Dutch -->

Hong Kong News Spring 2018 5 Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Dr Law Chi-kwong, shaking hands with the Consul General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Ms Annemieke Ruigrok, after the signing of the Working Holiday Scheme Agreement witnessed by Acting Chief Executive, Mr Matthew Cheung Kin-chung and Prime Minister, Mr Mark Rutte.

businesses to seize the enormous opportunities brought Ruigrok hailed the scheme as a sign of the excellent about by Belt and Road Initiative and the Guangdong- shape of bilateral relations between the Netherlands and Hong Kong-Macao Bay Area development. Hong Kong. She encouraged young people to make full use of the opportunities provided by the scheme, saying Working Holiday Scheme for young people it would lead to a deeper understanding of each other’s cultures, which would further strengthen their relations, Mr Cheung and Mr Rutte also witnessed the signing of a today and in the future. Memorandum of Understanding between Hong Kong and the Netherlands concerning the Working Holiday Scheme The scheme with the Netherlands is Hong Kong’s 13th by the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Dr Law Chi- bilateral working holiday scheme. Since 2001, Hong kwong, and the Consul General of the Kingdom of the Kong has established such schemes with New Zealand, Netherlands in Hong Kong, Ms Annemieke Ruigrok. Australia, Ireland, Germany, Japan, Canada, Korea, France, the United Kingdom, Austria, Hungary and Sweden. So Under the scheme, youths from each side will be able far, more than 85 000 Hong Kong youths have benefited to apply for a visa to stay in the Netherlands or Hong from these schemes. Kong for up to 12 months. During the period, they may work to finance their stay or study short-term courses. More information for applicants from the Netherlands can obtained from the There will be an annual quota of 100 from each side. Immigration Department’s website www.immd.gov.hk. Welcoming the scheme, which will start on 1 January 2019, Mr Cheung said it would open doors further for Hong Kong applicants will find the information on the website of the the young people to foster broader, deeper and more Consulate-General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Hong Kong at frequent cultural, academic and talent exchanges. Ms www.netherlandsandyou.nl/your-country-and-the-netherlands/hongkong.

6 Hong Kong News Spring 2018 Secretary for the Civil Service visited France in connection with plan to establish college for Hong Kong civil servants

Mr Joshua Law (right) with Secretary of State to the Minister of Public Action and Accounts, Mr Olivier Dussopt (left).

Hong Kong’s Secretary for the Civil Service, Mr Joshua Law, visited France on 5-9 March 2018 as part of a European tour which also took him to Finland and the United Kingdom to discuss professional training for senior civil servants and the strategies and academic programmes for developing human resources in the public service.

Mr Law’s visit followed the announcement by the Chief Executive Mrs Carrie Lam, in her annual Policy Address announced in October 2017 that Hong Kong would seek to establish a civil service college to upgrade the training facilities for civil servants. Mrs Lam had said Mr Law (left) met with the Vice-President of SciencePo, Mr Francis Vérillaud that while the is well-known for (right), to learn about the Institute’s experience in nurturing prospective its professionalism and high efficiency, it must continue government leaders. to strive for excellence through enhanced training in the areas of leadership development, interaction and communication with the public, as well as innovation and use of technology.

During his visit to France Mr Law met with Secretary of State to the Minister of Public Action and Accounts, Mr Olivier Dussopt, to discuss the management of the civil service. He visited SciencesPo, the Paris Institute of Political Studies, as well as the National School of Administration (ENA) and the Institut National des Études Territoriales (INET - National Institute for Local Studies) in Strasbourg. Mr Law (left) met with the Director of ENA, Mr Patrick Gérard (right), to discuss professional training for senior civil servants.

Hong Kong News Spring 2018 7 Luxembourg Finance Minister welcomes stronger links between Luxembourg and Hong Kong financial sectors

Mr Pierre Gramegna (centre) took part in the plentary session on “Steering Growth and Pioneering Innovation: Asia and Beyond”. With him (from left) are Hong Kong’s Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr James Lau; Vice Chairman of the China Securities Regulatory Commission, Dr Jiang Yang; Minister for Revenue and Financial Services, Australia, Ms Kelly O’Dwyer; and the President of the Asian Development Bank, Mr Takehiko Nakao.

Luxembourg Finance Minister, Mr Pierre Gramegna, was Mr Gramegna met his Hong Kong counterpart, Financial one of the keynote speakers at the 11th Asian Financial Secretary Mr Paul Chan, and the Secretary for Financial Forum (AFF) in Hong Kong on 15-16 January 2018. He also Services and the Treasury, Mr James Lau, on 16 January seized the opportunity of his visit for meetings with Hong 2018. They discussed developments in financial relations Kong finance ministers and the financial regulator. between the two jurisdictions. During a meeting with the financial regulator, the Securities and Futures More than 100 international speakers, including financial Commission, Mr Gramegna discussed various ideas to policymakers, business leaders and big investors, strengthen links between the financial industries of gathered at the AFF, which is the biggest international Hong Kong and Luxembourg. conference about Asian finance. This year the theme was “Steering Growth and Pioneering Innovation: Asia While in Hong Kong Mr Gramegna also opened the and Beyond”. They discussed how Asia can leverage seminar organised by the Association of the Luxembourg innovation to maintain growth and drive the global Fund Industry (ALFI) on 17 January 2018 as part of its economy, examined the latest economic trends and annual Asia Roadshow. He underlined the special offered investment-planning insights. Experts also relationship between the fund industries of Hong Kong forecasted the impact brought about by technology. and Luxembourg, noting that two thirds of foreign funds distributed in Hong Kong are domiciled in Luxembourg, This was the third time in four years that Mr Gramegna illustrating the respective roles of the two jurisdictions, addressed the forum. He spoke about the challenges Luxembourg as a gateway to the EU market, and Hong and opportunities presented by new technology for Kong as a gateway to the Mainland market. “I am the future development of the finance industry, and delighted to see that there is a shared will to strengthen identified green finance and Fintech as the two most this relationship,” Mr Gramegna said. promising pillars for growth in the years ahead.

8 Hong Kong News Spring 2018 2018-19 Budget to diversify the economy, invest for the future and enhance liveability of Hong Kong

The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, said the initiatives put forward in the 2018-19 Budget are underpinned by three main objectives: achieving a diversified economy, investing for the future and caring and sharing.

Hong Kong posted a fiscal surplus of HK$138 billion (EUR Mr Chan said he was cautiously optimistic about Hong 14.62 billion), in 2017-18, Hong Kong’s Financial Secretary, Kong’s economic prospects, predicting GDP growth of 3% Mr Paul Chan, announced in his Budget Speech on 28 to 4% for 2018. It is estimated that the 2018-19 Budget February 2018. would have a stimulus effect of 2% on the growth of GDP

The fiscal reserves stood at HK$1,103 billion (EUR 116.84 billion) by the end of the 2017-18 financial year (i.e. 31 2018-2019 Budget March 2018). Part of the surplus (about 40%) will be shared with the GDP grew by 3.8% in 2017, up from 2.1% in 2016. The community through one-off concessionary measures, tax labour market was in full employment, with the latest breaks and tax rebates and the remainder will be used unemployment rate down to a 20-year low of 2.9%. for improving services and investing for the future. Hong Underlying inflation eased for the sixth consecutive year, Kong’s innovation and technology (I&T) sector received averaging 1.7% in 2017. a massive boost. Sectors including financial services, business and professional services, arts and culture, Hong Kong is one of the most advanced economies tourism and sports also received large allocations. in the world, despite the relatively small scale of its economy. Its GDP per capita has now reached US$46,000 (EUR 37,862) and is among the highest in the world. Budget summary on next page -->

Hong Kong News Spring 2018 9 Taxation

• One-off tax relief measures include reducing salaries tax and profits tax by 75%, subject to a ceiling of HK$30,000 (EUR 3,177.97) will be provided. These measures will benefit 1.88 million salaries taxpayers and 142 000 profit taxpayers.

I&T

• HK$10 billion (EUR 1.06 billion) was reserved last year for supporting I&T development. This year an additional HK$50 billion (EUR 5.30 billion) will be set aside, with focus on four areas: biotechnology, artificial intelligence (A.I.), smart city and financial technologies.

• HK$20 billion (EUR 2.12 billion) will be spent on the first phase of the Hong Kong- Innovation and Technology Park in the Lok Ma Chau.

• HK$10 billion (EUR 1.06 billion) will support the establishment of two research clusters on healthcare technologies and on A.I. and robotics technologies and to attract the world’s top scientific research institutions and technology enterprises to Hong Kong.

• HK$10 billion (EUR 1.06 billion) will be allocated to the Science Park and HK$300 million (EUR 31.78 million) to Cyberport.

Financial Services

• HK$500 million (EUR 52.97 million) has been set aside to develop the financial services industry in the coming five years, providing necessary support forbond market development, Fintech, green finance, manpower training and other aspects of financial services.

• The Hong Kong Monetary Authority will make plans to set up an academy of finance in collaboration with the financial sector and all relevant parties to promote cross-sector expertise sharing and collaboration in applied research.

• A three-year Pilot Bond Grant Scheme will be launched to attract local, Mainland and overseas enterprises to issue bonds in Hong Kong.

• A green bond issuance programme with a borrowing ceiling of HK$100 billion (EUR 10.59 billion) will be launched for Government’s green public works projects.

Business and Professional Services / Small and medium enterprises (SMEs)

• HK$250 million (EUR 26.48 million) additional funding will be provided over five years to assist local enterprises (SMEs in particular) in seizing opportunities arising from the Belt and Road Initiative and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Bay Area development and promoting the development of e-commerce.

Creative Industries

• The Government intends to inject another HK$1 billion (EUR 105.93 million) into the CreateSmart Initiative to strengthen support for the development of the creative industries, especially in nurturing youths and helping start-ups.

Environment

• To improve the environment and combat climate change, HK$800 million (EUR 84.75 million) will be earmarked this year to promote the installation of renewable energy facilities at government buildings, venues and community facilities.

10 Hong Kong News Spring 2018 GDP grew by 4.7% in first quarter of 2018

The Hong Kong economy achieved robust growth of 4.7% optimistic consumer sentiment on the back of favourable over a year earlier in the first quarter of 2018, sustaining job and income as well as asset market conditions. the full-fledged upturn in 2017. External demand picked Overall investment expenditure registered further real up and domestic demand also strengthened, buttressed year-on-year growth of 3.8%. by favourable labour market conditions and positive business sentiment. On a seasonally adjusted quarter- The labour market remained tight. The seasonally to-quarter comparison, real GDP grew notably by 2.2% in adjusted unemployment rate stayed at a 20-year low the first quarter. of 2.9% in the first quarter of 2018. Total employment continued to record sturdy growth. Total exports of goods grew strongly by 5.2% year-on- year in real terms in the first quarter.E xports of services The actual growth outturn of the Hong Kong economy likewise accelerated to show broad-based growth of in the first quarter of 2018 was stronger than expected. 7.5% year-on-year in real terms. Nonetheless, considering the increased uncertainties in the external environment, particularly on the trade and Domestic demand continued to strengthen. Private financial fronts, the forecast real GDP growth of 3-4% consumption expenditure grew notably by 8.6% year-on- for 2018, as announced in the 2018-19 Budget, was year in real terms in the first quarter of 2018, reflecting maintained.

Two-tiered profits tax rates regime implemented since 1 April 2018

To take forward the initiatives announced by Hong Kong’s eligible enterprises with assessable profits, irrespective Chief Executive, Mrs Carrie Lam, in her first Policy Address of their size. To ensure that the tax benefits will target delivered in October 2017, Hong Kong has introduced the small and medium enterprises (SMEs), the application of two-tiered profits tax rates system since 1 April 2018. the two-tiered rates is restricted to only one enterprise nominated among connected entities. The relevant law The two-tiered profits tax rates regime will be applicable has prescribed a simple, clear and objective definition to any year of assessment commencing on or after 1 for connected entities. April 2018. The profits tax rate for the first HK$2 million (EUR 212,000) of profits of corporations will be lowered It is the Government’s objective to adopt a competitive to 8.25%. Profits above that amount will continue to taxation system to promote economic development be subject to the tax rate of 16.5%. For unincorporated while maintaining a simple and low tax regime. The two- businesses (i.e. partnerships and sole proprietorships), tiered profits tax rates regime will reduce the tax burden the two-tiered tax rate will correspondingly be set at on enterprises, especially SMEs and startup enterprises. 7.5% and 15%. This will help forster a favourable business environment, drive economic growth, create job opportunities and The two-tiered profits rax rates regime will benefit enhance Hong Kong’s competitiveness.

Hong Kong News Spring 2018 11 Chief Executive outlined plans to boost innovation and technology

Mrs Lam explained the Government’s holistic approach to drive innovation and technology in Hong Kong at the Internet Economy Summit.

Hong Kong’s Chief Executive, Mrs Carrie Lam, outlined Silicon Valley her plans to boost innovation and technology (I&T) at the 3rd Internet Economy Summit on 12-13 April 2018 at In his Budget speech in February 2018, Hong Kong’s the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Financial Secretary committed HK$50 billion (EUR 5.30 billion) to support I&T development in Hong Kong. “New Impetus for the New Economy” was the theme of this year’s two-day Summit, which gathered around 2 “One of our targets is to develop an international 400 participants and over 50 experts from around the innovation and technology hub in the Bay Area, and Hong world to explore how advances in artificial intelligence, Kong will play a key role in it. Together with the planned the Internet of Things, Big Data and cloud computing will Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park at drive future innovation and business growth. the Lok Ma Chau Loop, Hong Kong, Shenzhen and cities in the Bay Area can complement one another and create Speaking at the opening, Mrs Lam said that in her maiden our version of Silicon Valley,” Mrs Lam continued. Policy Address she had presented an eight-pronged strategy for Hong Kong to strengthen its competitiveness “To realise our vision, we have put together a comprehensive in the global I&T race, ranging from more resources for package of long- and medium-term initiatives as well as R&D and nurturing a talent pool to venture capital and immediate support measures for relevant industries. I popular science education. She had also highlighted four have set a goal to double Hong Kong’s R&D expenditure key technology areas, namely healthcare technologies, as a ratio to the Gross Domestic Product to 1.5% by 2022 artificial intelligence and robotics, smart city and Fintech. - or about HK$45 billion (EUR 4.77 billion) a year. To help “I believe these can become new economic drivers for achieve this, we will for the first time in Hong Kong provide Hong Kong’s future development,” Mrs Lam said. super tax deduction of up to 300% for R&D expenditure incurred by enterprises,” she added. She noted that Hong Kong’s efforts in I&T will be given a major boost in the context of the Guangdong-Hong On talent development, the Government was launching a Kong-Macao Bay Area on which a State Council-approved HK$500 million (EUR 53 million) Technology Talent Scheme, Development Plan will be promulgated soon. This economic which includes the establishment of a Post-doctoral Hub blueprint for the nine cities in Guangdong and the two and a dedicated Re-industrialisation and Technology Special Administrative Regions of Hong Kong and Macao, Training Programme to subsidise local companies to with a population of 68 million and a combined GDP of train their staff in advanced technologies, especially in US$1.5 trillion, will provide enormous opportunities. Industry 4.0. These will be rolled out by the third quarter

12 Hong Kong News Spring 2018 of 2018. The goal is to encourage more young people to In adopting new technology, the Smart City Blueprint engage in R&D and technology entrepreneurship as a long- for Hong Kong published last December provides a term, life-long career. Studentships will also be provided clear roadmap for making use of technologies to drive for Hong Kong students to pursue research postgraduate economic growth and enhance the quality of living in programmes in the publicly funded universities. Hong Kong. Pivotal to this is the application of information and communications technology, in particular big data Two new research clusters analytics, cloud computing and Internet of Things to take advantage of the ever-increasingly connected At the same time, Hong Kong aims to attract the best Internet-driven economy. The Government will invest talents from the Mainland and overseas to enrich its more than HK$900 million (EUR 95.3 million) in the next ecosystem. In order to attract the world’s top scientific few years to implement several smart city infrastructure research institutions and technology enterprises to projects, including the provision of e-ID to all residents, Hong Kong, HK$10 billion (EUR 1.06 billion) had been and launching a multi-function smart lamppost pilot earmarked to support the establishment of two research scheme. clusters in Hong Kong: one on healthcare technologies and the other on artificial intelligence and robotics “The success of all these programmes and initiatives technologies. requires strong leadership and sustained investment well into the future. Within the Government, the high- Other initiatives include allocating HK$7 billion (EUR level Steering Committee on Innovation and Technology, 742 million) to the Science Park to boost support for its which I personally chair, will provide the steer and co- tenants and set up a Smart Campus. Cyberport will also ordination needed at the highest level to implement our receive HK$200 million (EUR 21.2 million) to enhance innovation and technology agenda,” Mrs Lam said. support for its start-ups.

Chief Executive met Ireland’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs

Chief Secretary for Administration and left with a deep impression of the city. Noting that Hong Kong and Ireland have had close relations over the years, she said that with the introduction of direct flights between Dublin and Hong Kong in June 2018, the ties of businesses and people in the two places are set to be enhanced.

Mrs Lam said that Hong Kong is presented with tremendous opportunities by participating in the Belt and Road Initiative and the development of the Guangdong- Hong Kong-Macao Bay Area. She encouraged Irish companies and talent to leverage on Hong Kong’s unique role to explore business development opportunities in the city and the Mainland.

Noting that Ireland is home to the headquarters of many leading multinational corporations in information technology and has vibrant creative industries, she said Mrs Carrie Lam welcomes Ireland’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for that Hong Kong is also keen to develop those industries. Foreign Affairs and Trade of Ireland, Mr Simon Coveney. With the development of the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park in the Lok Ma Chau Hong Kong’s Chief Executive, Mrs Carrie Lam, met the Loop and the launch of the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Design visiting Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Innovation Hub in , she said she looks forward to Affairs and Trade of Ireland, Mr Simon Coveney, on 12 more collaboration between the two places. She added March 2018. that small and medium-sized enterprises and start-ups are particularly welcome to set up businesses in Hong Welcoming Mr Coveney’s first visit to Hong Kong, Mrs Kong, which has rich experience and excellent facilities Lam said she visited Dublin in 2015 in the capacity of the to help their growth.

Hong Kong News Spring 2018 13 Ireland-based international aircraft leasing company has set up regional office in Hong Kong

Aergo Capital’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr Fred Browne (left), and the Vice Chairman of Aergo Capital and Managing Director of Aergo Capital Asia Limited, Mr Dewey Yee.

Aergo Capital, an international aircraft leasing company confidence in the city’s growing status as an international based in Ireland, opened its regional office in Hong aircraft leasing and aviation financing hub. Kong on 23 January 2018, tapping growing demand in Asia amid the city’s increasing role as a regional aircraft “We hope to see more international aircraft lessors to leasing hub. set up presence in the city, which will add diversity to the industry as well as choices for customers. A booming Aergo Capital, one of the industry leaders worldwide, aircraft leasing industry will also create job opportunities offers a wide range of services to its airline clients, for related financial and aviation sectors.” including aircraft leasing, aircraft financing, sale and leaseback financing and aircraft trading. The Hong Kong Another aircraft leasing company, ICBC Financial Leasing office is headed by Aergo Capital’s Vice Chairman and Co Ltd, a strategic client of Invest Hong Kong, officially Managing Director of Aergo Capital Asia Limited, Mr opened its wholly owned subsidiary ICBC Aviation Leasing Dewey Yee, a veteran with over 30 years’ experience in Company Limited in Hong Kong on 28 March 2018. the aircraft leasing industry.

Aergo’s Capital’s Chief Executive Officer,Mr Fred Browne, said that Asia offers bright prospects in aircraft leasing business and Hong Kong has an unrivalled location to become a leading aircraft leasing hub.

“As a global operating lessor with significant investment in the Asian market, Aergo Capital is delighted to further enhance our presence in this ever-growing region,” he said. “With the opening of our Hong Kong office, we can continue to serve the needs of our existing and future customers in the Asian market.”

He added that Hong Kong’s new tax incentives for aircraft leasing activities make the city one of the best places to capture the business opportunities in the region. ICBC Financial Leasing Co Ltd opened its wholly owned subsidiary ICBC Aviation Leasing Company Limited on 28 March 2018. Photo shows the Associate Director-General of Investment Promotion at Acting Director-General of Investment Promotion of Invest Hong Kong, Mr Invest Hong Kong, Mr Charles Ng, said the opening of Aergo Vincent Tang (left), presenting a certificate to the CEO of ICBC Leasing, Mr Capital’s regional office in Hong Kong was a strong vote of Zhao Guicai, at the opening ceremony.

14 Hong Kong News Spring 2018 Irish Fintech company of the year, Global Shares, has launched Hong Kong office

Ireland’s Minister of State for Financial Services, Mr Michael Accenture (2017) and also ranked first in the EY FinTech D’Arcy TD, officiated at the official opening of the new Hong Adoption Index in Asia and outside of China (2017). As Kong office of Global Shares on 15 January 2018. Named of 2017, 48 of the world’s leading 100 Fintech companies “Deloitte FinTech Company of the Year”, Global Shares is a are reaping rewards from the Hong Kong’s technologically leading global provider of equity compensation software advanced ecosystem. solutions. The new Hong Kong office is the company’s first base in Asia, bringing to ten the total number of Global A trade finance platform based on Blockchain technology Shares’ offices around the world. Its new Asia-based team was recently developed by the Hong Kong Monetary of three staff members was expected to grow to ten within Authority, signifying the city’s commitment to the future of the first six months. Fintech. Seven banks in Hong Kong are commercialising the Distributed Ledger Technology-based, trade finance proof-of- Hong Kong is one of the world’s leading Fintech hubs and concept into a production system named Hong Kong Trade has experienced huge growth in recent years. Hong Kong Finance Platform to digitise and share trade documents, ranked first in Global FinTech Investment according to automate processes and reduce risks and fraud.

Enterprise Ireland targeting 50% growth in Irish exports to Asia with improved connectivity to Hong Kong

Cathay Pacific Airways launched the first direct flights ever between Dublin and Hong Kong on 2 June 2018.

With its connectivity to the Asia-Pacific region significantly element of our market diversification strategy in response boosted by the launch of the direct flights between Dublin to Brexit,” she said. She noted that the region is home to and Hong Kong on 2 June 2018, and seeking new markets half the world’s population and is forecast to host 64% of in response to Brexit, Enterprise Ireland wants to grow the global middle class by 2030. Irish exports to Asia by 50% by 2020. Ms Sinnamon made the remarks at the “Routes to Growth” CEO of Enterprise Ireland, Ms Julie Sinnamon, said that conference in Dublin on 26 April 2018, which brought with Irish exports to the Asia-Pacific region more than together over 100 business leaders and buyers from the doubling in recent years, and 600 Enterprise Ireland clients Asia-Pacific region and over 200 Irish companies. The first exporting to the region, Enterprise Ireland’s ambition is to of its kind, the event, jointly hosted by Enterprise Ireland increase exports by further 50% by 2020. Last year alone it and Cathay Pacific and opened by Minister of State for had 70 new first-time exporters to the region. E“ xpanding Trade, Employment, Business, EU Digital Single Market and the reach of Irish exports in new and emerging markets Data Protection, Mr Pat Breen, was a significant marker of is a key priority for Enterprise Ireland and is a central the increasing focus in Ireland on exporting to the region.

Hong Kong News Spring 2018 15 First direct air route opened between Brussels and Hong Kong

Pictured at the ribbon-cutting ceremony at Brussels Airport, flanked by two Cathay Pacific flight attendants, from left to right are Mr Arnaud Feist, Ms Shirley Lam, Mr Kris Peeters and Mr James Ginns. © Brussels Airport Company.

Cathay Pacific Airways launched a nonstop service to the European Union, Ms Shirley Lam, officiated at the between Brussels Airport and Hong Kong International inauguration ceremony, cutting the ribbon with Belgium’s Airport on Sunday 25 March 2018. With 50 000 travellers Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Economy, Mr Kris between Belgium and Hong Kong, the city is already a Peeters, Brussels Airport Company CEO, Mr Arnaud Feist top destination for Belgians. The direct flight now offers and Cathay Pacific General Manager,Mr James Ginns. yet more opportunities for holiday-makers and business travellers wishing to discover Hong Kong. Cathay Pacific Airways flies between Brussels and Hong Kong with its new, low-noise Airbus A350 four times a The first flight at Brussels Airport was treated toa week, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. celebratory welcome with a traditional lion dance. Special Its aircraft land at Brussels Airport around 7am and Representative for Hong Kong Economic and Trade Affairs return to Hong Kong around 1pm.

A lion travels on a moving walkway. © Brussels Airport Company.

16 Hong Kong News Spring 2018 HKETO, Brussels hosted Chinese New Year events in 15 European cities

Brussels. Toasting the New Year on 20 February 2018, from left, are the Chairman of the Belgium-Hong Kong Society, Mr Piet Steel; the Chair of the European Parliament’s Delegation for Relations with China, Mr Jo Leinen; the Head of the Mission of China to the European Union, Mr Zhang Ming; Ms Shirley Lam; the President of the Belgian Chamber of Representatives, Mr Siegfried Bracke; the Chinese Ambassador to Belgium, Mr Qu Xing; and Director (UK, Ireland and the Benelux) of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, Mr David Marsden.

The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels A total of over 2 000 guests attended the events. Guests of (HKETO, Brussels) hosted a series of Chinese New Year honour included Minister of Finance Mr Pierre Gramegna receptions from late January to March 2018 in 15 cities in Luxembourg, and the President of the Belgian Chamber around Europe, namely Barcelona, Brussels, Bucharest, of Representatives, Mr Siegfried Bracke, in Brussels. Caltanissetta, Dublin, Lisbon, Luxembourg City, Madrid, Milan, Nicosia, Palermo, Paris, Sofia, The Hague and Special Representative for Hong Kong Economic and Thessaloniki. Business seminars were also held in Trade Affairs to the European Union, Ms Shirley Lam, some of the cities to promote Hong Kong’s business outlined the latest development of Hong Kong at the opportunities. Chinese New Year receptions.

Luxembourg. At the reception on 22 February 2018, from left to right, are Paris. At the reception on 14 February 2018, from left, are the Director France, Ambassador of Luxembourg to China, Mr Marco Hübsch; Vice President of Spain and Portugal of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), Mr Luxembourg’s Parliament, Mr Laurent Mosar; the Chinese Ambassador to Marc Allard; the President of the France Hong Kong Association, Mr Bertrand Luxembourg, Mr Huang Changqing; Ms Shirley Lam; Luxembourg’s Minister of Moreau; the Minister Counselor of the Embassy of China in France, Mr Guan Finance, Mr Pierre Gramegna; the President of ChinaLux, Mr Dirk Dewitte; and Jian; Ms Shirley Lam; the Regional Director, Europe, of the HKTDC, Mr William the Director-General of the Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce, Mr Carlo Thelen. Chui and Country Manager France of Cathay Pacific, Mr Edward Coles-Gale.

Hong Kong News Spring 2018 17 Paris, Pianist Constance Chow together with opera singers, Henry Ngan (pictured) and Freddie Tong performed five operatic arias at the reception on 14 February 2018.

“The fundamentals of Hong Kong are strong. With our “Also, Hong Kong is committed to actively participating unique advantages under “one country, two systems”, in the visionary Belt and Road Initiative, and will seize including the rule of law, free flow of capital and the opportunities arising from the Guangdong-Hong information, a business-friendly environment, a diverse Kong-Macao Bay Area Development,” Ms Lam added. and international talent pool, and a low and simple tax regime, Hong Kong has been named consistently the HKETO, Brussels took the opportunity to showcase Hong world’s freest economy as well as the easiest place to Kong cultural talents by bringing musical acts to some do business,” Ms Lam said. of the Chinese New Year receptions. Pianist Constance Chow, Tenor Henry Ngan and Bass-Baritone Freddie Tong Ms Lam pointed out that “one country, two systems” has gave a splendid performance at the receptions in Dublin continued to function well in Hong Kong. Rule of law and and Paris; Fiona Foo presented a sensational marimba judicial independence has been the corner stone of the performance at the reception in The Hague; Artemisia success of Hong Kong and it will continue to be the case. presented a tailor-made Chinese music performance celebrating the diversity of the civilization along the “To fully capitalise on Hong Kong’s unique advantages, Belt and Road countries at the reception in Brussels; our Chief Executive Mrs Carrie Lam announced in her the Ensemble Ad Excellentiam, composed of a pianist, maiden Policy Address in last October a full range of a vocalist and a cellist performed in Barcelona and proposals to promote and facilitate Hong Kong to be an Madrid; the Ensemble Quartet, composed of a cellist, ideal place for companies to expand their business, and two violinists and a violist, performed in Lisbon. also a city more liveable and smarter for our citizens and visitors,” Ms Lam said.

Lisbon. Proposing a toast at the Chinese New Year luncheon on 15 March 2018, are from left, the Director for Asia-Oceania Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Portugal, Mr Eduardo Ramos; Ms Shirley Lam; the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Portugal, Mr Cai Run; and the Director of European Affairs of the Portuguese Chamber of Commerce, Mr João Paes Cabral.

18 Hong Kong News Spring 2018 Brussels. Hong Kong musicians of Artemisia played a variety of Chinese traditional and folk melodies and Western opera extracts entitled “Dance along the Silk Road” at the reception on 20 February 2018.

Business seminars

In addition to the Chinese New Year receptions, HKETO, emphasised that Hong Kong is the most trusted and Brussels held Chinese New Year business seminars in some resourceful partner for foreign companies venturing into of the cities, namely Bucharest, Caltenissetta, Nicosia, the vast markets covered under the Belt and Road and Palermo, Sofiaand Thessaloniki, to promote Hong Kong’s the Bay Area and seeking to grasp the bountiful new fundamental strengths and business opportunities. opportunities brought about by these new developments. A free trade agreement between Hong Kong and the 10 Ms Shirley Lam and Deputy Representatives Miss Fiona economies of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Chau and Mr Sam Hui told participants that Hong Kong (ASEAN) signed last November will also be a conduit continues to be an ideal gateway for foreign companies assisting foreign businesses established in Hong Kong to to tap the fast-growing Greater China market. They penetrate into the vibrant Southeast Asian markets.

Palermo. Attending a Chinese New Year Business seminar on 27 March 2018 are, from left: the Investment Promotion Executive, Italy of Invest Hong Kong, Mr Stefano De Paoli; the Minister for Agriculture, Rural Development and Bucharest. The Deputy Representative of HKETO, Brussels, Mr Sam Hui (second Mediterranean Fisheries of the Sicily Region, Mr Edgardo Bandiera; the Deputy left in panel), speaks on the favourable business at a Representative of HKETO, Brussels, Miss Fiona Chau; and the President of the seminar held in Bucharest on 19 March 2018. Italy-Hong Kong Association, Mr Riccardo Fuochi.

Hong Kong News Spring 2018 19 Nicosia. At the invitation of the Cypriot Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ms Shirley Lam (in front of the screen), gave a presentation on Hong Kong’s fundamental strengths and business opportunities to senior-level representatives from government ministries, foreign diplomatic corps, business corporations and academics in Nicosia on 22 March 2018.

European talents encouraged to seize Hong Kong study and employment opportunities

Miss Fiona Chau presenting postgraduate study and employment opportunities in Hong Kong to students at the University for Foreigners of Siena.

As part of the ongoing efforts to attract overseas talent to and entrepreneurs from around the world to work and Hong Kong, Deputy Representative of Hong Kong Economic stay in Hong Kong with a view to enhancing the city’s and Trade Office in Brussels Miss Fiona Chau made competitive edge in today’s globalised economy. She presentations on postgraduate study and employment explained relevant talent admission initiatives including opportunities in Hong Kong to students respectively at the Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates the Luxembourg School of Finance (22 February 2018), and the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme. the Bocconi University in Milan (14 March 2018) and the University for Foreigners of Siena (3 May 2018). More information about admissions schemes can be found at: Miss Chau said the Hong Kong Special Administrative https://www.immd.gov.hk/eng/useful_information/admission-schemes- Region Government welcomes talents, professionals talents-professionals-entrepreneurs.html

20 Hong Kong News Spring 2018 “Legends of Lion Dance” exhibition showcased Hong Kong’s traditional crafts and cultural heritage in Belgium

At the opening reception, from left: the Deputy Representative of HKETO, Brussels, Miss Fiona Chau; the Alderman for City Development, Sports and Diamonds of the City of Antwerp, Mr Ludo Van Campenhout; the Head of Tofoe Events and member of the Choi Lee Fat Belgium Kungfu Lion and Dragon dance association, Mr Joe Choi; the Alderman for Finance, Mobility, Tourism and Small Businesses of the City of Antwerp, Mr Koen Kennis; and Assistant Representative of HKETO, Brussels, Mr Jeffrey Chim.

After the huge success of its first edition in 2017, the Mr Ludo Van Campenhout, and the Alderman for Finance, colourful “Legends of Lion Dance” exhibition returned to Mobility, Tourism and Small Businesses, Mr Koen Kennis, Bibliotheek Permeke in Antwerp from 2 to 25 February officiated at the opening on 2 February 2018, which 2018, showcasing Hong Kong’s cultural heritage and featured an expertly performed lion dance and was traditional crafts to celebrate the Chinese New Year. attended by more than 100 guests.

With the support of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels (HKETO, Brussels) and the Belgium- Hong Kong Society, Asian Events Tofoe, a non-profit- making organisation established by Hong Kong second- generation community members in Antwerp, presented more than 10 unique lion heads made and embroidered in Hong Kong.

Visitors could learn how lion heads are made and how this traditional craft has been passed down generations of artisans in Hong Kong, as well as the meaning of the lion dance and Chinese New Year traditions. Live lion dances were included in the programme, and guided tours, in particular for schools, were introduced this year.

The Deputy Representative of HKETO, Brussels, Miss Fiona Chau, and two Aldermen of the City of Antwerp, the The exhibition also tied in with Antwerp’s Chinese New Year Parade held on 17 Alderman for City Development, Sports and Diamonds, February 2018.

Hong Kong News Spring 2018 21 At the opening on 9 February 2018, from left are the Deputy Representative of the HKETO, Brussels, Miss Fiona Chau, initiator of the exhibition Chan Loi-che and Hong Kong artists Foo Sai-heng, Wong Sze-wai, Tsang See-wan and Kan Kit-keung. HKETO, Brussels supports “Lines in Motion: East Meets West” exhibition in Amsterdam

The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels holder of Art Commissions and Alderman of the City of (HKETO, Brussels), supported an exhibition for artists from Amsterdam’s Eastern District, Mr Ivar Manuel, said that Hong Kong, Chengdu and the Netherlands, “Lines in Motion: Hong Kong is a melting pot for culture, is blessed with East meets West”, which was held at CBK Amsterdam from a unique East-meets-West character and enjoys in-depth 9 February to 3 March 2018. cultural exchanges and co-operation with countries around the world. Hong Kong has developed into a prominent hub The cultural exchange project focused on modern Chinese for cultural exchanges in the region, she added. calligraphy, paintings, abstract modern art, installations, sculptures and ceramics by 12 artists from Hong Kong, four “After years of planning and preparation, the much from Chengdu and 10 from the Netherlands. anticipated West Kowloon Cultural District is gradually becoming a prominent landmark on the waterfront of One of the artists exhibiting at the event, Amsterdam- Victoria Harbour. Our aim is to create a modern and high based Chan Loi Che, a graduate of the Chinese University of quality venue to bring arts to the people and people to the Hong Kong, said that the exhibition aims to open Western arts,” Miss Chau said. eyes to the seemingly incomprehensible traditional Chinese calligraphy and painting by pointing out that the She also noted that further to this exciting project, Hong same sentiment in appreciating Western abstract art is Kong will continue to enhance its connectivity, with major applicable. cross-boundary projects like the Hong Kong Section of the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link and the “At the same time, we are trying to bring Eastern visitors Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, which is due to open to appreciate modern abstract art by emphasising later this year. perspectives from their own roots,” Ms Chan added. “These major infrastructural projects will not only reinforce The artists include established names and young talents, Hong Kong’s position as an international financial, transport with a mixture of homogeneous and multicultural and cultural hub, they also prepare us to grasp the many backgrounds. Works of traditional Chinese calligraphy and new opportunities ahead of us, including those arising from painting were displayed side by side with works inspired China’s Belt and Road Initiative and the Guangdong-Hong by Western modern abstract art. Some were experimental Kong-Macao Bay Area Development,” Miss Chau added. and intercultural works that inherited visual interpretations from both sides. Some of the participating artists from Hong Kong received support from the Arts Development Fund (Cultural Exchange Deputy Representative of HKETO, Brussels, Miss Fiona Project) of Hong Kong’s Home Affairs Bureau Fund to take Chau, who officiated at the opening with the Portfolio part in this event.

22 Hong Kong News Spring 2018 Hong Kong films brought to European festival audiences

Hong Kong films featured in film festivals in Dublin, Amsterdam, Brussels, Udine, Florence and Prato in the first few months of 2018, with the support of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels (HKETO, Brussels).

Audi Dublin International Film Festival celebrates diversity of Hong Kong cinema

From left to right, Festival Managing Director, Ms Sarah Sharkey; Festival Director, Ms Grainne Humphreys; director of I’ve Got the Blues, Angie Chen; the film’s co-producer, Pamela Lay; and Deputy Representative of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels, Mr Sam Hui.

The Audi Dublin International Film Festival, which took Angie Chen’s, I’ve Got the Blues, which is about artist place on 21 February to 4 March 2018, held a Hong Kong and musician Yank Wong, is considered to be one of the Season to a celebrate new names and talents and the most original and fascinating documentaries to come diversity and range of work of contemporary Hong Kong out of Hong Kong in many years. After its screening on cinema. 23 February 2018, director and co-producer Angie Chen and co-producer Pamela Lay answered questions from On the programme were feature films Ann Hui’s Our the audience. Time Will Come, Cheung King-wai’s Somewhere Beyond the Mist, Jenny Suen and Christopher Doyle’s The White Girl, and Wilson Yip’s Paradox.

Hong Kong News Spring 2018 23 CinemAsia Film Festival, Amsterdam

Pictured with Miss Fiona Chau (second right) at the opening ceremony of the CinemAsia Film Festival 2018 in Amsterdam are the festival’s Artistic Director, Ms Maggie Lee (second left) and Managing Director, Ms Pan Huihui (right).

Raman Hui’s was chosen as the opening She noted that Tam Wai-ching’s In Your Dreams, which film at the CinemAsia Film Festival 2018, held atthe would be screened in competition, was one of the Filmtheater Kriterion and the Rialto in Amsterdam on winners of the First Feature Film Initiative of Create 6-11 March 2018. Hong Kong, a scheme launched in 2013 to help young filmmakers produce their first film with funding from the Speaking at the festival’s opening ceremony, Deputy Film Development Fund. Representative of HKETO, Brussels, Miss Fiona Chau, highlighted Hong Kong’s success in filmmaking and Three more Hong Kong feature films were screened said that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region at the Festival, namely Jonathan Li’s The Brink, Doris Government will continue to nurture more professional Wong’s New Turn and Wong Tsz-ying’s Losing Sight of a talents for the film industry through the Government- Longed Place. Tam Wai-ching and Doris Wong attended financed Film Development Fund to assist them to the Festival and met with the audience after screening meet market demands and to foster the long-term of their films. development of the local film industry.

Brussels International Fantastic Film Festival

Four recently-released Hong Kong films were screened Speaking at a reception hosted by the Hong Kong Economic at the 36th Brussels International Festival of Fantasy, and Trade Office in Brussels (HKETO, Brussels) on 12 Fantastic, Thriller and Science-Fiction Films, which took April 2018 before the screening of Shock Wave, Deputy in Brussels on 3-15 April 2018. Representative of HKETO, Brussels, Miss Fiona Chau, noted that freedom of speech and expression, as enshrined They were Herman Yau’s Shock Wave, Yuen Woo-ping’s in the Basic Law, as well as Hong Kong’s rich cultural 1 000 Faces of Dunjia, Raman Hui’s Monster Hunt 2 and mix of Chinese and Western influences, help create an Jeff Lau’s Soccer Killer. environment that encourage creativity and diversity.

24 Hong Kong News Spring 2018 Far East Film Festival in Udine

At the Hong Kong dinner of the FEFF in Udine, from left to right are Festival At the reception before the Hong Kong dinner of the FEFF in Udine are from left Coordinator Thomas Bertacche; Deputy Representative of the HKETO, Brussels, to right Executive Director of the Hong Kong International Film Festival Society, Miss Fiona Chau; and the Festival Director, Ms Sabrina Baracetti. Mr Roger Garcia, film director Mr Gavin Lim and film director Johnnie To.

Hong Kong films had a strong presence at this year’s lun’s Bright Spring Days, and Lam Hei-chun’s Goodbye. Far East Film Festival (FEFF) in Udine, Italy on 20-28 April 2018. Speaking at a Hong Kong dinner held at Casa Cavazzini, the site of Udine’s new Museum of Modern and Contemporary The FEFF, which was celebrating its 20th anniversary, Art located in the heart of the historic city centre, Deputy screened over 80 films including 14 Hong Kong productions Representative of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in and co-productions. These included four new feature Brussels (HKETO, Brussels), Miss Fiona Chau, noted that Hong films, namely Chapman To’s The Empty Hands (European Kong would soon have its own museum for visual culture, premiere); ’s Operation Red Sea (International focusing on 20th and 21th century art, design, architecture Festival Premiere); Ann Hui’s Our Time Will Come (Italian and the moving image - thus including cinema. Premiere); and Derek Chiu Sung-kee’s No.1 Chung Ying Street (European Premiere). Martial arts drama The Empty “M+, as the museum will be known, is scheduled for Hands and historical drama No.1 Chung Ying Street were completion next year. It will be located in the West screened as part of a competition. Kowloon Cultural District, a vibrant, 40-hectare cultural quarter located on a dramatic harbour-front site in the One of the highlights of the FEFF was a tribute to Hong heart of Hong Kong. This is one of the largest cultural Kong film icon Brigitte Lin Ching-hsia, who opened this projects in the world,” Miss Chau said. year’s FEFF and received the Golden Mulberry Lifetime Achievement Award. Previous recipients include Jackie Miss Chau said that the FEFF had presented a wonderful Chan, Johnnie To, Michael Werner, Nansun Shi and Eric programme, rich in Hong Kong productions, for the Tsang. celebration of its 20th anniversary.

Brigitte Lin Ching-hsia featured in five Hong Kong films in “Over the last 20 years, the FEFF has become the foremost the programme, namely Ronny Yu’s action-fantasy- of its kind in Europe. The importance of its contribution film The Bride with White Hair (1993); Chen Hung-lieh’s in bringing Hong Kong cinema to European audiences romantic melodrama Cloud of Romance (1997) (European and in increasing the appreciation of our films cannot be Premiere of copy restored in 2018); Wong Kar-wai’s drama overstated. It has also been active in the restoration of Chungking Express (1994); Raymond Lee’s wuxia action Hong Kong films,” she said. film Dragon Inn (1992); and Yim Ho’s historical drama Red Dust (1990) (European Premiere of copy restored in She added that while Hong Kong is making its name as 2012). an art hub in Asia, cinema remains the art that is closest to the hearts of Hong Kong people. Other highlights were the world premiere of Johnnie To’s restored classic, Thrown Down (2004/2018) and another “Our filmmakers, actors and producers have been the classic restored by the FEFF in 2007, Patrick Tam’s 1989 best ambassadors for our city and have made Hong Kong film,My Heart is that Eternal Rose. familiar to film goers all around the world. Hong Kong’s films have also gained many accolades and recognition The FEFF also screened Fresh Wave short films from Hong from international film festivals over the years, with Kong made in 2017, namely Ho Chung-ken’s Fires, Yeh Ka- young talents on the rise,” she said.

Hong Kong News Spring 2018 25 5th Dragon Film Festival in Florence and Prato

At the Dragon Film Festival in Florence, Deputy Representative of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels, Miss Fiona Chau, addressed the audience before the screening of the opening film, Love Off the Cuff.

The Dragon Film Festival, held this year on 3-8 May 2018 unique, energetic and very international. By promoting in Florence and Prato, is a festival entirely dedicated Hong Kong films overseas, we hope that more people to Chinese-language films. It screened seven Hong would get to see the artistic side of Hong Kong, as a Kong films, more than half of the total number in the colourful city full of arts and culture.” She noted that programme. They were Pang Ho-cheung’s Love Off the young talents are on the rise, as guests would see from Cuff, Wong Chun’s Mad World, Kearen Pang’s 29+1, Wilson the work of some of the young directors selected for the Yip’s Paradox, Wong Jing and Jason Kwan’s Chasing the Festival. Dragon, Kam Ka-wai’s Colour of the Game and Kenneth Lau’s Adieu. Speaking of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government’s efforts to support the film industry, Speaking at the opening night in Florence on 3 May 2018 Miss Chau noted that one of the films in the Festival’s before the screening of the opening film Love Off the programme, the award-winning “Mad World”, received Cuff, Deputy Representative of the Hong Kong Economic funding from the Government-financed Film Development and Trade Office in Brussels,Miss Fiona Chau, said Hong Fund. “Mad World” went on to receive the Best New Kong’s films have brought pleasure, excitement and Director, Best Supporting Actor and Best Supporting inspiration to millions of viewers around the world. Actress awards at the 2017 Hong Kong Film Awards. Two other movies screened by the Festival, “Paradox” and “Our film industry is just like Hong Kong – it is multifaceted, “29 + 1”, were also award-winning films.

26 Hong Kong News Spring 2018 Creative achievements of Hong Kong publishing industry at Bologna Children’s Book Fair

Over 100 of the exhibits at the colourful Hong Kong Pavilion had won Hong Kong and international publishing and printing awards.

The Hong Kong publishing and printing industries demonstrated their excellent design ideas, vivid content and sophisticated technology at the Hong Kong Pavilion they set up at the Bologna Children’s Book Fair from 26 to 29 March 2018.

This was the fifth consecutive year that the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels supported the Hong Kong Pavilion, co-organized by the Hong Kong Publishing Federation and The Hong Kong Printers Association, and sponsored by Create Hong Kong.

Involving over 60 Hong Kong publishers and printers, the Hong Kong Pavilion showcased over 1,200 books and electronic books and other printed matter in different categories and styles for visitors to experience the creativity and competitive edge of Hong Kong’s publishing and printing industries.

Exhibits covered a wide range of topics from history, literature, children, language, art, lifestyle, to travel and science.

To further strengthen cultural exchanges between Hong Kong and Italy, the organisers of the Hong Kong Pavilion donated selected books to the University for Foreigners The opening ceremony of the Hong Kong Pavilion at the Bologna Children’s of Siena after the book fair. Book Fair.

Hong Kong News Spring 2018 27 France’s Patrice Delaveau is victorious at Longines Masters of Hong Kong

Twenty top showjumpers from 12 countries battled it out through a tough obstacle course in the Asian leg of the Longines Masters Series - the Longines Masters of Hong Kong - at AsiaWorld-Expo from 9 to 11 February 2018. France’s Patrice Delaveau snatched victory from Austria’s Max Kühner in a nail-biting finish, with a lead of just 0.07 seconds in the jump-off. The Longines Masters of Hong Kong also features world-class entertainment, fashion, art and gastronomy.

News Spring 2018

This newsletter is issued by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels, the official representation of the Hong KongS pecial Administrative Region Government to the European Union and 14 of its Member States, and to Turkey. Please contact us if you wish to subscribe/unsubscribe. For the latest information, please see our website at www.news.gov.hk

Editor: Linda Sansbury Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office 118 rue d’Arlon, 1040 Brussels T. +32 2 775 00 88 e-mail: [email protected] Design & Layout: www.webc.be