2017 KONG in brief

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

3 About Hong Kong 5

Global Services Centre exporter of Hong Kong was the world’s 14th largest and services in 2015. Travel, transport, financial, of the city’s business services are the main components trade in services. Language English Chinese and are the official English languages. within is widely used the Government and also by the legal, professional and business sectors. There is no shortage of well-educated, competent bilingual who speak English, or even trilingual professionals — important for doing and Putonghua the Mainland and Taiwan. business locally or with Climate temperate The climate is subtropical, tending towards drop below for nearly half the year. Temperatures can 31 degrees 10 degrees Celsius in winter and often exceed the rainfall Celsius in summer. About 80 per cent of occurs between May and September. International Trading Centre trading Hong Kong was the world’s eighth largest exchange market economy in 2015, fourth largest foreign September 2016 in 2016, sixth largest banking centre as at and fourth largest stock market in Asia in 2016. It is also and fourth largest stock market in Asia in wide range of one of the world’s leading exporters of a consumer goods. density was 6 780 people per square kilometre. per square people was 6 780 density (168 871) stood at and India (31 989). Average population population Average (31 989). at and India 871) stood (168

Described as a ‘barren Described 150 years rock’ some Kong is a ago, Hong financial, world-class business trading and and, centre today indeed, a great world city. There are not many natural resources, and yet its great harbour is one of the degree of autonomy except in defence and foreign affairs. degree of autonomy except in defence and finest deepwater ports in the world. A hardworking, finest deepwater ports well-educated population of more entrepreneurial and the foundation of Hong Kong’s than 7.34 million forms productivity and creativity. 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 Law, the existing economic, legal and social enjoys a high will be maintained for 50 years. The HKSAR As at mid-2016, the population was about 7.34 million, As at mid-2016, the population was about including predominantly of Chinese ethnicity but also foreign 631 696 non-PRC nationals. The three largest Indonesia groups were from the Philippines (184 322), 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 1 106.34 square kilometres, Peninsula, comprises , the rural part of the — including the more Hong Kong — and about 260 outlying islands. About Hong Kong Hong About ABOUT HONG KONG HONG ABOUT 4 About Hong Kong 7 Rule of Law Hong Kong has a well- established and trusted legal system based on the common law. The of rights and freedoms are Hong Kong residents rule safeguarded by the of law, an independent judiciary, legal aid, and a free and active press. Airport regional aviation Hong Kong is a major international and (HKIA) is the hub. The Hong Kong International Airport and among world’s busiest international cargo gateway by over the 10 busiest passenger airports. It is served freight services 110 airlines providing passenger and/or 52 cities to around 220 destinations worldwide, including on the Mainland. Monetary System Monetary maintain policy is to monetary Kong’s of Hong The aim Rate System, The Linked Exchange currency stability. this aim in October 1983, accommodates introduced the exchange rate to the ’s by linking set at HK$7.8 to US$1. US dollar, Efficient Government 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 Hong Kong advocates and practises free trade. It has a Hong Kong advocates and practises free virtually no trade free and liberal investment regime with investors. barriers or discrimination against non-local well-established There is freedom of capital movement, a regulations, rule of law, transparent and straightforward and a simple, low-tax system. Free Trade and Free Market In 2016, the HKSAR Government helped a record 391 In 2016, the HKSAR companies set up or expand their overseas and Mainland These companies came from a presence in Hong Kong. business and professional variety of sectors, including: creative industries, financial services, consumer products, and communications technology, services, information tourism and hospitality, and innovation and technology, transport and logistics. investment of Taken together, they accounted for direct over 7 200 new more than HK$16 billion and will create or expansion jobs within the first two years of operation in Hong Kong. to 7 986 As at June 1, 2016, Hong Kong was home their overseas and Mainland companies representing Kong. Of those, parent companies located outside Hong regional offices. 3 731 served as regional headquarters or International Corporate Base Corporate International ABOUT HONG KONG HONG ABOUT 6 Economic Competitiveness 9 consecutive year. The Fraser Institute in Canada has consecutive year. The rd also consistently ranked Hong Kong number one in the also consistently ranked Hong Kong number year since world in terms of economic freedom every In addition, its first ranking report came out in 1996. Development the International Institute for Management economy recognised Hong Kong as the most competitive Kong was in the world in its 2016 Yearbook. Hong also the world’s second largest foreign direct investment destination and the largest in Asia in 2015, according to the World Investment Report 2016 published by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) Real Growth economy Over the past two decades, the Hong Kong increasing at grew by more than 90 per cent, with GDP real terms. This an average annual rate of 3.3 per cent in most of the means that Hong Kong has outperformed Cooperation economies of the Organisation for Economic Economic Development Economic and cosmopolitan city, is an international Hong Kong law, environment, rule of its business-friendly known for fair open and and free flow of information, free trade comprehensive well-established and competition, transport and communications networks, superb financial 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 Free and Competitive was ranked the world's freest In 2017, Hong Kong Heritage Foundation for the economy by the US-based 23 Economic Competitiveness Economic In 2016, Hong Kong’s harbour handled 19.8 million TEUs In 2016, Hong Kong’s harbour handled making it one of (20-foot equivalent units) of containers, nine container the world’s busiest container ports. The by five terminals at Kwai Chung-Tsing Yi are managed provide 24 berths operators. They cover 279 hectares and depth at the with a frontage of 7 694 metres. The water Kwai Chung-Tsing Yi basin is 15.5 metres. During the year, 98 679 cargo vessels, comprising called at 25 869 ocean vessels and 72 810 river vessels, 257 million the Hong Kong port. Together they carried 1 773 ocean tonnes of cargo. In addition, there were vessels passenger vessels and 84 559 river passenger ferry and cruise taking about 29.1 million cross-boundary passenger journeys. Hong Kong Port The HKIA achieved a successful year in 2016 with all in 2016 year a successful achieved The HKIA annual records. new setting traffic categories three million passengers year, it welcomed 70.5 During the movements, representing 411 566 aircraft and handled and 1.4 per cent of 2.9 per cent annual growth cargo throughput was over 2015. Annual respectively cent year on year. tonnes, up 3.2 per 4.52 million HKIA has been named in July 1998, the Since opening over 50 times in different surveys. the world’s best airport ABOUT HONG KONG HONG ABOUT 8 Economic Competitiveness 11 International Financial Centre with an Hong Kong is an international financial centre and markets. integrated network of financial institutions develop a The Government’s policy is to maintain and administrative sound legal, regulatory, infrastructural and field for all, framework that provides a level playing and monetary to maintain the stability of the financial effectively systems, and to enable Hong Kong to compete against other financial centres. of a In addition, Hong Kong enjoys the advantages the time favourable geographical position that bridges strong links gap between North America and Europe, in Southeast with the Mainland and other economies the rest of the Asia and excellent communications with It has made considerable strides facilitating the the strides facilitating made considerable It has efficient a fair and markets in financial of development information and in opening up the manner, and and broadcasting technology telecommunications to has a responsibility Government also markets. The enjoys competitive where Hong Kong help industries to tap new markets. advantages protects and The Government trade promotes Hong Kong’s interests in the international in arena through participation the World Trade Organization (WTO), the Asia-Pacific and Economic Cooperation the Pacific Economic and by Cooperation Council, forging bilateral arrangements with other economies. Prudent Fiscal Management management The Government adheres to prudent fiscal with low tax while maintaining a simple tax structure to work and rates that provide people with the incentive tax rate of entrepreneurs to invest. The corporate profits per cent are low 16.5 per cent and salaries tax rate of 15 by international standards.

Hong Kong has long been well known for its market- Hong Kong has long been well known for has served driven economic policy. The market mechanism the city well and is the best way to respond effectively the city well and is the best way to respond will, in a fast-changing age. The HKSAR Government are in place for however, ensure that the right conditions the proper and efficient functioning of markets. measures Where necessary, the Government introduces stability in the to safeguard macro-economic and social financial crisis face of external shocks, such as the global to maintaining of 2008-09. Economic vitality is the key Hong Kong’s competitiveness and prosperity. Level Playing Field business- The Government aims to provide the most the fundamental friendly conditions possible. These include Economic Policy Economic software of personal liberty, the rule of law, a clean and software of personal liberty, the rule of law, field for all efficient administration and a level playing such as businesses, as well as infrastructural hardware In addition,schools and roads vital to Hong Kong’s growth. to remove the Government has a special responsibility market restrictions and promote fair competition. and Development. Hong Kong’s per capita GDP rose capita GDP Kong’s per Hong and Development. rate annual growth average with an 70 per cent nearly the same period; cent in real terms during of 2.6 per US$43,700 at current capita GDP reached In 2016, per market prices. ECONOMIC COMPETITIVENESS ECONOMIC 10 Economic Competitiveness 13

Hong Kong have gone from strength to strength. the success China’s accession to the WTO in 2001 signalled economic growth of its economic reform policies. With rapid is now the second over the past three decades, the Mainland largest economy in the world. has the unique Hong Kong, with its international outlook, As an advantage of having the Mainland as its hinterland. business and international financial centre and a regional to trading hub, Hong Kong will continue to contribute on and benefit from the rapid economic developments the Mainland. Economic Links with Mainland and investment Hong Kong is the premier gateway for trade the rest of on the Mainland, and for Mainland trade with reform the world. Since the Mainland adopted a economic links with and open-door policy in 1978, its economic business hub. At the end of 2016, 1 973 public 973 public of 2016, 1 the end hub. At business and Exchanges Hong Kong listed on were companies at stood capitalisation Total market Limited. Clearing Kong billion), making Hong billion (US$3,193 HK$24,761 in Asia. largest stock market the fourth has been promoting the Government In recent years, bond market through development of the the further the It has provided Bond Programme. the Government and tax incentives, necessary financial infrastructure the local bond market overseas in addition to promoting and on the Mainland. to enhance investor knowledge and Efforts are ongoing investment. In August 2016, interest in bond residents the first Silver Bond to offer the Government issued product with steady returns, senior citizens an investment local bond market to tap into and to encourage the of silver bonds by expanding the the immense potential products. By the end of 2016, spectrum of appropriate amount of Hong Kong dollar debt the total outstanding had reached HK$1,731 billion. with the In addition, the Government is working scheme, with Mainland authorities on a Bond Connect in the bond a view to facilitating investors’ participation markets. market and improving the connectivity between The international financial The international financial community has a strong presence in Hong Kong. At the end of December 2016, there were 156 licensed banks, of which 149 were foreign-owned. Of the world’s top 100 world. There are no restrictions on capital flows into and into and capital flows on no restrictions There are world. Hong Kong. out of a Kong to become have enabled Hong These factors centre. financial leading international Markets Financial a are distinguished by financial markets Hong Kong’s under effective of liquidity. They operate high degree that meet international and transparent regulations workforce and ease of standards. A highly educated further contribute to the entry for overseas professionals financial markets. development of the Banking Sector A further banks, 75 had operations in the HKSAR. here. 54 foreign banks had representative offices Foreign Exchange Market exchange Hong Kong has a mature and active foreign market. Links market that is an integral part of the global dealing with centres overseas facilitate foreign exchange the world’s 24 hours a day worldwide. Hong Kong is trading, fourth largest centre for foreign exchange by the Bank according to the 2016 triennial global survey for International Settlements. Stock and Bond Markets world's largest Hong Kong's stock market is one of the of the in terms of market capitalisation. The launch Shenzhen- Shanghai-Hong Kong Stock Connect and 2016 respectively Hong Kong Stock Connect in 2014 and reinforce Hong Kong's position as an international (RMB) financial centre and a global offshore Renminbi ECONOMIC COMPETITIVENESS ECONOMIC 12 Economic Competitiveness 15

(4) For economic and technical cooperation, the two sides the two sides and technical cooperation, (4) For economic for the in 22 areas to cater enhancing cooperation commit to and of the two places for the development trend and needs in the future. for closer cooperation set the direction Offshore RMB business financial regulators and the Together with the relevant has been promoting markets, the HKSAR Government RMB business in Hong Kong the development of offshore since 2004. into the world’s offshore RMB Hong Kong has developed largest offshore pool of RMB funds. business hub, with the RMB customer deposits and As at the end of 2016, of deposit issued totalled outstanding RMB certificates range of RMB products including RMB625.1 billion. A wide investment funds, insurance bonds, listed and unlisted trusts, products, currency futures, real estate investment in the market. shares and derivative products are available in services. Hong Kong service suppliers can enjoy preferential preferential can enjoy suppliers Kong service Hong in services. market. in the Mainland sectors in most service access can enjoy Hong Kong investors (3) For investment, in the Mainland. protection and facilitation investment

. Hong Kong products can enjoy zero tariff upon importation Hong Kong products can enjoy zero tariff upon relevant CEPA into the Mainland market provided that the in services, rules of origin are agreed and met. (2) For trade of trade the two sides have basically achieved liberalisation CEPA has significantly enhanced economic links between CEPA has significantly enhanced economic implemented on Hong Kong and the Mainland since it was 1 January 2004. in goods, all CEPA covers four main areas: (1) For trade Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Economic Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA) Investments between Hong Kong and Mainland Investments between largest source of realised foreign Hong Kong is the Mainland’s to the Mainland’s statistics, the direct investment. According Kong’s realised direct investment cumulative value of Hong billion, accounting for 51.7 per cent amounted to US$914.8 direct investment as at end-2016. of the total value of inward links with Hong Kong are the closest Guangdong’s economic provinces. Hong Kong accounted for amongst the Mainland Province's 63.8 per cent, or US$255.9 billion, of Guangdong total realised direct investment as at end-2016. Kong’s The Mainland is also a major investor in Hong companies economy. As at June 2016, 1 123 Mainland and local operate a regional headquarters, regional offices offices in Hong Kong. amounted to Total direct investment from the Mainland second largest US$421.9 billion at end-2015, making it the source of inward direct investment. and for the in particular, providing a wide and for the Pearl River other business support services such range of financial and insurance, transport, accounting and as banking and finance, sales promotion The Mainland is Hong Kong’s largest trading partner, accounting accounting partner, largest trading Kong’s is Hong The Mainland Kong’s total trade value more than half of Hong for slightly is Kong’s re-export trade 90 per cent of Hong in 2016. About for both the largest market Mainland, making it linked to the re-exports. source of Hong Kong’s and the largest for the Mainland generally is a major services centre Hong Kong Trade with the Mainland with the Trade ECONOMIC COMPETITIVENESS ECONOMIC 14 Living in Hong Kong 17 Legal System of law and The legal system is firmly based on the rule the ‘one the independence of the judiciary. Under by the country, two systems’ principle, sanctioned Republic of National People’s Congress of the People‘s legal system China, the HKSAR maintains a separate based on common law. Judiciary success is A key element in the HKSAR’s continuing principle of its judicial system, which operates on the branches independence from the executive and legislative the common of government — factors fundamental to in law system. The courts make their own judgments bodies or disputes involving private individuals, corporate the Government itself. Court of Final Appeal appellate The Court of Final Appeal (CFA), the highest Justice. The court in the HKSAR, is headed by the Chief responsibility for matters falling within their respective responsibility for matters additional layers of political portfolios. In 2008, two Deputy Directors of Bureau and appointees, namely created to help them carry out Political Assistants, were Service, the backbone of the political work. The Civil to assist in policy formulation Government, continues and implementation. government. The Legislative government. The Legislative and Council enacts laws, examines and approves taxation government budgets, and public expenditure. All 70 members of the Legislative Council are elected, with four-year terms of office. The sixth-term Legislative Council election was held on 4 September 2016. At the local level, 18 District Councils advise on the implementation of policies in their respective districts. implementation of policies in their respective was held The fifth-term District Council ordinary election of 458 seats, on 22 November 2015. There are a total seats. comprising 431 elected seats and 27 ex-officio 2016 to The term of office is four years from 1 January 31 December 2020. Administrative Structure Appointment The Government introduced the Political of System in 2002. Under the system, the offices of Bureau Secretaries of Department and Directors political are held by political appointees, who assume Government Structure Government enjoys a high degree Basic Law, the HKSAR Under the The affairs and defence. except in foreign of autonomy and independent executive, legislative HKSAR exercises final adjudication. including that of judicial power, The Chief Executive is the head of the HKSAR and is The Chief Executive by the Executive Council, the advised on major decisions appointed by the Chief Executive. members of which are Representative Government system of representative The HKSAR has a two-tier Living in Hong Kong Hong in Living LIVING IN HONG KONG HONG IN LIVING 16 Living in Hong Kong

19 Education spending, government of largest element is the Education of total government for about one-fifth accounting student provides in 2015-16. The Government expenditure 12 Years’ Free Education education Starting from the 2008-09 school year, free senior was extended from nine years to 12 to include secondary secondary education provided by public-sector full schools. The Government also began providing taking full-time subvention to secondary 3 school-leavers Council, programmes offered by the Vocational Training avenue for thus making available an alternative free through students to further their studies other than mainstream education. Higher Education education Hong Kong has 20 degree-awarding higher academy for institutions, comprising 10 universities, an institutions. performing arts and nine post-secondary among the In 2016, three of the institutions were ranked were also world’s top 50 universities and four institutions among Asian rated second, fourth, seventh and eighth universities by Quacquarelli Symonds. financial assistance to ensure that no student is denied no student is denied to ensure that financial assistance of means and implements due to lack access to education high standard of education. to maintain a various measures

per cent @ per cent in @ per cent @ bench hears and rules bench hears and the on appeals, as required, court may, invite a non-permanent judge or a Hong Kong non-permanent judge from other common law jurisdictions to sit on the court. The Chief ). # and food services; 27 1 per cent in financing and insurance, real estate, and per cent in financing and insurance, real per cent in import / export, wholesale and retail trades, per cent in import / export, wholesale and @ @ The accommodation services sector covers hotels, guesthouses, boarding houses and other The accommodation services sector covers hotels, guesthouses, boarding establishments providing short-term accommodation. on. Figures refer to the third quarter of 2016 and are subject to revision later = HK$7.763). Calculated by the average of the exchange rate in May-June 2016 (US$1

professional and business services; and 11 and accommodation in transportation, storage, postal and courier services, in transportation, storage, postal and courier 3 and information and communications. Only worked in the manufacturing sector. wage of non- In May-June 2016, the median monthly workers government employees and non-live-in domestic was HK$16,200 (US$2,087 CFA consists of three permanent judges, a panel of four of four a panel judges, three permanent of CFA consists 10 non-permanent judges and Hong Kong non-permanent jurisdictions. A five-judge other common law judges from assisted in overall administration Justice heads the Judiciary, by the Judiciary Administrator. 1 @ # 50.9 per cent were men and 49.1 per cent were women. 50.9 per cent were men and 49.1 per cent sector, with Most of them were engaged in the services 30 Employment most valued asset and key to Manpower is Hong Kong’s The Government strives its economic competitiveness. remains dynamic, well to ensure that the workforce and has ample opportunity for motivated and adaptable, continuous improvement. Labour Market and Wages million, of which In 2016, the labour force was about 3.92 public administration, and social and personal services; public administration, and social and personal 20 LIVING IN HONG KONG HONG IN LIVING 18 Living in Hong Kong

21 residential market through steady residential market through land supply and appropriate demand-side management measures, and promote good sales and tenancy practices for private residential properties. Housing accounted for spending on housing Government public expenditure in 2015-16. 6.3 per cent of total the Long Term Housing The Government announced 2014. The LTHS adopts Strategy (LTHS) in December principles, and sets out three “supply-led” and “flexible” : (1) to build more public rental major strategic directions to ensure the rational use of existing housing (PRH) units and more subsidised sale flats, resources; (2) to provide expand the home ownership and facilitate the forms of subsidised existing stock; and (3) to stabilisemarket circulation of the Public Rental Housing The PRH is the first rung of the housing ladder. to low-income Government’s objective is to provide PRH accommodation. families who cannot afford private rental of the population As at December 2016, about 29 per cent Hong Kong lived in about 803 400 PRH flats under the Kong Housing Housing Authority (HKHA) and the Hong Society (HKHS). Subsidised Home Ownership essential elements Subsidised home ownership is one of the step for low to of the housing ladder. It serves as the first ownership. It also middle-income families to achieve home whose financial provides an opportunity for PRH tenants ownership, conditions have improved to achieve home who are waiting thereby releasing their PRH units to those about 16 per cent for PRH allocation. As at December 2016, . Service, Health Service, Port Health its Family through and Care Service Dental Service, School Health Student services. These contribute community health many other infant and maternal mortality remarkably low to Hong Kong’s the best in the world. are comparable to rates, which beds * . The bed-population ratio was 5.3 . The bed-population 1 doctors per 1 000 people. * 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 of the Hospitals, hospitals, nursing homes and correctional institutions, according to the coverage of Hong Kong. Nursing Homes and Maternity Homes Registration Ordinance (Cap. 165) Provisional figures.

1 * Community Health Services to extensive Hong Kong people enjoy good health, thanks Government preventive measures implemented by the Private Services for a There are 11 private hospitals. The daily charge Patients pay for hospital bed depends on the room type. and drugs in hospital services such as diagnostic tests addition to the doctor’s fees. Public Services there were 42 public hospitals and At the end of 2016, hospitals and clinics are heavily institutions. Fees at public residents pay a public ward subsidised. Hong Kong per day for maintenance fee in general wards of $100 beds’. Those ‘acute beds’, and $68 per day for ‘non-acute fee of admitted to ‘acute beds’ also pay an admission public ward $50 for the first day of hospitalization. The biochemical maintenance fee includes charges for clinical, and pathology investigations (including consultation, vaccines and diagnostic imaging and other examinations); or treatments general nursing, where such examinations scale provided are necessary; and prescriptions within the at the hospitals and clinics. The Government’s healthcare policy policy healthcare The Government’s that no one is denied aims to ensure to treatment due adequate medical To this end, a range lack of means. and facilities is provided of services those in the private to complement the sector and to meet healthcare cannot afford needs of patients who medical attention. the number of hospital beds was At the end of 2016, 39 090 Health per 1 000 people. There were 14 013 registered doctors, per 1 000 people. There or 1.9 LIVING IN HONG KONG HONG IN LIVING 20 Living in Hong Kong 23 The MTR is a heavily used railway system consisting of The MTR is a heavily Tong Line, , 10 lines — the Kwun Line, , Island Line, South Island , East Rail , and . The total route Line, 187 kilometres and comprises length is currently about 93 stations. plies between central Hong Kong and The Airport Express Hong Kong International Airport and AsiaWorld-Expo were recorded on a 35.2-kilometre route. In 2016, there the MTR and about 4.7 million passenger trips daily on Airport Express networks. kilometres The Light Rail, with a route network of 36.2 Territories. with 68 stops, serves the northwest New in 2016. It carried about 488 300 passengers daily Island since Trams have been running on Hong Kong largest fleet 1904. The 167 trams make up the world’s about of double-decker trams in operation, handling 176 900 passenger trips daily in 2016.

Transport systems Hong Kong has one of the best public transport in the world. People make over 12.6 million passenger in the world. People make over 12.6 million and journeys daily, using an efficient, economical includes multimodal public transport system that taxis and railways, trams, buses, public light buses, by private ferries. Public transport services are provided direct operators or public corporations without Government subsidies. Railways transport Railways are an important part of the public of the total system, accounting for nearly 41 per cent rail network daily public transport volume in 2016. The Airport comprises the Mass Transit Railway (MTR), Express and Light Rail. of Hong Kong’s population population Kong’s of Hong sale flats in subsidised lived and HKHS. of the HKHA Private Housing per cent of the About 55 lived in private population premises as at residential December 2016. is to maintain a free, stable The Government’s policy to facilitate the healthy and transparent environment private residential market, and to development of the have access to accurate and ensure that home buyers information. comprehensive property (First-hand Sales) Ordinance The Residential Properties Sales of First-hand Residential and the work of the (SRPA) have enhanced the Properties Authority of sales in first-hand homes, transparency and fairness protection and provided a level strengthened consumer took effect playing field for vendors. Since the ordinance the SRPA had in April 2013 and up to December 2016, sales-related conducted about 26 500 examinations on to sales documents and about 2 950 site inspections offices and show flats. LIVING IN HONG KONG HONG IN LIVING 22 Living in Hong Kong

25 of the major air pollutants in the region. of the major air pollutants in the region. Pollution and Environmental Control Environmental and Pollution in the battle up efforts stepping has been The government 1980s. It has achieved since the late against pollution sound safe and environmentally much in providing in reducing street-level handling waste, and systems for air pollution. Control Pollution Hong Kong is one of in Asia’s leading cities terms of vehicle control and emission fuel quality standards. Diesel vehicles are responsible for most of the roadside pollution in urban strategies include tighter control areas, and government and introducing cleaner-fuel vehicles. on vehicle emissions mandating Besides, Hong Kong is the first city in Asia while ocean-going vessels to use low-sulphur fuels power plants to berthing, and imposed emission caps on restrict air pollutant emissions. to collect The Harbour Area Treatment Scheme aims Victoria sewage generated from all districts around of 45 kilometres Harbour for centralised treatment. A total area and a major of large tunnels under the central urban Island have sewage treatment works on Stonecutters caused been commissioned to combat water pollution The by urban development around . to alleviate Government has also commissioned a study by the discharge the pollution and odour nuisance caused waters. of urban residual pollutant into urban coastal Hong Kong has To tackle regional environmental issues, The joint been cooperating with Guangdong Province. reduction efforts in implementing air pollutants emission Pearl River Delta measures have borne fruit. Results of the concentration a substantial reduction in the average annual regional air monitoring network from 2006 to 2015 show regional air monitoring network from 2006 Buses, Public Light Buses and Taxis Buses, Public Light for 31 per cent of the total Franchised buses account volume, or some 3.96 million daily public transport Five franchised bus companies passengers every day. These companies manage a operatet 574 bus routes. air-conditioned fleet of 5 916 buses, most of which are light buses, double-deckers. There are also 4 350 public 1.8 million which have up to 16 seats. They carry about passengers daily. of about There are 18 163 taxis carrying a daily average 930 000 passengers. Ferries to the outlying Ferries provide an essential transport link transport in islands and an alternative means of public In 2016, the inner harbour and to some new towns. daily. about 130 800 passengers used ferry services Road Network of In 2016, Hong Kong had about 2 107 kilometres three roadways, including 1 351 flyovers and bridges, through hills cross-harbour road tunnels, 12 road tunnels and five major cable-supported bridges. 536 025 There are 745 677 licensed vehicles, including private cars. LIVING IN HONG KONG HONG IN LIVING 24 Living in Hong Kong

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profession or business in Hong Kong. The tax rate is profession or business in Hong Kong. The cent for 16.5 per cent for corporations and 15 per individuals. Law and Order Law and is a safe Hong Kong crime city. The overall than rate is lower major many other cities. Strict firearms controls make it very difficult to own a gun. Illegal possession of a firearm is a serious offence. Police conduct and rural areas to maintain law patrols in both urban Hong Kong’s streets are safe for and order. As a result, and night. anyone to walk, day Against Corruption (ICAC) The Independent Commission of enforcement, prevention and adopts a holistic strategy of probity. education to safeguard Hong Kong's culture corruption As an independent agency, the ICAC fights government impartially and effectively and ensures that and private firms operate fairly and honestly. vigorous The Customs and Excise Department takes action against copyright piracy and trademark leader in counterfeiting, making Hong Kong a regional the fight against pirated goods. Tax System of the most Hong Kong’s simple, low-tax system is one levied on only business-friendly in the world. Taxes are and profits. three types of income — salaries, property gains tax There is no value-added tax, sales tax, capital in Hong Kong or inheritance tax. Only income sourced is taxable. Profits Tax from a trade, Profits are taxed if they arise in or are derived food waste into energy, to reduce the amount of food amount reduce the energy, to waste into food 2022. cent by by 40 per at landfills disposed waste

source through legislation and targeted campaigns, such targeted campaigns, legislation and source through and glass bottle recycling; food waste reduction as those on infrastructure. waste-related and to enhance of capita disposal rate is to reduce the per The target cent by 2022 compared solid waste by 40 per municipal with 2011. recovery play an important role in Waste reduction and waste management. been The Government has work undertaking preparatory for implementing municipal (MSW) charging. waste solid Meanwhile, more than 30 community involvement projects funded by the Environment and Conservation the public and Fund have started in succession to enable and different stakeholders to enhance their awareness test out the understanding of MSW charging and to they can better implementation in actual settings so that prepare themselves when MSW charging. The Government is also progressively introducing Apart from mandatory producer responsibility schemes. target the plastic shopping bag charging, these scheme electronic production of waste involving electrical and They have equipment, and beverage glass containers. phased entered the final stage of preparation for Separation of implementation in 2017-18. The Source buildings and Waste Programme encourages residential up waste the commercial and industial sectors to set promote waste separation and recovery facilities, so as to types of waste separation at source and to broaden the covers over collected for recycling. The programme now 80 per cent of Hong Kong’s population. four strategies In order to face the challenge of food waste, at source, have been mapped out, namely, reduction and turning reuse and donation, recyclable collection, The Government is taking action to reduce solid waste at waste reduce solid action to is taking The Government Environmental Protection Environmental LIVING IN HONG KONG HONG IN LIVING 26 Living in Hong Kong

29 . 1 , The Wall Street Journal The Press are media Kong’s print Hong most vibrant among the in Asia. 2016, As at end-December 54 newspapers there were in Chinese, 11 in including 28 and five English, 10 bilingual The New York Times International The New York Times The Financial Times, The Government granted a free TV licence to a new operator on 31 May 2016. The new operator The Government granted a free TV licence to a new operator on 31 May is required under its licence to commence service within 12 months after the grant of licence, i.e. by 30 May 2017.

from public affairs to technology and entertainment. from public affairs to media organisations maintain About 90 international which is also the base for regional offices in Hong Kong, publications. , USA Today International in other languages; and 640 periodicals, of which 417 in other languages; in English, 116 bilingual and 12 in were in Chinese, 95 cover a wide range of subjects other languages. Magazines Kong. are also printed in Hong Edition and The Nikkei 1 Broadcasting with 17 satellite Hong Kong is a regional broadcasting hub, territory. Satellite broadcasters uplinking signals from the 800 channels, and cable operators together offer more than entertainment with programmes on news and information, and more. and infotainment, sports, movies, documentaries free-of-charge As at December 2016, there were three TV) licensees domestic television programme service (free Two of the licensees provided two channels in analogue Two of the licensees provided two channels simulcasting format and six digital channels, including they broadcast the two analogue channels. On average weekly, about 1 340 hours of television programmes television reaching 6.49 million viewers, or 2.46 million radio channels, households.Hong Kong has 13 analogue editorially including seven operated by a publicly funded, is to inform, independent broadcaster whose mission balanced, educate and entertain the public through objective programmes.

contribute 5 per cent of their relevant contribute 5 per cent contribution of income, up to a maximum HK$1,500 per month. This is matched by an equal contribution from the employer. As at May 2017, 100 per cent of employers Media success, since The media plays a key role in Hong Kong’s ideas support a an unrestricted flow of information and information and free economy, especially one centred on years to come, services. This role will remain crucial in the factor in as information becomes an even more important economic development. aged 18 to 64, unless specifically exempted, must aged 18 to 64, unless Under the Mandatory Provident Fund System, all employees Under the Mandatory of self-employed and relevant employees, and 68 per cent Mandatory Provident Fund Mandatory Provident property tax based on rental income from property. property tax based on of the actual rent received after The rate is 15 per cent for repairs and outgoings. allowing 20 per cent Fund schemes. people were enrolled in Mandatory Provident Salaries Tax Salaries from any or derived arising in income with an Everyone to in Hong Kong is liable or pension office, employment rates at progressive Salaries tax is calculated salaries tax. tax but the total salaries chargeable income, on the net net cent of a person’s not exceed 15 per charged will income after deductions. assessable Property Tax buildings in Hong Kong are charged Owners of land and/or LIVING IN HONG KONG HONG IN LIVING 28 Living in Hong Kong 31 encouraging public and private organisations to join the encouraging public and Wi-Fi.HK brand; at government venues through providing Wi-Fi services public-private collaboration; and rooms subsidising youth service centres and study to provide operated by non-profit-making organisations Wi-Fi services. • • • The Government will continue to provide free Wi-Fi The Government will continue to provide value when services at its venues of lower commercial is keen. demand of Wi-Fi services from the public Internet and all households virtually covers network A broadband buildings. commercial about 2.61 million 2016, there were As at December for broadband internet customer accounts registered from a few Mbps with speeds ranging access services, rate penetration The broadband household to 10 Gbps. Public highest in the world. cent, one of the was 86.4 per by both public and private Wi-Fi services are provided over 44 120 Wi-Fi hot spots across organisations, offering the city. the following measures The Government is implementing City programme to progressively of the Wi-Fi Connected of the free Wi-Fi.HK service, which expand the coverage 000 hot spots: currently has over 18

Evolution technology by mobile network operators in the Evolution technology by mobile network bands, 900MHz, 1800MHz, 2.3GHz and 2.5/2.6GHz with downlink consumers can enjoy mobile data services of smartphones speeds of up to 450 Mbps. The popularity mobile data has prompted the rapid development of the monthly services in Hong Kong. In December 2016, about 17 per cent mobile data usage was 23 389 terabytes, the same more than the data usage recorded during period in 2015. one of the highest in the world. Among them, about one of the highest in the world. Among 15.58 million were 3G/4G service customers. of Long Term Subsequent to the progressive deployment communications infrastructure. It was the first major city communications infrastructure. a fully digitised telephone network in the world to have number portability. and to implement operator Telephone Services fixed-line As at December 2016, Hong Kong had a household penetration rate of 94 per cent. was about The number of subscribers to cellular phones 234 per cent — 17.23 million, a penetration rate of about Hong Kong is a global communications hub with excellent Hong Kong is a global Telecommunications LIVING IN HONG KONG HONG IN LIVING 30 Coming to Hong Kong 33

To enrich visitors’ travel experience, Hong Kong ismore developing signature events, including the “Hong Kong Cyclothon”, “Hong Kong Pulse 3D Light Show”, “Chinese New Year Parade”, “Hong Kong Dragon Boat Carnival”, “New Year Countdown Celebrations”, and international football, rugby, tennis and golf tournaments. The “2016 FIA Formula E Hong Kong ePrix” debuted in October 2016. features The Michelin Guide Hong Kong Macau 2017 which can accommodate the largest cruise ships in the cruise ships the largest can accommodate which simultaneously. world Kong The Hong Resort Disneyland a series of introduced Wars” — new “Star themed offerings Its in June 2016. new ride-through attraction “Iron Man a story based in Hong Kong, was Experience” featuring January 2017. A new hotel, Disney officially launched in a theme dedicated to the spirit of Explorers Lodge, with operation in the first half of exploration, has commenced the Resort will continue to pursue 2017. Looking ahead, plan of the Phase 1 site, so expansion and development continue to be launched in the that new offerings can coming years. ahead with the development The Ocean Park is pressing which are of an all-weather waterpark and two hotels, 2020. scheduled for completion from 2018 to a leading wine Hong Kong is a gourmet’s paradise and hub. Kong Wine 300 local culinary attractions, and the Hong of awards and Dine Festival, which has received a number food and wine such as “one of the top 10 international , has become an festivals of 2009” by ForbesTraveler.com in 2009. annual signature event since its inception

walled villages, clan halls and colonial structures. in 2016. Total Hong Kong received 56.7 million visitors to be about spending by inbound tourists was estimated largest source $296 billion. The Mainland remained the of Hong Kong’s of visitors, representing around 76 per cent total visitor arrivals. Tourism Development to enhancing The Government attaches great importance and Hong Kong’s attractiveness as a travel destination It has increasing the city’s capacity to receive visitors. over the invested heavily in tourism-related infrastructure past few years. Hong Kong The Government is committed to developing in June into a leading cruise hub in Asia. Commissioned two berths 2013, the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal provides Tourism of Hong Kong is a blend tourist destination, A premier traditions, European featuring Chinese East and West, and Cantonese gusto. modernity heritage, high-tech travel diverse and exciting look forward to a Visitors can shopping, dining, theme parks, experience — great arts, culture and sports. Heritage countryside pursuits, in the form of temples, monasteries, attractions abound Coming to Hong Kong to Hong Coming COMING TO HONG KONG HONG TO COMING 32 Coming to Hong Kong 35 XXXI Olympiad in Rio de Janeiro in 2016, East Asian Muaythai Championships Asian 5th Men's 2016, Hockey Federation Cup and Hong Kong ITU Triathlon Asian Cup. Leisure and Culture Leisure and of is evident in a variety universal appeal Hong Kong’s reflection of the city’s cultural options, a leisure and diverse range of pastimes. population and its cosmopolitan an environment in which The Government nurtures development of the arts, artistic freedom, pluralistic community recreation and sports sporting excellence, programmes can thrive. Events Cultural and Leisure events hosted by Hong Kong The cultural and leisure events of the annual Hong Kong include the premier arts Kong International Film Festival, Arts Festival, the Hong Opera Le French May, Chinese Arts Festival, International Carnival, Museum Festival, New Vision Arts Festival/World Cultures Festival and Hong Kong Flower Show, as well as many traditional festive programmes. Sporting Events Hong Kong Major sporting events include the annual Volleyball Sevens (rugby), Hong Kong Marathon, FIVB Race, Hong Kong World Grand Prix, Hong Kong, Harbour Open, Open Championship (golf), Hong Kong Squash (part of Hong Kong Open Badminton Championships International the BWF World Super Series), Hong Kong Fencing Dragon Boat Races, IWAS Asian Wheelchair Qualification Championships 2016, Asian Table Tennis Games of the Tournament - Qualification Event for the The Hong Kong International Airport is one of the busiest the busiest is one of Airport International Kong The Hong passed passengers million 2016, 70.5 world. In in the 411 566. totalled movements Aircraft the airport. through

establish or join any business or take up residence in the HKSAR an are required to obtain appropriate visa or entry permit before arrival. Cross-boundary Traffic rail-based boundary crossing handled In 2016, the Lo Wu passengers daily. The an average of 222 100 crossing to Spur Line — the second rail-based boundary of about the Mainland — handled a daily average which 95 300 are 173 300 cross-boundary passengers, of railway passengers. Hong Kong There are four road-based crossings between , and the Mainland, namely Lok Ma Chau, four crossings Man Kam To and . These Immigration its immigration over autonomy Kong maintains Hong of policy allows nationals open immigration control. An visa-free visits ranging countries and territories about 170 to 180 days. from seven knowledge or experience with special skills, Professionals and in Hong Kong, and not readily available of value to substantial contributions who can make business people are welcome to work and to Hong Kong’s economy, Persons coming to work, study or invest in Hong Kong. handled an average of 198 800 travellers and 42 300 handled an average of 198 800 travellers vehicles daily. ports and Cross-boundary ferry services to 11 Mainland in Kowloon Macao run from the China Ferry Terminal on Hong Kong and the Hong Kong-Macao Ferry Terminal the Mainland Island. In 2016, passenger throughputs to 20.66 million and Macao were about 4.25 million and respectively. Inward and Outward Traffic ports in terms of Hong Kong is one of the world’s busiest 988 vessels vessel arrivals and departures. In 2016, 370 about arrived and departed from Hong Kong, involving passenger 29.1 million cross-boundary ferry and cruise journeys. COMING TO HONG KONG HONG TO COMING 34 Coming to Hong Kong

37 the ninth day of the ninth lunar month, when many people visit their ancestors’ graves or hike up mountains to commemorate a legendary Chinese family’s escape from the plague. Hong Kong Wetland Park Kong Wetland Hong a special as Park is designated Wetland Kong The Hong and conservation aims to promote wetland area which tourism. It comprises as well as nature-based education, centre with exhibition visitor a 10 000-square-metre and value of wetlands, the functions galleries showcasing for visitors to explore wetland reserve and a 60-hectare Hong Kong. wetland wildlife in the amazing Geopark Global The Hong Kong UNESCO the northeast Geopark is located in of of Hong Kong and consists Kung Volcanic two regions: the Sai Rock Region with hexagonal which is volcanic rock columns, in terms of both size and considered world-class New Territories Sedimentary coverage; and the Northeast displays the most comprehensive Rock Region, which rocks in Hong Kong. stratigraphy of sedimentary Traditional Festivals calendar. There are five major festivals in the Chinese festival, During the Lunar New Year, the most important relatives, people exchange gifts and visit friends and while red paper packets. children receive ”lucky money“in the Ching Ming Festival in spring, people visit During fifth lunar month ancestral graves. On the fifth day of the in early summer, dragon boats race across Hong Kong’s and the sea during the Dragon Boat Festival. waterways day of the The Mid-Autumn Festival falls on the 15th wine and eighth lunar month, when gifts of mooncakes, carrying fruit are exchanged, and adults and children the countryside colourful lanterns visit parks, beaches and occurs on to see the moon. The Chung Yeung Festival

showcases . The Hong Kong 2 1 Museum of Art magnificent collections of magnificent collections works of art. ancient and modern Hong Kong’s mix of traditions — of traditions Kong’s mix Hong Western, historicalChinese and and its can also be seen in modern — There are stimulating museums. exhibits at the interactive Science Museum and Hong Kong films at the Hong Kong Omnimax Space Museum The Hong Kong Museum of Art is closed for expansion and renovation until 2019. The Hong Kong Museum of Art is closed The permanent exhibition halls of the Hong Kong Space Museum are closed for renovation and are The permanent exhibition halls of the of 2017. expected to be reopened in the 4th quarter

The Hong Kong Museum of History and the Hong Kong The Hong Kong Museum the historical and cultural aspects Heritage Museum present House Museum of Tea Ware, of Hong Kong. The Flagstaff building at Hong Kong Park, shows housed in a historical of tea in Chinese culture. the history and importance

Museums 2 Country and Marine Parks area is reserved About 40 per cent of Hong Kong’s total land 1 for conservation and recreation, encompassing 24 country for conservation and recreation, encompassing parks and 22 special areas. This extensive green belt is parks and 22 special areas. This extensive There are popular with hikers, nature lovers and tourists. occupying also five marine parks and one marine reserve, coastal scenic about 3 400 hectares in total. They feature areas, 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 400 the wetland is have been recorded in the area. In winter, home to 50 000 to 80 000 waterbirds. COMING TO HONG KONG HONG TO COMING 36 Future of Hong Kong 39

Cyberport Cyberport is a creative digital community with a cluster of over 800 technology and digital tenants. It is managed by Hong Kong Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park” in the Park” in the Innovation and Technology Shenzhen Space” will be Loop Area. An “Inno Lok Ma Chau Hong Kong Productivity Council established with the of innovative and to promote the translation industrial designs or products, technological ideas into in Hong Kong and support nurture a start-up culture re-industrialisation. Collaborate with Shenzhen to Shenzhen with develop Collaborate a “Hong Kong- To collaborate with the film industry to conduct a to conduct industry the film with To collaborate be will also delegations Trade programme. training Road” region to to visit the “Belt and organised and location Kong’s post-production promote Hong services. production facilitation filming and • Asia’s Cyber City for Cyber Century the centre Hong Kong has set itself on a course to become — a cyber city for innovation and technology in East Asia to realise this in the cyber century. Much is being done goal and to capitalise on the enormous opportunities presented by the information revolution. which is Cyberport Management Company Limited, wholly owned by the HKSAR Government. • Furthermore, Hong Kong will jointly participate in Furthermore, Hong Kong Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao the planning of the National Development and Reform Big Bay Area with the Provincial Government Commission, the Guangdong Through active consultation and Macao Government. this can help Guangdong, and consensus-building, own unique yet Hong Kong and Macao to leverage their complementary advantages.

To explore the establishment of new Hong Kong To explore the establishment of new Hong major Economic and Trade Offices (ETOs) in other and trading entities to expand the ETOs’ network Kong. strengthen promotional work outside Hong To amend relevant legislations aimed at the regulatory To amend relevant legislations aimed at as an regime to maintain Hong Kong’s status edge international financial centre and its competitive in the financial services industry. To step up promotional efforts, aimed at attracting key To step up promotional efforts, aimed at to further overseas maritime enterprises to Hong Kong strengthen Hong Kong’s maritime cluster. To continue with the development To continue with the of Hong Kong as a centre for international legal and dispute resolution services in the Asia-Pacific region and the enhancement of Hong Kong’s status in the international legal, resolution and business dispute and arbitration arenas. New legislation related to in the apology will be introduced. Mediation facilities Buildingvicinity of the West Kowloon Law Courts will be provided. • • • • environment and continuing to invest in world-class environment and continuing the economic development. infrastructure to support services, trading and logistics, For many years, financial services have served as tourism and professional industries. As “Asia’s World City”, Hong Kong’s four pillar Continuous and sustainable economic growth is a growth is a and sustainable economic Continuous development. for Hong Kong's further prerequisite a business-friendly is committed to maintaining Hong Kong Capitalising on Advantages to Unleash on Advantages Capitalising Potential Hong Kong’s Future of Hong Kong Hong of Future Hong Kong will continue to enhance existing advantages Hong Kong will continue for continuous and and explore new opportunities growth. sustainable economic Some initiatives are: FUTURE OF HONG KONG HONG OF FUTURE 38 Future of Hong Kong

41 Three-Runway System of the Hong Kong System of the Hong Three-Runway Airport International Route Central Kowloon Loop Lok Ma Chau and Control Point Yuen Wai Boundary Liantang/Heung associated works District West Kowloon Cultural New Development Areas Island — Tung Chung Development of Lantau New Town Extension Scale Outside Reclamation on an Appropriate Victoria Harbour Space Development Rock Cavern and Underground at Hong Kong Boundary Crossing Topside Development Bridge Facilities Island of Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao 10-year Hospital Development Plan Kai Tak Sports Park Hong Kong Section of the of the Kong Section Hong Link Express Rail Kong Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Bridge Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • By improving transport and other infrastructure, these By improving transport and other infrastructure, development projects will enable Hong Kong’s further activities. and foster more socio-cultural and business rail and In addition, with closer and more efficient the neighbouring transport links between Hong Kong and Delta, regions of Shenzhen and the Pearl River cross-boundary integration will be strengthened. 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 will exceed Annual expenditure on capital works in 2016-17 to continue $80 billion, and this level of spending is expected driving force in the next few years, bringing a continuous development. to the construction industry and economic

Century st ha Tin to Central Link S Tuen Mun-Chek Lap Kok Link • • Infrastructure Projects for 21 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 support demands arising from population growth economic and trade development. number of major The Government is moving ahead with a infrastructure projects, including the: With a view to establishing establishing a view to With global as a leading itself technology and innovation is hub, Cyberport to facilitating committed by the local economy information and nurturing technology communication industry start-ups and collaboration to pool resources and entrepreneurs, driving and accelerating digital create business opportunities, initiatives and partnerships. adoption through strategic Science Park the three-phases Hong Kong Completed in April 2016, on a 22-hectare site. The park is Science Park is located clusters, namely biomedical developing five technology green technology, information and technology, electronics, and material and precision communications technology, engineering. In addition, it has established three over-arching ageing, robotics cross-disciplinary platforms, namely healthy and smart city, to facilitate integration of technologies in and smart city, to facilitate integration of innovative products. Stage 1 of the Science Park Expansion Programme by 2020. started in 2016, and is expected to be completed of the park Upon completion, the total gross floor area to around will be increased from 330 000 square metres 400 000 square metres. FUTURE OF HONG KONG HONG OF FUTURE 40 Future of Hong Kong

43 Road Projects Road and provide urban congestion reduce new roads Strategic and beyond. to the New Territories vital new links and reconstruction road projects, including Some major Territories and on works in the New improvement implemented. Island, are also being Hong Kong in traffic demand an expected increase To cope with of Tolo Highway Territories, the widening in the New Interchange and Tai Hang between the Island House 2014. The widening works of was completed in March Tai Hang and the Wo Hop Shek Fanling Highway between in 2013 and are anticipated to be Interchange started completed in 2019. on Hong Kong Island, the To relieve traffic congestion and Link Central-Wan Chai Bypass to connect Rumsey Street Flyover are under construction Eastern Corridor in . in Central and the Island completed, it will take only about When this project is from Central to the Island Eastern five minutes to drive Corridor in North Point. local projects, For the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Hong Kong Link according to the current works progress, Facilities Road (HKLR) and Hong Kong Boundary Crossing be ready for will be completed by the end of 2017 and Lap Kok Link commissioning. As for the Tuen Mun-Chek be completed by Project, the Southern Connection could the Northern the first half of 2019 at the earliest whilst at the earliest. Connection could be completed in 2020

Railways play a vital role in serving the transport needs of Railways play a vital fast, reliable and comfortable Hong Kong. They provide on the road network and are services, reduce pressure friendly. more environmentally rapidly Hong Kong’s railway development has progressed up a long-term over the past few years. In order to draw railway development blueprint, the Government update the commissioned a consultant to review and announced “Railway Development Strategy 2000” and to transport the new strategy in 2014. Having regard needs demand, cost-effectiveness and the development development of New Development Areas and other new new seven that projects, the new strategy recommends railway projects be completed by 2031. Tung Station), The projects are the Northern Link (and Kwu Tuen Mun South Extension, , Tuen Mun South Extension, East Kowloon Kiu Station, Tung Chung West Extension, Hung Shui Line. When all (West) and North Island network these new projects are completed, the railway to over will increase from 270 kilometres in 2021 300 kilometres by 2031. Railway Development Railway FUTURE OF HONG KONG HONG OF FUTURE 42 Hong Kong: The Facts

45

@ 9% 30% 27% 20% 11%

% of total

HK$16,200 per month (1)

@ term accommodation. - Accommodation services cover hotels, guesthouses, boarding houses and other Accommodation services cover hotels, guesthouses, boarding houses establishments providing short Provisional figures are subject to revision.

employment courier services, and information and communications Construction (1) @ span cable-stayed road bridge span cable-stayed 210 metres) — Bay Bridge (main span Shenzhen bridge cable-stayed road single plane Air movements million passengers; 411 566 flights; 70.5 freight 4.52 million tonnes of Shipping movements Arrival: 642 ocean vessels; 157 369 river vessels; 27 257 million tonnes port cargo throughput Container throughput equivalent units) 19.8 million TEUs (20-foot Employment in 2016 million Total employment: 3.81 Major employment sectors Import/export, wholesale and retail trades, and accommodation and food services Public administration, and social and personal services Financing and insurance, real estate, and professional and business services Transportation, storage, postal and 3% Manufacturing Median wage 2016) (Non-government employees) (May - June (two main spans totalling 923 metres) — 923 spans totalling (two main Bridge Ting Kau bridge road cable-stayed 1 018 metres) — Bridge (main span Stonecutters

80.68 square km 46.94 square km 748.18 square km 230.54 square km road-rail cable-stayed bridge Bridges — Tsing Ma Bridge (main span 1 377 metres) the world’s longest road-rail suspension bridge — Kap Shui Mun Bridge (main span 430 metres) Roads 677 licensed vehicles kilometres of roads, 745 107 2 About 2.13 million people live in 803 400 rental About 2.13 million people live in 803 400 housing flats Transport Tate’s Cairn (Typhoon Wanda, 1 September,1962) Public Housing 0.0°C (18 January,1893) Highest wind speed km/h at 259 km/h at , 284 Highest temperature 36.3°C (8 August, 2015) Lowest temperature Annual rainfall (2016) 3 026.8mm Weather Hong Kong Island Overall density per square kilometre 6 780 people kilometres Area: 1 106.34 square Kowloon New Territories — mainland New Territories — islands Population: 7.34 million (mid-2016) Population: Hong Kong : The Facts The : Kong Hong HONG KONG: THE FACTS THE KONG: HONG 44 Useful Contacts 47

No.568 Jianshe Avenue Jianghan District, Wuhan, China Postal Code: 430022 Phone: (86) 27 6560 7300 Fax: (86) 27 6560 7301 E-mail: [email protected] 38/F, Tower 1, Plaza Central 38/F, Tower Street, Yan Shi Kou 8 Shuncheng China Chengdu, 610016 Postal Code: 8301 Phone: (86) 28 8676 Fax: (86) 28 8676 8300 E-mail: [email protected] 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] Shanghai 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] Wuhan Trade Tower Unit 4303,Tower I, New World International Hong Kong Economic and Trade Offices and Trade Kong Economic Hong of China Mainland Chengdu No.71 Di’anmen Xidajie Xicheng District Beijing, China Postal Code: 100009 Phone: (86) 10 6657 2880 Fax: (86) 10 6657 2821 E-mail: [email protected] The Office of the Government of the The Office of the Government of Region Hong Kong Special Administrative in Beijing Invest Hong Kong Phone: (852) 3107 1000 E-mail: [email protected] www.investhk.gov.hk Brand Hong Kong Management Unit Brand Hong Kong Phone: (852) 2842 8849 E-mail: [email protected] www.brandhk.gov.hk Phone: (852) 2842 8747 2845 9078 Fax: (852) 2868 4726, E-mail: [email protected] www.isd.gov.hk www.gov.hk Services Department Information Hong Kong Special Administrative Special Administrative Hong Kong (HKSARG) Government Region Useful Contacts Useful USEFUL CONTACTS USEFUL 46 Useful Contacts 49 Geneva 5 Allée David-Morse 1211 Geneva 20 Switzerland Phone: (41) 22 730 1300 Fax: (41) 22 730 1304 E-mail: [email protected] London 18 Bedford Square London WC1B 3JA UK 9821 Phone: (44) 20 7499 Fax: (44) 20 7323 2336 E-mail: [email protected] North America New York 115 East 54th Street New York, NY 10022, USA Phone: (1) 212 752 3320 Fax: (1) 212 752 3395 E-mail: [email protected] San Francisco 130 Montgomery Street San Francisco, CA 94104, USA Phone: (1) 415 835 9300 Fax: (1) 415 421 0646 E-mail: [email protected] Brussels 118 Rue d’Arlon 1040 Brussels Belgium 2 775 0088 Phone: (32) 770 0980 Fax: (32) 2 E-mail: [email protected] 19th Floor, World Trade Centre 2, World Trade Centre 19th Floor, Sudirman Kav. 29-31 Jalan Jenderal 12920, Indonesia Jakarta Selatan 21 8086 9730 Phone: (62) 2952 2613 Fax: (62) 21 E-mail: [email protected] Asia-Pacific Jakarta Jaegerstrasse 33 10117, Berlin Germany Phone: (49) 30 22 66 77 228 Fax: (49) 30 22 66 77 288 E-mail: [email protected] Europe Berlin Tokyo 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 Level 1, Hong Kong House 80 Druitt Street Sydney, NSW 2000 Australia Phone: (61) 2 9283 3222 Fax: (61) 2 9283 3818 E-mail: [email protected] Singapore 2 #34-01, Suntec Tower 9 Temasek Boulevard Singapore 038989 Phone: (65) 6338 1771 Fax: (65) 6339 2112 E-mail: [email protected] USEFUL CONTACTS USEFUL 48 USEFUL CONTACTS

Toronto 174 St George Street Toronto, Ontario M5R 2M7, Canada Phone: (1) 416 924 5544 Fax: (1) 416 924 3599 E-mail: [email protected] Washington 1520 18th Street, NW Washington, D.C. 20036, USA Phone: (1) 202 331 8947 Fax: (1) 202 331 8958 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]

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