Hey there! 👋 Big news from the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR)! Chief Executive John Lee just dropped his third policy address, and it's packed with exciting plans to supercharge Hong Kong's future. Let's dive into the key highlights! 🏄♀️
🚢 Boosting the Maritime Industry
Hong Kong is setting sail towards becoming a global maritime powerhouse! 🛳️ The government is launching the Hong Kong Maritime and Port Development Board, a high-level advisory group made up mostly of industry pros. Their mission? To craft policies and strategies that will keep Hong Kong's maritime scene thriving. 🌊
But that's not all! There's a big push towards green shipping, with an Action Plan on Green Maritime Fuel Bunkering coming by the end of the year. Think cleaner fuels and lower emissions! Plus, they're investing more in research, promotions, and training to keep the industry shipshape. ⚓
💰 Revamping the Capital Investment Entrant Scheme
Got a cool HK$50 million? 💵 Good news! The Capital Investment Entrant Scheme just got a makeover. Now, investing in residential properties counts towards the scheme, encouraging more high-net-worth individuals to make Hong Kong their home sweet home. 🏠
And starting March next year, investments via your own private company will also be eligible. This move is already making waves, with over 550 applications since March! 🌟
Hong Kong is also teaming up with sovereign wealth funds along the Belt and Road, especially in the Middle East, to boost investments in the Chinese mainland and beyond. 🌐
🍷 Slashing Liquor Duties
Cheers to good news! 🥂 Starting today, the duty rate on liquor with an import price over HK$200 is dropping from 100% to just 10% for the portion above HK$200. That means more choices and maybe even better prices for your favorite spirits! 🍾
This move is all about stirring up the liquor trade and boosting related industries like logistics, tourism, and the high-end food and beverage scene. Bon appétit! 🍽️
🏅 Building an International Gold Trading Hub
Gold is glittering brighter in Hong Kong! ✨ With geopolitical shifts, Hong Kong's stability makes it a prime spot for gold storage and trading. The government plans to develop world-class gold storage facilities, sparking growth in areas like investment transactions, insurance, and more. 💎
A new working group will set up an international gold trading center, enhancing trading mechanisms, embracing fintech, and exploring inclusion of gold products in mutual market access programs with the Chinese mainland. Stay tuned! 🔒
🎓 Attracting Global Students
Education gets a spotlight! 📚 Hong Kong is rolling out the red carpet for overseas students, especially from ASEAN and Belt and Road regions. By creating the \"Study in Hong Kong\" brand, they aim to make the city a buzzing international hub for post-secondary education. 🌏
With scholarships and cool incentives, plus international conferences and collaborations, studying in Hong Kong is set to be an even more awesome experience! 🎒
Meanwhile, the talent admission regime, launched late last year, is a hit! Over 380,000 applications and counting. To keep the momentum, the government is expanding the Top Talent Pass Scheme, adding 13 top universities, and extending visa validity for high-income talents. 🌠
Looks like Hong Kong is gearing up for an exciting journey ahead! 🚀 Whether you're an entrepreneur, a student, or just someone curious about the city's future, there's plenty to look forward to. Stay tuned for more updates! 📰
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
