HKSAR Government strongly opposes US imposition of port fees on Chinese-owned, operated, or built vessels
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government strongly opposes and expresses grave dissatisfaction towards the United States (US) authorities' imposition of port fees on vessels owned, operated, or built by Chinese companies and other relevant measures.
A spokesperson for the HKSAR Government said, "Under the unique institutional strengths of 'one country, two systems', Hong Kong, as a globally renowned international maritime centre, has long been providing a free and open, level-playing and efficient, as well as a well-regulated business environment for shipping enterprises worldwide to operate. The US measures are blatantly discriminatory, deliberately dividing the international maritime community and undermining the spirit of solidarity and co-operation built over the years. Such actions fall short of the basic standards of international conduct."
The HKSAR Government condemns such bullying acts. Hong Kong will continue to uphold the spirit of openness and co-operation, working with global maritime partners to safeguard free trade principles and promote the healthy development of the international shipping industry. The spokesperson emphasised that only by adhering to fairness and justice, mutual benefit, and win-win co-operation can the common interests of the global maritime community be truly protected.
Notice on appointments to advisory and statutory bodies
A Government spokesman said today (January 12) that Mr Chan Kin-por recently sought approval from the Chief Executive to suspend his three public positions as appointed by the Chief Executive, until the completion of the work of the Independent Committee in relation to the fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po (Independent Committee). Mr Chan made this request to allow himself more time to dedicate to the work of the Independent Committee. After due consideration, the Chief Executive has agreed to and approved this request. The three public positions are: (1) Chairman of Independent Commission Against Corruption Advisory Committee on Corruption; (2) Non-executive Director of Urban Renewal Authority Board; and (3) Member of Honours and Non-official Justices of the Peace Selection Committee.
Mr Chan Kin-por, Photo source: reference image
On December 12, 2025, the Government established the Independent Committee to examine the causes of the incident and related issues, ascertain the facts, and make recommendations on preventing similar tragedies and on improvement measures. The Independent Committee is chaired by Mr Justice David Lok, with Mr Chan Kin-por and Dr Rex Auyeung Pak-kuen serving as members. The Independent Committee held its first meeting on December 19 last year and aims to complete its work within nine months of commencing operations.
Mr Chan Kin-por wrote earlier to the Chief Executive, expressing his wish to suspend the aforementioned three public positions until the Independent Committee completes its work, in order to dedicate more time and focus to the Independent Committee's tasks. The Chief Executive has agreed to and approved the request.
A Government spokesperson said that since the fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, both the Government and the wider community have been highly concerned about the causes of the incident and the follow-up work. The scope of the Independent Committee's work is extensive, particularly concerning systemic issues related to bid-rigging and connected interests. Given the numerous issues involved and their complex nature, the Government will fully co-operate with the Independent Committee to ensure that it can complete its work and compile its report within nine months. The Government extends its gratitude to Mr Chan for accepting the appointment as a member of the Independent Committee and for his professional and conscientious approach to the Committee's work. When the Independent Committee's work is completed, the Government looks forward to Mr Chan's continuous contribution through his aforementioned public positions.
Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, Photo by Bastille Post
