SCED Advocates for Sustainable Trade at APEC Ministers Responsible for Trade Meeting in Suzhou

SCED continues to attend APEC Ministers Responsible for Trade Meeting in Suzhou

The Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau, continued to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Ministers Responsible for Trade (MRT) Meeting in Suzhou today (May 23).

At the discussion session entitled "Foster New Engines of Innovative and Dynamic Trade and Investment Cooperation", Mr Yau highlighted the importance of sustainability and technological advancement in reshaping the global trade landscape and economic growth.

Noting that Hong Kong, as the world's fifth largest merchandise trading entity in 2025, has been pursuing digital and green trade to stay resilient and competitive, Mr Yau shared with fellow trade ministers Hong Kong's efforts and key directions in this regard.

Mr Yau said that Hong Kong has been harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to provide trade facilitation measures and digitalise its logistics industry. The recent initiatives included the commencement of the final phase of the Trade Single Window system with a view to streamlining trade document submissions, and the launch of the Port Community System to digitally integrate sea, land and air transport networks, thereby enabling real-time cargo tracking and data sharing.

He noted that Hong Kong also recognises the need to popularise AI understanding to enable people and enterprises to use it safely, responsibly and productively. Hong Kong will establish the Committee on AI+ and Industry Development Strategy and has also put in place various initiatives to deepen AI integration and encourage wider AI application.

In addition, as a global financial centre, Hong Kong has developed financing tools tailored for modern supply chains. Citing the Project CargoX launched last year as an example, Mr Yau said that it leverages cargo and trade data to streamline and enhance trade finance processes.

Turning to developing cross-border digital trade, Mr Yau said that Hong Kong fully supports the APEC Trade Digitalization Cooperation Framework proposed by the country and looks forward to implementing the framework with fellow member economies.

On green and low carbon trade, Mr Yau noted that Hong Kong is fully committed to pursuing the goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. In 2025, green and sustainable debt issuance in Hong Kong totalled US$77 billion.

On the sidelines of the MRT meeting, Mr Yau took the opportunity to meet with the Minister for Trade and Investment of New Zealand, Mr Todd McClay, to exchange views on various issues, including fostering bilateral trade relations.

The two-day MRT meeting concluded. Mr Yau will return to Hong Kong this evening.

The Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau (right), meets with the Minister for Trade and Investment of New Zealand, Mr Todd McClay (left), to exchange views on various issues, including fostering bilateral trade relations on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Ministers Responsible for Trade Meeting in Suzhou today (May 23). Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

The Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau, continued to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Ministers Responsible for Trade Meeting in Suzhou today (May 23). Photo shows Mr Yau (right) and the Director-General of Trade and Industry, Mr Aaron Liu (left), before the meeting. Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

The Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau, speaks at a discussion session entitled "Foster New Engines of Innovative and Dynamic Trade and Investment Cooperation" at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Ministers Responsible for Trade Meeting in Suzhou today (May 23). Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

AFCD staff patrol animal release hotspots

With a view to safeguarding animal welfare, the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) today (May 24) deployed staff to patrol locations where mercy release activities frequently occurred in the past, including Wun Yiu, Tai Po; Ng Tung River, Sheung Shui; Sai Kung Public Pier and Sai Wan Ho Ferry Pier. Educational leaflets were distributed to remind the public to think carefully before participating in mercy releases of animals.

A spokesman for the AFCD said, "If members of the public release animals in an improper manner, such as releasing them into unsuitable habitats, it may adversely affect their survival."

Under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Ordinance (Cap. 169), it is an offence to cause unnecessary suffering to animals by releasing them in an improper manner. Offenders are liable to a maximum fine of $200,000 and imprisonment for three years upon conviction.

The AFCD will continue to conduct inspections at locations where animal release activities are likely to take place, take enforcement action when necessary, and carry out publicity and education work.

In addition, the AFCD will launch a restocking exercise on National Fish Releasing Day on June 6 to release juvenile fish with the aim of enhancing local marine resources and improving marine ecology. The department will promote the environmental benefits to the public of science-based restocking, with a view to engaging public support for and participation in these science-based restocking exercises in lieu of improper animal release activities. The public may also consider other charitable activities, such as planting trees or participating in volunteer services with animal welfare groups and environmental organisations.

With a view to safeguarding animal welfare, the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) today (May 24) deployed staff to patrol locations where mercy release activities frequently occurred in the past. Photo shows staff members of the AFCD distributing education materials at Ng Tung River, Sheung Shui. Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

With a view to safeguarding animal welfare, the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) today (May 24) deployed staff to patrol locations where mercy release activities frequently occurred in the past. Photo shows staff members of the AFCD distributing education materials at Sai Kung Public Pier. Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases