Council on Human Reproductive Technology wraps up its investigation into incident regarding mix-up in embryo biopsy specimens involving "Heal Fertility Limited"
The following is issued on behalf of the Council on Human Reproductive Technology (Council):
Regarding the incident involving a mix-up of embryo biopsy specimens at a licensed human reproductive technology centre in Central, "Heal Fertility Limited" (Heal Fertility), the Investigation Committee under the Council has completed its investigation and submitted a report to the Council. The Council convened a special meeting on September 3 eveningto review the report and discuss matters related to the licence of Heal Fertility.
Heal Fertility Limited, Photo source: reference image
Having thoroughly considered the report, the Council accepted its conclusion that the main cause of the incident may involve intentional unlawful conduct by an individual. The Council will continue to provide professional support to the Police in their investigation. The Council confirmed that no embryos were mixed up or wrongly implanted into the human body in the incident. Regarding Heal Fertility's sample processing procedures, the Council was of the view that Heal Fertility lacked sufficient protective measures for the handling and storing of embryos and embryo biopsy specimens, and contravened relevant provisions of the Code of Practice on Reproductive Technology and Embryo Research (the Code). The Council has strictly instructed Heal Fertility to strictly adhere to the Human Reproductive Technology Ordinance (Cap. 561) and the Code to prevent any recurrence of similar incidents.
Moreover, the Council noted that Heal Fertility, after identification of the mix-up of the embryo biopsy specimens, did not report the incident to the Department of Health (DH) within the required timeframe. The Council has reminded Heal Fertility that all day procedure centres holding a licence from the Council to provide reproductive technology must strictly comply with the licence conditions set out by the Council, the DH and the relevant Codes, and ensure timely reporting.
The Council noted that Heal Fertility has implemented a number of improvement measures regarding the handling and storage arrangements of embryos and embryo biopsy specimens. However, the Council considered that there is still room for further enhancement in Heal Fertility's overall performance and operational arrangements. Therefore, following yesterday's meeting, the Council has drawn up a set of concrete improvement requirements to urge Heal Fertility to properly implement all measures. The Council will issue a letter to Heal Fertility today (September 4) to notify them of the relevant requirements. The Investigation Committee under the Council will re-inspect the premises, and the Council will make a decision on the licensing matter upon obtaining further information. Until then, Heal Fertility can only continue to provide three services related to the storage of gametes or embryos.
On the other hand, the Council has passed a resolution to commence the review of the Code, key areas include reviewing the incident reporting mechanism and optimising the security and handling procedures of biological samples, with a target completion date of next year. The Council remains fully committed to ensuring that all licensed centres strictly comply with the regulatory requirements of reproductive technology procedures, thereby safeguarding the continuous provision of safe and high-quality services to individuals seeking reproductive technology.
Heal Fertility Limited, Photo source: official website of Heal
InnoCarnival 2026 exhibits I&T achievements to let dreams take flight
Organised by the Innovation and Technology Commission, InnoCarnival 2026 (IC 2026) is being held for nine consecutive days from today (October 24) to November 1 at the Hong Kong Science Park in Sha Tin. Public admission is free. Under the theme "Lead with I&T Dream to Fly High", this year's carnival not only showcases a number of exhibits of local innovation and technology (I&T) achievements, but also features an aerospace thematic zone to showcase relevant research projects of local universities and their contributions to the country's space exploration missions.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, said that Hong Kong's strong frontier research capabilities, comprehensive financial services and world-class international talent together provide a complete pathway for turning ideas into industries. Hong Kong's First Five-Year Plan, announced by the Government last month, positions the Northern Metropolis as a hub for I&T industries, promoting the integrated development of education, technology, talent and industry to closely align university talent development and research with industry needs. The Government will also leverage Hong Kong's financial strengths to channel more patient capital into supporting research teams and start-ups as they progress from research and development (R&D) to application.
Mr Chan noted that I&T development ultimately depends on people, particularly the younger generation. Through exhibitions, workshops, talks and interactive experiences, IC 2026 enables members of the public to learn through hands-on participation. Citing the mobile food-waste paper machine that won the junior secondary division of this year's Hong Kong Student Science Project Competition, he encouraged young people to draw inspiration from everyday life and consider how to make the city a better place. He said, "The idea is not complicated, but with dedication to putting it into practice, even a small invention can make a big difference. The next invention to reach the world may well come from one of the students here today."
The campaign partners of IC 2026 are the Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups and the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation. Meanwhile, over 40 programme partners, including local universities, R&D centres and government departments, are supporting the carnival by setting up booths at the Hong Kong Science Park, showcasing a series of I&T achievements and providing interactive games. Besides, about 150 workshops and over 10 webinars across various subjects including aerospace technology and AI will be held during the carnival.
All IC 2026 activities are free of charge. Some of the activities require pre-registration. Details are available on the thematic webpage (innocarnival.hk). Places are limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Members of the public are most welcome to join. During the carnival, free shuttle bus services will be provided between the Hong Kong Science Park and various districts, including MTR University Station, Tai Wai Station, Kowloon Tong Station, and Admiralty Station, with new routes added this year to Yuen Long Station and Tseung Kwan O Station, offering convenient access for visitors.
Source: AI-found images
InnoCarnival 2026 exhibits I&T achievements to let dreams take flight Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
InnoCarnival 2026 exhibits I&T achievements to let dreams take flight Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
InnoCarnival 2026 exhibits I&T achievements to let dreams take flight Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
InnoCarnival 2026 exhibits I&T achievements to let dreams take flight Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
InnoCarnival 2026 exhibits I&T achievements to let dreams take flight Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
InnoCarnival 2026 exhibits I&T achievements to let dreams take flight Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
InnoCarnival 2026 exhibits I&T achievements to let dreams take flight Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
InnoCarnival 2026 exhibits I&T achievements to let dreams take flight Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
InnoCarnival 2026 exhibits I&T achievements to let dreams take flight Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
Source: AI-found images
