Hong Kong's maritime services sector has enormous potential for growth and the city is well positioned to become an important international maritime services hub for China and the Asia-Pacific region, Chief Executive CY Leung said in his Policy Address today.
Mr Leung added the Government will continue to fully support the Airport Authority's three-runway system project to strengthen Hong Kong's position as an international and regional transport centre.
A new maritime body to promote the industry will be set up, while the Maritime Industry Council's functions will be enhanced to nurture people's skills in high-end professional maritime services.
Mr Leung revealed that in the coming year, the Government will join the industry and the Trade Development Council in attracting more high value-added maritime services companies to cluster in Hong Kong.
He also noted that the Airport Authority has completed a study on the airport's North Commercial District master layout plan and will soon launch the first stage of retail development. Planning and development of the land reserved for cargo use at the South Cargo Precinct of the airport island will kick off soon.
To tie in with the hotel development adjacent to the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal, the Government is carrying out infrastructure work at the runway and south apron of the former airport, and will encourage developers to include conference facilities in the new hotels.
Other plans to enhance the tourism industry include expanding the city's two theme parks. Discussion on the Disneyland Resort Phase 2 development will commence soon as its operating results are improving, Mr Leung said.
The Government has also commissioned a consultancy study to assess the future demand for convention and exhibition facilities in Hong Kong, and will consider constructing a new convention centre above Exhibition Station on the Sha Tin to Central Link around 2020, he added.
