The interdepartmental working group on festival arrangements today announced that Hong Kong welcomed around 1.6 million visitors during for the Mainland’s National Day Golden Week from October 1 to 7, with Mainland visitors accounting for more than 1.41 million – a figure that surpassed last year’s record.

During the seven-day period, the daily average number of Mainland visitors stood at around 202,000, peaking on October 1, with approximately 277,000 arrivals. The Lok Ma Chau Spur Line Control Point recorded the highest volume of Mainland visitors, followed by the Express Rail Link West Kowloon Control Point.

Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki, who led the interdepartmental working group, noted that this year's National Day Golden Week featured a variety of vibrant activities. He added that the National Day fireworks display, the National Day Raceday and other events held on October 1 were well received by the public and visitors.

The Government and various sectors of the community also launched a rich array of special offers and activities covering public transport, culture, arts and leisure, dining and consumption to celebrate the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China with the public, Mr Chan added.

“These activities effectively attracted crowds and stimulated consumption, with the retail sector indicating that consumer spending in various retail categories saw single-digit to double-digit growth year-on-year, while the catering sector also indicated that businesses in tourist areas increased by about 10%.”

Mr Chan emphasised that the Government will continue to work hand in hand with the industry to promote diversified tourism products and projects, creating an all-round and in-depth tourism experience for visitors while continuously injecting momentum into the local economy.

The National Day Fireworks Display over Victoria Harbour on October 1 attracted over 378,000 spectators, while the National Day Raceday at Sha Tin Racecourse attracted nearly 30,000 spectators, including 9,300 tourists. Meanwhile, the Mid-Autumn Lantern Carnival 2026 and International Lantern Spectacular at Victoria Park received an enthusiastic response; its duration was extended twice, drawing a total of around 730,000 visitors.

In addition, around 1,140 Mainland inbound tour groups brought over 41,000 visitors to the city during the seven-day Golden Week, with around 60% opting for overnight itineraries. The overall hotel occupancy rate reached 90%.

The Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department will capture unattended dogs at high-risk locations where dog attacks on passers-by and stray dog congregations have occurred over the next four months. 

To address risks in high-density urban environments, the department noted today that unowned and uncontrolled canines may compromise public safety, as allowing them to roam unattended may cause harm to residents or other animals. Furthermore, dogs not vaccinated against rabies also threaten both public and animal health.

The department will adopt a risk-based strategy to launch for its special operations, prioritising high-risk locations.

It will also collaborate with the Police on special joint enforcement when necessary, requiring dog keepers to fulfil their responsibilities properly to safeguard community safety.

Following capture, the department will check for microchips and valid dog licences, contacting keepers via registration records and lost-and-found files. If there is sufficient evidence, the keepers will be prosecuted.

If the keepers cannot be traced, staff and veterinary officers at the department’s Animal Management Centres will assess the dogs. Those confirmed to be in good health and of a gentle temperament will be transferred to partner animal welfare organisations for sterilisation and public adoption.

To avoid posing public safety risks, the department emphasised that dogs without keepers will not be released back into the community.

The Police Force's National Security Department arrested a man and woman in Kowloon on October 6 on suspicion of “doing with a seditious intention an act that had a seditious intention” under Section 24 of the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance.

The two arrested individuals, both 38,  including a male licensed insurance broker, were suspected of operating pages on various social media platforms and publishing seditious posts that incited hatred against the constitutional order of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

The arrested man also profited by selling insurance products.

Prior to the operation, the Police obtained court search warrants to search the residences of the suspects and seize relevant exhibits.

The two individuals will be released on bail for further investigation.

This year's “Cheers!” Series will be held from December to January next year, featuring family programmes by visiting troupes and local art groups, the Leisure & Cultural Services Department announced today.

Visiting productions include the non-verbal omnibus production, Dream Space, by South Korea's Creative Group SSAK; the Bubble Show in Space by Australia's Bubble Laboratory; the physical clown theatre production, The Mequetrefo, by Brazil's Parlapatões; and the clown theatre piece, Frida's Incredible Journey, by Denmark's Paolo Nani Teater.

Extension activities such as workshops and meet-the-artist sessions will be held for the above programmes.

Local art groups will also present multimedia children's theatre production ANTNETIC LOST by Creman Concept; the puppet musical Sweetyland IV The Fluffy Fungus Fight by Make Friends with Puppet; and the Hong Kong Oratorio Society 70th Anniversary Concert III: A Thankful Christmas.

Tickets for the series will go on sale starting October 14 at URBTIX.

The Transport Department today announced traffic and transport arrangements ahead of the redeveloped Huanggang Port coming into operation to provide 24-hour services, to ensure smooth travel for the public and visitors.

The Huanggang Port will be served by seven franchised bus routes, six green minibus routes, and five short-haul cross-boundary coach routes operating round the clock, carrying passengers directly to various districts across the city.

Among them, the franchised bus routes will pass through nine MTR stations and four bus-bus interchanges, providing convenient interchanges with railways or buses to different districts.

The department urged cross-boundary travellers to pay attention to the daytime and overnight service hours of various routes, and choose suitable ones for travelling to and from the new port.

It has also arranged dedicated public transport lanes leading directly to San Sham Road from Fanling Highway and San Tin Highway for use by franchised buses, green minibuses and cross-boundary coaches to the new port, bypassing San Tin Interchange and thereby enhancing the efficiency of travelling to and from the port.

In addition, the department and the public transport operators will closely monitor passenger demand and step up or adjust services as necessary. 

As for taxis, drivers of vacant urban and New Territories taxis as well as pre-booked fleet taxis must first obtain a queue ticket at the public transport buffer area, and then proceed to their respective taxi stands or the designated taxi fleet pick-up area at the port's public transport interchange to pick up passengers in order.

Passengers who have pre-booked a fleet taxi should first register at the service station by showing the vehicle registration mark to the fleet taxi ambassadors. The ambassadors will dynamically deploy taxis waiting at the public transport buffer area to the dedicated pick-up area to ensure passengers can board quickly and smoothly.

As traffic near the Huanggang Port may be relatively busy during its initial stage of commissioning, the department urged members of the public to use other land and rail boundary control points based on their needs for travelling between Shenzhen and Hong Kong, and not to rush to the new port.

Cross-boundary travellers who need to use the Huanggang Port should plan their journeys in advance and allow sufficient time to adapt to the new arrangements, the department added.

The Communications Authority today announced the start of a two-month public consultation on the renewal of audio broadcasting licences.

The licences of Hong Kong Commercial Broadcasting Company Limited and Metro Broadcast Corporation Limited are due to expire on August 25, 2028 and the two organisations have submitted licence renewal applications to the authority.

In accordance with requirements under the Telecommunications Ordinance and established procedures, the authority will carry out an assessment of the licensees' past performance and collect public views through various means. This includes launching a two-month public consultation, an opinion survey, an online public hearing and focus group discussions.

The authority said it will take into account the licensees' past performance and renewal proposals, views in the sector and among public, and the latest industry developments, and will make recommendations on the renewal applications to the Chief Executive in Council by May next year.

Members of the public can submit their views by email, by fax to 2507 2219, or by mail to Office of the Communications Authority (Attn: Broadcasting Section 33), 20/F, Wu Chung House, 213 Queen's Road East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong.

They can also participate in an online public hearing due to be held on November 7.

The public consultation will end on December 6.

The Fraser Institute’s Economic Freedom of the World 2026 Annual Report has once again ranked Hong Kong as the world's freest economy. Among the five areas of assessment in the report, the city maintained its top position in "Freedom to trade internationally" and secured second place in "Regulation".

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government noted that the report reaffirmed Hong Kong's strengths as a free-market economy, alongside its open, efficient and fair business environment.

Amid growing economic uncertainties and rising trade protectionism, Hong Kong remains firmly committed to maintaining its free port status, zero-tariff policy and simple, low tax regime. These factors provide a secure, stable, fair, predictable and internationalised business and investment environment for entrepreneurs and investors worldwide.

The Hong Kong SAR Government added that as the country remains committed to high-standard, two-way opening up and continues to achieve breakthroughs in technological innovation, it serves as a major stabilising force and driving engine for global economic growth. Under the “one country, two systems” framework, Hong Kong enjoys the strong support of the motherland while maintaining close connections with the rest of the world.

While offering convenient access to both the Mainland and international markets, Hong Kong continues to practise common law in both Chinese and English. It also provides financial, shipping, trading and professional services that align seamlessly with international best standards, supported by an efficient government structure and a clean, professional civil service.

The Hong Kong SAR Government pointed out that these unique strengths enable Hong Kong to fully leverage its roles as a super connector and super value-adder, making it the premier gateway for Mainland enterprises to enter international markets and vice versa.

So far this year, Hong Kong has continued to scale new heights across various international competitiveness rankings spanning finance, innovation and technology, education and talent. This reflects wide recognition by the international community of Hong Kong's core strengths and the Hong Kong SAR Government's efforts to promote high-quality social and economic development.

Looking ahead, with the staunch support of the country, the Hong Kong SAR Government will continue to work alongside all sectors of the community to further enhance Hong Kong's roles as "four centres and one hub". It will accelerate the development of the Northern Metropolis to inject stronger impetus into social and economic growth, open up broader development prospects for local enterprises and the public while providing greater opportunities for enterprises, investors and talent worldwide.

Secretary for Culture, Sports & Tourism Rosanna Law today congratulated veteran actress Michelle Yeoh and acclaimed director Ann Hui on their recognition at the 31st Busan International Film Festival. Ms Yeoh was awarded the Asian Filmmaker of the Year, while Ms Hui received the Camellia Award.

The Asian Filmmaker of the Year award honours individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the advancement of Asian film culture and industry. The Camellia Award recognises filmmakers who have significantly advanced the roles of women in Asian cinema.

Miss Law said that both filmmakers have exerted a profound and enduring influence on both the local and international film landscapes. She praised their remarkable contributions to Hong Kong cinema over their decades-long careers, which have played a pivotal role in elevating the city’s film industry to the global stage.

Eligible Hong Kong residents can enrol for the “collaborative inspection” automated channel service at the redeveloped Huanggang Port via the Immigration Department’s “HK e-Channel” mobile application from today.

To further enhance passenger experience and clearance efficiency, the facility will implement a co-location arrangement featuring a "collaborative inspection and joint clearance" mode.

Expected to be commissioned in this quarter, the redeveloped Huanggang Port is equipped with 134 “collaborative inspection” automated channels and 68 traditional manual counters. Using the automated channels, enrolled passengers only need to queue up and present their identity documents once to complete immigration clearance procedures for both Hong Kong and Shenzhen.

Starting from today, Hong Kong residents aged seven or above who fulfil the following criteria can enrol for the service.

Individuals who have registered for the Mainland’s e-Channel and hold a Hong Kong permanent identity card paired with a Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong & Macao Residents (Home Visit Permit) or a Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents (Non-Chinese Citizens) are eligible.

Individuals holding a Hong Kong identity card and a Home Visit Permit who have registered for the Mainland’s e-Channel are also eligible. Finally, individuals holding a Hong Kong identity card and an “Exit-Entry Permit for Travelling to and from Hong Kong and Macao” with a valid endorsement for travelling to Hong Kong can enrol.

Eligible Hong Kong residents aged 18 or above can use a smartphone with biometric authentication technology to download the department’s “HK e-Channel” mobile application, select “Collaborative Inspection”, authenticate their identity via “iAM Smart”, and follow the instructions to complete enrolment for the service. For eligible Hong Kong residents aged seven to 17, parents or legal guardians must complete the enrolment procedures on their behalf using the “HK e-Channel” mobile application.

In addition, all eligible Hong Kong residents can proceed to the e-Channel enrolment offices or self-service kiosks at the Huanggang Port for on-site enrolment. Eligible Hong Kong residents aged 18 or above can also enrol and complete the immigration clearance procedures for both regions simultaneously at the “collaborative inspection” automated channels.

Mainland visitors holding an “Exit-Entry Permit for Travelling to and from Hong Kong & Macao” with a valid endorsement for travelling to Hong Kong can also proceed to the e-Channel enrolment offices at the Huanggang Port for on-site enrolment. Eligible Mainland visitors aged 18 or above can enrol and complete the immigration clearance procedures for both regions simultaneously at the “collaborative inspection” automated channels.

When enrolling for the “collaborative inspection” automated channel service, eligible Hong Kong residents and Mainland visitors aged 14 or over can opt for the “Face Scan” clearance service, which removes the need to present identity documents.

With daily inbound and outbound passenger trips projected to reach at least 100,000 during the initial stage of operation, Assistant Director of Immigration (Control) Jackie Wong said that sufficient manpower would be deployed to guide passengers through the enrolment steps. “The whole registration process over the automated e-channel is very quick. I think it takes a few seconds to complete the whole process,” he added.

The department also reminds passengers they are still required to carry their valid travel documents conforming to the immigration requirements of both regions when using the new channels to travel between Hong Kong and the Mainland. Furthermore, passengers can also choose to use the traditional manual counters for immigration clearance.

Regarding vehicle clearance, the Customs & Excise Department stated that under the new clearance mode, departing vehicles will undergo customs risk assessment before entering the “joint one-stop” vehicle lanes.

These lanes feature a new three-gate design and are equipped with “integrated information collection devices”. The systems simultaneously conduct body temperature checks, scan travel document data, and collect biometric features.

Drivers only need to present one identity document to complete the “five-party inspection” and secure a one-stop release. The department estimates daily cross-boundary traffic will reach 8,000 vehicle trips.

Assistant Commissioner of Customs & Excise (Boundary & Ports) Chiang Yi-lee said that Hong Kong Customs will adopt a multi-pronged approach to tackle the expected increased traffic flow. “We will flexibly deploy our manpower and we will also closely monitor the ground situation in case there are some urgent or unexpected situations,” she said.

The tender for a site at Fat Kwong Street, Ho Man Tin has been awarded on a 50-year land grant at a premium of $4,308,288,000, the Lands Department announced today.

Kowloon Inland Lot No. 11301 was awarded to Asia Insight Investments, a subsidiary of Kerry Properties.

Designated for private residential purposes, the lot has a site area of about 5,170 sq m, with a minimum gross floor area of 11,580 sq m and a maximum gross floor area of 19,300 sq m.

These figures exclude the gross floor area of stipulated government accommodations, namely a neighbourhood elderly centre sub-base and a mental wellness community centre sub-based. Both are to be constructed by the purchaser under the conditions of sale.

The Housing Bureau today reminded Wang Fuk Court owners who have indicated an intention to sell their flat titles to the Government to complete execution of an Agreement for Sale & Purchase (ASP) on or before the October 15 deadline.

The reminder applies to owners of units at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po who returned a signed Letter of Acceptance on or before August 31.

If owners are unable to sign an ASP in time due to special circumstances – such as being unable to clarify their flat title or requiring a longer time to handle probate matters – the Government will consider making alternative arrangements on a case-by-case basis. Owners concerned will be informed before the deadline.

Flat selection for the Special Sales Exercise (SSE) for Wang Fuk Court owners began on September 29. Applicants who have signed an ASP are being invited to participate in the flat selection process.

The bureau has been issuing invitation letters in batches according to the priority sequence determined by the computer-generated random ballot. Applicants will attend flat selection sessions, as specified in the letters.

The entire flat selection process is expected to be completed by the end of November.

The bureau said that owners who have not yet signed an ASP due to special circumstances can still participate in flat selection as long as they complete execution of an ASP before the end of the flat selection period.

If their titles have not yet been assigned to the Government, a new flat under the SSE will be reserved for the owners concerned during the flat selection stage.

The Housing Authority or the Housing Society will enter into an ASP or a Preliminary ASP with owners only after the assignment of Wang Fuk Court flat titles to the Government.

An Engagement Team co-ordinated by the bureau is stepping up contact with owners who have not yet signed an ASP to provide assistance.

Owners can direct inquiries to their designated Engagement Team member, call the hotline at 2129 8133, or visit the Wang Fuk Court long-term housing plan website.

The Police Force has alerted the public to fraudulent websites purporting to be its “eTraffic Ticket Platform”.

The websites falsely claim that discounts are available for early fine payment, in an attempt to deceive citizens into providing their credit card details and personal information. 

The genuine web address of the Police Force’s “eTraffic Ticket Platform” is https://www.etrafficticket.gov.hk. Members of the public are urged to remain vigilant.

The force emphasised that no discounts are offered for the payment of traffic ticket fines.

Moreover, SMS messages about electronic Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) will only be issued under the sender name “#HKPF-eTT”, and these FPNs, whether issued via SMS messages or email, will never contain any hyperlinks.

Anyone who has submitted personal information via the fraudulent websites should report the matter to the force by calling 18222.

Call 181 181 for platform enquiries.

(To watch the full media session with sign language interpretation, click here.)

Chief Executive John Lee said today that the Buildings Department is investigating the One Stanley development to ascertain whether it involves construction quality problems and whether site supervision was properly carried out, adding that the law will be strictly enforced if violations are found. 

Speaking to media this morning ahead of the Executive Council meeting, Mr Lee emphasised that he attaches great importance to the construction quality of building works in Hong Kong.

“I am also concerned as to whether the professionals involved in the works have discharged their duties of supervision properly, and whether the contractors have carried out the works in breach of requirements. These concern the professional standards, quality and safety of Hong Kong's construction works.”

Mr Lee said he will not comment on the details of the case as the investigation is ongoing.

He remarked that he has asked the Development Bureau to monitor the investigation into One Stanley and the standards of construction works as a whole, to ensure strong deterrence, and to severely punish those involved in any violations. He stressed that this will safeguard the high professional standards, quality and safety of Hong Kong's construction works.

Mr Lee added that the bureau will submit proposed amendments to the Buildings Ordinance before the end of this year. These will strengthen regulation and increase penalties and punishments for malpractice and substandard performance.

Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki today chaired the seventh meeting of the fourth-term Human Resources Planning Commission, with members acknowledging that the youth unemployment situation warrants attention.

The meeting heard that rising unemployment and the youth employment situation are structural challenges faced by most advanced economies worldwide, Hong Kong being no exception.

Members took note that the Government continues to invest heavily in education and skills training for the local workforce. This includes launching a two-year 30,000 Youth Employment & Internship Programme, as announced in the Policy Address, to facilitate youth employment and development. 

The Labour Department will also launch the Youth Employment Link online service portal to facilitate young people's access to employment information and support services. Looking ahead, the continued expansion of the local economy is expected to underpin overall labour market conditions.

The Labour & Welfare Bureau also briefed the meeting on the "Mid-term Update of Manpower Projection" report. Members heard that the Government will continue to promote "AI for All" and support lifelong learning, ensuring that skills in the labour force remain aligned with Hong Kong's future economy.

The bureau will commence a new review of the Talent List soon.

Members said they supported the Government in continuing to closely monitor the labour market and in formulating and refining forward-looking policies on a rolling basis, with a view to maintaining manpower supply in support of economic development, whilst also safeguarding employment priority for local workers.

Heal Fertility ("the centre") can resume accepting new patients for assisted reproductive technology procedures from tomorrow, following the Department of Health’s decision to lift its earlier directive suspension.

The centre was previously requested to stop accepting new cases for such procedures following a "Serious Untoward Event" involving a mix-up in embryo biopsy specimens.

The department said the decision to lift the suspension was made in light of confirmation by the Council on Human Reproductive Technology that the centre has properly implemented all remedial and improvement measures.

The council convened a special meeting today to review the centre’s licence. 

It highlighted that the council conducted an unannounced on‑site inspection of the centre on September 22, focusing on all aspects of the remedial measures.

The council was satisfied that the centre had refined its internal sample‑handling procedures, strengthened staff training, and upgraded laboratory management and security systems.

The council's requirements included implementation of CCTV surveillance on the premises, installation of biometric locks on all cryostorage tanks, and enhancement of sample identification and verification. 

The council also outlined that the main personnel involved in the incident had already left the centre, and that new staff had been recruited and trained. 

After thoroughly reviewing the relevant reports and inspection results, the council therefore allowed Heal Fertility to fully resume all 17 treatment services covered by its licence from tomorrow.

The council said it will continue to closely monitor Heal Fertility's performance.

The Government today urged the public not to be misled by fake messages on social media claiming whole-day use of the new Huanggang Port for vehicles under the “Guangdong-Hong Kong Regular Quota” system.

The messages wrongly claimed that the vehicles of “Guangdong-Hong Kong Regular Quota” holders issued with Closed Road Permits (CRPs) for the Heung Yuen Wai/Liantang Port, Shenzhen Bay Port or Sha Tau Kok Control Point, can directly use the new Huanggang Port to cross the boundary at any time throughout the day.

The Government said the case will be referred to law enforcement agencies for follow-up.

It explained that “Guangdong-Hong Kong Regular Quota” applicants must submit specific documentation to the Mainland authorities and satisfy their requirements.

Upon issuance of an Approval Notice to applicants by the Mainland authorities, they can apply to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government's Transport Department for CRPs for the land control points endorsed on the Approval Notice.

Vehicles with CRPs for the abovementioned control points are only permitted to travel between Guangdong and Hong Kong via the existing Lok Ma Chau Control Point or the soon-to-open new Huanggang Port between midnight and 6.30am daily.

The Government said that similar false information has previously surfaced on social media and in messaging groups. Messages have repeatedly impersonated government announcements and falsely claimed that “Guangdong-Hong Kong Regular Quota” holders are free from control point or eligibility restrictions.

It added that such claims are particularly misleading to road users of both places amid the anticipated upcoming opening of the new Huanggang Port, and that the public should exercise heightened vigilance.

The Government reiterated that arrangements regarding “Guangdong-Hong Kong Regular Quotas” and the use of control points are jointly deliberated on by the governments of the two places. There are currently no plans to adjust the arrangement of enabling cross-boundary vehicles with CRPs for designated control points to use the Lok Ma Chau Control Point/new Huanggang Port overnight.

Members of the public should refer to official announcements, especially regarding the opening arrangements for the new Huanggang Port, and verify messages carefully to guard against deception.

Radio Television Hong Kong (RTHK) today launched a new media platform and an AI mascot, Wavee, in response to specific calls outlined in last month’s Policy Address.

The Policy Address urged the broadcaster to strengthen its use of AI technologies and new media platforms in order to enhance production quality and efficiency, tell good stories about China and Hong Kong, and elevate its international communication.

Director of Broadcasting Angelina Kwan remarked that RTHK hopes to leverage its new platform and AI mascot to inject greater dynamism and approachability into its offerings, thereby drawing a wider audience, especially the younger generation, to tune in to RTHK's productions.

The new media platform includes content organised around five key themes: “Wa~ So Hong Kong”, which uncovers heartwarming human stories in local communities; “Wa~ So Cheeky” which takes a light-hearted look Hong Kong’s unique quirks; “Wa~ So Chill”, which introduces residents and visitors to the city’s signature events, cultural attractions and culinary scene; “Wa~ So Classic”, which leverages AI technology to restore precious footage from RTHK's archives, charting the city’s development through a compelling then-and-now format; and the forthcoming “Wa~ So Dramatic”, comprising short online dramas produced in a range of formats, including AI-generated, animated, live-action and hybrid content. 

RTHK said the new mascot’s design draws on the electromagnetic waves that underpin its radio and television services. It explained that Wavee embodies the rich heritage of RTHK’s long broadcasting history and carries deep significance as a symbol of delivering information to the people of Hong Kong.

Eight enterprises have been selected as the inaugural “New Industrialisation Elite Enterprises” under a nurturing scheme of the Innovation, Technology & Industry Bureau.

Announcing the inaugural list today, the bureau said that the New Industrialisation Elite Enterprises Nurturing Scheme echoes the direction set out in Hong Kong’s First Five-Year Plan and the 2026 Policy Address to accelerate the development of a new industrialisation system.

The scheme's goal is to nurture leading enterprises in emerging and future industries for Hong Kong. It is also an important initiative in advancing the integrated development of education, technology, talent and industry.

Secretary for Innovation, Technology & Industry Prof Sun Dong said that the scheme aims to focus on supporting and nurturing a group of high-growth enterprises developing in Hong Kong.

Through the scheme, the Government hopes to enhance the market recognition and visibility of the “Made in Hong Kong” enterprise brand, thereby supporting the future development of the enterprises, he added.

The scheme received over 100 nominations. The nominated enterprises span a wide range of business sectors, including life and health technology; AI and robotics; semiconductors and smart devices; digitalisation, upgrading and transformation; as well as future and sustainable development.

They also include enterprises from industries with traditional strengths that leverage innovation and technology for upgrading and transformation.

The assessment was based on three core selection criteria: the enterprises’ research and development capabilities, growth potential, and local contribution and ecosystem impact.

Selected enterprises are awarded the honorary title of “New Industrialisation Elite Enterprise”. The award presentation ceremony is expected to be held before the end of this year.

The Land Registry logged 6,438 sale and purchase agreements received for registration for all building units in September, a rise of 11.6% compared with August but down 6.3% year on year.

The total consideration for sale and purchase agreements in September rose 20.1% from the previous month to $53.5 billion, representing a 0.01% year-on-year increase.

A total of 4,761 agreements were for residential units, up 18.5% from the previous month and down 15.6% from a year ago.

The total consideration for sale and purchase agreements for residential units was $46.8 billion, an increase of 29.3% compared with the previous month and a drop of 0.9% year on year.

There were 463,031 land register searches last month.

Ahead of the highly anticipated opening of the redeveloped Huanggang Port, the Security Bureau hosted a community experience day today, welcoming 1,500 members of the public to tour the new Huanggang Port Building Hong Kong Port Area. 

Participants travelled from designated pick-up points across various districts via franchised buses and cross-boundary coachs. Guided by officers from the Fire Services Department and the Correctional Services Department, the visitors explored the port building in groups.

The tour began at the public transport interchange, where participants were briefed on upcoming transit arrangements. They then moved through the main building to explore its interior design features and passenger-friendly amenities, including the free government Wi-Fi service. 

On the fifth floor, Immigration Department officers demonstrated the new "collaborative inspection" automated channels in the departure hall, giving residents a firsthand look at the innovative "collaborative inspection and joint clearance" mode. The tour continued on the fourth-floor arrival hall, where Hong Kong Customs officers explained the streamlined passenger clearance and inspection procedures.

Secretary for Security Tang Ping-keung visited the venue and spoke with attendees to gather feedback and hear about their visit experiences. 

Expressing his gratitude for the public’s positive response, Mr Tang noted that residents are eagerly awaiting the port’s opening, which promises a faster and more convenient travel experience. He also distributed gift packs and took photos with the visitors.

The bureau described the event’s atmosphere as enthusiastic and highly engaging. It added that the event deepened public understanding of the new facility’s transport logistics, customs operations and passenger services.

Moving forward, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government will maintain close co-operation with Shenzhen authorities to finalise preparations for the port’s official opening.

Chief Executive John Lee today congratulated Hong Kong, China athletes for their outstanding achievements at the 20th Asian Games, where both total medal count and gold medals hit record highs.

The Hong Kong, China delegation consisted of around 580 athletes competing across 38 events at the Games. Mr Lee noted that all participating athletes gave their utmost in every competition, securing a total of 54 medals. This impressive tally comprised 11 gold, 19 silver and 24 bronze medals.

Gold medals were claimed in wushu, swimming, rowing, squash, sailing, tennis, windsurfing and rugby sevens. Notably, the squash, sailing and tennis teams achieved historic results, writing a glorious new chapter for Hong Kong sports.

Mr Lee remarked that such an encouraging achievement demonstrates the perseverance and standards of excellence of Hong Kong, China athletes, which have brought honour to both the country and Hong Kong.

“The courage, relentless spirit, perseverance and unyielding determination shown by Hong Kong, China athletes on the field of play are the finest embodiment of the Hong Kong spirit,” he said.

Mr Lee added that the excellent results at this latest edition of the Asian Games demonstrate that the Government's policies and its strategic resource support are on the right track. He also thanked the Hong Kong Sports Institute, the Sports Federation & Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China, various national sports associations, and the coaching and medical teams for their unwavering support and dedication to nurturing local athletes over the years.

Lu Rong, or velvet antler, is a highly valued Chinese medicinal material. According to the Chinese Pharmacopoeia, only the antlers of Sika deer or Red deer are classified as authentic, while those from other species are considered “adulterants”. However, verifying the authenticity of Lu Rong slices through traditional DNA testing methods is both complex and time-consuming.

The Department of Health’s Government Chinese Medicines Testing Institute (GCMTI) is dedicated to developing efficient testing methods involving advanced equipment and innovative technology. Since its establishment in 2017, it has completed 22 thematic research projects, including a rapid DNA detection method that authenticates genuine Lu Rong slices.

Rapid testing

Under this method, laboratory staff add an extraction solution to powdered Lu Rong samples to replicate and amplify the DNA within the samples. Following specific processing steps, authentic samples glow orange under ultraviolet light. The method slashes the testing procedure from three days to less than a day.

Assistant Director of Health (Chinese Medicine) Dr Darwin Mak said the method developed by the institute reduces both time and costs, helping to boost quality control and efficiency.

In response to the growing popularity of compound Chinese medicine granules in recent years, the institute has also developed a more efficient chemical marker analysis. Dr Mak explained that compound Chinese medicine granules contain multiple Chinese medicines, each of which previously required separate quality tests. The institute’s versatile chemical analysis protocol enables simultaneous assessment of multiple chemical markers across various formulations.

Taste digitisation

The GCMTI’s permanent building in Tseung Kwan O began operating in phases from late last year. Spanning a total floor area of approximately 27,000 sq m, the facility greatly boosts the institute’s research and development (R&D) capabilities.

Dr Mak outlined that the institute’s four advanced laboratories are fitted with highly advanced equipment, including an electronic sensory analysis system commonly known as the "electronic tongue". A pilot project has been launched, using this system, to digitise the taste of Chinese medicines in a database, allowing for the development of identification techniques based on taste data.

Industry benefits

In addition to R&D, technology transfer remains a core mission for the GCMTI. The institute regularly organises seminars for Chinese medicine's testing and certification sectors, and arranges laboratory visits for industry representatives to observe and learn firsthand about various testing technologies – including a new simplified method of identifying herbal powders under a microscope.

Federation of the Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Practitioners & Chinese Medicine Traders Association President Tommy Li said that relying solely on experience or appearance can lead to confusion when authenticating herbs. Through microscopic identification, the industry can determine the authenticity of Chinese medicines more effectively, saving considerable time and money.

Mr Li added that testing companies routinely adopt technologies developed by the GCMTI. As Chinese medicine enterprises without their own laboratories tend to outsource test reports to these companies, the institute’s work benefits the industry as a whole.

The Hong Kong, China Delegation today won four gold, two silver and two bronze medals, reaching a record total of 54 medals at the Asian Games 2026. Secretary for Culture, Sports & Tourism Rosanna Law congratulated the athletes on their best-ever results. 

The four gold medals were clinched by the Men’s Rugby Sevens Team, tennis player Coleman Wong in the Men's Singles, and windsurfers Wong Tsz-ho and Cheung Tsz-yuet in the Boys' Windsurfing iQFoil and Girls' Windsurfing iQFoil respectively.

The silver medals were secured by sailor Huang Zixi in the Girls' Dinghy ILCA4 and windsurfer Ma Kwan-ching in the Women's Windsurfing iQFoil.

Additionally, the Women's Rugby Sevens Team bagged a bronze, while sailor Cheng de Villemor Salgado Tiago also took bronze in the Boys' Dinghy ILCA4.

Miss Law noted that the delegation has delivered an outstanding performance at this edition of Asian Games. With the total medal count reaching 54, including 11 gold medals, the team has broken all previous records and scaled new heights.

She commended the Hong Kong, China Men’s Rugby Sevens Team for their flawless performance in the final, where they won without conceding a single point to secure a third consecutive championship and write a new page in history. Miss Law also praised the Hong Kong, China Women’s Rugby Sevens Team, noting they performed admirably to win bronze at two consecutive Asian Games.

As for the tennis gold, Miss Law described it as a milestone of great significance.

“Coleman Wong fought in his best form, making history by securing Hong Kong, China's first Asian Games Men's Singles tennis gold, while also earning qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games,” she said.

Miss Law added that the sailing team was equally impressive. She highlighted that all four young athletes competing today won medals, with Wong Tsz-ho and Cheung Tsz-yuet each capturing gold, Huang Zixi taking silver, and Cheng de Villemor Salgado Tiago securing bronze.

“Together with the silver medal won by Ma Kwan-ching, the sailing team collected a total of ten medals – four golds, four silvers and two bronzes – its best-ever performance at an Asian Games, earning the applause of all Hong Kong citizens!" she added.

Secretary for Culture, Sports & Tourism Rosanna Law today congratulated the Hong Kong, China Football Team on winning the championship in the FIFA ASEAN Challenge Cup 2026 (Division 2). The team defeated Cambodia 2-0 at Kai Tak Stadium to clinch the first-ever title of FIFA-organised cup competition.

Miss Law said: "The Hong Kong, China Football Team advanced to today's final after winning both group-stage matches, with nearly 32,000 fans in attendance to cheer them on.”

“The Hong Kong team demonstrated excellence in both attack and defence throughout, delivering an outstanding performance on the pitch. While benefiting from home advantage, they also fully showcased the Hong Kong football team's fighting spirit and professionalism,” she added.

Miss Law highlighted that several Southeast Asian national teams had gathered in Hong Kong over the past week to compete. She hoped the mega event had brought local fans and visiting tourists a top-tier spectator experience, while showcasing Hong Kong's unique appeal as a capital of international sports events.

She noted that the Government will continue to give full support to the development of local football and actively align with the national policy direction of promoting the “three major ball games”. She also looked forward to the Hong Kong football team achieving further success in upcoming competitions and further fostering a vibrant football culture in the city.

The Buildings Department said today it is investigating an incident involving the quality of steel reinforcement in a house at One Stanley in Stanley, adding that it will pursue the matter seriously if any parties are found to have violated the Buildings Ordinance (BO).

The department made the statement in response to a media report concerning the incident. It emphasised that it is highly concerned over the matter, noting that it has been following up seriously and conducting an investigation since receiving the initial report. 

The occupation permit of the house was issued in July 2023, and the owner subsequently carried out decoration works after purchasing the property. 

In January this year, the department received a report from the owner's representative regarding the structural safety of the floor slabs in the house. Following an appointment made with the owner, departmental staff conducted an on-site inspection in March and concluded that the overall structure of the house posed no obvious danger. 

An investigation was then launched. The department also wrote to the development’s registered structural engineer to request a report and relevant information, including material test reports and certificates.

Between June and September, departmental staff were deployed to the house multiple times to carry out inspections, tests and examinations. These included rebound hammer tests on concrete strength, cover-meter surveys, surface penetrating radar surveys to check reinforcement alignment, concrete core compressive strength tests, and on-site open-up inspections. 

As the department analyses the data obtained, findings have indicated that the concrete cover of one of the beams on the ground floor was not installed with wire mesh as required by the approved plan. Furthermore, the steel reinforcement of some slabs deviated from the approved plan. 

Although these conditions do not pose an obvious danger, the department considers that the quality of works warrants concerns and follow-up actions. It will conduct further investigation and has written to the relevant parties – including the authorised person, the registered structural engineer, the registered contractor, and the developer – requesting interviews to assist in the investigation and to provide further information.

The department reminded the industry that under the BO, building professionals and contractors must supervise and carry out building works in accordance with approved plans. Those found to have failed to properly supervise or execute building works during department audits or upon complaint investigation face prosecution and disciplinary action. 

The Development Bureau will submit a bill to the Legislative Council by the end of this year to amend the BO, which will include increasing penalties under the relevant provisions.

Secretary for Culture, Sports & Tourism Rosanna Law congratulated Hong Kong, China athletes on winning two gold, two silver and two bronze medals in sailing, squash, track cycling and tennis at the 20th Asian Games today.

Athletes had a great day in sailing events. Kiu Ethan Lachlan, Polson Louis Oliver, Chloe Kong and Mccarley Wong won two gold medals in the Boys' Skiff - 29er and the Girls' Skiff - 29er respectively, while Nicholas Bezy Halliday secured a silver medal in the Men's Dinghy ILCA7.

Miss Law noted that the four gold medallists displayed excellent form, marking Hong Kong, China’s first-ever gold medals in sailing. She also applauded Nicholas Bezy Halliday’s admirable performance, adding that the sailing team's final haul of two gold, two silver, and one bronze set a historic new milestone for the sport.

Meanwhile, squash athletes Chan Sin-yuk, Ho Tze-lok, Lee Ka-yi and Tse Yee-lam, Toby bagged a silver medal in the Women's Team event. Track cyclist Lee Sze-wing claimed a bronze medal in the Women's Omnium, while tennis players Eudice Chong and Wong Hong-yi captured a bronze medal in the Women's Doubles.

Miss Law commended the squash team for battling their opponents to secure silver for the second consecutive time.

The sports chief also praised Lee Sze-wing for giving her all on the cycling track and winning a bronze in the individual event after her earlier silver in the Women's Madison.

In addition, Miss Law lauded Eudice Chong and Wong Hong-yi for performing at their best and winning a bronze in the Women's Doubles.

As this year's Asian Games is almost coming to an end, Miss Law urged the public to continue supporting the athletes in the remaining events.

The Education Bureau held the learning outcomes sharing session of the "Salute to the National Flag" Beijing Visit Delegation at Kowloon Technical School today, promoting the outcomes of the activity among more young people and various sectors of the society.

About 250 student representatives of the delegation from tertiary institutions, secondary and primary schools shared their learning experiences during the five-day visit to Beijing.

Speaking at the session, Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki described the delegation as a high-level "walking classroom", which enabled students to feel for themselves the national dignity represented by the national flag and the national anthem through the solemn flag-raising ceremony at Tiananmen Square.

He said that this deepened their understanding of the symbolic meaning of the national flag, and strengthened their sense of national identity and patriotism.

Mr Chan said that students experienced at first hand our country's journey from arduous struggle to the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation from the country's millennia-old cultural heritage to the development achievements of the new era.

He added that the delegation was received in person by Member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Vice Premier of the State Council Ding Xuexiang, and by the Director of the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council Xia Baolong at the Great Hall of the People.

“Mr Ding conveyed the cordial remarks and exhortations of President Xi and the Central Government to the young people from Hong Kong and Macao, enabling students to feel the care and expectations of the Central Authorities for Hong Kong and Macao young people, and to understand more deeply the important meaning carried by the national flag,” Mr Chan said.

He emphasised that patriotic education has all along been a top priority of the work of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government. Hong Kong's First Five-Year Plan and the 2026 Policy Address also list the promotion of patriotic education as a key task.

He noted that today's learning outcomes sharing session aims to pass on more widely and further what the students learned in Beijing, so that more young people may gain a deeper understanding of the important meaning of the national flag and feel more deeply our country's care and concern for young people.

He said the Government will continue to join hands with various sectors of the society and, through rich and diverse means, enable young people to build a firm sense of national identity, national confidence and a sense of responsibility through first-hand experience.

Today's sharing session began with a flag-raising ceremony. A joint team formed by flag-raising teams of the Association of Hong Kong Flag-guards and the Hong Kong Army Cadets Association, drawing on the experience of exchanges and interaction in Beijing with the People's Liberation Army Ceremonial Escort Battalion, conducted a solemn flag-raising ceremony. Booths were also set up at the session for members of the delegation to introduce their learning experience in Beijing.

Around 1,200 flag-raising team representatives, teachers, students and youth group representatives from Hong Kong and Macao joined the delegation’s thematic activity in Beijing from September 18 to 22.

The Government today settled with the MTR Corporation Limited (MTRCL) over delays and cost overruns on the Hong Kong Section of the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link (XRL)mand the Shatin to Central Link (SCL) projects.

Under the agreement, the MTRCL will pay the Government HK$2.25 billion for the programme delay of the XRL project.

For the SCL project, both parties agreed not to pursue claims against each other for the delay, with the MTRCL shouldering approximately HK$2.8 billion in additional project management cost for the whole project, alongside expenses from the quality incident of the Hung Hom Station Extension.

Entrusted to the MTRCL by the Government, both projects underwent extensive negotiations before reaching today’s settlement. 

The Transport & Logistics Bureau said that the settlement arrangement holds the MTRCL accountable for delays of both projects, adding that authorities followed up in a serious, rigorous and professional manner with the MTRCL to safeguard the legitimate interests of the Government and the public.

Following independent legal and engineering advice, the Government and the MTRCL have thoroughly reviewed the experiences and integrated enhanced mechanisms into ongoing railway projects.

Construction of the XRL began in 2010 and was slated to open in August 2015. Following delays and cost overruns, the Government and the MTRCL signed a definitive 2015 agreement pushing the completion target to the third quarter of 2018 and inflating the estimated Cost to Complete (CTC) by HK$19.42 billion, bringing it from HK$65 billion to HK$84.42 billion.

Construction of the SCL commenced in 2012, and although initially slated for completion between 2018 and 2020, the Tuen Ma Line and Cross-harbour Extension fully opened in June 2021 and May 2022, respectively, with estimated CTC rising from HK$79.82 billion to HK$90.73 billion.

The Government announced today that the Minimum Allowable Wage for foreign domestic helpers (FDHs) in Hong Kong will be increased by 2.35%, from $5,100 to $5,220 per month.

The new minimum wage level will apply to all FDH contracts signed on or after tomorrow. FDH contracts signed today or earlier at the existing rate will still be processed by the Immigration Department, provided that the applications reach the department no later than October 30.

The Government explained that in reviewing the minimum wage, it had, in accordance with an established mechanism, considered factors including Hong Kong’s general economic performance and labour market conditions over the past year, the city's near-term economic outlook, employer affordability and the basic living needs of FDHs.

The Government also consulted employers and FDHs throughout the review process.

It stated that it decided to adjust the minimum wage level after carefully assessing and balancing the views of all parties, taking into account that this year's socio-economic factors are more favourable than those of last year's review.

The Government also reviewed the food allowance in lieu of free food, and decided that the level should remain unchanged, at no less than $1,236 per month.

Six items of subsidiary legislation, aimed at ensuring that Hong Kong’s port facilities and related infrastructure meet growing demand for green maritime fuel bunkering services, were published in the Government Gazette today.

The Government proposes to amend Schedule 3 of the Pilotage Ordinance, while also amending five items under the Immigration Ordinance, the Dangerous Goods Ordinance, the Shipping and Port Control Ordinance, and the Merchant Shipping (Local Vessels) Ordinance.

The five items to be amended are the Immigration (Anchorages and Landing Places) (Amendment) Order, the Dangerous Goods (Shipping) (Amendment) Regulation 2012, the Shipping and Port Control (Amendment) Regulation, the Merchant Shipping (Local Vessels) (General) (Amendment) Regulation, and the Merchant Shipping (Local Vessels) (Fees) (Amendment) Regulation.

The amendments aim to optimise the layout of anchorages and port facilities, significantly expanding the sea room for green maritime fuel bunkering operations from 645 hectares to 2,877 hectares.

Key measures include establishing seven new anchorages, adjusting the boundaries of eight existing anchorages, converting three dangerous goods anchorages or service anchorages into multipurpose anchorages, abolishing two existing anchorages, formalising two existing recommended Traffic Separation Schemes (TSSs) to become local statutory TSSs, and introducing a more trade-friendly fee structure for Government Mooring Buoys.

In addition, the Government proposes to abolish a dangerous goods anchorage and a designated bunkering area located near residential areas, while making corresponding adjustments to other anchorages and designated bunkering areas.

The Transport & Logistics Bureau said that as the international maritime industry accelerates the adoption of green maritime fuels to achieve maritime decarbonisation, these amendments will offer greater convenience to vessels visiting Hong Kong for green maritime fuel bunkering and consolidate Hong Kong’s position as a green maritime fuel bunkering centre.

The bureau has consulted the Legislative Council’s Panel on Economic Development, the Pilotage Advisory Committee, the Port Operations Committee, the Local Vessels Advisory Committee, the High Speed Craft Consultative Committee, the Dangerous Goods Standing Committee, relevant district councils, relevant Rural Committees in the Islands District, and fishermen’s representatives.

All consulted parties either supported the proposals or raised no objections. The proposed amendments will be submitted to LegCo on October 7 for negative vetting.