Secretary for Food & Health Prof Sophia Chan attended an event today to celebrate World Breastfeeding Week 2018.

World Breastfeeding Week is held annually in more than 170 countries. 

Speaking at the event, Prof Chan said breastfeeding offers the finest and most natural nutrition for babies.

The World Health Organization recommends that babies should be breastfed exclusively in the first six months. Thereafter, solid foods should be introduced while breastfeeding can continue until the child is two years old or beyond.

Prof Chan said in Hong Kong, the breastfeeding rate has increased steadily in the past 20 years.

The Government established the Committee on Promotion of Breastfeeding in 2014 to enhance strategies to promote and support breastfeeding.

"To date, there are already 301 government premises with baby-care facilities and lactation rooms. The Government also proactively encourages public transport facilities to support breastfeeding. Currently, some routes of New World First Ferry, MTR stations and passenger terminals of the Hong Kong International Airport have already been providing baby-care facilities.

“The Government will continue to work with various sectors and organisations to promote and support breastfeeding initiatives on various fronts," she said.  

Click here for more information on breastfeeding.