The Government today launched a subsidy scheme to provide relief to gold and silver traders affected by the COVID-19 pandemic which is open for applications until July 31.

Under the Anti-epidemic Fund, the Subsidy Scheme for Precious Metals Trading Industry will grant a $20,000 cash subsidy to each eligible Chinese Gold & Silver Exchange (CGSE) member and $1,200 to each eligible practitioner registered with the exchange.

CGSE members with a valid trading licence as at July 1, 2020 and still have trading status as an exchange member at the time of application are eligible to apply for the subsidy.

Both active and qualification-retained executive managers, dealers or account executives registered with the exchange as at July 1 are also eligible.

The Financial Services & the Treasury Bureau will send out electronic application forms for the scheme, in Chinese only, to eligible CGSE members and practitioners by email in batches.

Applicants should complete the e-form and submit it together with the supporting documents via email by July 31.

They may also fill out the application form at the annex and submit their applications to the bureau at 24/F, West Wing, Central Government Offices.