The Government today published a consultation paper to gather industry views on proposed legislative amendments intended to facilitate digitalisation of “Business-to-Business” (B2B) trade documents in Hong Kong.

It said that digitalisation of B2B trade documents can reduce processing time and costs, enhance transparency and integrity, and facilitate international trade.

Enterprises already submit most of “Business-to-Government” trade documents – including import and export declarations, cargo manifests, and various licence and permit documentation – via the Government Electronic Trading Services and the Trade Single Window.

However, transactions involving B2B trade documents such as bills of lading and bills of exchange still rely largely on paper-based submissions due to legal requirements and industry practice.

In the 2025-26 Budget and the 2025 Policy Address, the Government said it would make reference to the UN Commission on International Trade Law’s Model Law on Electronic Transferable Records (MLETR) in formulating legislative amendments to facilitate trade document digitalisation.

The consultation paper seeks views on a proposed framework to amend the Electronic Transactions Ordinance, and on legislation aimed at implementing key MLETR provisions.

The amendments will provide the legal basis for the use of electronic transferable records. Suitable MLETR provisions will be codified into the ordinance as far as is practicable, in order to align with international standards and promote cross-border interoperability.

Views can be submitted by email, faxed to 2147 3065, or posted to Division 4, Commerce & Economic Development Bureau, 23/F, West Wing, Central Government Offices, 2 Tim Mei Avenue, Tamar by March 27, 2026.