The Immigration Department has approved 1,143 applications under the Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents & Professionals. It had received 1,545 applications up to December 9.

Secretary for Security Ambrose Lee said the scheme has received a good response since its introduction in July.

He said the Government will continue to review its immigration policy to tie in with the changing economic environment and the manpower needs of local enterprises.

"In view of the growing trade and economic co-operation between Hong Kong and the Mainland, our local enterprises have increasing demand for Mainland talent and professionals," he said.

The majority of the approved applicants are engaged in academic research, he said, adding that the number of approved applicants from the manufacturing and trade sectors amounted to 157.

Among the approved cases, a Mainland company which manufactures vehicle glass has set up a factory in Yuen Long Industrial Estate.

The company has applied under the scheme to send several management staff from its Mainland company to take charge of a new production line here. The company intends to recruit more than 170 frontline staff in Hong Kong.

"This in turn has a positive impact in improving the local employment situation," Mr Lee said.