The Labour Department has converted the Tripartite Committee on Warehouse & Cargo Transport Industry into the Tripartite Committee on Logistics Industry to keep pace with the latest developments in the trade.

The new committee has more members with enhanced representation.

Speaking at the new committee's first meeting today, Permanent Secretary for Economic Development & Labour Matthew Cheung said the logistics industry is a fast developing pillar industry, engaging 6.3% of Hong Kong's labour force and providing 200,000 jobs.

"Our Warehouse & Cargo Transport Tripartite Committee has been transformed into the Logistics Tripartite Committee to foster the trade's rapid development and harmonious labour relations," he said.

"This new set-up will play a key role in enhancing the industry's harmonious labour relations. I [hope] members will be active and forthcoming in exchanging ideas, with a view to resolving problems in the industry."

Well represented

The new tripartite committee comprises representatives from 12 trade unions, 11 employer associations, one professional body and the Labour Department.

"The department has been endeavouring to strengthen tripartite co-operation between employers, employees and the Government to promote harmonious labour relations," Mr Cheung said.

"To keep abreast of time, we bring in new industries at the appropriate time to strengthen the network and function of these tripartite committees."

Since 1998, the department has been actively setting up tripartite committees formed by representatives from employers, employees and the Government in different industries. These committees aim to promote workplace consultation and communication at the industry level.

So far, nine committees have been set up in the catering, retail, hotel and tourism, cement and concrete, construction, property management, printing, warehouse and cargo transport and theatre industries.