Secretary for Commerce, Industry & Technology Henry Tang says the Government intends to host the sixth Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organisation.

Speaking in Legislative Council today, Mr Tang expected the event, to be held in late 2004 or early 2005, will bring about 8,000 visitors, contributing around $100 million to Hong Kong's tourist receipts.

Hosting the conference will ensure Hong Kong's involvement in the key events leading up to the sixth ministerial conference and enhance our involvement in all key negotiations, Mr Tang said.

It will also serve as a strong vote of confidence by the international community in Hong Kong as we recover from the SARS outbreak.

The Government plans to offer to host the event at the fifth ministerial conference to be held in Mexico in September.

The estimated cost for the event is about $250 million to $300 million and the Government will seek Financial Committee approval for funds on July 18.