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CPA Australia proposes policy ideas to support Hong Kong’s long-term competitiveness

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HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 August 2025 – As Hong Kong continues to navigate global economic shifts and rapid technological transformation, CPA Australia has today submitted a series of recommendations to the Hong Kong Government for the Policy Address 2025 consultation.

As one of the world’s largest professional accounting bodies, CPA Australia has outlined proposed measures across five key areas:

  • Reinforcing Hong Kong’s role as an international financial centre
  • Developing Hong Kong into an international innovation and technology (I&T) hub
  • Promoting environmental, social and governance (ESG) and the green economy
  • Diversifying the economy
  • Developing, attracting and retaining talent.

Ms Karina Wong, Divisional President of CPA Australia in Greater China 2025, said: “Amid the uncertainties created by trade frictions with major economies, Hong Kong has demonstrated its unique advantages as a strategic gateway connecting mainland China and the world. We need to amplify our competitiveness to secure the city’s long-term economic vitality, for example, the free port status and unrivalled business environment.”

CPA Australia recommends the HKSAR Government considers introducing a Qualified Refundable Tax Credit (QRTC) scheme for multi-national enterprises in the maritime services and commodity trading sectors. A QRTC provides a more flexible and effective incentive structure that can help to boost these sectors.

“A QRTC would allow Hong Kong to better compete for multinational investment and reinforce its position as a premier international trade centre and shipping centre,” Ms Wong said. “We also propose expanding the scope of the half-rate tax concessionary regime for commodity trading to include the captive commodities traders serving group companies outside Hong Kong and include the financial commodity transactions, such as derivatives trading.”

Low-altitude economy is another area that CPA Australia supports to diversify the economy, for its potential to transform logistics, mobility, and urban planning.

Ms Wong added: “Hong Kong can lead in low-altitude innovation by establishing demonstration zones, collaborating with the Greater Bay Area on cross-border channels, and attracting global talent to this emerging sector. With strong research capabilities and a growing commitment to innovation and technology implementation – evidenced by the establishment of government-led Regulatory Sandbox pilot projects, Hong Kong is well-positioned to translate innovation into practical applications.”

An efficient and effective government process to deliver public services, and a green environment for sustainable development are crucial factors to do business, as well as to attract enterprises and investments to Hong Kong. Therefore, CPA Australia proposes a suite of initiatives including the promotion of a robust e-government framework.

Mr Cyrus Cheung, Deputy Divisional President of CPA Australia in Greater China 2025 said: “We suggest the Government considers modernising operations and implements a ‘tell us once’ compliance model for individual and business data access in a secure and convenient manner. For example, we propose introducing legislation to allow data sharing across relevant and approved government agencies, and to establish an integrated platform that enhances data management across governmental departments. To simplify the processes of public services, we also suggest the Government reduces its reliance on in-person authentication where appropriate, and consolidates government services onto a single platform, such as iAM Smart, which allows online authentication across different services.”

Mr Cheung also emphasised the importance of sustainable development in shaping Hong Kong’s future. He called for better alignment of the Hong Kong Taxonomy for Sustainable Finance with the international standards to attract investment in green projects.

“Energy policy is core in our sustainability goals. The taxonomy should reflect the role of various forms of low-carbon energy in supporting Hong Kong’s transition to a net-zero economy,” he said. “We also encourage the government to develop a standardised carbon trading framework and explore the Carbon Connect initiative to strengthen Hong Kong’s leadership position in green finance.”

Hong Kong’s sound financial system and free flow of capital continue to underpin strong investment inflows, and the city is poised to return to its position as the world’s top IPO market in 2025, Mr Kelvin Leung, Deputy Divisional President of CPA Australia in Greater China 2025, said. “Despite global uncertainties and trade tensions, Hong Kong’s capital market remained resilient, drawing more family offices to setup in the city and reinforcing its role as a preferred venue for fund raisings.

“Investors choose Hong Kong for investment and wealth management because we are globally connected, rule-of-law based and responsive to market needs. We should be more proactive in promoting Hong Kong as a dual listing destination for overseas companies, and we encourage the Government and relevant regulators to explore the feasibility of an “IPO Connect” mechanism, to meet growing mainland investor demand for access to global assets.”

To increase private market liquidity, CPA Australia suggests piloting an intermittent trading facility for private companies in a controlled environment. “This would offer growth-stage companies a stepping stone toward future public listings, supported by clear eligibility, proportionate disclosure and robust settlement safeguards,,” Leung said.

Mr Leung also highlighted opportunities in digital assets, “It is a notable step for Hong Kong to launch the ‘LEAP’ framework to develop a trusted and innovative digital-assets ecosystem. We welcome the Government’s move to promote the responsible expansion of stablecoins under a fit-for-purpose regulatory regime. The Government should also consider a clear roadmap for real-world asset (RWA) tokenisation that balances innovation with strong investor protection.”

CPA Australia has also proposed recommendations on strengthening SME cybersecurity such as to launch a CyberSafe SME Subsidy Programme and introduce a CyberSafe HK certification. We also suggest initiatives such as increasing maternity and paternity leave similar to other developed economies, to attract and retain talent.

Hashtag: #CPAAustralia

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About CPA Australia

CPA Australia is one of the largest professional accounting bodies in the world, with nearly 175,000 members in over 100 countries and regions, including more than 22,500 members in Greater China. CPA Australia is celebrating its 70th anniversary in Hong Kong this year. Our core services include education, training, technical support and advocacy. CPA Australia provides thought leadership on issues affecting the accounting profession and the public interest. We engage with governments, regulators and industries to advocate policies that stimulate sustainable economic growth and have positive business and public outcomes. Find out more at

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Successful debut of International Symposium on Emergency Response and Aeromedical Services in Hong Kong

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HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 June 2026 – Hong Kong’s Government Flying Service (GFS) held its inaugural three-day International Symposium on Emergency Response and Aeromedical Services (ISERAS) (June 16-18), bringing together more than 230 policymakers, experts and academics, and industry representatives from over 70 institutions and accredited organisations.

With participants from places including Hong Kong, the Chinese Mainland, Australia, the United Kingdom, Austria, Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand, the event aimed to foster closer co-operation in emergency linkage, resource sharing, and professional training among different regions.

The inaugural International Symposium on Emergency Response and Aeromedical Services was held in Hong Kong from June 16 to 18. Photo shows the Under Secretary for Security of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government, Michael Cheuk (fifth left); the Director General of the Rescue and Salvage Bureau of the Ministry of Transport of the People’s Republic of China, Wang Lei (fifth right); the Controller of the Government Flying Services of the HKSAR Government, Captain Eddie Liu (fourth right), and other guests at the opening ceremony.

The symposium featured a series of plenary sessions, panel discussions, technical visits, and live demonstrations jointly conducted by the GFS and various government emergency units. A number of memoranda of understanding were signed during the event, to deepen collaboration between the GFS and the Chinese Mainland as well as domestic and international emergency, aviation, and medical institutions.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Under Secretary for Security, Michael Cheuk, said that the challenges of emergency response as a result of the realities of climate change are evolving at an unprecedented pace.

“A shift to proactive prevention, continuous enhancement of international and cross-regional collaboration, and enhanced experience and insight sharing among stakeholders are key to rising to new and complex challenges,” Mr Cheuk said, adding that the collaborative spirit of ISERAS will forge stronger partnerships, further strengthen emergency response capabilities, and secure a safer future for communities.

The Director General of the Rescue and Salvage Bureau of the Ministry of Transport of the People’s Republic of China (CRS), Wang Lei, also attended the symposium and delivered a keynote presentation on air rescue capabilities and strategic development in the South China Sea.

The symposium concluded with an interdepartmental counter-terrorism drill and exchange session, with the participation of the GFS, the Hong Kong Police Force and the Hong Kong Fire Services Department, showcasing Hong Kong’s professional capabilities in responding to terrorist attacks.

The symposium concluded with an interdepartmental counter-terrorism drill.
The symposium concluded with an interdepartmental counter-terrorism drill.

The Controller of the GFS, Captain Eddie Liu, said that the GFS has always played an important role in emergency response and rescue. “In addition to assisting in search and rescue, providing air ambulance and other emergency aeromedical services, the GFS also shoulders the responsibility of maintaining internal security of the HKSAR,” he said.

“In emergencies such as terrorist attacks, the GFS would make rapid deployment to assist the disciplined services in conducting air assault, offering all-round support to the HKSAR Government’s overall counter-terrorism efforts.”

Since its establishment in 1993, the GFS has served at the forefront of round-the-clock search-and-rescue and emergency aeromedical operations, while the ISERAS aims to collectively build a truly transnational pool of professional expertise, thereby underscoring Hong Kong’s status as an aviation hub for emergency response in Asia.



Hashtag: #HongKong #BrandHongKong #GFS #Emergency #Response #Aeromedical #Symposium





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Swire Coca-Cola HK Refreshes the 2026 Sun Life Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Festival with Giant Festive Installation at the Avenue of Stars

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HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 June 2026 – Bringing a refreshing wave to a beloved cultural tradition, Swire Coca-Cola HK has become the Official Beverage Sponsor for the “2026 Sun Life Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races”, organised by the Hong Kong Tourism Board. Running from 19 June to 1 July, the brand is set to energise athletes, locals, and tourists alike with thirst-quenching beverages and an eye-catching festive photo spot.

Giant Festive Installation at the Avenue of Stars.

Deeply rooted in the city for over six decades, Swire Coca-Cola HK is driven by its brand purpose “to deliver refreshment to the communities we call home” and has proudly been part of many of Hong Kong’s defining moments. From local festivities and cultural events to large-scale sports and tourism experiences, the brand has long connected with the community, dedicated to supporting Hong Kong’s vibrant mega-event economy. Serving as the Official Beverage Sponsor of the event this year represents another milestone in its mission to share joy and create unforgettable summer memories.

Festive Photo Spot: Two-Metre Giant Coca-Cola® Bottle on the Avenue of Stars

To amplify the festive spirit, a giant, two-metre-tall Coca-Cola® bottle, accompanied by a dragon boat-themed installation, will land on the Avenue of Stars. Set against the dazzling backdrop of Victoria Harbour, this striking display will be available from 19 June to 1 July, offering the compelling photo spot for the public to capture memorable moments while enjoying the thrilling races.

Festive-Themed Combo Meals: Redeem Limited-Edition Mystery Gifts

Echoing the culinary excitement of the event’s special “Dragon Boat Food Lane”, Swire Coca-Cola HK is partnering with designated kiosks and stalls along the Avenue of Stars to launch festive-themed combo meals. During the race days on 27 and 28 June, consumers who purchase a designated meal set featuring Swire Coca-Cola HK products, or buy two or more selected Swire Coca-Cola HK products, will receive a redemption voucher. This voucher can be used to redeem the brand’s mystery gift at the redemption counter at specified timeslots, available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Boosting Energy and Keeping Paddlers Hydrated

Given the intense physical demands of dragon boat racing, the brand is also throwing its full support behind the local and international paddlers. Multiple bonaqua® water stations will be set up across the event venue to ensure over 4,500 athletes stay hydrated. Additionally, electrolytes replenishment drink Aquarius® will be provided to offer a vital energy boost, helping paddlers power through to the finish line.

Paddling Towards a Greener Future

Beyond the excitement of the races, Swire Coca-Cola HK also brings sustainable practices to the celebration. In collaboration with local social enterprise V Cycle, the brand will set up multiple plastic bottle recycling stations during the race days on 27 and 28 June. Collected bottles will be transported to New Life Plastics, Hong Kong’s largest food-grade-ready plastic bottle recycling facility. The recyclables will be processed into recycled PET (rPET) materials and reintroduced into the supply chain to create new bottles. This “bottle-to-bottle” initiative highlights a successful circular economy model by giving recycled plastic a second life, making environmental stewardship a core part of the event experience.

As the “2026 Sun Life Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Festival” unfolds, Swire Coca-Cola HK is excited to celebrate this summer spectacular with the locals and tourists. Through refreshing drinks, interactive fun, and recycling actions, the brand hopes to create lasting memories for all.

Hashtag: #SwireCoca-ColaHK #Dragonboat


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iQOO 15R Named Official Gaming Phone for 2026 Asian Games Esports Qualifiers: Honor of Kings

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The performance-focused smartphone will support tournament-level mobile gameplay with stable performance, responsive controls and sustained power.

DONGGUAN, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 June 2026 – iQOO, a smartphone brand built for high-performance mobile gaming experiences, today announced that the iQOO 15R has been named the Official Gaming Phone for the 2026 Asian Games Esports Qualifiers: Honor of Kings.

iQOO

As an official esports title of the Asian Games, Honor of Kings brings together competitive mobile esports players from across the region. Through this partnership, iQOO will support the Qualifiers with a device designed for competitive mobile gaming, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to supporting powerful, stable and immersive experiences for players and fans.

Supporting Tournament-Level Mobile Esports

Competitive mobile esports requires more than peak performance. Players often rely on consistent frame rates, responsive touch control and reliable power throughout extended matches. With the iQOO 15R serving as the Official Gaming Phone for the Qualifiers, iQOO aims to bring its performance-driven technology into a professional tournament setting and support players with a device built for speed, control and sustained gameplay.

Built for Stable, High-Intensity Gameplay

Designed as a performance-focused smartphone, the iQOO 15R is equipped to support the high demands of mobile gaming. Powered by the Snapdragon® 8 Gen 5 Mobile Platform and Monster HyperCore Engine, the device is engineered to help deliver stable frame rates and responsive gameplay during extended sessions.

The Supercomputing Chip Q2 is designed to enhance visual clarity for a more immersive gaming experience, while the Super Touch Control Chip is designed to improve input accuracy and control response. In addition, the advanced cooling system and large-capacity Silicon Anode Battery with fast charging help provide the sustained performance and power required for tournament-level play.
Hashtag: #iQOO

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About iQOO

iQOO, a sub-brand of vivo, differentiates itself in performance and Esports experience. iQOO leverages the research, quality assurance and after-sales service expertise of vivo, and follows the brand ethos of i Quest On and On to push boundaries, innovate boldly and share the excitement of exploring future technology. With products offering Esports-standard capabilities, iQOO aims to become the top choice of consumers who are passionate about performance and gaming.

For more information, please visit .

About Honor of Kings

Developed by TiMi Studio Group, Honor of Kings has become the world’s most-played MOBA. In 2025, the combined MAU of Honor of Kings titles surpassed 260 million. Featuring highly detailed and diverse character and battlefield design plus music created by world renowned composers including Hans Zimmer, Joe Hisaishi, and Howard Shore, Honor of Kings immerses players in a unique and colorful universe. Honor of Kings prides itself on being free to play and fair to win, with success determined by players’ skills and tactics. Honor of Kings is also home to a thriving esports ecosystem supporting competitive play from grassroots amateurs to elite professionals. To learn more about Honor of Kings, follow on , , , , or visit the official of Honor of Kings.

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