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Policy Address by Hong Kong SAR’s Chief Executive John Lee: Building an international hub for business, investment and new industries
“Backed by strong national support and a high degree of global connectivity, Hong Kong is recognised worldwide as an international centre in finance, trade and shipping, as well as in aviation, legal services and dispute resolution,” Mr Lee said. “The Government will fully leverage these institutional strengths to consolidate Hong Kong’s status as a premier international hub.”
To cement Hong Kong’s position as a leading global financial centre, Mr Lee said the Government’s strategy would include deepening the equity market, expanding a world-class bond market and a vibrant currency market, while advancing the insurance, asset and wealth management sectors. Key initiatives include:
- Leveraging the Technology Enterprises Channel to assist Mainland technology enterprises in raising funds in Hong Kong, exploring shortening the stock settlement cycle to T+1, and encouraging more overseas enterprises to seek secondary listing in Hong Kong;
- Further consolidating Hong Kong’s position as a bond market hub with a view to fostering interplay between various mutual market access mechanisms, establishing connections with markets such as Switzerland and the United Arab Emirates, and promoting the use of offshore Chinese Government Bonds as collateral in different clearing houses to further enrich the use cases of RMB assets; and
- Enhancing the liquidity and global reach of the offshore RMB market in Hong Kong, including Government issuing more RMB bonds, and consider settling government expenditure in RMB under suitable circumstances.
“We will also expedite the development of new growth areas, building a premier international gold trading market, driving the development of fintech, as well as promoting green and sustainable finance,” Mr Lee said.
Initiatives on building an international gold trading market include establishing gold storage facilities, encouraging gold traders to set up or expand their refineries in Hong Kong, establishing a central clearing system for gold and offering a greater variety of gold investment vehicles by assisting issuers in issuing gold funds, and support the development of new investment products such as tokenised gold.
To boost Hong Kong’s status as an international trade centre, the Chief Executive said the Government would deepen international economic and trade networks by exploring the signing of new investment agreements with overseas economies, expanding the city’s network of Economic and Trade Offices around the world with an office to be established in Kuala Lumpur this year, and promoting the digitalisation of trade.
“Under ‘One Country, Two Systems’, Hong Kong enjoys the unique advantages of attracting overseas enterprises and assisting Mainland enterprises to go global,” Mr Lee said. “In the past, we focused primarily on bringing in enterprises, achieving remarkable growth and success. The new opportunities ahead for Hong Kong, however, will come from helping Mainland enterprises expand abroad.”
The Chief Executive said he would establish a one‑stop platform by mobilising Hong Kong’s overseas offices as well as Hong Kong offices in the Mainland, and set up the Task Force on Supporting Mainland Enterprises in Going Global (GoGlobal Task Force) to encourage Mainland enterprises to use Hong Kong in expanding their businesses overseas.
“With the sustained growth in the output of new industries, the Government will step up its efforts to nurture emerging industries locally and attract those from outside Hong Kong, promoting the diversified development of our economy,” Mr Lee said.
The Financial Secretary, Paul Chan, said in a press conference today (September 18) on the 2025 Policy Address, that attracting enterprises to set up and develop in Hong Kong is a crucial component of the city’s industry development and reform, and Hong Kong needs to formulate preferential policy packages to achieve this.
To foster the life and health technology research sector, the Government will attract more pharmaceutical companies to set up operations in Hong Kong to conduct clinical trials and medical treatments for rare disease drugs, high‑end cancer drugs and advanced therapy products, and set up the Hong Kong Centre for Medical Products Regulation.
To promote the development of the new energy industry, the Government will develop a sustainable aviation fuel industry chain, develop the GBA Hydrogen Corridor in collaboration with the Guangdong Province, and push forward the construction of Hong Kong’s first large‑scale electric vehicle (EV) battery recycling facility at the EcoPark, which is expected to commence operation in the first half of 2026.
“Today, Hong Kong is at the critical juncture of advancing from stability to prosperity,” Mr Lee said. “We are moving through an irreversible economic transition, but it is an essential process for a stronger and more robust economy in the future.”
Hashtag: #hongkong #brandhongkong #policyaddress #business #investment #newindusrtries
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The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
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The “ANDPAD” Cloud-Based Construction Project Management Service Adds Supporting Indonesian, Thai, Traditional Chinese (Taiwan), and Spanish Languages
With the new addition of these four languages, ANDPAD now supports six languages, including the previously released English and Vietnamese.
■ Background
Japan’s construction sector faces chronic labor shortages, leading to an increase in the hiring of foreign nationals from Southeast Asia. This trend is accelerated by the Specified Skilled Worker system, supported by bilateral Memoranda of Cooperation (MOC) between Japan and various Southeast Asian governments. Consequently, a growing number of technical interns are transitioning to Specified Skilled Worker status. Consequently, a growing number of technical interns are transitioning to Specified Skilled Worker status.
Simultaneously, the construction sector is expanding in many Southeast Asian countries, although it still faces common challenges of on-site quality and boosting productivity.
In response to these trends, ANDPAD has expanded its language support to include Indonesian, Thai, Traditional Chinese (Taiwan), and Spanish. Initially, this multi-language support will cover the Construction Management features—the most widely used function of ANDPAD—to facilitate centralized information management and smoother communication at construction sites in both Japan and Southeast Asia.
Going forward, ANDPAD will continue to actively pursue expansion of functions in multiple languages along with development efforts to offer support for various languages. The company will proceed to promote DX in the Southeast Asian construction industry in addition to the Japanese market.
■ About Usage
Existing ANDPAD users can use these new language options version at no additional cost.
Scope of Support
ANDPAD app:
- iOS: 5.99 or higher
- Android: 5.98 or higher
Hashtag: #ANDPAD
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About the ANDPAD Service
The cloud-based construction project management service with the top share of the market in Japan*, ANDPAD makes the central management of everything from enhancing onsite efficiency to improving management possible. Since provision of the service started in 2016, through associated development efforts that emphasize intuitiveness and ease of use and thorough support for implementation and utilization, the service has reached over 233,000 corporate users and 684,000 individual users.
ANDPAD was selected as a “2024 Recommended Technology” under the NETIS (New Technology Information System) by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism.
Details (Japanese language only): 
https://andpad.jp/
■Company Overview
Name : ANDPAD Inc.
Location : Sumitomo Fudosan Tokyo Mita Garden Tower 37F, 5-19 Mita 3 Chome, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Representative : Takeo Inada, CEO
Business Activities : Development, sales and operation of “ANDPAD” cloud-based construction project management service
Company Website (Japanese language only)：https://andpad.co.jp/
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Madame Tussauds Hong Kong Welcomes a New K-Wave Star Jung Hae In’s First-Ever Wax Figure Unveiled
A Star Moment in Detail｜Craftsmanship, Technology and Personal Touch
Showcasing Jung Hae In’s signature charm, his newly unveiled wax figure is dressed in an elegant black double-breasted Dolce & Gabbana suit with silk lapels, complemented by a white shirt and black Chelsea boots all personally selected by the actor. With both hands forming a heart at his chest and a warm, inviting smile, the figure captures the approachable and friendly essence that his fans ‘HAEINESS’ adore. Every detail, from hair colour and skin tone to the suit’s silhouette, lining, and brooch, was meticulously crafted based on precise measurements taken during a five-hour sitting, the acclaimed craftsmanship and dedication to realism for which Madame Tussauds is renowned.
From “Younger Man” to Acclaimed Actor｜A Track Record of Hit Dramas
Jung Hae In has established himself as a leading actor through critically acclaimed dramas like Something in the Rain, D.P. , and One Spring Night. With his gentle and heartfelt performances, he has earned the title of “National Boyfriend” and built a dedicated fanbase known as “HAEINESS.” Following the success of tvN’s Love Next Door and the film I, THE EXECUTIONER, he accepted Madame Tussauds Hong Kong’s invitation to be immortalised in wax.
Reflecting on the sitting process, Jung Hae In described it as an honour, expressing pride in leaving his likeness at a renowned landmark. He shared “Participating closely in the creation, discussing outfit choices and pose decisions with the team, was both exciting and overwhelming. Witnessing each intricate step come together into a single work of art was truly moving.
Before announcing the new lineup, Wade Chang, General Manager of Merlin Entertainments Hong Kong, expressed his heartfelt condolences regarding the recent tragedy in Hong Kong, saying, “Madame Tussauds Hong Kong would like to extend our deepest sympathies to all those affected and to their families.” He then conveyed his enthusiasm, stating “Madame Tussauds Hong Kong is committed to enhancing the K-Wave experience. Jung Hae In ‘s authenticity and professionalism have truly enriched our collaboration. Given the significant role K-pop culture plays in Hong Kong, we believe his presence will provide our guests with a unique and memorable experience.
Also, Mr. Kim Yoon-ho, Director of Korea, Hong Kong Tourism Board, remarked “I am excited for the launch of Jung Hae In’s first wax figure, celebrating his remarkable success. Madame Tussauds Hong Kong has been dedicated to promoting Korean culture and is continually enhancing its Korean lineup. With the growing global influence of Korean celebrities, we are excited to attract fans and visitors from around the world through the exceptional wax figures at Madame Tussauds Hong Kong, allowing them to immerse themselves in the unique charm of Korea right here in the heart of Hong Kong.”
Your Immersive Hallyu Journey Begins ｜Limited Festive Offers Now Available
Jung Hae In’s wax figure has officially entered the hall of fame and be displayed at Madame Tussauds Hong Kong starting from today, offering fans a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in romantic K-dramas and meet the beloved actor in a new way. To mark the launch, Madame Tussauds Hong Kong is pleased to introduce an exclusive online offer from 16 to 22 December 2025, fans can enjoy a single entry for just HK$199 through the official website.
For an ultimate experience, guests can opt for the limited festive package from 23 December 2025 till 4 January 2026 at Madame Tussauds Hong Kong admission, which includes admission to Madame Tussauds Hong Kong, an exclusive guidebook a digital photo and one interactive VR Thrill Coaster – Hong Kong experience – all for just HK$285, a 20% off discount off its original price.
In this holiday season, don’t miss the opportunity to celebrate with Jung Hae In, Lee Jong Suk, Yim Si Wan, and more in the K-Wave Zone. Join us for a festive sing-along with Taylor Swift or capture a memorable AI interactive photo with Gong Jun. Step into the famous fun world of Madame Tussauds Hong Kong, where over 100 lifelike wax figures await you. Plan your visit to The Peak now and create unforgettable holiday memories.
Hashtag: #MadameTussauds
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Madame Tussauds
Madame Tussauds has been inviting people to walk the red carpet and get closer to the revered for over 250 years. With 17 Merlin-operated attractions in the world’s top destination cities, we are dedicated to giving millions of visitors the opportunity to mingle with the mighty from A-listers to music legends, heroes of sport, to world leaders. Today, we continue to partner with the global icons of a generation to create astonishing lifelike figures from sittings and offer exciting and interactive experiences to ensure guests have never felt closer to fame.
About Merlin Entertainments
Merlin Entertainments is a world leader in branded entertainment destinations, offering a diverse portfolio of resort theme parks, city-centre gateway attractions and LEGOLAND® Resorts which span across the UK, US, Western Europe, China and Asia Pacific. Dedicated to creating experiences that inspire joy and connection, Merlin welcomes more than 62 million guests annually to its diverse global estate in over 20 countries. An expert in bringing world-famous entertainment brands to life, Merlin works with partners including the LEGO® Group, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Peppa Pig, DreamWorks and Ferrari to create destinations where guests can immerse themselves in a wide array of brand-driven worlds, rides and uplifting learning experiences.
See www.merlinentertainments.biz for more information.
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Southeast Asian Games Thailand 2025 Esports Appoints Moonshot as Official Mobile Controller Partner
Taking place from the 9th to 20th December, the SEA Games Thailand 2025 Esports competition is expected to draw millions of viewers across the region, with widespread engagement from gaming communities across Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Vietnam. The 2025 edition will feature leading mobile eSports titles such as Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, Arena of Valour, Free Fire and FC Online, further strengthening the event’s reputation as a cornerstone of competitive gaming culture in Asia.
As the Official Controller Partner, Moonshot will also debut a special SEA Games Controller Collection, this will be a commemorative series featuring designs inspired by participating countries and co-designed with global IP partners. The limited series will be available exclusively during the competition period via Moonshot’s official website (https://shop.themoonshot.xyz/)
“We’re honoured to support SEA Games Thailand 2025 Esports and contribute to one of the most influential gaming events in Southeast Asia,” said Managing Director at Moonshot, JW Lee. “Our vision is to bring hardware, software, and digital rewards together to inspire a new generation of gamers, and SEA Games is the perfect place to begin that journey.”
Strengthening the future of Mobile Esports
Mobile gaming is the dominant force in Southeast Asia’s gaming landscape, with the region being home to hundreds of millions of mobile-first players. Moonshot’s partnership with SEA Games Esports 2025 reflects the company’s commitment to driving innovation in this fast-growing segment.
Throughout the event, Moonshot will activate a series of on-site experiences, including demo zones, creator interactions, and community gaming activities powered by the Moonshot gaming ecosystem. The partnership aims to elevate the tournament experience for both competitors and fans by merging physical gameplay with digital engagement features, collectible rewards, and interactive app-based challenges.
Hashtag: #Moonshot #SEAGames2025 #SEAGamesEsports #EsportsAsia #MobileEsports #MobileGaming
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Moonshot
Moonshot is building the world’s first phygital mobile gaming ecosystem that seamlessly integrates premium hardware, digital gameplay, and a unified rewards layer to enhance how players discover, play, and engage with mobile games, whether casually or competitively. Moonshot also collaborates with gaming studios, IP licensors, creators, and ecosystem partners to deliver co-branded campaigns, limited-edition collections, and reward-driven engagement experiences. Learn more at 
www.themoonshot.xyz
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