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The Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) constitute a major component of Hong Kong's economy and the Government will spare no effort to facilitate their continued expansion, the Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa, said today (June 27).
Speaking after inspecting a flood-prone area at Belvedere Garden and visiting a textiles factory with 48 years' history in Tsuen Wan, Mr Tung stressed the importance of the SMEs which represented 98 per cent of all enterprises in Hong Kong.
Referring to the report submitted this morning by the Small and Medium Enterprises Committee (SMEC), Mr Tung said, "The Government will carefully study SMEC's recommendations which will entail the setting up of four funding schemes in the area of financing, development, training and marketing to enhance the SMEs' long-term capabilities and competitiveness."
"We shall be looking forward to developing the SMEs with a view to enhance their creativity and value added productions and services. Our success in stimulating growth for SMEs would translate into further economic prosperity and more job opportunities.
"The garment production line which I just inspected at the Central Textiles (Hong Kong) Limited is a prime example of how businesses can excel through constant innovation, high productivity, efficient management and good labour relations," Mr Tung said.
Referring to the recent flooding at Belvedere Garden, Mr Tung said, "The unusually heavy downpour has washed down a significant amount of soil debris and boulders, causing the obstruction of certain drainage systems in the area."
"The Drainage Services Department is working closely with relevant government departments to investigate the matter and will take whatever actions necessary to minimise the possibility of future flooding," he said.
Mr Tung began his afternoon district tour with a visit to the Tsuen Wan Market, where he met with various stall owners selling fruit, poultry and vegetables. He noted that the environmental and food hygiene in markets should be improved in everyone's best interest.
"We should always remain vigilant when it comes to maintaining the hygiene conditions of public markets. It is always more effective to take preventive measures than remedial ones," Mr Tung added.
Accompanied by the Acting Director of Home Affairs, Mr Lui Hau-tuen, and the Tsuen Wan District Officer, Mr William Yap, Mr Tung also met with members of the Tsuen Wan District Council and other community leaders during his visit.
End/Wednesday, June 27, 2001
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