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    Following is a speech by the Secretary for Commerce, Industry and Technology, Mr John Tsang, at the Opening Ceremony for Hong Kong Electronics Fair 2005 (Spring Edition) this (April 14) morning: (English only)

Mr Alan Wong, Dr Allan Wong, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

    Good morning.  

    I am pleased to join you at this year's Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Spring Edition) and International ICT Expo. This event was introduced last year to complement the Hong Kong Electronics Fair held annually in October. While the Autumn Edition is the largest fair of its kind in Asia and the second largest in the world, the Spring Edition is driven by a heightened demand for innovative products and in response to the fast pace of product development. With an extremely wide range of products presented by exhibitors from all over the world, the two fairs are powerful platforms in driving the growth of the electronics industry, and in promoting product design and marketing.

    Electronics has, indeed, come a long way to becoming one of Hong Kong's largest merchandise export industries. In 2004, export of electronic products reached more than US$116 billion, accounting for 45% of Hong Kong's total exports. As at December, 2004, the electronics industry employed more than 15,500 workers, which was nearly one-tenth of the manufacturing workforce. It is without doubt an industry that has underpinned Hong Kong's economic success over the years.

    Competition in the electronics industry is always keen, both globally and regionally. The life cycles of electronics products are getting ever shorter. Hong Kong manufacturers must strive to add value to their products through better design, enhanced functions and competitive pricing. The promotional efforts of the Trade Development Council will continue to provide useful support to our manufacturers.

    Finally, I wish to congratulate all the participants on a most successful event. I am sure your participation will be most rewarding. With these remarks, I declare that the Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Spring Edition) and International ICT Expo 2005 open. Thank you.

Ends/Thursday, April 14, 2005

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