***********************************************************
Some 250 guests from the Hong Kong and overseas film sector gathered at the "Hong Kong Night" reception in Busan, Korea, this evening (October 9) for networking and exchanges.
The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office hosted the reception, which tied in with the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), one of the largest film festivals in Asia, to introduce to guests the excellence and vibrancy of the Hong Kong film industry.
The Principal Hong Kong Economic and Trade Representative, Ms Sally Wong, said at the reception that over the years Hong Kong films have gained considerable acclaim worldwide.
"Our actors, directors, cinematographers and producers have won over 300 international awards, including those awarded by the BIFF, in the past decade," she added.
Noting that this year marks the 15th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to China, Ms Wong said the creativity and innovation of Hong Kong film talents have continued to flourish, as Hong Kong remains a free and dynamic society with a free flow of information, free speech and expression, and protection of intellectual property rights.
"In recent years, Hong Kong's film industry has broadened its horizons through closer collaboration with our counterparts in Mainland China.
"Our unique free trade agreement with Mainland China called the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA) has vastly expanded our access to the Mainland movie market.
"Foreign companies, including Korean ones, can also enjoy preferential treatment under CEPA if they are incorporated as a Hong Kong company or if they partner with one," Ms Wong said.
She pointed out that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government is keen to promote the creative industries, arts and cultural development.
"We have set up a dedicated Film Services Office to promote Hong Kong films and support film productions, as well as provide one-stop and free services to filmmakers who choose Hong Kong as a filming location.
"In addition, the Film Development Fund supports projects and activities which help nurture film talents as well as enhance interest in Hong Kong films and appreciation of them," Ms Wong explained.
She encouraged filmmakers and talents from around the world to partner with Hong Kong filmmakers and leverage on Hong Kong's extensive network and know-how to seize the many exciting opportunities emerging in Hong Kong and Mainland China.
Supported by the Hong Kong International Film Festival Society and Dragonair, the reception was one of the events to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the establishment of the HKSAR.
Ends/Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Issued at HKT 21:00
NNNN
