Government holds forum to discuss market opportunities for Hong Kong professionals and introduces new $200 million support scheme (with photos)
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     The Commerce and Economic Development Bureau (CEDB) convened the Forum on Professional Services at the Central Government Offices today (August 30). 
 
     The Chief Executive, Mr C Y Leung, welcomed the attendance of more than 200 representatives from professional bodies, trade and industry organisations and research institutions, as well as members of the Working Group on Professional Services set up under the Economic Development Commission, to the forum.
 
     The forum discussed the positive market outlook outside Hong Kong for the professional services sector, and how the sector may step up outreaching efforts. During the sharing sessions, the Deputy Executive Director of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, Mr Raymond Yip, talked about business opportunities for Hong Kong professionals in Mainland and overseas markets. Representatives from the Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre and the Hong Kong Institute of Architects also shared their experiences in promoting professional services outside Hong Kong with government support. 
 
     Participants learnt that the CEDB plans to launch a new $200 million Professional Services Advancement Support Scheme in the fourth quarter of 2016, and its preparation will take into account views collected from the forum and other channels. The Scheme follows an initiative announced in the 2016 Policy Address and the Legislative Council's funding approval in July. The new Scheme will support Hong Kong professional services in enhancing exchanges and co-operation with their counterparts in external markets, promoting relevant publicity activities, and implementing other projects for enhancing the sector's professional standards and external competitiveness. Views and suggestions on its operation are welcome and may be sent to the CEDB (website: www.cedb.gov.hk/citb; email address: pass@cedb.gov.hk).
 
     Other government officials attending the forum today included the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Gregory So; the Secretary for Development, Mr Paul Chan; and the Commissioner for Belt and Road, Miss Yvonne Choi.

Ends/Tuesday, August 30, 2016
Issued at HKT 18:40

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