The Secretary for the Civil Service, Mr Joshua Law, visited the Trade and Industry Department (TID) today (November 27) and met with staff of various grades to learn more about the department's work and exchange views on matters of concern. 

     Accompanied by the Permanent Secretary for the Civil Service, Mr Thomas Chow, Mr Law first met with the Director-General of Trade and Industry, Ms Salina Yan, and the directorate staff to get an update on the department's work in facilitating and supporting the development of trade and industry, enhancing relations with trading partners and supporting Hong Kong's enterprises, as well as the challenges ahead. 

     Mr Law then visited the Systems Division to understand the processing of applications for the Certificate of Hong Kong Origin - Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CO(CEPA)). He said he was pleased to learn that the TID has been issuing the electronic CO(CEPA) since May 2016, thus providing a prompt and convenient service to enterprises.

     At the Europe Division, Mr Law was briefed on the department's work in expanding Hong Kong's free trade agreement and investment agreement networks. He also toured the Support and Consultation Centre for Small and Medium Enterprises under the Industries Support Division to better understand the daily work of front-line colleagues, including the provision of business information and advisory services, and the enhancements to funding schemes to better support Hong Kong enterprises.

     Before concluding his visit, Mr Law met with staff representatives of various grades at a tea gathering to exchange views on issues of concern. He praised colleagues for their dedication and encouraged them to continue to help Hong Kong enterprises diversify other markets and promote Hong Kong's economic development.

Ends/Wednesday, November 27, 2019
Issued at HKT 17:35

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