Hong Kong Customs signs MOU on Smart Collar Research Project for canines with City University of Hong Kong (with photos)

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     The Assistant Commissioner (Boundary and Ports) of Customs and Excise, Ms Chiang Yi-lee, today (September 11) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with City University of Hong Kong (CityU) at the Customs Headquarters Building to advance the operational effectiveness of Customs detector dogs through the Smart Collar Research Project.

     At the signing ceremony, Ms Chiang acknowledged that the enduring partnership between Customs and CityU encompasses various collaborative initiatives in both academic programmes and specialised training for the Customs Canine Force (CCF). This MOU signing not only marks a significant milestone in the partnership but also launches the Smart Collar Research Project, which aims to study, analyse, as well as optimise the utilisation of data collected from detector dogs including heart rates, respiratory rates and temperatures for enhanced enforcement capabilities and the welfare standards of detector dogs.

     CityU, as Hong Kong's pioneer and sole provider of the Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine programme, has been offering invaluable support to Customs through comprehensive breeding training programmes, veterinary nursing expertise, and puppy development courses.

     Looking ahead, Customs is dedicated to pursuing innovative collaborations with CityU to enhance the effectiveness of its canine operations. By leveraging academic expertise, Customs aims to implement advanced training techniques and technology, ultimately strengthening the impact of the CCF in safeguarding national security and Hong Kong's boundary.

     The CCF has been making significant contributions to Hong Kong since its establishment in 1975. It currently maintains 70 detector dog teams, specialising in narcotics, explosives, currency, firearms, and tobacco detection, supported by more than 100 dedicated officers. To ensure a sustainable supply of high-calibre working dogs, Customs initiated its breeding programme in 2020. The programme has successfully produced 36 puppies to date.

Ends/Thursday, September 11, 2025
Issued at HKT 19:53

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The Assistant Commissioner (Boundary and Ports) of Customs and Excise, Ms Chiang Yi-lee (right), and the Vice-President (Research) of City University of Hong Kong, Professor Anderson Shum (left), today (September 11) signed a Memorandum of Understanding to advance the operational effectiveness of Customs detector dogs through the Smart Collar Research Project.

The Customs and Excise Department signed a Memorandum of Understanding to advance the operational effectiveness of Customs detector dogs through the Smart Collar Research Project with the City University of Hong Kong (CityU) today (September 11) at the Customs Headquarters Building. Photo shows the Assistant Commissioner (Boundary and Ports) of Customs and Excise, Ms Chiang Yi-lee (back row, fourth right), with other Customs officials and representatives of CityU.