The Chamber acknowledges the need for the Competition Commission’s initiation of a second review of the Competition (Block Exemption Order) for Vessel Sharing Agreements) Order 2017 (“BEO”), whilst reaffirming the importance of its continuance in maintaining regulatory stability for Hong Kong’s shipping and logistics sector.

To support long-term planning and regional alignment, the Chamber recommends renewing the BEO for at least five years. It also respectfully suggests removing the 40% market share threshold, which may hinder efficient industry collaboration and competitiveness.

These proposals aim to strengthen Hong Kong’s role as a global trade hub by fostering a predictable, growth-oriented regulatory environment for its maritime and logistics industries.

The Chamber broadly supports the proposed enhancements to the HKMA’s Prototype of the Hong Kong Taxonomy for Sustainable Finance (Phase 2A), whilst putting forward other suggestions on its practical implementation, to achieve the objectives of enhancing Hong Kong’s position as a leading green finance hub and meeting carbon neutrality goals.

We commend the Taxonomy’s alignment with international frameworks — such as those adopted in the EU — in establishing a common language for identifying environmentally sustainable activities. At the same time, we recommend that continued attention is given to Hong Kong’s specific circumstances, particularly in relation to its energy landscape, infrastructure, and market developments. This would help maintain the Taxonomy's relevance and adaptability in the face of evolving market dynamics.

To maximise the Taxonomy’s effectiveness, we also advocate for a practical and proportionate approach to implementation, especially in sectors where decarbonisation pathways are still evolving.

The Chamber is broadly supportive of the Government’s Lung Kwu Tan (LKT) and Tuen Mun West (TMW) "Smart and Green Industrial Port" proposals, viewing them as a strategic opportunity to boost Hong Kong's industrial capabilities and align with sustainability goals. In terms of execution, we advocate for integrated planning and advocacy of a phased development approach with publicly accessible timelines for business certainty, as well as suggesting the need for streamlined inter-authority coordination and thorough provisioning of essential utilities and infrastructure. We also call for the Government to leverage the Port's strategic location for high value-added industrial growth in green energy, advanced construction, and logistics; supported by specialized innovation hubs and enhanced port connectivity. Our response also addresses environmental sustainability, and community well-being and liveability considerations, amongst others.