Dear ICT Friends,

The Chief Executive has presented the 2009-2010 Policy Address this morning in the LegCo. The following areas related to ICT are being highlighted:

1. Innovation and Technology

The Government will allocate about $200 million to launch an “R&D Cash Rebate Scheme”, under which enterprises conducting applied R&D projects with the support of the Innovation and Technology Fund or in partnership with local designated research institutions will enjoy a cash rebate equivalent to 10% of their investments

2. Cultural and Creative Industries

Create Hong Kong was set up in June this year to co-ordinate the work of different departments. The CreateSmart Initiative has been launched recently.

3. Expanding the Mainland Market

The latest supplement to CEPA introduces further liberalization measures for the creative industries, covering films, publishing and printing, and online game products. The Government will continue to support local industries to further develop the Mainland market.

4. Regional Co-operation

The Government will continue to develop the PRD market and enhance the exchanges between Hong Kong and Taiwan.

5. Internet Learning

The Government will co-ordinate the relevant bureaux to examine, through tripartite collaboration between the community, business sector and the Government, to provide convenient and suitable Internet learning opportunities for students in need.

 
You can also visit the following links for a full text 2009-2010 Policy Address:

http://www.policyaddress.gov.hk/09-10/eng/index.html (English)

http://www.policyaddress.gov.hk/09-10/chi/index.html (Chinese)

It would be much appreciated if you would share your ideas/opinions with us regarding the Policy Address and please kindly send your feedback to us.

Yours truly,

Samson Tam Wai Ho

Legislative Councilor (Information Technology)