TRADE AND INDUSTRY
1994, 11 projects for research in areas such as software development, telecommunications products, security systems, multimedia technology and environmentally-friendly packaging materials had been approved for funding.
* In 1995, the government plans to provide $50 million to establish an Applied Research Centre, which will promote joint projects with China's leading research institutes.
Monitoring Technology and Market Trends
The department conducts periodic studies of the main manufacturing industries to look at technology and market trends and identify constraints on industrial development. In 1994, it commissioned a consultancy study on the local software industry to identify obstacles to further growth and to advise on means to overcome them. Studies on the electronics and plastics industries were completed. As a result of a study commissioned by the department in 1992, it was decided to undertake a feasibility plan for the establishment of a science park in Hong Kong. A consultant was commissioned to examine how a science park can be established. Following the 1993 study on the metals and light engineering industries, several technologies for enhancing the manufacturing capabilities of specific sectors were identified and action was taken to make these available in the territory.
Environmental Controls
In response to new legislative proposals to curb pollution, the department stepped up efforts to inform manufacturers how they could comply with environmental controls affecting them. In addition to general advice, the department produced specific guidance for textiles bleachers and dyers, electroplaters and printed circuit board manufacturers. It also commissioned other organisations to assist, including the Centre for Environmental Technology Limited and the Hong Kong Productivity Council. The former operates an information hotline and a directory of pollution control and prevention equipment. The latter is implementing several projects including the holding of regular seminars and workshops, factory visits to offer initial advice, the testing of initial effluent samples to identify problems, and offering advice on waste management and improved designs for environmental control.
Governor's Award for Industry
The department co-ordinates the annual Governor's Award for Industry, which recognises and encourages excellence in six categories of industrial performance. The Federation of Hong Kong Industries is responsible for the consumer product design category; the Chinese Manufacturers' Association of Hong Kong for the machinery and equipment design category; the Hong Kong Productivity Council for the productivity category; the Industry Department for the quality category; the Private Sector Committee on the Environment for the environmental performance category; and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council for the export marketing category.
Industrial Support Agencies
Hong Kong Productivity Council
The Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) was established by statute in 1967 to promote increased productivity in industry. It is financed by an annual government subven- tion and by fees earned from its services.
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