204 Food Safety, Environmental Hygiene, Agriculture and Fisheries
Wholesale Markets
Fresh food produce is sold in wholesale markets managed by the AFCD, the Vegetable Marketing Organisation (VMO), the Fish Marketing Organisation (FMO) and the private sector. During the year, Government wholesale markets handled 270 000 tonnes of vegetables, 13 000 tonnes of poultry, 49 000 tonnes of freshwater fish and fish products, 100 000 tonnes of fruit and 71 000 tonnes of eggs with a combined valued of $5.7 billion.
The Western Wholesale Food Market and the Cheung Sha Wan Wholesale Food Market are the two largest composite wholesale food markets managed by the department. The Western Wholesale Food Market, for example, accommodates markets for freshwater fish, vegetables, fruit and eggs, enabling customers to purchase a wide range of fresh foods under one roof.
The AFCD also manages two temporary wholesale markets, one in the North District for fresh vegetables, and another in Cheung Sha Wan, for live poultry.
The VMO is a statutory body governed by the Agricultural Products (Marketing) Ordinance. It provides orderly wholesale marketing services for the sale of vegetables. It charges a commission on the vegetables sold, and in return provides trading facilities, transport and pesticide residue testing services to farmers and traders. Surplus income is ploughed back into farming development and scholarships for farmers' children. In 2011, the VMO handled 153 274 tonnes of vegetables valued at $937 million.
The FMO is also a statutory body governed by the Marine Fish (Marketing) Ordinance. It provides orderly wholesale marketing services at its seven wholesale markets. Revenue comes from commissions from fish sales and from fees charged for the use of market facilities. Surplus earnings are channelled back to the fisheries industry by way of providing low-interest loans to fishermen, improving market services and facilities and providing training grants and scholarships for the fishermen and their children. During the year, some 43 600 tonnes of marine fish valued at $1.98 billion were sold through the organisation. The organisation continues to develop quality fish products at its processing centre to help promote local products.
Control of Animal Diseases
As Hong Kong's inspection and quarantine authority for animals, the AFCD regulates cross-boundary animal movements to prevent animal diseases from entering the city. The AFCD also assesses the risk of disease in imported animals and animal products on the basis of their species, intended use and disease status of the place of origin. The AFCD explains Hong Kong's import requirements to overseas veterinary authorities when necessary.
In 2011, more than 6 100 permits were issued for animal imports. The animals included dogs, cats, horses, reptiles, birds, zoo animals and food animals such as pigs and cattle.