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the Industry Development Board, new specifically targetted

initiatives are being taken to assist such industries. For example,

a new plastics technology centre is being developed, based in the

Hong Kong Polytechnic; the two Universities and the Hong Kong

Polytechnic have been granted funds to research possible industrial applications for the latest electronic and computer aided design and

manufacturing technologies; and a scheme is in force to assist local

engineers to obtain training overseas in new electronic

technologies. A pilot industrial extension service has also been

established to encourage small manufacturers to use the industrial support services and facilities provided by government sponsored advisory and support bodies. The Hong Kong Productivity Council,

which plays a key role in activities to improve the productivity of

industry, is planning to expand substantially its services for the

metal working and electronics industries, as well as its work to

promote new production management techniques. Sensible measures are

therefore being taken to assist the performance of Hong Kong

industry within the framework of the territory's free enterprise

economy.

(c)

Trade Relations

33.

In keeping with its free port status, Hong Kong has always

practised free trade. There are no protective tariffs or other

restrictions on imports of either goods or services. In turn, Hong

Kong manufacturers are expected to operate competitively in world

markets. The Hong Kong Government's aim is to work for a freer and

more open world trading system and to ensure free and fair access

for Hong Kong made products and services in overseas markets. It pursues these objectives, both through bilateral trade relations

with governments in Hong Kong's major markets, and multilaterally by

taking part in the work of international trade organisations,

particularly the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT). The

territory's trade is also promoted through the activities of the

Hong Kong Trade Development Council, which is a statutory body. In

particular, as a full contracting party to the GATT, Hong Kong is

playing an active role in the Uruguay Round of Multilateral Trade

Negotiations now underway in Geneva.

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