INDUSTRY AND TRADE
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Kong made cigarettes are comparable in quality with any in the world. Packaging material of a high standard is also made locally. The export of cigarettes to China has virtually ceased since 1949, and the bulk of the industry's output is now consumed locally, but some exports are made to Macau and the Pacific Islands.
Footwear. The Hong Kong rubber boot and shoe industry has been established since 1932, the range of products including Wellington boots, plimsolls, beach, sports and house shoes and slippers, mainly for export to traditional markets in the United Kingdom and Canada.
Good quality leather footwear is also manufactured for local demand and export, principally to Malaya.
Leather and Travel Goods. Suitcases, travelling_bags, trunks and handbags, and all varieties of leatherware are manufactured in the Colony. Both imported and locally tanned hides and skins are used in production.
Cement. The cement needs of the Colony's constantly expanding building industry are met in large measure-by the products of one large establishment. All raw materials, apart from some clay and iron ore, are imported.
Cordage, Rope and Twine. The requirements of shipping using the port gave rise early to the rope industry, which is among the oldest established in Hong Kong. All types of ropes and hawsers are manufactured from imported Manila hemp.
Plasticware. A very wide variety of small articles is produced and locally made dies and moulds are generally used. Several of the larger establishments have installed fully up-to-date equipment. Tooth brushes, mugs, beakers, combs, coat hangers, chopsticks, cigarette cases, mahjong sets and toys and novelties, many of which are of consider- able ingenuity, are made. The well known 'Walt Disney' and 'Tom & Jerry' characters are produced under licence. An ancillary industry is the plastic coating of rattan by
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