ENG-1996 — Page 144

TRADE AND INDUSTRY

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biotechnology, telecommunication and robotic engineering were approved with a commitment of $21 million.

Monitoring Technology and Market Trends

The department conducts periodic studies of the major sectors of the manufacturing industries to look at technology and market trends and identify constraints on industrial development. In 1996, the study on the textiles and clothing industries was completed and a consultancy study on the metals and light engineering industries was initiated. Following the completion of a consultancy study on Hong Kong's software industry in 1995, action such as the establishment of a Software Industry Information Centre and a Cyberspace Centre was taken to provide infrastructural support to encourage the development of the software industry. The proposed Hong Kong Science Park received strong public support and the Industry Department is working out the institutional arrangements for setting it up.

Environmental Controls

In 1996, the department commissioned the Hong Kong Productivity Council to operate a hotline, organise seminars and workshops and arrange factory visits to provide information and technical advice to help manufacturers comply with environmental controls. General information is disseminated through an annual guide on environmental legislation affecting manufacturers. There are also design manuals and eco-audit manuals for specific industries and a directory on environmental technology and services.

Hong Kong Awards for Industry

These prestigious awards for excellence in industrial performance are co-ordinated by the department and are an important highlight in the industrial calendar for manufacturers. The awards cover six categories - consumer product design, machinery and equipment design, productivity, quality, environmental performance and export marketing. Each category is organised by a leading organisation. connected with the manufacturing sector.

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)

A Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Committee was established in July 1996. Its members comprise representatives of chambers of commerce, trade and industry support organisations as well as SME practitioners. The committee aims to identify issues affecting SMEs and suggest measures which would facilitate their development.

Symposium on Services Promotion

To stimulate ideas and discussion in the community in particular the business sector on the way forward for services promotion, the government and seven major trade and industry support organisations jointly organised a symposium in March 1996. The event tied in with a wider government initiative to promote the service sector and was well attended by business leaders, academics and government officials.