ENG-2001 — Page 162

COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

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service on its behalf until December 31, 2003. The Government intends to appoint additional service providers upon the expiry of Tradelink's franchise.

The EDI service for trade related transaction was launched in 1997. By 2001, the Government had implemented EDI services for four key documents, i.e. restrained textiles export licence, trade declaration, production notification and certificate of origin. The EDI services for processing applications for dutiable commodities permits and cargo manifests (excluding road mode of transport) will be launched in early 2002. In addition, a feasibility study on EDI services for processing road cargo manifests will be completed in the first half of 2002.

Hong Kong Awards for Industry/Services

To promote and honour the pursuit of excellence by companies in both the manufacturing and servicing sectors, the Hong Kong Productivity Council — in collaboration with the Trade and Industry Department, major trade and industrial associations and industry support bodies - organises the annual Hong Kong Awards for Industry and the Hong Kong Awards for Services. The former promotes industrial excellence in design, productivity, quality, environmental performance, export marketing and technological achievement, while the latter promotes services. excellence in innovation, productivity, customer service, tourism services and export marketing.

Trade and Industrial Support Organisations

Hong Kong Trade Development Council

The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (TDC), a statutory body established in 1966, is responsible for promoting and expanding Hong Kong's external trade. It seeks to create and facilitate opportunities in international trade, especially for SMEs, as well as to project and uphold a positive image of Hong Kong world-wide.

With its global network of 48 offices in 31 countries and regions, the TDC helps SMEs and other customers develop marketing opportunities, trade contacts, market knowledge and competitive skills. In 2001, it organised some 350 events in and outside Hong Kong to promote Hong Kong's merchandise trade and services. exports.

During the year, the TDC organised 15 international trade fairs (six of which were the biggest in the region) and four public exhibitions. These events attracted 11 400 exhibitors and over 1.1 million visitors, including some 112 300 overseas visitors. All these events were held in the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, whose development the TDC spearheaded and over which the council has a management oversight under agreements with the Government.

The TDC also organised participation by Hong Kong companies at major trade events around the world, including markets of new promise in Middle East and Latin America. Particular effort was made to expand and upgrade Hong Kong pavilions at overseas trade fairs, with a view to bolstering the image and competitive positioning of participating Hong Kong companies. Another focus was on promoting non- traditional industries, such as food, Chinese herbal medicine, health care and vehicle parts.