Commerce and Industry 117
arrangements, the results of tests, calibrations, certifications and inspections provided by its accredited service providers are widely recognised globally, thus facilitating cross-border business and trading activities. The comprehensive service of the HKAS is provided under three voluntary accreditation schemes, the Hong Kong Laboratory Accreditation Scheme (HOKLAS), the Hong Kong Certification Body Accreditation Scheme (HKCAS) and the Hong Kong Inspection Body Accreditation Scheme (HKIAS).
Testing and Certification Industry
The strong technical foundation of Hong Kong's standards and conformance infrastructure contributes greatly to the development of the local testing and certification industry, which has been growing steadily in the past two decades, and enjoys a good international reputation.
The testing and certification industry supports the manufacturing and service industries, and is an integral part of the overall supply chain. By providing assurance to overseas buyers on the quality and safety of products and services produced in both Hong Kong and the Mainland, it has played a part in the development of trading and logistics services in Hong Kong as well as the industrialisation of the Pearl River Delta region.
In June 2009, the testing and certification industry was identified by the Task Force on Economic Challenges as one of the six economic areas where Hong Kong enjoys clear advantages and has good potential for further development.
In September 2009, the Government established the Hong Kong Council for Testing and Certification to drive the development of the industry, to raise its professional standards, and to enhance the recognition of the industry in the international arena by building up a brand name for Hong Kong's testing and certification services. The council comprises members from the testing and certification industry, the business sector and professional organisations as well as the relevant public bodies and government departments. The priority task of the council is to work with the industry to formulate a three-year market-driven development plan within six months of its establishment.
The setting up of the council is a milestone in the development of the testing and certification industry that demonstrates staunch support from the Government for the sustained growth of the industry.
Human Resources, Technical Education and Industrial Training
Success in the knowledge-based economy of the 21st century depends heavily upon the availability of talent and skilled manpower at all levels. High-level education and training are provided by the tertiary education institutions. The Vocational Training Council provides vocational education, training and professional development. It also administers the New Technology Training Scheme which provides financial assistance to employers for training their staff in new technologies that while not yet widely applied will in future benefit Hong Kong significantly. The
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