ENG-2013 — Page 212

Food Safety, Environmental Hygiene, Agriculture and Fisheries

The VMO is a statutory body governed by the Agricultural Products (Marketing) Ordinance. It provides wholesale marketing services for the sale of vegetables. It charges a commission on the vegetables sold, and in return provides trading facilities, transport and pesticide residue testing services to farmers and traders. Surplus income is ploughed back into farming development and scholarships for farmers' children. In 2013, the VMO handled 137,288 tonnes of vegetables valued at $1,042.9 million.

The FMO is governed by the Marine Fish (Marketing) Ordinance. It provides wholesale marketing services at its seven wholesale markets. Revenue comes from the commission charged on fish sales and from fees charged for the use of market facilities. Surplus earnings are channelled back to the fisheries industry by way of low-interest loans to fishermen, outlay that improves market services and facilities, and training grants and scholarships for the fishermen and their children. During the year, some 44,980 tonnes of marine fish valued at $2.69 billion were sold through the FMO. The FMO develops fish products at its processing centre to help promote the quality of local products.

Websites

Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department: www.afcd.gov.hk Food and Environmental Hygiene Department: www.fehd.gov.hk Food and Health Bureau: www.fhb.gov.hk

168