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The Media, Communications and Information Technology

The two incumbent terrestrial television broadcasters launched DTT, including the broadcasting of free high-definition television programmes and channels in 2007. Currently, about 80 per cent of Hong Kong households receive digital television. The two broadcasters achieved digital coverage of about 99 per cent of the population by the end of 2013, approximately the same as that of analogue television broadcasting. Having regard to the actual implementation and market situation of digital terrestrial TV development, including the respective coverage and take-up rate of DTT, the government decided in mid-2011 that the end of 2015 should be the working target for ending analogue television broadcasting.

The government announced on 15 October that the Chief Executive in Council had granted approval-in-principle to two applicants for a domestic free television programme service licence. After reviewing further information submitted by the two applicants, the CA will submit its recommendations to the Chief Executive in Council on whether they should each be formally granted a licence under the Broadcasting Ordinance.

Postal Services

Hongkong Post provides an efficient, reliable and affordable postal service to the public, with overall customer satisfaction reaching 98.5 per cent. It handled 1.25 billion postal items in 2013, of which 84.2 per cent were local items and the rest were for delivery outside Hong Kong, mainly Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the Mainland of China.

Speedpost

Speedpost celebrated its 40th anniversary. Publicity programmes, including monthly lucky draws and a newly-designed JOY Pack, were launched.

New and Enhanced Services

Smart Post was launched in April, providing economical local mail delivery with mail-tracking function and a choice between mail delivery and counter collection. An online, one-stop Direct Marketing DIY Promotion Platform (www.DMDIY.hk) was introduced in June to enable small and medium enterprises to plan, create, produce and distribute Direct Mail for marketing purposes. Enhancements to the online EC-Ship platform included segregating e-Express items addressed to the US and including EPS and cash as payment options in addition to credit cards.

Promoting Philately

Hongkong Post issued 11 sets of special stamps and sheetlets in 2013 on various themes, including the Year of the Snake, Revitalisation of Historic Buildings in Hong Kong, Kai Tak Cruise Terminal, Hong Kong Buses and Our Legislative Council. A roving stamp exhibition marking the 150th anniversary of stamp issuance in Hong Kong drew many visitors and helped foster interest in philately.

Central Mail Centre

Construction of the Central Mail Centre, incorporating eco-friendly designs, was completed in July. This new mail processing facility amalgamates the International Mail Centre and the General Post Office Sorting Office to enhance operational efficiency, Relocation began in late 2013, to be completed by the end of 2014.

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