The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) today (May 20) announced that the monthly gravidtrap index for Aedes albopictus mosquitoes in April was 1.2 per cent. The index in April remained at the lowest level, which is Level 1, indicating that the distribution of Aedes albopictus mosquitoes in the survey areas was not extensive.
      
     In April, all 64 survey areas recorded a gravidtrap index level lower than the alert level of 20 per cent. Moreover, the monthly density index for Aedes albopictus in April was 1.1, which means that an average of 1.1 Aedes albopictus adult was found in the Aedes-positive gravidtraps, indicating that the number of adult Aedes albopictus was not abundant in the survey areas. The gravidtrap and density indices for Aedes albopictus in different survey areas, as well as information on mosquito prevention and control measures, are available on the department website at www.fehd.gov.hk.

     A spokesman for the FEHD said, "As summer is approaching, the FEHD reminds members of the public to carry out early effective prevention and control measures against mosquitoes as mosquitoes breed quickly in the hot and rainy weather. The Government has long been concerned about mosquito infestation. The FEHD has continued to intensify the mosquito prevention and control work with relevant government departments in areas under their purview, including eliminating mosquito breeding places, applying larvicides, conducting fogging operations to eradicate adult mosquitoes, and placing mosquito trapping devices at suitable locations. The FEHD has also conducted site inspections with relevant departments, and provided them with professional advice and technical support to assist them in formulating and implementing effective anti-mosquito measures swiftly. At the same time, the FEHD has strengthened publicity and education. Under the concerted efforts and collaboration of various parties, the index in April remained at a low level. The FEHD will continue to monitor the mosquito infestation in all districts, and will conduct prompt and effective mosquito prevention and control work. At the same time, members of the public are advised to continue the routine mosquito prevention and control work, especially the repair and maintenance of structures. Cracks and dents which may accumulate water and become potential breeding grounds should be filled and levelled to reduce the chance of mosquito breeding."

     The FEHD will conduct a three-phase Anti-mosquito Campaign this year. The second phase of the territory-wide campaign was launched on April 14 and will run until June 13. During the period, the district offices of the FEHD will target areas that have drawn particular concern, such as public markets, cooked food centres and hawker bazaars, single-block buildings, streets and back lanes, common parts of buildings, village houses, construction sites, vacant sites and road works sites to remove accumulated water and carry out mosquito prevention and control work. To further enhance the effectiveness of mosquito control, the FEHD and relevant government departments have carried out phase two of the All-out Anti-mosquito Operations from May 7. In addition to the work of phase one, including eliminating potential mosquito breeding places, the FEHD called on property management entities to arrange for necessary repairs to their premises to minimise mosquito breeding places and commence adult mosquito control measures by means of regular ultra-low volume fogging operations.
      
     The FEHD appeals to members of the public to continue to stay alert and work together to carry out mosquito prevention and control measures early, including inspecting their homes and surroundings to remove potential breeding grounds, changing water in vases and scrubbing their inner surfaces, removing water in saucers under potted plants at least once a week, properly disposing of containers such as soft drink cans and lunch boxes, and drilling large holes in unused tyres. The FEHD also advises members of the public and estate management bodies to keep drains free of blockage and level all defective ground surfaces to prevent the accumulation of water. They should also scrub all drains and surface sewers with an alkaline detergent at least once a week to remove any mosquito eggs.

     Aedes albopictus is a kind of mosquito that can transmit dengue fever (DF). DF is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions of the world, and has become endemic in many countries in Southeast Asia. In 2024, the World Health Organization recorded over 14 million DF cases, which was a record number. The dengue activity in neighbouring areas has remained high. Members of the public should stay vigilant and continue to carry out effective mosquito prevention and control measures.

     The Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Cheuk Wing-hing, today (May 20) held a press conference to announce nine projects to be implemented by the Working Group on Developing Tourist Hotspots (Working Group). Also attending the press conference were the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law; the Under Secretary for Security, Mr Michael Cheuk; the Under Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Mr Clarence Leung; the Under Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Miss Diane Wong; the Under Secretary for Development, Mr David Lam; and the Commissioner for Tourism, Mrs Angelina Cheung.
 
     Mr Cheuk said, "New travel patterns and tourists' preferences increasingly value hotspots with unique features that are part of the flavour of Hong Kong. As there are many treasured tourist attractions in Hong Kong, we consider that in addition to creating new hotspots, current tourism resources should be consolidated and enriched to maximise the value of these hotspots and create attractions that tourists cannot miss.
      
     "The Working Group has gathered opinions from different sectors of the community and considered different proposals. From the many options, we have at this stage selected nine appealing and feasible projects that can be implemented within a short period. Through upgrades of hardware and software, renovations and enhancements, maintenance and renewal of attractions, provision of ancillary services and facilities as well as opening up places that have not been open to the public before, tourists will be offered new experiences that are more in-depth and fascinating."
 
     The nine projects to be implemented are:
 
1. Hong Kong Industrial Brand Tourism

     Hong Kong's industrial story fully embodies the spirit of the Lion Rock. The tourism industry is forming groups to develop "Made in Hong Kong" industrial tourism, creating hotspots for visitors to tour, experience and shop. Industrial brands that can be visited include Lee Kum Kee, Kee Wah, Pat Chun and Yakult. A trial launch is expected in the third quarter of this year.
 
2. Victoria Park Bazaar

     Taking advantage of the location and foot-traffic benefits of Victoria Park, a Victoria Park Bazaar will be launched. Some 30 stalls will be set up at popular Victoria Park entrances from Causeway Bay near the Water Fountain Plaza and the South Pavilion Plaza, offering various cultural and creative services, handmade crafts and artworks. Exciting themed activities will be held at different times of the year to create a vibrant arts fair atmosphere and maintain the event's appeal. The bazaar is to be launched in the fourth quarter of this year, operating on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays.
 
3. Creating a Pink Trumpet Tree Garden

     Pink trumpet trees will be extensively planted near the habourfront of Tamar Park, alongside suitable locations for flowering shrubs such as bougainvillea, to create a colourful viewing area that brings synergy with the Central harbourfront. The planting work is expected to be completed by the end of this year.
 
4. Featured community – In-depth travel in Old Town Central

     The Central to Mid-Levels Escalator and Walkway System serves as a conduit that connects nearby tourist attractions, shops, restaurants and bars, boosting retail and food and beverage businesses along the route. Beautification of the system will be completed by the end of this year. Technology will be used to guide visitors to explore alleys and streets in the neighborhood. The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has collaborated with HKwalls to transform the Central and Western District to add authentic artworks by local, Mainland and international artists, adding plenty of picture-perfect spots. Moreover, the HKTB will enrich the content of its Hong Kong Neighborhood – Old Town Central programme to respond to new tourism trends and create an inviting itinerary that combines arts and culture, historical architecture, dining and drinking experiences, encouraging visitors to experience Hong Kong's local flavour from different perspectives.
 
5. Featured community – In-depth travel in Kowloon City

     Using the "Kowloon Walled City: A Cinematic Journey" Movie Set Exhibition as a starting point, tourists' experiences in the Kowloon City District will be extended through delicious cuisine and smart travel, boosting consumption in the District. The Tourism Commission will expand the City in Time Project to Kowloon City District in this year. Through augmented reality technology, tourists can experience the old days of Kowloon City, including the Kowloon Walled City, Kai Tak Airport and its changing scenery, in light of the new trend of city walk and in-depth tourism.
 
6. Disciplinary Services Pioneer Tours

     Hong Kong disciplinary services enjoy international acclaim among tourists from the Mainland and overseas. Museums of disciplinary services such as the Police Museum, the Hong Kong Correctional Services Museum and the Fire and Ambulance Services Education Centre and Museum will, in collaboration with the tourism sector, develop and launch tourism products in the second quarter of this year to enable tourists' visits and share the fascinating history of Hong Kong's disciplinary services. More facilitation measures will be provided by streamlining registration procedures for travel agencies so that the tourism sector can enrich their travelling routes with visits to museums of disciplinary services or the Independent Commission Against Corruption, etc. In the medium to long term, thematic routes related to disciplinary services will be promoted to overseas tourists, in addition to the enhancement of display items and planning of thematic exhibitions, to increase the attractiveness of these tours.
 
7.        Opening of the Former Yau Ma Tei Police Station

     The former Yau Ma Tei Police Station will be partially opened to tourists who can see for themselves the layout and atmosphere of an old police station, which has served as famous settings for police movies and dramas. By the fourth quarter of this year, the ground floor will be opened to the public, featuring a replica report room, cellblocks, additional photo booths employing augmented reality technology, classic crime movie screenings, a memory wall displaying stills and posters of classic crime films, police mascots for photo-taking, souvenir sales, etc. In the medium term, while the surrounding areas of the former Yau Ma Tei Police Station are under construction, activities will be held near the police station starting from the fourth quarter of 2026 to further enhance the tourism experience. The police station will also accommodate the police museum in the long run.
 
8.        "Four Peaks" Tourism

     Taking advantage of the proximity of mountains and sea to the city centre in Hong Kong, green tourism revolving around four peaks will be developed. They are the Peak (Peak Trail (High West Section)), Lantau Peak (Ngong Ping Trail (Nei Lak Shan Section)), Sai Kung Hoi (Sharp Island Country Trail) and Tai Mo Shan (Rotary Park to Tai Mo Shan Viewpoint). Considering the popularity of hiking trails, touring across these four selected peaks will be characterised by their unique scenery, easy and short routes, convenient transportation and comfort for travellers. It is planned to enhance hiking trail facilities, i.e. installing more directional signs and hiking information boards, in addition to connecting to nearby tourist spots for a well-planned journey for further promotion with the tourism sector. This is expected to be fully completed by the end of 2026.
 
9. Revistalising the Former Hung Hom Railway Freight Yard Pier

     The former Hung Hom Railway Freight Yard Pier at the midway point of Victoria Harbour, with a stunning view of the skyline of Hong Kong Island, makes a great place to enjoy Hong Kong's beautiful scenery. The yard will be developed into a character-filled space for organising different activities so that the public can take pictures and appreciate the panoramic views of Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong Island. The Government will begin basic beautification work and, at the same time, invite interested operators to submit proposals, aiming to open it for public use in the first quarter of 2026.
 
     "The above hotspots span across the territory, underlining the concept of 'tourism is everywhere in Hong Kong'. There are indoor and outdoor hotspots, locales for visits and explorations, as well as places for enjoying the ecology and scenery. They cater for travellers' individual preferences, which can easily fit in different travelling routes for creating pleasant journeys. Hong Kong will gain in popularity and prosperity as the hotspots will bring economic benefits, boost consumption sentiment and stimulate the economy," Mr Cheuk said.
 
     "The Government will engage the trade proactively, making good use of various resources for marketing and promotions, creating innovative travelling routes and new products for tourist groups. This new initiative will capitalise on the characteristics of different tourist hotspots, to enhance their attractiveness. With concerted efforts, I firmly believe Hong Kong's tourism industry will attain a new level of prosperity."
 
     The Chief Executive announced in the 2024 Policy Address that a Working Group on Developing Tourist Hotspots will be set up, and the Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration will be the leader. The Working Group aims to strengthen cross-departmental co-ordination and leverage community efforts, identify and develop tourist hotspots of high popularity and with strong appeal in various districts. Other members of the Working Group include the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism (deputy leader), the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, the Secretary for Development, the Secretary for Environment and Ecology, the Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, the Secretary for Security, the Secretary for Transport and Logistics, the Director of Home Affairs, the Director of Leisure and Cultural Services and the Commissioner for Tourism.

        

     The Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau, will depart for Chongqing tomorrow (May 21) afternoon to attend the 7th Western China International Fair for Investment and Trade to strengthen economic and trade promotion and exchange between Chongqing and Hong Kong.
 
     Mr Yau will return to Hong Kong in the afternoon on May 23. The Under Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Dr Bernard Chan, will be the Acting Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development during Mr Yau's absence.

     According to the latest labour force statistics (i.e. provisional figures for February – April 2025) released today (May 20) by the Census and Statistics Department (C&SD), the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased from 3.2% in January – March 2025 to 3.4% in February – April 2025. The underemployment rate also increased from 1.1% in January – March 2025 to 1.3% in February – April 2025.
 
     Comparing February – April 2025 with January – March 2025, the unemployment rate (not seasonally adjusted) increased in many major economic sectors, with more distinct increases observed in the construction sector, accommodation services sector, food and beverage service activities sector, and financing sector. Meanwhile, declines in the unemployment rates were seen in the information and communications sector; insurance sector; and arts, entertainment and recreation sector. As to the underemployment rate, increases were mainly seen in the construction sector and cleaning and similar activities sector.
 
     Total employment decreased by around 15 600 from 3 692 700 in January – March 2025 to 3 677 100 in February – April 2025. Over the same period, the labour force also decreased by around 9 000 from 3 815 500 to 3 806 500.
 
     The number of unemployed persons (not seasonally adjusted) increased by around 6 600 from 122 800 in January – March 2025 to 129 400 in February – April 2025. Over the same period, the number of underemployed persons also increased by around 4 900 from 42 700 to 47 600.
       
Commentary
 
     Commenting on the latest unemployment figures, the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Chris Sun, said, "The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased by 0.2 percentage point from a low level in January – March 2025 to 3.4% in February – April 2025.  The underemployment rate went up to 1.3%.  The labour force and total employment decreased further to 3 806 500 and 3 677 100 respectively from the preceding three-month period."
      
     Looking ahead, Mr Chris Sun said, "Various industries in Hong Kong are undergoing a transitional period, and the trends of their unemployment rates may go upward or downward.  However, the recent easing of trade tensions, the continued growth in the Mainland economy, the Government’s various measures to boost economic momentum and the continuous positive growth of the overall economy will provide support to the labour market."
      
     Mr Chris Sun said, "Although we see some recent closures of shops, there have also been openings of many new shops.  As at end-2024, the number of companies registered in Hong Kong has reached a record high of 1.46 million, likely against emergence of new demands and new consumption trends.  The recent successful organisation of a series of mega events in Hong Kong, coupled with the concerted efforts of the Government in tandem with different industries including tourism, catering, hospitality and retail, has led to a significant increase in the number of inbound visitors, which will bring about more opportunities to the labour market."
 
Further information
 
     The unemployment and underemployment statistics were compiled from the findings of the continuous General Household Survey.
 
     In the survey, the definitions used in measuring unemployment and underemployment follow closely those recommended by the International Labour Organization. The employed population covers all employers, self-employed persons, employees (including full-time, part-time, casual workers, etc.) and unpaid family workers. Unemployed persons by industry (or occupation) are classified according to their previous industry (or occupation).
 
     The survey for February – April 2025 covered a sample of some 26 000 households or 68 000 persons, selected in accordance with a scientifically designed sampling scheme to represent the population of Hong Kong. Labour force statistics compiled from this sample represented the situation in the moving three-month period of February to April 2025.
 
     Data on labour force characteristics were obtained from the survey by interviewing each member aged 15 or over in the sampled households.
 
     Statistical tables on the latest labour force statistics can be downloaded at the website of the C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/scode200.html). More detailed analysis of the labour force characteristics is given in the "Quarterly Report on General Household Survey" which is published four times a year. The latest issue of the report contains statistics for the quarter October – December 2024 while the next issue covering the quarter January – March 2025 will be available by end May 2025. Users can also browse and download this publication at the website of the C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/EIndexbySubject.html?pcode=B1050001&scode=200).
 
     For enquiries about labour force statistics, please contact the General Household Survey Section (3) of the C&SD (Tel: 2887 5508 or email: ghs@censtatd.gov.hk).
 

     In response to the Japanese Government's plan to discharge nuclear-contaminated water at the Fukushima Nuclear Power Station, the Director of Food and Environmental Hygiene issued a Food Safety Order which prohibits all aquatic products, sea salt and seaweeds originating from the 10 metropolis/prefectures, namely Tokyo, Fukushima, Ibaraki, Miyagi, Chiba, Gunma, Tochigi, Niigata, Nagano and Saitama, from being imported into and supplied in Hong Kong.
 
     For other Japanese aquatic products, sea salt and seaweeds that are not prohibited from being imported into Hong Kong, the Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department is conducting comprehensive radiological tests to verify that the radiation levels of these products do not exceed the guideline levels before they are allowed to be supplied in the market.
 
     As the discharge of nuclear-contaminated water is unprecedented and will continue for 30 years or more, the Government will closely monitor the situation and continue to implement the enhanced testing arrangements. Should anomalies be detected, the Government does not preclude further tightening the scope of the import ban.
 
     From noon on May 19 to noon today (May 20), the CFS conducted tests on the radiological levels of 178 food samples imported from Japan, which were of the "aquatic and related products, seaweeds and sea salt" category. No sample was found to have exceeded the safety limit. Details can be found on the CFS's thematic website titled "Control Measures on Foods Imported from Japan" (www.cfs.gov.hk/english/programme/programme_rafs/programme_rafs_fc_01_30_Nuclear_Event_and_Food_Safety.html).

     In parallel, the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) has also tested 50 samples of local catch for radiological levels. All the samples passed the tests. Details can be found on the AFCD's website (www.afcd.gov.hk/english/fisheries/Radiological_testing/Radiological_Test.html).
 
     The Hong Kong Observatory (HKO) has also enhanced the environmental monitoring of the local waters. No anomaly has been detected so far. For details, please refer to the HKO's website
(www.hko.gov.hk/en/radiation/monitoring/seawater.html).
 
     From August 24, 2023, to noon today, the CFS and the AFCD have conducted tests on the radiological levels of 137 129 samples of food imported from Japan (including 90 275 samples of aquatic and related products, seaweeds and sea salt) and 31 586 samples of local catch respectively. All the samples passed the tests.