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DECEMBER 29, 2022 - JANUARY 3, 2023

EVENTS

New York Times Square New Year’s Eve (Dec 31, 2022) shone a spotlight on Hong Kong, with contemporary dance group TS Crew, world champion harmonica player CY Leo and erhu virtuoso Chan Pik-sum kicking off the countdown celebration with their captivating performance. This dance and music extravaganza was staged against a medley of Chinese and Western classics newly arranged by legendary jazz pianist and composer Ted Lo, under the theme “Fusion, Motion, Inspirations - Hong Kong Rocks!” Director of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in New York, Candy Nip, said Hong Kong was thrilled to be part of this iconic event. “This was a great way to show the world that Hong Kong is back on the international stage, and the city is ready to welcome global visitors,” she added. Nip also praised the artists for being the ambassadors for Hong Kong, showcasing the flair and artistry of Hong Kong people while building friendships across cultures. Hong Kong fashion icon Vivienne Tam has designed a limited-edition scarf that incorporates elements of Hong Kong and New Year to mark this special occasion.

The US premiere of Romeo + Juliet, presented by Hong Kong Ballet (HKB) at New York City Center on January 13 and 14 is near sold out! This timeless tale of star-crossed lovers is re-imagined by HKB’s Artistic Director Septime Webre. Set in 1960s Hong Kong, the choreography presents a stunning visual feast from intense street battles to elegant dancers in sumptuous cheongsams. Accompanied by Prokofiev’s dramatic score, this adaption is especially relevant for contemporary audiences as it fuses dance and drama against a backdrop of a world in flux. Limited tickets are available here! 

ECONOMY

The value of Hong Kong's total goods exports fell to US$46.2 billion in November, down 24.1% year-on-year. The value of goods imports dropped 20.3% to US$49.6 billion for the same period, resulting in a trade deficit of US$3.5 billion, or 7% of the value of imports, recorded for the month. The year-on-year decrease in the value of merchandise exports widened in November amid the deteriorating external environment and disruptions to cross-boundary land transportation. Hong Kong’s export performance will continue to face huge challenges in the near term as monetary policy tightening in advanced economies further dampens demand.

EDUCATION

Hong Kong youngsters excelled in the WorldSkills Competition 2022 Special Edition, held between September and November, by bringing home a record-breaking total of one gold medal and 12 medallions for excellence. Hong Kong Design Institute graduate Kaitlyn Leung was one of Hong Kong contestants who took top honors in the competition, winning the gold medal in the visual merchandising category. This was also the third gold medal for Team Hong Kong in its history of competing at the WorldSkills Competition. 

BASIC LAW

The Basic Law (BL) is the constitutional document of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. It provides the guarantees to maintain our existing way of life, including socio-economic development, the rights and duties of Hong Kong people, the rule of law and other areas. The Basic Law was put into effect on July 1, 1997.

Q: Can Hong Kong conclude and implement agreements with foreign states and regions or international organizations, and participate in international conferences?

A: Hong Kong plays an active role in the international arena and maintains close contact with its international partners. The HKSAR may under the authorization of the Central People’s Government (CPG) conclude certain agreements with foreign states or regions, or may on its own, using the name “Hong Kong, China”, maintain and develop relations and conclude and implement agreements with foreign states and regions and relevant international organizations in the appropriate fields.

Since Hong Kong’s return to the Motherland, the HKSAR Government, authorized by the CPG or on its own, has concluded about 600 bilateral agreements in accordance with the Basic Law, including air services agreements, visa abolition agreements, free trade agreements, and cultural co-operation agreements etc. In addition, the HKSAR may, as members of delegations of the People’s Republic of China, or in such other capacity as may be permitted by the CPG and the international organization or conference concerned, or using the name “Hong Kong, China”, participate in relevant international organizations and conferences. (BL Articles 96; 133; 151; 152; 155)