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Apr exports value down 13%

The value of Hong Kong's total exports decreased to $338.3 billion in April, down 13% on the same month last year, the Census & Statistics Department announced today.   The value of imports of goods decreased 11.9% to $374.9 billion for the same period.   A trade deficit of $36.6 billion, or 9.8% of the value of imports, was recorded in April.   Comparing the three-month period ending April with the preceding three months on a seasonally adjusted basis, the value of exports rose 15.4%, while that of imports increased 10.7%.   The Government noted that the value of merchandise exports declined further from a year earlier in April. Exports to the Mainland, the US and the European Union all shrank and exports to other major Asian markets recorded decreases of varying degrees.   Looking ahead, it added that the weakness in the advanced economies will continue to weigh on Hong Kong's export performance, though the expected faster recovery of the Mainland economy should

Ronald Lam to be Director of Health

The Government announced today that Centre for Health Protection Controller Dr Ronald Lam will take up the post of Director of Health on September 21, succeeding Dr Constance Chan who will start her pre-retirement leave.   Secretary for the Civil Service Patrick Nip said he is confident that Dr Lam will be able to lead the Department of Health to meet the challenges ahead.   “Dr Lam possesses profound professional knowledge and experience, and has proven leadership and management skills.”    On the retirement of Dr Chan, Mr Nip praised her for her contributions.   "Dr Chan has served with professionalism and commitment in the civil service throughout the past 33 years. As Director of Health, Dr Chan has made sustained efforts in leading the department to safeguard the health of the community through promotive, preventive, curative and rehabilitative services.”   Mr Nip added that in the face of the severe COVID-19 pandemic, Dr Chan has displayed resolve and perseverance in leading the department to rise to the challenges.   He wished her a fulfilling and happy retirement.   Click here for their biographies.
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