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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

Clarice Yu to head Buildings Dept

Deputy Director of Buildings Clarice Yu will succeed Yu Tak-cheung, who will start his pre-retirement leave, as Director on November 29.   Secretary for the Civil Service Patrick Nip said he is confident that Ms Yu will be able to lead the Buildings Department to meet the challenges ahead.   “Ms Yu has proven leadership skills, profound professional knowledge in building safety and extensive operational experience.”   Mr Nip also praised Mr Yu on his commitment.   “Mr Yu has served with zeal and commitment in the civil service over the past 36 years. As Director of Buildings, Mr Yu has made remarkable contributions and led the department in setting and enforcing safety, health and environmental standards for private buildings.   “I wish him a fulfilling and happy retirement."   Click here for their biographies.
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