The import volume of liquor increased by more than 20 percent, while a nearly 90 percent surge in the value of imported spirits has been recorded as of June, following the government's decision to slash the duty on high-end liquors since October.
The figure "reflecting that the two-tier system introduced by the government is effective in boosting high-end liquor trading," said the acting Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development Bernard Chan Pak-li on Wednesday at the Legislative Council.
He noted that the annual wine fair organized by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council attracted global participation, including the Irish Whiskey Association, which highlights the city's growing reputation in the spirits trade.
Regarding the suggestion that the government should further reduce the duty on liquor, Chan emphasized that the government has balanced economic development, fiscal stability, and public health when adjusting spirits duty.
"We would like to reiterate that the purpose of lowering liquor duty is to encourage the trade and auctions of high-end liquor in Hong Kong, thereby giving impetus to the development of other high value-added sectors such as logistics and storage, tourism as well as high-end food and beverage consumption," he said.
Chan said that any further adjustments will require careful consideration of the impact on different aspects with prudent planning, and the government "currently has no plan" to further adjust the duty rate on liquor.
The acting commerce chief said the liquor duty reduction has only been implemented for a short period, and authorities will monitor the trade and review policy effectiveness and avoid other issues that may arise from citizens increasing liquor consumption.
He stressed that the government attached great importance to the harms brought by alcohol -- in particular alcohol dependence, alcohol abuse and binge drinking -- and the authorities will continue to reduce alcohol-related harm through publicity, education, treatment and support services.
(Anson Luk)
