BRI offices to target Islamic investments

Hong Kong will set up two consultant offices among countries under the Belt and Road Initiative that will include Islamic countries in the coming year in a bid to attract investments and promote trade, said Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury Christopher Hui Ching-yu.

The Belt and Road Initiative is a global infrastructure development strategy started by China in 2013 to connect Asia with Africa and Europe.

Replying to a question from a lawmaker on attracting Islamic investors, Hui said the government will encourage Hong Kong students to learn the languages of the BRI countries and regions in addition to Chinese and English.

For instance, the Arabic language is included in the international examinations administered by the Hong Kong Examinations and Assessment Authority, Hui noted.

In some tertiary institutions are offering courses on Islamic culture and Islamic finance as part of the undergraduate and postgraduate programs, Hui said, adding that the government is also encouraging students to participate in learning experience programs outside Hong Kong to facilitate exchanges between local students and those from the B&R countries.

In promoting the supply of halal-certified food products, there are relevant Islamic organizations in Hong Kong providing halal certification for food products, following Islamic law and procedures, Hui said, adding that many Halal-certified restaurants are operating in the city as well.

Hui said the government will strengthen the liaison with the relevant organizations in catering to the daily needs of the Muslim community.

For example, there is an industry association exploring the feasibility of establishing a certification body in Hong Kong on halal certification for food products, he noted.

Hui added, that there are established channels for the government to respond to other needs of the Muslim community.

For example, regarding religious facilities, the government has been in close dialogue with religious bodies and welcomes their applications for using vacant government land for religious purposes, he said.