16 May, 2003

Dear Friends,

Now that our stringent measures against the SARS virus are succeeding, we are determined to maintain the momentum. After two weeks of decreasing new cases, we are close to satisfying the conditions set by the World Health Organisation for lifting the travel advisory.

While the impact on Hong Kong has been severe, our resilience is never in doubt. We have responded to this outbreak with transparency, professionalism and cohesion. We will emerge stronger than ever.

Allow me to update you on the latest developments:

  • New SARs cases have fallen dramatically. For more than two weeks, we have had fewer than ten cases, including two consecutive days with five cases or fewer.  

  • WHO has praised the measures taken at Hong Kong's entry and exit points, including our boundary with the Chinese mainland. Over the past four weeks, these efforts have been successful. There are no WHO restrictions on Hong Kong people travelling internationally, a point which the US Centre for Disease Control highlighted in its advisory of May 14.  

  • WHO and leading medical experts are urging people to keep a clear perspective in assessing the Sars risk, to which they believe many have overreacted.  

  • WHO has restated its position on the safety of goods from Sars-affected regions. In a May 5 release it said that "no restrictions are recommended". This is essential news for those who rely on Hong Kong's global supply chain.  

  • Production is still going on uninterrupted in factories in the Pearl River Delta, the world's factory, and cargo is moving efficiently through Hong Kong.  

  • The international business community continues to demonstrate its commitment to Hong Kong and to express confidence in our future.  

  • International buyers, many of whom rely on Hong Kong trade fairs for their sourcing needs, are returning. Rescheduled trade fairs are taking place throughout the summer and early autumn months, with organisers in Asia's trade fair capital committed to an even greater level of service.

Major buying seasons lie ahead and missed business opportunities are waiting to be recaptured. Hong Kong's travel, tourism and hospitality industries are stepping forward with unbeatable packages for business travellers, especially for buyers visiting our gift and houseware fairs in July.

For details on all Sars-related initiatives, please check our e-newsletter www.hktrader.net which is updated daily.

While life in Hong Kong is returning to normal, we are not complacent. We have committed to accelerated programmes for improved public hygiene, health monitoring and disease control, now and for the long term.

We look forward to working with you and demonstrating Hong Kong's continued capability to serve your business. Your success is our success.

Yours faithfully

Peter Woo, GBS, JP

Chairman

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