Sales Tax |
| In view of our opposition to the introduction of a Goods and Services
Tax (Sales Tax), we are pleased to welcome the Government of the HKSAR in accepting our
views in preparation of the Budget for the two consecutive financial years of 2002-2003 and 2003-2004.
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Despite the fact that a Sales Tax will so far not be introduced, the Government is still considering
this as a means to broaden the tax base and securing a stable source of public revenue in years to come.
Press releases were sent out in March 2002 and March 2003 to reiterate that the imposition of a Sales Tax
would only weaken Hong Kong's competitive edge, which could consequently undermine Hong Kong's international
image as a tax-free destination and greatly affect the tourism industry as a whole.
With regard to the issue of imposing an unprecedented Sales Tax on Hong Kong, we will maintain a close working
relationship with the Government and continue to reflect the industry's concerns and views on the negative impact
the Sales Tax brought to Hong Kong.
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BBTS has always closely monitored the possible
implementation of a Sales Tax and the resulting impact it would have on industries in Hong Kong.
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Outbreak of the Atypical Pneumonia (SARS) |
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After the outbreak of atypical pneumonia in March 2003, the Association promptly sent a letter of encouragement
to Chairman of the Hospital Authority Board, Dr C H Leong expressing sincere thanks to the devoted efforts that
all the public hospitals and institutions have contributed in efforts to cure patients with pneumonia symptoms
and in identifying causes of the infection. We also greatly appreciate the efforts of all medical practitioners
who have continued to man their posts to ensure the smooth and efficient provision of medical and services to the
people of Hong Kong.
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The Association, however, has been concerned about the impact of the outbreak of atypical pneumonia on members' businesses.
To avoid the spread of atypical pneumonia and rebuild the confidence of consumers and to encourage continued local spending,
the following relevant health advice and guidelines issued by the Hong Kong government were circulated to all members:
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Health Advice on the Prevention of Respiratory Tract Infections |
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to All Licensees of Food Premises |
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to All Licensees of Non-food Premises |
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in Public Places |
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Protecting Yourself against Respiratory Tract Infections |
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To co-operate with the Hong Kong government and the entire local community in fighting SARS, we urged members to closely follow
the advice of the government and to do whatever they could to protect themselves, staff and customers against the disease on all fronts.
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Industry Representation |
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It is the Association's mission to represent the industry as a collective body and to work with the Hong Kong government and the private
sector in creating a more efficient and prosperous business environment.
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When new regulations, laws or codes are being drafted, we seek a high level of involvement. This ensures that the interests of our members
in the retail and restaurant sectors are heard. Involvement in policy formulation ensures our members are well informed when changes occur.
The Association has formally commented on the following industry issues:
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Construction Work of KCRC East Rail Extension (May 2002) |
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Licensing of Outside Seating Accommodation (June 2002) |
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Electrical Products (Safety) Regulation (October 2002) |
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Comments on the JCTI Position Paper (December 2002) |
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Smoking (Public Health) Ordinance (December 2002) |
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BBTS response to the Policy Address (January 2003) |
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Amendment on the Safety Standard for Toys & Children's Product (February 2003) |
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