Ventures Dialogue

Local expertise in providing high value-added services such as design of testing protocols and manufacturing processes positioned Hong Kong as a potential hub for testing and certification, the Deputy Commissioner for Innovation and Technology of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government, Mr Andrew Lai, said recently.

Speaking at the 30th anniversary dinner of the Gemmological Association of Hong Kong, Mr Lai said the local testing and certification industry for such things as jade, diamonds and other gemstones was well-established after a long history of development and possessed various advantages, including:

• a sound accreditation system;
• high international reputation;
• widely recognised services; and,
• the capability to win the confidence of overseas and local clients by acting as an independent third party in providing services to Mainland enterprises.

Mr Lai said the HKSAR Government would set up the Hong Kong Council for Testing and Certification in three months to enhance the professional standards and global recognition of local testing and certification services. The council will work with the industry in mapping out a three-year market-oriented development blueprint within six months after its establishment.