Hong Kong lawmakers urge stronger aviation ties and specialist insurance for emerging industries
Hong Kong lawmaker Kenneth Fok calls for expanding civil aviation partnerships beyond Belt and Road nations, while legislator Chan Pui-leung urges government action on talent shortages to develop specialist insurance for new industries.
Hong Kong's Legislative Assembly on Wednesday began a three-day combined debate on the city's first five-year plan and the latest Policy Address.
Kenneth Fok, lawmaker representing the sports, performing arts, culture and publishing sectors, said the five-year plan sets a target of exploring stronger civil aviation ties with 10 or more partners annually, at least 40 per cent of which should be Belt and Road countries. Fok said he hoped the figure could exceed 10 per year and that Hong Kong should not limit itself to Belt and Road regions. He called for a more open policy and a fairer competitive environment, which he said would benefit tourism and allow Hong Kong residents to buy cheaper air tickets, while also contributing to the nation's high-level opening-up policy.
Insurance sector legislator Chan Pui-leung said the successful development of all industries depends on talent. He said that if Hong Kong wants to develop specialist insurance for emerging industries, it must address the severe shortage of senior underwriting and claims professionals. Chan said the government should help bridge this gap by strengthening local training and attracting overseas talent.
Chan proposed relaxing eligibility for the city's 'high talent' scheme to cover roles where Hong Kong faces shortages, expanding the list of recognised universities to include 'professional rankings', or allowing more than 10 years of relevant senior industry experience to substitute for academic qualifications. He also called for setting specific five-year targets for attracting high-end talent.
On local talent cultivation, Chan suggested establishing dedicated scholarships and encouraging tertiary institutions to offer bachelor's and master's programmes in insurance, as well as making insurance a key focus of 'applied science universities'.