Britain in Hong Kong May 2012

Britain

IN HONG KONG May 2012

Vo l 2 7

www.br i tcham.com

No 4

Not For Sale

16

UK Budget

24

Celebrating the Diamond Jubilee

29

Wine – En Primeur

24

Contents Celebrating History the Diamond Jubilee of HM Queen Elizabeth II

29

6

Quarter Century 25 Years of the British Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong

En Primeur

4 Chairman’s Message

26 Lions Tour

6 Quarter Century

29 En Primeur

8 Banks Going Social

32 SpaforLife

10 Business Confidence

34 Member Get Member 2012

12 Think Outside the Packaging

36 Member Discounts

15 YCIS

38 Annual Ball

16 Good, Bad, Ugly

39 Best of British

18 Management Leads Lettings

40 News and New Appointments

20 HK Making Progress

41 Upcoming Events / Sterling Members

22 Recycling

42 New Members

24 Diamond Jubilee

43 Shaken Not Stirred

Britain in Hong Kong Editor Sam Powney Design Winnie Li Lilian Yu Ken Ng Advertising Contact Charles Zimmerman Project Management Vincent Foe

Jointly Published by Speedflex Medianet Ltd and The British Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong 1/F, Hua Qin International Building 340 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong Tel: 2542 2780 Fax: 2542 3733 Email: info@speedflex.com.hk Editorial: sam.powney@speedflex.com.hk Advertising: charles@speedflex.com.hk

British Chamber of Commerce Secretariat Executive Director CJA Hammerbeck CB, CBE General Manager Cynthia Wang Marketing and Communications Manager Emily Ferrary Special Events Manager Becky Roberts Events Executive Mandy Cheng Business Development Manager Dovenia Chow

Membership Executive Lucy Jenkins Accountant Michelle Cheung Executive Assistant Jessie Yip Secretary Yammie Yuen Office Assistant Sam Chan

Room 1201, Emperor Group Centre, 288 Hennessy Road, Wanchai Tel: 2824 2211 Fax: 2824 1333 Website: www.britcham.com

© All published material is copyright protected. Permission in writing from the Publishers must be obtained for the reproduction of the contents, whole or in part. The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily the opinions of the Publishers. The Publishers assume no responsibility for investment or legal advice contained herein.

Chairman’s

Message Business in Hong Kong remains as strong

fun. This year we’re following a medieval

as it has been for many years now, although

theme, with guests arriving in Camelot–

the global markets continue to remain

inspired costumes. On a note to fellow

on high alert, due principally to ongoing

rugby fans, there will be a ‘One Year to Go’

headaches in Europe’s economy.

lunch at the Four Seasons Hotel on the 1st of June, in which a star-studded collection

Last month we were privileged to hear

of rugby greats will officially launch the

from Charles Li, the Chief Executive of Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited, who gave the Chamber some valuable insights into the HKEx’s strategic visions for the future. We also heard from

countdown to the Lions’ 125th anniversary Tour. The tour will kick off in Hong Kong next year with the Lions playing the revered Barbarians.

HM Consul General to Hong Kong and Macau, who

And finally, after two consecutive terms I will be stepping

introduced what’s happening in Hong Kong to celebrate

aside as Chairman of the British Chamber to make way

two extraordinary London events, namely Her Majesty’s

for a new representative. This has been a responsibility

Diamond Jubilee and the London Olympics.

that I have thoroughly enjoyed, it has provided me

There will be a major event at the Hong Kong Club to mark the Diamond Jubilee, jointly organised by the British Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong, The Royal Commonwealth Society, The Royal Geographical Society,

an opportunity to meet some of the most interesting personalities, business & political leaders and hopefully in all of this I have brought some value to the mission and activities of the British Chamber.

The Royal Over-seas League, The Royal Society of St.

I would like to place of record my sincere gratitude to

George, St. Andrew’s Society, St. David’s Society, St

the team who have supported me and ensure the clock

Patrick’s Society & The Oxford and Cambridge Society

continues ticking at Britcham. It has been my honour to

of Hong Kong. There will be large screens set up where

serve you all.

you watch the Royal Thames flotilla and the Buckingham Palace Diamond Jubilee Concert in London.

Good Luck,

Besides these global spectacles, there are also several major events coming up fast in the Chamber calendar.

First and foremost, I look forward to seeing many of you at the Standard Chartered Annual Ball, the Chamber’s biggest event of the year. We’re now counting down the days to what promises, as usual, to be a great deal of

Kevin Taylor

Chairs of Specialist Committees Business Policy Unit Tim Peirson-Smith Executive Counsel

Environment Committee Anne Kerr Mott MacDonald Hong Kong Limited

Marketing & Communications Committee Adam O’Conor Ogilvy & Mather Group

Small & Medium Enterprises Committee Kate Kelly K2PR

China Committee David Watt DTZ

Financial Services Interest Group Debbie Annells Azure Tax Consulting

Real Estate Committee Jeremy Sheldon Jones Lang LaSalle

Women in Business Committee Sheila Dickinson Ipac Financial Planning Hong Kong Limited

Construction Industry Group Derek Smyth Gammon Construction

HR Advisory Group Brian Renwick Boyden Search Global Executive

Scottish Business Group John Bruce Hill & Associates

YNetwork Committee Alison Asome

Education Committee Stephen Eno Baker & McKenzie

ICT IT Committee Craig Armstrong Standard Chartered

Logistics Committee Mark Millar M Power Associates

Business Angel Programme Neil Orvay Asia Spa & Wellness Limited

I M I T E D China L G N I IS s in D V E RT s e r v ic e

O U ) A o f p re - p re s s g z h o u H Z G N n (GUA in G u a ll r a n g e

ia r y he fu FLEX S P E E D dflex provides llty owned subsid S p e e g h it s w h o t h ro u

Hong Kong Office

Guangzhou Subsidiary Office

1st Floor, Hua Qin International Building

Rm 1208-9, 12/F Hao Yun Commerical Plaza

340 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong

376 Xin Gang Zhong Lu, Guangzhou, China

Tel: (852) 2542 2780

Tel: (020) 2129 9508

Fax: (852) 2542 3733

Fax: (020) 8956 2197

For more information, please contact Charles Zimmerman on (852) 2542 2780 or at charles@speedflex.com.hk

C ove r S t o r y

Quarter Century 25 Years of the British Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong

Sam Powney

It has been a long road since 1987. Twenty five years ago this May, a group of local businessmen, the ‘British Bulldogs’ first set up the British Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong as a forum and representative body for the British trade bodies in Hong Kong. The essential purpose has remained constant in the intervening years, but from the Chamber’s original tight-knit group of acquaintances, the membership has greatly grown and diversified. ‘The atmosphere is still very British as always,’ says Cynthia Wang, who is the General Manager and the Chamber’s longest-serving member of staff, ‘but our focus is no longer just on British companies and the membership is now much more diverse. That’s a great strength.’

The Chamber now represents five hundred corporate members, including a thriving new category of SME and start-up members, as well as over eleven hundred individual members.

about future political and economic stability. Some of those worries continued to haunt the city, and would reappear in earnest during the relatively short but dark period of the SARS outbreak in 2003. But from the mid1990s onwards, the Chamber actively re-engaged with businesses and the government both in Hong Kong and Beijing, and emerged post-handover as one of the city’s most important business groups, whose members now employ around twelve percent of Hong Kong’s working population.

As it was for Hong Kong as a whole, the Handover represented an unparalleled moment in the Chamber’s history and one which would define its destiny well into the future. Christopher Hammerbeck, Executive Director for the past eighteen years, remembers the tense negotiations in Beijing, when he and other figures sought to guarantee the interests of British businesses in Hong Kong after July 1997. Governor Chris Patten’s moves towards democracy were unpopular among much of the business community who feared that Sino-British relations could be seriously jeopardised as a result. ‘At that time there were some similarities between China’s economic challenges and the situation which the British government had recently been faced with. We sensed an opportunity.’ After many twists

In contrast, the chamber’s first decade was fraught with uncertainty, as the Chamber and British business in general sought to re-examine and redefine its role in China’s most economically developed city. The turn of the 1990s and the lead-up to Hong Kong’s transfer of sovereignty back to China saw the British Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong restricted by concerns

24 Sep 1982

1993

1994

Talks on Hong Kong sovereignty Margaret Thatcher and Deng Xiaoping meet in Beijing to discuss the future of Hong Kong.

Brigadier Hammerbeck joins as the Chamber’s new Executive Director.

British Chamber launches the first Business Confidence

25 May 1987

1994

New chamber founded by the 'British Bulldogs' Offices based New chamber founded by the ‘British Bulldogs’.

Action plan launched for regeneration of the Chamber

Britain in Hong Kong

and turns, he and several other figures had the chance brief the Chinese State Economic and Trade Commission on Britain’s experience of denationalising state industries.

‘I took representatives of several major industries and all the major merchant banks along who had advised the government on the ‘golden share’.

Tony Pollard from British Steel gave a convincing presentation on British Steel’s successful handling of downsizing and privatisation, but the response was not encouraging. ‘We were driving back from the meeting,’ says Hammerbeck, ‘and I said ‘Tony, that was a fantastic job you did.’ He suddenly turned on me, ‘If that was success, what must failure be like in China?’ Nevertheless, for four years afterwards we had a young cadre here on the Chamber staff, paid for by CCPIT in Beijing. That made a very clear statement that from the Chinese side that they wanted British companies and British investment to stay, and that the British Chamber of Commerce was important to them. That was the tipping point. It got us going in a big way; it did much to reassure our members and it enabled us to establish a really strong China relationship.’

Those early days had a strong influence on everything that was to come afterwards, setting a clear course

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for the chamber – to maintain a strong relationship with the government in Beijing, in London, and with the administration in Hong Kong. Under Norman Lyle’s chairmanship of the chamber it was felt that London’s interest in Hong Kong was waning, prompting he and Christopher Hammerbeck to lobby the Parliamentary Foreign Affairs Committee as well as Trade and Industry on the important opportunities to be gained in the most open example of China’s ‘one country two systems’ policy. This direction has also borne fruit, now very visible in Britain’s keen awareness of Hong Kong’s potential as a springboard for British SMEs. Is there any difference between Britcham and the other chambers of commerce in Hong Kong? ‘We are the only Chamber which provides responses to Hong Kong government consultations. But there’s a more fundamental trait I think – that we have a very deep tie to this place,’ Hammerbeck explains. ‘Our home is Hong Kong. Some of our member companies were founded here, and even of our expat members many have been here for over 30 years.’ That sense of locality and community is something the Chamber will no doubt continue to draw on for many years to come.

1 Jul 1997

10 Nov 2001

2004

Handover of Hong Kong

China joins the WTO

Review and validation of Action Plan

2012

2000 1995

2000

29 Mar 2003

Office moves to the Tung Wai Building on Fleming Road.

British Chamber moves to present location on Johnston Road

Hong Kong hit by the SARS virus

7

Business

Banks Going Social Swapna Reddy, Division Manager Banking, Finance and Accounting, Links Recruitment Limited

1. Does social networking help with hiring?

2. Does social networking help with branding?

A recruiter’s key role is to

Banks that are using social media to brand

find the right candidate for

themselves or to market a specific product or

the right job at the right

service, have found success by integrating social

time. Industry contacts and

media tools into their existing campaigns or

expertise are traditionally

creating new ones that capitalize on the spirit of the

the best methods to

community. Banks have recently realized a number

identify a perfect match.

of marketing techniques using social medial tools.

Recently, recruiters are

Whether it’s by making the bank synonymous

actively looking to social

with solid financial advice or by giving people the

media and finding success, regardless of the type of

power to do some good for the society in general,

organization or industry they work in.

banks that have been finding a range of marketing techniques using social media tools have got solid

As a banking and financial services recruiter, I

results.

personally prefer LinkedIn. It is a massive CV people by target company and / or job expertise. For

3. D o e s s o c i a l n e t w o r k i n g h e l p b r i n g customers closer for banks?

other social media options, I find it harder and unclear

Social media has become a great customer service

to link the details on those platforms to the job

tool across many industries and banking is no

requirements we work on. LinkedIn is a great option

exception. But for banks that are more active in

that streamlines search process to find very relevant

engaging with their customers over social media

and quality candidates.

channels about their products, real-time search can

database that recruiters can leverage in finding

be helpful in addressing problems with customers For banks and financial services companies, social

directly. Having a visible Twitter account can be a

media is a great platform to attract the attention of

quick and easy first step in the customer service

those individuals with the right functional interest,

chain when people want to get specific information.

ethical values, mindset, etc. that the company

For example, Citibank has launched a Twitter

would eventually look for in hiring a potential

account @askciti that will deal with customer

candidate.

complaints.

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4. I n g e n e r a l , i f a n y, w h a t a r e t h e advantages that social networking yields for banks?

Customer centric: Banks use their websites as an effective social media platform to provide information and enable standard transactions quickly and conveniently. Also, actively starting blogs and participating in other social networking sites work well too. Increased transparency, trust, and convenience would (<<DELETE) allow customers to compare, evaluate and discuss the banks offerings. Direct feedback from customers could potentially help banks to improve those offerings.

Transparency and restore confidence: With a controlled and closely managed approach to social media, banks can use this as an option to be transparent with their customers and better future prospects.

Reduce costs: Shifting communications to the web will dramatically reduce the costs of communicating with customers. Banks can sell complex, high-margin products via online channels, adding to their cost savings.

In the long run, the banks that engage well with social media will ultimately win more customers and increase profits.

For more information about Links Recruitment Limited, please visit www.linksrecruitment.com or contact their Hong Kong office at (852) 2116 1020 or email frontdesk@linksrecruitment.com.

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9

Business

British Chamber Sees Business Confidence For Coming Twelve Months Down On Previous Year The British Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Business Confidence Survey has revealed that its members have a less positive outlook for the Hong Kong business environment in the coming 12 months compared to last year.

The results of the survey, carried out by the British Chamber of Commerce and marketing consultants TNS, has revealed that the Chamber members’ optimism for the coming 12 months has declined significantly from 92 per cent at the end of 2010 to 71 per cent at the start of 2012.

This drop is also below the 78 per cent reported in 2009.

However, the outlook beyond the immediate 12 months then begins to increase with 88 per cent feeling positive about the coming 2 years but then declines slightly with 87 per cent for the three year forecast and 85 per cent for the five year forecast.

Satisfaction with Hong Kong as a place for doing business remains, as always, very high with 96 per cent of Chamber members describing the business environment as ‘very’ or ‘somewhat’ satisfactory. This is largely driven by factors such as geographical location, taxation system, communications, free port status, infrastructure and information technology. Whilst this is a slight decrease from last year, the consistency of Hong Kong’s positive business attributes is demonstrated in the relative stability of the satisfaction ratings for many issues.

The performance of the Hong Kong Government has not fared so well this year in the eyes of Britcham members with a decrease in the scores in all four attributes: legal and regulatory systems, stable government and political system, civil service efficiency and government leadership.

This is a sharp contrast to this time last year when the same items showed an improvement on the previous year.

Similarly, the survey saw a decrease in members’ satisfaction with the government’s long-term strategy.

This year only 48 percent of members felt that the

government had the right strategy to maintain and enhance the competitive advantages of SAR, a decrease of 11 per cent from last year. A further decrease of 21 per cent was seen with only 51 per cent of members feeling satisfied with Government’s effort to simplify regulations and reduce bureaucracy.

Language education still continues to cause concern for Chamber members with only 50 per cent of those surveyed feeling satisfied with the Government’s efforts to provide bilingual and trilingual graduates and managers to meet the present and future economic challenges of Hong Kong.

On issues affecting Small and Medium Enterprises and government initiatives, 56 per cent consider the reintroduction of the training allowance as an important issue which the government could help to address, whilst 63 per cent think the application of fair competition practices with government departments to allow small companies to compete for government contracts is an important issue.

83 per cent believe that either abolishing the provisional tax payment based on the previous year’s profits or reversing the percentage payable so that the amount is minimised is important to their business.

The Hong Kong environment was once again the greatest cause for concern. Satisfaction with the government’s performance on environmental affairs has declined significantly since 2010 with 94 per cent of members feeling dissatisfied with the government’s effort to improve air quality, and 77 per cent feeling the same about the efforts being made to reduce water pollution in the harbour and coastal areas of Hong Kong.

Britain in Hong Kong

With regards to the quality of life in Hong Kong, similar results were found to last year with 71 per cent of members recognising the effort made by the Hong Kong Government to encourage the expansion of international schools to create more places as important to their business competitiveness. Only 15 per cent of members, however, have employees whose children are currently waitlisted for schools in Hong Kong, a decrease of 10 per cent from last year, whilst only 20 per cent of members intend to bring employees to Hong Kong with their families, including school age children, within the next 12 months.

This is down 24 per cent from last year.

Members’ satisfaction with the healthcare sector also remained similar to last year with 40 per cent of members feeling confident with the Government’s strategy to reform it, whilst 45 per cent expect the projected aging population to have an impact on their businesses, compared to 53 per cent in 2010.

Finally, with regards to doing business in China, 74 per cent of members expect to make an investment, or further investments in the PRC which is an 8 per cent increase from last year. However, 57 per cent of members agree

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with reports that doing business in the PRC is becoming increasingly difficult, the same figure as last year.

Christopher Hammerbeck, Executive Director of the British Chamber of Commerce commented that “set against a backdrop of continuing economic turmoil and uncertainty in some of Hong Kong’s traditional markets the decline in short term confidence was to be expected. What is encouraging is the fact that both medium term and long term confidence remains positive. The key issues for our members remains the declining environment, especially in terms of air quality, and the lack of primary school places in international schools both of which the Hong Kong Government seems not to recognise are harming the competitiveness of Hong Kong when compared to regional competitors such as Singapore. Given that Hong Kong is on the verge of a change of administration the surfacing of some frustrations with the performance of the outgoing administration were perhaps to be expected. On balance, however, the British business community remains positive about the future, particularly as its activities are underpinned by its fundamentals such as the rule of law and the lack of corruption when compared with other locations.”

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Business

Think Outside the

Packaging

New Frontiers in IP Protection Robert L. Youill, Managing Director, FTI Consulting, Shanghai

Executive Summary •

The global trade of pirated goods is estimated to

growing global trade in

reach up to US$1,770 billion by 2015.

pirated goods was estimated to exceed US$650 billion

•

Electronic evidence recovery, data forensics and

per year, with estimates that

intelligence analysis are sophisticated tools for

t h i s t r a d e w i l l g ro w f ro m

investigating counterfeit syndicates, and counterfeit-

US$1,220-US$1,770 billion by

packaging investigations provide an additional

2015.1

strategy in the fight against fraud.

Although the counterfeiters have been moving ahead, •

Firms are more likely to have a significant impact

many IP rights owners continue to fight counterfeit

against counterfeit syndicates if they identify and

and infringement problems through classic strategies,

disable the most strategically important players in the

focusing on standalone operations instead of evolving

counterfeiting supply chain.

with the times. Many companies still allocate budgets for protecting IP rights, and measure results through

Over the past two decades of economic globalisation,

obsolete performance indicators that emphasise seizure

counterfeit manufacturers and traders have been actively

quantities, the value of goods denied entry into a market,

operating in the shadows. The small, independent

the total number of enforcement actions, prosecution

counterfeiting operations of the past have been replaced

head-count, and others. Regardless, new counterfeiting

by highly-organised international syndicates that can

operations crop up as quickly as the old ones are raided

reach distant markets around the world. In 2008, the

or prosecuted.

Britain in Hong Kong

12

Small armies of commercial investigators and under-

warehousing, and selling have become replaceable links

experienced IP protection specialists seem to do little

in the chain.

to end the spot-and-seize anti-counterfeiting cycle.

Targets are drawn and milestones (usually based on

Anti-counterfeit efforts have typically skipped printers, but

seizure quantity) are established. Criteria are then given

investigation and enforcement agencies are now much

to service providers with reports coming in from the field,

more concerned with developing technical forensic and

often supported by informants. Actions are taken, reports

analytical expertise to look at packaging.

are written and invoices are issued. At the end of each year, reports are filed on the good effort that everyone

As even the average consumer will have noticed,

has put into cutting down the waves of fake goods. With

sophisticated packaging and built-in security elements

all of this going on, it's a shame that it barely scratches

are now common with high-end items. Genuine goods

the surface of the real problem.

are now packaged using materials that have multiple security features. These give consumers added

The real source of the problem is with the key players

confidence that the product is genuine. The latest

within the counterfeiting industry who move hundreds

product packing designs also provide multiple indicators

of millions of dollars worth of product every year. These

that enforcement, judicial or customs organisations can

are the critical 'choke' points that exist in the counterfeit-

use to enforce security.

product supply chain - those working in the shadows and they are best disabled through intelligence-based

All too often, foods, beverages and pharmaceutical

investigations. In order to find and leverage against these

products have been subject to product tampering, and

choke points, forensic and analytical tools are used

companies have developed sophisticated packaging

to identify the best targets and the right enforcement

features to prevent such tampering.

strategies. The ultimate goal is to hit at the root of the problem and identify the most valuable stage of the illegal

The bad news is that counterfeiters are using the exact

production cycle.

same techniques for copying and printing their own counterfeit packaging, and the number of specialised

For the IP rights owner, there's some good news, which

packaging manufacturers has increased over the past

is that the tools already exist for powerfully disrupting the

few years to cater to these needs.

supply chain. These include addressing: •

Key players

•

Component suppliers

•

Finished-product assembly and packaging points

•

Exporter/importer supply chains

•

Wholesale and retail distributors

•

Internet-based operations

That said, for the past forty years, packaging suppliers have been neglected and efforts have concentrated on the finished-product assembly points. This came from the misconception that packaging can be sourced from all kinds of print shops, since packaging materials are low-value components. However, in today's syndicated counterfeiting supply chain, production and manufacturing functions are outsourced to specialised facilities, and product assembly, packaging, distribution,

13

Business

major aspect of organised counterfeiting activity, and significantly chokes a key piece in the counterfeit goods supply chain.

Nevertheless, the ability to target specialised printers is a process that never stops. This process must combine traditional investigative field work, forensic examination of packaging, intelligence analysis, supply chain identification, and electronic data forensics. Ideally, these investigations would come from a well-organised service provider, one that delivers broad and selective targeting through adequate resources and expertise.

The bad news is that counterfeiters are using the exact same techniques for copying and printing their own counterfeit packaging

FTI Consulting has developed strategies to support a number of global companies with their brand protection needs. In doing so, we have a strong track record of identifying and shutting down counterfeiting syndicates in markets around the globe.

1. Frontier Economics, Estimating the Global Economic and Social Impacts of Counterfeiting and Piracy, February 2011 For more information on FTI Consulting please visit or contact Robert Youill on +86.21.5108.8002 or email

Clearly, the classic mom and pop name-card printer

robert.youill@fticonsulting.com

of the past can't deliver the level of sophistication used for top-end products. Instead, today we have specialised printing operators with substantial investment in equipment stepping in to deliver the counterfeit packaging. These sophisticated counterfeit packaging operators are still willing to ignore trademark and other IP laws due to the low enforcement threshold. In other words, these sophisticated printers are willing to cross the line because no one is there to ensure no one is crossing that line. Therefore, printing factories that can provide quality copies of sophisticated packaging have become hubs of counterfeit packaging activity, providing packaging for a variety of products in partnership with illegal distribution and logistics centres.

Strategically striking at the root In certain product areas, properly-designed and executed investigations that focus on packaging can deliver a cost-effective solution to the problem of counterfeit goods. This approach deals with a

Bob Youill is a managing director of the Global Risk and Investigations practice of FTI Consulting, and he oversees the firm’s operations in Shanghai and Guangzhou. Mr. Youill specialises in conducting complex investigative assignments involving brand integrity, fraud or corruption, business intelligence and due diligence investigations, asset searching, and other risk consulting services.

Britain in Hong Kong

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An education feature brought to you by YCIS

YCIS trains an elite st 21 century workforce The days when traditional textbook and classroom learning were sufficient to prepare students to set out on their chosen career paths are firmly behind us.

The world is changing rapidly and

Cross-cultural experience

so too are the needs of employers.

Alongside strong academic qualifications and work skills, they are prioritising attributes like linguistic abilities, crosscultural communications experience and a broad knowledge of the world around us. In short, they are looking for highcalibre candidates with an international or global mindset.

On top of language skills, the younger generations need that “extra something” to enable them to form truly global perspectives and prepare them to become tomorrow’s community leaders.

Global marketplace for young talent The world is becoming a highly competitive marketplace for sourcing young talent.

Students completing their education today find themselves competing with their peers from around the globe for the best employment opportunities.

For educators these trends pose profound challenges. They need to prepare the younger generation to enable them to have successful and fulfilling lives in the 21st century.

Yew Chung International School’s Director, Dr. Betty Chan Po-king, summed up the challenges faced by the education sector in these words: “This new era requires new ways of thinking, new approaches to educating the young, a new concept of world citizenship, a paradigm shift from narrow thinking to world mindedness.”

Language proficiency Dual-language education, starting at an early age, is one of the vital building blocks. In YCIS’s context, this means that teaching students to master both Chinese and English.

YCIS teaches students to master both Chinese and English

By becoming fluent in two languages, students absorb different perspectives, traditions and values and become more accepting of other languages and cultures.

Global mindedness can be fostered through student exchanges. By visiting and learning about different places they can interact with their peers in other locations and cultures, perform crosscultural community service, and really develop their understanding about the world around them.

Strong academic qualifications The development of truly international education through holistic lear ning and promoting bilingualism and global mindedness offers many advantages, but it does not diminish the necessity of enabling students to achieve the best academic standards they are capable of.

YCIS was one of the frontrunners in Hong Kong to adopt the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, having offered the course noted for the breadth of study it encompasses since 2000. The IB curriculum is also taught at YCIS campuses in Mainland China and the US. In 2011, about 120 students in Hong Kong, Beijing and Shanghai sat for the IB Diploma examination. 19 per cent of graduates received a score of 40 points or above, compared to the worldwide average of 5 per cent.

The students obtained 100 per cent university placement with more than 500 placement offers from leading universities worldwide, including University College London, University of Warwick, University of California, Berkeley and Stanford University.

Future world citizens YCIS strives to make a concerted effort to educate students who will protect a n d p e r p e t u a t e t h e e n v i ro n m e n t , advance globalisation and make positive contributions to human civilisation.

YCIS students participate in the unique World Classroom programme to experience diverse cultures

In all these ways – through language proficiency, cross-cultural experience, high academic standards, and developing integrity and social consciousness – a truly international education can form the key attributes of our future world citizens.

Business

The Good, The Bad and The Downright Ugly George Osborne’s Third Budget

Martin Rimmer, Head of Tax – Asia Pacific, The Fry Group

It can be tempting to think of the annual Budget Report as a bit of an irrelevance given that most of us are fairly well removed from the UK tax system. Yet amidst all of the post-Budget headline-making about Granny

Taxes and the like, there were a number of important announcements which affect us here in Hong Kong.

The Good First of all, the Budget confirmed that the Personal Allowance would rise to GBP 8.105 on 6th April 2012 and still further to GBP 9,205 on 6 th April 2013.

Although not a surprise, this is welcome news for anyone who still has UK taxable sources of income.

Secondly, for those who have a stake in businesses which suffer UK corporation tax, the news is even better. A reduction in the headline rate of corporation tax to 24% on 1st April 2012 makes the UK the lowest cost corporate tax environment in the western world, with a further reduction to 22% coming in from 1st April

Britain in Hong Kong

2014. In the scramble to position the UK for the best possible economic recovery after the banking crisis, the Government appears to have chosen corporation tax reduction as the best means of enticing investment and jobs into the UK, and to tell the world that the UK is, once more, ‘open for business’.

Third, the Government has decided finally to do away with the rather archaic concept of ordinary residence, which no-one other than the legislators ever truly understood anyway. This will help to make residence issues clearer when the draft legislation for the long awaited Statutory Residence Test is finally published…. apparently any day now. Watch this space!

Fourth, the Government has also decided to look at increasing the inheritance tax exempt amount which can pass from a UK domiciled person to their nonUK domiciled spouse. At present this is GBP 55,000 in addition to the standard ‘Nil Rate Band’ of GBP 325,000. I have seen commentators already speculate that GBP 55,000 could be raised to GBP 325,000, which, if true, would amount to a generous inheritance tax saving of GBP 108,000.

16

George Osborne also announced plans for a new ‘General Anti-Avoidance Rule’ (GAAR), which potentially has the power to put paid to a lot of perfectly legitimate and reasonable tax planning. We will have to wait to see exactly how the consultation is framed, but it could become necessary for many to bring their tax planning forward in anticipation of some awkward new legislation.

The Ugly For an investor who is domiciled outside of the UK, it is quite common to buy UK residential property through an offshore company, as this provides complete sheltering from Inheritance Tax. However, many also use offshore companies as a means of transferring real estate in a way which avoided a substantial amount of stamp duty. In consequence, the Chancellor announced an unprecedented rise in stamp duty on residential property purchased by what he called ‘non-natural persons’ (i.e. companies, unit funds and other special purpose vehicles). From 21st March 2012, the new rate of stamp duty is a staggering 15%.

And if this wasn’t bad enough, the Chancellor has unveiled plans to consult on a new annual levy to apply on the residential real estate held by offshore companies, and a second consultation to look at applying CGT on gains realised from the sale of residential real estate by a non-resident company or other ‘non-natural person’.

For private individuals hoping to avoid inheritance tax by holding their properties through an offshore company this is a bit of a disaster. However, inheritance tax can still be avoided in large part by funding the property using a mortgage, and taking life assurance written in trust for the balance of any personal funds which are used to purchase the property.

Expect to see a significant migration of residential property out of non-UK structures within the next year or so, though of course the question now is how to do so in a way which avoids stamp duty. I think I may have found a way of doing this.

The Bad For those who wish to purchase residential property for GBP 2m or more, a new stamp duty land tax rate of 7% will apply to all purchases of UK residential accommodation – the new rate came into effect on Budget Day.

Suffice it to say, as far as real estate investment in the UK is concerned, there has never been a greater need for proper personal tax planning advice – and that is of course something that The Fry Group can provide.

If you would like to discuss how the budget affects you, or request updates as they happen on any of these subjects please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

17

Proper ty

Management leads lettings Neil West, Head of Lettings and Management, Prime Portfolio

Property management is the forgotten essential to

Mid Term Tenancy Negotiation:

long term property investment. Property managers ensure

It is imperative that the managing agent has a system

that the valuable asset placed in their hands remains in a

in place to proactively deal with end of tenancies and

condition comparable to the property that was purchased.

tenancy renewals. The agent should be contacting both landlord and tenant prior to the final two months of the

The main objectives of the property managers role are

tenancy to ascertain their intentions, thus, if the tenant is not proposing to renew the tenancy, maximising the

1. To ensure that the landlord achieves a competitive market rent for his investment, and therefore the

viewing terms in the tenancy agreement – the standard timeframe being the last two months of a tenancy.

maximum yield 2. To ensure that the property is kept in good repair.

If at this stage both tenant and landlord agree to renew

3. To ensure that the tenants are allowed to live in the

their contract it is likely that the landlord will be looking

property with minimal disruption.

for an increase of rent whilst the tenant looks for the rent to remain as is, or in some cases be decreased. This is

Achieving these objectives results from attention to detail:-

where the property management team in conjunction with the letting team should be able to provide the

Property Visits:

information required to make an informed decision in

Regular visits to the property are essential to maintaining

respect of the negotiations. They should be well versed

a property and are the only way to ensure that the

in current market rents that are being achieved in the

tenants are not in breach of their obligations as set out in

area and also have knowledge of what has happened

their Tenancy Agreement. Property visits allow property

throughout the tenancy to lead a tenant to feel that a rent

managers to identify areas of the property that require

increase is or isn’t justified.

attention so that potential issues are dealt with prior to becoming extensive and therefore leading to expensive

Clear and Concise Accounting:

works. Visits should be made once a quarter.

As with any investment the main purpose is to maximise income and capital growth. Effective accountants or credit control teams are critical.

Ideally an in house dedicated accountant who works closely with the property managers on a day to day basis ensures that there is a full understanding of the management process. This will enable them to

Britain in Hong Kong

18

identify and monitor forensically areas of costing that are

complies with the ever changing safety regulations is also

irregular or seem too repetitive, effective management

crucial, the managing agent must have Gas Safe and

accounting should be proactive

NICEIC approved contractors on their panel.

The accountant will be able to provide a forecast of

Importance of maintaining your investment:

expected income and expenditure so that there is always

It is important to be aware that at a certain stage of owning

a clear indication of likely movement within the account,

a property that further capital investment will be needed.

most will also factor in an estimated figure for any

Experience shows that those landlords who are receptive

unforeseen costs that may be incurred allowing you to feel

to their agents views on how to maximise the marketability

your investment is in competent hands.

of the property, i.e. upgrading furniture, décor, boilers etc when advised to do so, will be the those that maximise

Many managing agents will have client accounts on line,

rental income and eventually capital value when they wish

enabling a landlord to review his financial position at any

to release the investment. Monetary prudence is important

time. Prime Portfolio have this system in place.

but go too far in neglecting investment and your property will fall very quickly away from the very high standards of

Reputable managing agents will maintain client accounts

a prime market where some of the very best properties in

that are reconciled monthly, and are subject to an annual

the world are located.

review externally.

Void periods:

Value your managing agent: The importance of the

Inevitably there will be void

managing agent is often

periods between most

underrated as he fulfils

tenancies, although from

a critical function in the

a landlords perspective

life of any residential

these can be looked

property investment,

upon as loss of income,

a landlord has to have

a small period of vacancy

complete trust in their

can be important in

ability to look after a

ensuring that the property

property as if it were

is in perfect order prior

their own, it is his job to

to a new tenant taking possession. Many tenant-landlord

ensure that the full potential of the investment is realised in

or tenant-agent relationships break down within the first

an efficient and economic manner and that the maximum

week due to a rush to avoid a vacant period, therefore not

capital return is achieved on sale. A Landlord ignores the

allowing enough time for the managing agent to carry out

advice of a good managing agent at his peril!

necessary repairs and cleaning. Accepting a small void period between tenancies can be the difference between

Here at Prime Portfolio we have assembled a team that

having a happy and quiet tenant to having a tenant that

ensures the aforementioned essential aspects of managing

looks to find other areas within the property that may have

a property investment have a dedicated team member

been neglected.

for each purpose. Prime Portfolio currently employs two property managers, a lettings negotiator an in-house

Many other key services:

accountant and a tenancy administrator.

In addition to the above key areas there are many other aspects that are crucial, to avoid paying for services that

Neil West manages the Lettings and Management team at

are you are not liable for. Transferring utilities to the tenants

Prime Portfolio, a Mayfair based agent that specialises in

using correct meter readings and assessing tenants

offering the complete service from purchase, refurbishment

repair requests (is it a job that a tenant should reasonably

and marketing, letting and management through to

undertake themselves e.g. changing light bulbs during

eventual sale of the property.

a tenancy) are just two examples of this. Your managing agent should constantly be assessing their contractor’s charges and also challenging them to provide the best possible prices for landlords. Ensuring that the property

To arrange a meeting please call Neil West (UK office) +44 7786160989 or Nick Todhunter (HK office) +852 60230894

19

Environment

HK making progress towards becoming a

GREENER PORT

Asia is home to eleven of the world’s top 15 ports, handling over 175 million twenty foot containers (teu) per annum. In South China, the Pearl River Delta (PRD) region has the largest concentration – with Hong Kong, Shenzhen and Guangzhou together accounting for 12% of global container movements.

Despite economic and competitive pressures, Hong Kong port still managed over 3% volume growth in 2011, handling 24.4 million twenty foot containers (teu) and maintaining its third place on the global container port rankings – after Shanghai and Singapore – with Shenzhen a close fourth with 22.5 million teu.

In Hong Kong, we are also seeing increasing momentum in green port initiatives, which will benefit not just the stakeholders in the ocean freight sector, but also the community at large.

Health Warning on Port Activities

Mark Millar, Logistics Committee Chairman

According to the industry paper ‘Creating a Green port Culture in Asia’ from Turnkey Group, Asia based ports are lagging behind the leading ports in Europe and USA in the area of ‘sustainability’. Specifically, many ports around Asia need to increase the level of environmental considerations for development and deployment of sustainability initiatives – otherwise port emissions will increasingly compromise the health of the general public.

The Turnkey report includes a study which found that inhalation of toxic fumes from ship and port emissions results in some 60,000 deaths worldwide per year, with over 37,000 of those in Asia. Countries with high population density levels in the vicinity of their ports are likely to suffer the most and therefore this becomes a topic of critical importance for the South China port cluster, where we have a highly concentrated urban population of over 32 million people.

The low grade, heavy bunker fuel currently used in modern container ships contains 2,000 times the sulphur content of a modern automobile. Indeed, research has shown

Britain in Hong Kong

that one giant container ship can emit almost the same amount of cancer and asthma-causing chemicals as 50 million cars.

20

Guangzhou and Hong Kong authorities will announce firm plans later this year.

In the meantime, Hong Kong government has recently confirmed assistance for the participating shipping lines that are burning low sulphur fuel whilst in Hong Kong port.

Financial assistance will come in the form of rebates on port charges and should subsidise between 30-50% of the additional cost of switching to low sulphur fuel. The rebate program projected to cost HKD 260 million over three years has been approved as part of the financial secretary’s recent budget proposals and will be implemented this summer.

Fair Winds Charter The Fair Winds Charter is a significant shipping industry initiative in Hong Kong – a voluntary agreement facilitated by the public-policy think tank Civic Exchange and the Hong Kong Liner Shipping Association, undertaken by leading shipping lines, for a two year period from January 2010. Under the charter, seventeen global shipping lines voluntarily agreed to switch to fuel with sulphur content of 0.5 percent or less whilst berthed in Hong Kong. Regular marine fuel used by container ships typically has sulphur content of between 2.8% and 4.5%.

The charter was launched with the voluntary commitment to use the more-expensive lower sulphur fuel, in parallel with six specific calls to action, not least of which was for government to work with their Guangdong counterparts to develop a unified regional low sulphur mandate for all ports in the Pearl River Delta.

In the October 2011 Policy Address, the HKSAR government committed to explore such a regional initiative and to also explore establishing an Emission Control Area in PRD waters. In the USA for example, their Emission Control Area – being implemented this year – stipulates that as vessels come within 200 miles of the North American coastline, they have to switch to fuel with less than 1% sulphur content, to be further reduced to 0.1% by year 2015.

The Pearl River Delta discussions have been ongoing for some time and expectations are that the Shenzhen,

This is great encouragement for the shipping lines involved in the Fair Winds Charter. They are incurring additional costs between USD 600,000 to $1.5 million per year for the low sulphur fuel – a substantial additional burden in financially challenging times for an industry that incurred global losses in excess of five billion US dollars last year. However, there are also some concerns that the subsidies may not be high enough to encourage the nonparticipating shipping lines to join the scheme.

The two year voluntary agreement will expire at the end of this year. The industry is waiting to see how many shipping lines continue the voluntary agreement – and how much progress will be made by government in developing regional mandates for low sulphur fuel and emission control areas. We strongly advocate implementing an even playing field for all the shipping lines – and one that is for the betterment of our community as a whole.

Mark Millar MBA, PMHKLA, FCILT, GAICD Mark Millar is Managing Partner of M Power Associates, providing supply chain and logistics consulting, advisory and recruitment services that empower superior performance. With over 25 years global business experience, Mark is acknowledged as an industry thought leader – clients have engaged him as Speaker, Moderator or Conference Chairman at more than 200 functions in 20 countries. Mark serves as Chair of the Logistics Committee at the British Chamber. mark@markmillar.com

21

Environment

One Man’s Waste is

Another’s Treasure Wiebke Hein, Environment Committee 67,000 tonnes of WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) are generated in Hong Kong alone. Now think about the production lines just across the border. What happens when a new phone or computer is launched to replace the older model? Where do all the old models in the warehouses or shops disappear to?

Isn’t it fun to fondle your newest phone, computer or cool gadget? While you enjoy unwrapping and checking all the latest features, your old devices will find itself neglected and collect dust in one dark corner of your home or office. What to do with it then? What happens to those rapidly aging devices of our modern life?

BritCham member James Pearson is advisor to Li Tong Group and gave us the opportunity to take a close-up look at the process that deals with unwanted computers and accessories. About 15 members were curious enough to venture out to Yuen Long to find out more.

The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) estimates that about one fifth of the over 6 million computers and computer accessories used in Hong Kong are replaced annually. Many of them get to the second hand market, but enough still end up in landfills. Each year, over

Many computer components contain hazardous materials and they are harmful to the environment if not recycled properly. In 2003 the EPD started with a pilot program for recycling waste computers and accessories in which nearly 150,000 of those have been recovered and processed. Thus, in 2008 the Computer Recycling Program has been launched.

In his presentation, James explained to us the “Reverse Supply Chain Management” and how it not only avoids

Britain in Hong Kong

waste and helps treat harmful substances, but allows harvesting of valuable materials and components along the way. James stressed that there are a lot of untapped business opportunities along the second half of the lifecycle of such products. Whereas most people call it sloppily “waste” you can actually create value by reusing it, separating it and making it easy for other people to use it again for their needs. Some pieces that are still in working condition can be data wiped and donated to charities.

Some components such as fans or speakers could be reused for other products. And if you break it down into its basic materials like aluminum, iron, plastic or copper you can create a source of reusable material that can be fed again into the value chain. This can even partly replace the extraction of more raw materials.

First we took a look at the EcoPark facility that deals mainly with products collected by the Computer Recycling Program. It is impressive how they deal with this wide array of different products ranging from large printers to computer power cords. James explained how they need to account for all incoming pieces and how they have to document carefully . None of the items can appear on the grey market or else the scheme would be discredited.

It was interesting to see how fast you can take apart a printer but how much time and effort it takes to deal properly with certain types of CRT/LCD monitors and screens that are deemed chemical waste due to the mercury content.

22

But when it comes to the business side it is of course much better value to have large quantities of the same item to deal with. So, corporate customers that want to dispose of older or faulty models in greater numbers naturally present the better business case. To serve multinationals that need to pass audits and scrutiny Li Tong is well placed to recycle e-waste and to document it correctly. To the untrained eye it is painful to see the shredder doing its work on motherboards, or to imagine the piles of new displays becoming glass, iron, and other materials again. But it is easy to imagine that more companies can live on providing specialized recycling for certain products, because value is waiting to be unlocked in those large boxes of unwanted items.

Disposal and raw material make up to 20% of a product’s carbon footprint, so it is a great place to start reducing the emissions by using remanufactured parts or recycled materials and by harvesting the product at the end of its cycle for other usage.

So, we learnt there are no more excuses to pile up unwanted computers and parts, find out what parts are collected and where. You can even get your office or housing estate to join the scheme. If you don’t want it, let other people source value in it! www.wastereduction.gov. hk A big thank you to the BritCham team and to Li Tong for organizing this inspiring tour.

23

Lifestyle

Celebrating History -

the Diamond Jubilee of HM Queen Elizabeth II

J u n e 2012 marks the 60

th

anniversary of the accession of Queen Elizabeth II to the throne and the eagerly anticipated international celebration of the Diamond Jubilee.

In the United Kingdom, communities all around the country will be celebrating over an extended bank holiday weekend from 2 to 5 June.

London is meanwhile busy preparing a number of events spread over the four day weekend.

The first engagement of the Diamond Jubilee will take place on Saturday 2 June, with Her Majesty The Queen attending the Epsom Derby. The following day over 1,000 boats will muster on the river in preparation for The Queen to lead one of the largest flotillas ever seen on the River Thames. The armed forces, fire, police, rescue and other services will be afloat and there will be an exuberance of historic boats, wooden launches, steam vessels and other boats of note. The flotilla itself will be bolstered with passenger boats carrying up to 30,000 flag-waving members of the public placed centre stage (or rather midriver) in this floating celebration, and the spectacle will be

further enhanced with music barges and boats spouting geysers. The Thames Diamond Jubilee Pageant will celebrates Her Majesty’s 60 years of service by magnificently bringing the Thames to life, recalling both its royal heritage and its heyday as a working, bustling river.

The Diamond Jubilee festival will also be taking place on Sunday 3 June in London’s Battersea Park, which will offer a great vantage point for members of the public to view the pageant. The festival will celebrate design, music, art, film, fashion and food from the past 60 years. On Monday 4 June a concert, organized by the BBC, has been arranged at Buckingham Palace. The concert will be attended by The Queen, The Duke of Edinburgh and other members of the Royal Family and it will be broadcast live on BBC One, Radio 2, and on big screens in Hyde Park, St James’s Park and The Mall. Meanwhile, a network of over 4000 Beacons will be lit by communities around the world to commemorate The Queen’s 60 year reign over the UK and as head of the Commonwealth.

Britain in Hong Kong

On the final day of the celebrations, Tuesday 5 June, the Queen and other members of the Royal Family will attend a national service of thanksgiving at St. Paul’s Cathedral. A ‘Diamond Choir’ of children from around the UK will sing a specially composed song and the service will include a prayer written by the Chapter of

24

St Paul’s Cathedral in honour of the Diamond Jubilee.

Later in the day, the Royal Family will travel from Westminster Hall to Buckingham Palace by carriage, along a processional route, where, shortly after their arrival, they will appear on the balcony to watch an RAF fly-past take place.

What’s happening in Hong Kong!

The Quintessentially Foundation celebrates the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee with a Charity Concert to give back to the community On Sunday 27 May the Quintessentially Foundation is celebrating the 60th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s accession to the throne, with a charity concert free for the Hong Kong public, in collaboration with British Airways, Ryder Diamonds and the SAR Philharmonic Orchestra. All donations to the Quintessentially Foundation will go to support their four local charity partners in Hong Kong: The Autism Partnership School, Mother’s Choice, The Women’s Foundation and the Christina Noble Children’s Foundation. The SAR Philharmonic Orchestra along with Richard Bramping, principal cellist of the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra, will present a thrilling programme of Saint-Saens Cello Concerto No.1 in A minor, the Sibelius Symphony No.2 in D major, and the quintessentially British Pomp and Circumstance March No.1 by Elgar. Reserve your tickets at rsvphk@quintessentially.com or +852 2540 8595.

The British Chamber celebrates the Diamond Jubilee of HM Queen Elizabeth II at The Hong Kong Club On the evening of Tuesday 5 June The British Chamber of Commerce, The Royal Commonwealth Society, The Royal Geographical Society, The Royal Over-seas League, The Royal Society of St. George, St. Andrew’s Society, St. David’s Society, St Patrick’s Society & The Oxford and Cambridge Society of Hong Kong will be celebrating the Diamond Jubilee with a cocktail reception at the Hong Kong Club. Drinks and canapés will be served at 8pm in the Garden Lounge which will have a large screen showing the Royal Thames flotilla and Buckingham Palace Diamond Jubilee Concert. At 9pm a toast will be made by Andrew Seaton, HM Consul-General to Hong Kong, followed by a live screening of the Royal Procession from the City to Buckingham Palace.

A Service of Thanksgiving to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee St John’s Cathedral will be holding a special service of thanksgiving, to mark the Diamond Jubilee, at lunchtime on Tuesday 5 June. Please keep an eye on our website, www.britcham.com, for more information.

A Diamond Jubilee ‘Royal Afternoon Tea’, alongside Royal works of art at Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong In celebration of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s 60 year reign, Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong will be arranging a quintessentially British Diamond Jubilee ‘Royal Afternoon Tea’ in the Clipper Lounge, which guests can enjoy whilst admiring 27 works of art by HRH The Prince of Wales, HRH Queen Victoria and Prince Albert along with photographs

by Lord Snowdon, in conjunction with the Belgravia Gallery in London. To complement the lithographs, photographs and etchings by members of the Royal Family, Executive Chef Uwe Opocensky, who cooked for HM The Queen and HRH Prince Philip’s 50th anniversary dinner, will offer a truly Royal British Afternoon Tea. The Royal Afternoon Tea will be served on fine bone china and will cost HKD288 for one person and HKD488 for two people. Should guests wish, they can make this a sparkling affair with a ‘Royal Champagne Afternoon Tea’ where a glass of “R” de Ruinart Champagne will be included at HKD488 for one or HKD888 for two. The Royal Afternoon Tea will be served in the Clipper Lounge between 3 and 6 pm from 27 May until 10 June 2012. All prices are subject to 10% service charge.

For reservations or further information please call +852 2825 4007 or email mohkg-clipperlounge@mohg.com.

25

Lifestyle

The British & Irish Lions 125 years of rugby history The British & Irish Lions, a team selected from the elite Rugby Union players from the four fiercest of rivals (England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales) join forces to go on Tour every four years, playing 10 matches all around Australia, South Africa or New Zealand. Underpinned behind The Lions’ players are the very values which reunite them together as a team: Pride, Exclusivity, Passion, Responsibility, Pioneering and Friendship.

The Lions name was coined during the inter-war period, when the emblem on the players' jersey and lapel badges gave them their alternative title. Formed of the best players of rival teams, The British & Irish Lions only have a few weeks to work together as an elite team. Bonding that quickly on the pitch necessitates true professionalism and skills…this is what makes The Lions special. They play for the love of the game, together as one unit.

Britain in Hong Kong

The Lions have an interesting background, the first tour in 1988 was a commercial venture made without official backing, but the six subsequent visits that took place prior to 1910 enjoyed a growing degree of support from the authorities, although only one of these included representatives of all four nations.

Brian O’Driscoll’s iconic try during the 1st test match in 2001 when The Lions last toured Australia left the 12,000 Lions fans in the Gabba crowd delirious marking the beginning of the infamous sea of red.

The Lions’ last Tour, in 2009 to South Africa was a tough assignment for Paul O'Connell's team as they had to face the reigning World C u p a n d Tr i - N a t i o n s champions. The 10 match tour turned into an outstanding success both on and off the field as The Lions rekindled their magic and pushed John Smit's Springboks all the way in one of the greatest Test series of the professional era.

The Lions won six and drew one of their provincial matches, but went down 2-1 in a pulsating Test campaign. Having fallen behind 2-0 with defeats in Durban and Pretoria, the latter to a last second penalty from his own half by Morne Steyn, The Lions battled back to win the final Test in Johannesburg 28-9.

To launch the historic 125th year anniversary Tour to Australia on 1st June 2013, The Lions will make history as they play their first ever match in Hong Kong against the Barbarians.

Hong Kong is a logical stop-off point for The Lions on their way to Australia and is home to a huge rugby-

26

loving ex-pat community. The Lions will be playing the Barbarians; an extremely exciting match for the very large British, Irish, Australian and South African population in Hong Kong.

To commemorate the 125th year anniversary of The Lions a series of events will take place in the buildup to the Tour in the UK, Hong Kong and Australia, starting with a one-off “Year To Go” lunch at the Four Seasons on the 1st June 2012.

Tour Manager for The Lions Andy Irvine and Team Manager for the Barbarians Derek Quinnell, will give an exclusive insight into both The Lions and the Barbarians respectively. A high-quality auction will take place followed by a few words by Chairman and Lions legend Gerald Davies and John Eales, one of Australia’s greatest ever players.

Cost of the lunch is HK$ 1,995 per person and tables can be for 10 or 12.

To b o o k a t a b l e p l e a s e e m a i l M a b e l L a u : mabel@communiquehk.com or call +852 2850 5990.

27

THE BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND STANDARD CHARTERED BANK ANNUAL BALL 2012 ♥

Friday 8th June 2012 Grand Ballroom, The Grand Hyatt 7:30pm - Late Dress Code: Themed Fancy Dress – Camelot Chic

WWW.BRITCHAM.COM/SIR-DANCE-A-LOT FOR FURTHER INFO PLEASE CONTACT BECKY@BRITCHAM.COM

The Jones Lang LaSalle 5-A-Side Corporate Football Tournament!

In Association with the YNetwork of the British Chamber of Commerce

A DATE FOR YOUR DIARY DATE:

Wednesday 23rd May, 2012

TIME:

6.30pm – 11.30pm

VENUE: Astro Pitch & Dining Room Hong Kong Football Club, Happy Valley

Britain in Hong Kong

Lifestyle

28

En Primeur for Beginners Dovenia Chow

For many of you budding wine enthusiasts out there I am guessing, like me, you are still trying to grasp the hundreds of names, terms, vintages and jargon that are associated with drinking and / or investing in wine.

I do tend to find that in general, personal experience lends itself greatly in helping to understand a complex subject. So imagine my delight when, on my continued thirst for knowledge, I was invited to experience a day of En Primeur tasting with the Goedhuis & Co team. They, themselves, had flown in from London and Hong Kong to spend a week in Bordeaux tasting hundreds of wines a day (which, if one day is to go by, is not an easy feat!) so that they can report back to their clients what wines will be worth buying, when the campaign starts in May.

So what is En Primeur?

Every September, the grapes are harvested and go through the first and second round of fermentations, after which they are left to stabilise and mature for around 6 months. The acidity in the wine then becomes palatable as the wine starts to take shape. After this, the wine will spend 12 – 24 months in the barrel while it ages. Hence every April, wine merchants, critics, journalists, brokers and traders will fly in from around the world to Bordeaux for a frenzied month of tastings, negotiations and preparation for the campaign. Some of the tastings will be hosted by various chateaux chosen by the UGC (Union des Grands Crus) and others by private appointment only.

It was exciting for me to be a part of this experience since I am a mere beginner, and barely know what to look for when tasting wine. Needless to say I was more than a little daunted by being surrounded by industry experts but found that they were extremely helpful in educating me in the ways of the trade, and little by little I started to understand what to look for in order to determine whether a wine has great potential or not.

So what are you supposed to look for? James Low, Associate Director for Goedhuis & Co explained, “You need to look for a good balance of acidity, tannins and fruitiness. If you like the fruits and flavours, that’s great, but if there is balance it shows the wine is well made.”

So, armed with this information, I followed the team to the first tasting of the day at 9am at Chateau Lagrange, on Bordeaux Left Bank (where the rest of the tastings were taking place that day). This is an event organised by the UGC so Chateau Lagrange was hosting around 20 other chateaux to come and showcase their best wines to hundreds of industry people who would drop in throughout the day.

How to taste?

With a glass in hand and a tasting notebook in the other, we started to work our way around the room.

As I watched the experts go through the motions, I noted that first you need to look at the colour of the wine against a white background, and at such a young

29

Lifestyle

stage the wine tends to be almost purple. You then have the first approach of the nose BEFORE you swirl the glass to get a first impression, then swirl and check again. Swirling the wine will allow oxygen into the wine which opens up the aromas so you can detect more specific notes. Finally you taste by swirling it around your mouth, suck in some air so it bubbles the wine to open it up, then swirl it around your mouth some more.

Lastly you spit out the wine or you will never make it to the end of the day!

t e e t h a n d l i p s . T h e t h re e t a s t i n g s a f t e r l u n c h w e re private tastings. At Chateau d’Issan the tasting was run by Emmanuel Cruse, the owner of the estate who is also the President of the Association of Medoc. Following this was a tasting at the beautiful Château Palmer.

Lastly, I had the privilege to visit the famous Chateau Margaux

You should be able to detect acidity on the sides and

and was fortunate enough to meet Paul Pontallier, the

underneath of your tongue, whereas the dryness of

Director and chief winemaker of the Chateau who ran

the tannins will pull your cheeks in. The mouth should

the tasting for us. Even for a novice like myself I could

confirm the aromas that you previously distinguished,

tell the wines we tasted were ones to look out for, the

but the mouth will identify the density of the wine.

Pavillon Blanc de Margaux was simply delicious! Even

“Look for sweetness and fruit after the wine leaves the

the experts, at this stage, were swallowing the wine.

mouth; it shows balance,” said David Roberts, Master

The very last tasting of the day was at Chateau Kirwan,

of Wine for Goedhuis & Co. “You don’t want tart acidity

another UGC tasting for Sauternes specifically, which

or dryness otherwise it doesn’t hold up the rest of the

took us to 5:30pm, a full day’s work.

wine. Even in weak vintages, if the wine is balanced, it will give pleasure and enjoyment. If a wine is unbalanced when young, it will never balance.”

The Chateaux The rest of the day was a whirlwind of tastings at various chateaux. We visited Chateau Camensac and Chateau Marquis de Terme, both UGC tastings, before lunch. By now the experts must have tasted over 60 wines from all over the left bank and were sporting rather black

Britain in Hong Kong

It is interesting to note that each chateau we visited had its own character and atmosphere. Some were subdued and elegant, others like Chateau Margaux had an almost reverent feel, whereas Chateau Marquis de Terme was more modern and funky with coloured lighting.

To round off this amazingly educational day, I asked Goedhuis & Co’s Master of Wine (and another in progress) to give me their thoughts on the 2011 vintage. Here is what they had to say: David Roberts, MW: “This vintage shows how advanced viticulture and wine making has come in the last 10 years.

2011 has been difficult because of the weather but rejecting

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Wine Definitions Bordeaux Left Bank – This area used to be under the sea and the soil composition is sandy, gravelly with seaweed and limestone. This type of soil is rich with good drainage, and hence why wine from this area are well fed and elegant. The grapes on the left bank are Cabernet Sauvignon & Merlot for reds and Semillon & Sauvignon Blanc for whites.

Bordeaux Right Bank – This area is hillier and has clay in the soil, which means it is colder and harder to grow vines as clay is harder to warm by the sun. Therefore the grapes in this area are Merlot and Cabernet Franc as they ripen earlier than Cabernet Sauvignon. The white grapes are the same as the left bank. The right bank hardly produces any white wine.

Bordeaux Wine Official Classification of 1855 – The French Chamber of Commerce & English traders ranked the wines in Bordeaux according to a chateau’s reputation and trading price, which at that time was directly related to quality. The wines were ranked in importance from first growths (e.g. Chateaux Margaux) to fifth growths (crus).

the bad fruits would just not have been possible 10 years ago to allow producers to produce the quality of wine we have this year. There are some good wines in this vintage.”

Robin Kick (MW in progress): “2011 is a perplexing year as there is not one overall style - some wines are classic and well-balanced while others are intense and

Master of Wine – There are only 298 Masters of Wine in the world, and an incredibly difficult title to achieve. You must pass a rigorous examination to demonstrate thorough knowledge of all aspects of wine and an abilityy to communicate knowledge clearly. tthat th hat at kkno no n owled wled wl e ge c le ear arly lyy.

powerful. Interestingly as well, some châteaux felt like they swapped styles. Pantet-Canet is notably elegant for a Pauilac while Rauzan Ségla is impressively authoritative for a Margaux. If you like lush fruits then it is not a vintage for you. It is classic ++. Most châteaux recorded the highest tannins ever and many wines will need times.”

Of course, as many wine experts will confirm, in order to further your knowledge of wine, you must keep tasting and drinking. Great advice and one that I am already taking to heart!

Interesting Fact: Roses are usually planted at the beginning and end of each row of vines as an early detection system for disease. Some say that in olden days the roses were planted because the horses would get stung by the thorns and so would not knock the rows over.

31

Lifestyle

SpaforLife Introduces Advanced Skincare to Hong Kong Nicky Inge, Director of Business Development, Spaforlife

Since the era of Cleopatra, women have been

Environ integrates the highest quality of vitamin A with

searching for the secret of ageless skin. From milk

Vitamin B, C, E, peptides and antioxidants, producing

baths and egg masks to collagen cream and acid peels,

anti-aging and even age- reversing results. Vitamin A is

the evolution of skincare still has us searching for a

an essential anti-aging agent to our skin because it is the

miracle. The consumer market today is saturated with

only known substance to correct our skin cells at the DNA

numerous variations of body lotions, eye creams, face

level. The natural ageing process of skin begins around

moisturizers and masks; but despite Madison Avenue’s

the age of 12 years, and it is related to the concomitant

best efforts and budgets developing clever ad campaigns

depletion of Vitamin A in the skin. When vitamin A begins

and compelling claims, we continue to ask the same

to abandon the body, we become more susceptible to age

question: What really works?

related deficiencies such as sun damage, wrinkling and pigmentation. However, the application of topical Vitamin

A dedicated pioneer in the

A to the skin will replete this natural loss and hence will

s k i n c a re i n d u s t r y, D r. D e s

slow or even reverse the ageing process.

Fernandes has devoted his life to answering that question

Vitamin A products have become increasingly popular

with a product that works. He

with the resurgence of Retin A and retinol creams.

discovered the age-reversing

However, we fail to recognize not all Vitamin A derivatives

secret of Vitamin A in the 1970s

are created equal. Vitamin A comprises several forms.

when he noticed the long term

Most commonly, the skincare industry presents Retinoids

rejuvenating effects of his very own crafted Vitamin A

which include acid (Retinoic Acid), alcohol (Retinol) and

topical on his patients. Throughout 4 decades as the

fat (ester) form of vitamin A. Dr. Des Fernandes identified

leading Cape Town plastic surgeon and researcher and

both retinoic acid and retinol as harsh agents to the

developer, he has engineered a Vitamin A skincare line

skin. These derivatives, though effective, produce photo

clinic y proven p clinically to achieve age reversing results on the

sensitivity, redness and severe stripping of the skin.

skin. Dr. Des Fernandes is now recognize recognized as the top

Conversely, the ester form of Vitamin A established in

6th plastic surgeon in the world and the creator of the

effective, excluding photo Environ proves unequivocally unequ

innovative cosmeceutical brand, Environ.

sensitivity, skin flakiness and less redness.

There are many Vitamin A products on the market, so high what makes Environ stand out? Apart from Environ’s En quality of ingredients and the exclusion of preservatives, pr

Britain in Hong Kong

32

colorants and fragrances, Dr. Des Fernandes recognizes

surface and skin cell membranes. This machine may

the biggest challenge to the skincare industry is product

be the most advanced penetrate-enhancing machines

penetration. Age related skin deficiencies are rooted far

available in today’s market, and is of course invented

below the skins surface, where the majority of products

by Dr. Des Fernandes himself. If you don't have time

cannot penetrate. Dr. Des Fernandes has achieved

for a DF facial, Dr. Des created the Environ Roll CIT for

a daily usable

home use. This hand-held device painlessly perforates

line of vitamin A

the skin allowing 100x's greater penetration of Environ

products in which

products into the superficial layer of the dermis. Environ

the molecules can

also incorporates a “cool-peel” system in their

penetrate deeply into the cellular layers of the skin. Most

treatment range. These 3 different peels are specific to

products may repair the appearance of the skin to some

pigmentation, wrinkles and acne management . Unlike

degree; Environ works from within to transform skin cells

mainstream peels that are invasive and leave the skin

back to a youthful state while simultaneously combating

impaired, Environ peels are effective without requiring

free radicals and UV damage.

any down time. You can simply have a peel during lunch hour and go back to work.

Dr. Des Fernandes didn’t stop at creating an effective product. He meticulously engineered tools to enhance

Environ product and treatments are located at the Elemis

and accelerate Environ results, given Environ’s ethos is

Day Spa in Central, the Beautiful Skin Centre in Pacific

largely based upon product penetration. The Ionzyme

Place and the Victorian Spa at the Disneyland Resort. If

DF machine used in some of Environ’s world renowned

you are interested in more information regarding Environ

facials, incorporates light ultrasound and a pulsed

or the future Environ event in June, please send an email

current to deliver Environ vitamins deep into the skins

to Nicky at nicky.inge@schinac.com.

33

MEMBER GET MEMBER 2012 the to l a rr fe re l u sf es cc su a ke a M British Chamber of Commerce o! tw r fo l ea m ic st ta n fa a y jo and en The British Chamber is delighted to announce the launch of the 2012 ‘Member Get Member’ campaign which will run from April 2012 to March 2013. If you successfully introduce a company that results in them becoming a member of the Chamber, you will receive a fantastic dinner for two courtesy of one of our top member restaurants in Hong Kong.

Not only that, all referring members will be entered into a prize draw to win a $2,000 voucher to go towards your holiday provided

by Flight Centre!

AND if you happen to refer the most new members to the Chamber, you are in for a real treat for you and your friends! A complimentary dinner for four at Sakesan, the newest Robatayakibar, courtesy of Cafe Deco Group.

Sakesan Sakesan is the newest Robatayakibar in the heart of the bustling Soho area. It offers a range of exquisite dishes fresh from their robata grill, as well as other Japanese culinary delights, all rendered with a modern twist. Designed by Fiona Bagaman and Mirei Lim, Sakesan uses different wood and stone tones with flashes of black and gold to create a serene, relaxed and cool space. Funky, colourful sake barrels wrap the bar area and frame the individual dining booths and an illuminated Japanese urban scene gives the bar a warm glow as well as striking visuals. Signature dishes include homemade steamed tofu, salmon miso, lobster dumplings and SAKESAN black cod. There is also a cool bar featuring a top range of sakes, shochus and awamoris with a superb range of cocktails made with these classic Japanese ingredients. To compliment this they also offer a selection of some of the finest, most thirst quenching beers to emerge from Japan.

To enter: • • • • •

Consider who among your contacts might be interested in joining the Chamber Email dovenia@britcham.com with the name and contact details of your suggested company If appropriate, contact your suggested company and let them know that the Chamber will be in touch The Chamber will follow up with each suggestion directly If your referral is successful, the Chamber will contact you with details of how to book your dinner. Your name will also go into the prize draw which will be drawn in March 2013.

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So what are you waiting for? Spread the word throughout your network to enjoy a complimentary meal for two at one of these fantastic member restaurants:

Lobby Lounge, Conrad Hong Kong Featuring the spectacular views of the Hong Kong skyline and live entertainment, the Lobby Lounge is the ideal venue for private meetings or relaxed gatherings with friends. From salad bar to noodle station, and delectable hot dishes to exquisite desserts, the Southeast Asian themed supper buffet showcases an impressive range of more than 50 scrumptious all-time favourites.

The Bostonian, The Langham, Hong Kong This well-established restaurant has been a Hong Kong favourite for well over a decade. Located at the lower lobby level of The Langham, Hong Kong, The Bostonian has an excellent reputation for its superb steaks, and more recently its fully sustainable seafood menu. Featured by one of Hong Kong’s influential restaurant bibles, “The Hong Kong Best Restaurant Guide” since 2000 and recommended by The Michelin guide, the Bostonian is a hallmark for impeccable service and exceptional food. Guests can indulge in a tantalising array of fresh seafood from around the world at the “Raw Bar”, including home-made smoked salmon, prawns, crabs and freshly shucked oysters. The enticing menu also includes gourmet favourites such as Maine crab cakes, sautéed foie gras, clam chowder, as well as separate menus for the restaurant’s specialties – the Boston lobster galore, seafood sharing platters and Bostonian grill.

KITCHEN, W Hong Kong Kitchen is a modern bistro with a capacity of 200, reflective of W’s signature stylish and fun design. Upon arrival to KITCHEN, the mad hatter’s tea party in “Alice in Wonderland” brings guests to a world of fantasy.

Cats play and jump around the stacks of plates, inviting guests to join their games too. KITCHEN’s modern interpretation of timeless classics and equally innovative original masterpieces fill a menu that’s designed to tantalize and satisfy even the most discerning gourmands. Guest can indulge in the fun world of kitchen, while relaxing in the pleasant and interactive dining experience, sampling the delicate cuisine on offer from all over the world.

Café TOO, Island Shangri-La, Hong Kong T The innovative cafe TOO brings casual dining to a higher level of creativity. Their ten cooking theatres, each featuring a different culinary style, are showcases for the best of international cuisine as well as stages for their chefs' engaging performances.

Café Renaissance, Renaissance Harbour View Hotel Hong Kong Café Renaissance is the perfect place for all day dining. Located on the Mezzanine floor, the 210-seat all-day dining café serves a wide variety of dishes from all over the world. Café Renaissance serves wholesome breakfasts, chef crafted lunches and dinner buffets plus à la carte menu daily and brunch on weekends, in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. In addition to the great array of fresh seafood delights using the freshest ingredients, guests can also enjoy a tantalizing array of international favourites and local specialties from live cooking stations.

Terms & Conditions • • • •

You must be a member of the British Chamber to be eligible for this offer The dining vouchers will only be provided if your referral results in a new member for the Chamber This offer is valid for all members whose referral results in a new Corporate, Overseas or Startup member of the Chamber. It does not apply to Additional members or additional YNetwork members The Chamber will allocate the restaurant vouchers. Members will not be able to choose which restaurant they visit and must adhere to the terms and conditions

35

Member Discounts Food and Beverage and Accommodation Accor | Members will receive 10% discount on top of the lowest rates that Accor’s Asian hotels are offering on the day (5% off hotels outside Asia Pacific). This applies to over 1600 Sofitel, Pullman, Novotel, Mercure & All Seasons hotels worldwide. For more information please contact Regina Yip on 2868 1171 or email regina.yip@accor.com Alfie’s | Members of the British Chamber of Commerce can benefit from a 10% discount at this chic restaurant in Hong Kong.

Berry Bros. & Rudd | Members can benefit from a 10% discount on all retail prices as well as receiving invitations to free tastings and other wine events during promotional period.

Courtyard by Marriott Hong Kong | Members will receive a 10% discount on food only in MoMo Café. To make a reservation please call 3717 8888.

Dot Cod | All Members of the British Chamber of Commerce of Hong Kong will receive a 10% discount on the bill. For more information please call 2810 6988 or email dotcod@hkcc.org Grand Hyatt Hong Kong | 15% discount on food and beverage at The Grill and 10% discount on all a la carte treatments and spa merchandises at Plateau Spa. To make a reservation please contact the Grill on 2584 7722 or the Plateau Spa on 2584 7688 Hyatt Regency Hong Kong, Tsim Sha Tsui | 10% discount at The Chinese Restaurant, Hugo’s, Cafe and Chin Chin Bar (except during happy hour). To make a reservation please call 2311 1234 JW Marriott Hotel Hong Kong | Members will receive a 10% discount on the total bill at Man Ho Chinese Restaurant, JW’s California, Marriott Cafe, The Lounge, Riedel Room @ Q88, and the Fish Bar & Grill. To make a reservation please call 2810 8366.

Le Méridien Cyberport | Members can book a Smart Room at the special rate of HKD1,600 including a daily eye-opening buffet breakfast (subject to availability). You will also receive 20% discount at 5 of the hip restaurants and bars that the hotel has to offer.

Furthermore, when you book the 21-day long room package at HKD23,100 you will receive a ‘Round Trip Limousine Service’. For more details please call 2980 7785.

Hong Kong Skycity Marriott Hotel | Members will receive a 10% discount on the total bill at Man Ho Chinese Restaurant, SkyCity Bistro, Velocity Bar & Grill, and The Lounge (Promotion does not apply to alcoholic beverages). To make a reservation please call 3969 1888.

Renaissance Harbour View Hotel | Members will receive a 10% discount on the total bill at Michelin Star Dynasty Chinese Restaurant, all day dining at Cafe Renaissance, Scala Italian Restaurant and the Lobby Lounge. To make a reservation please call 2802 8888.

The Mira Hong Kong | Members will be given special room rates, a complimentary upgrade and fantastic discounted rates on the Spa suite package (subject to availability). For more information please contact Connie Kwan on 2315 5666 or email connie.kwan@themirahotel.com W Hong Kong | Members will receive fantastic offers at Kitchen and Sing Ying. Dine at either of these restaurants and receive complimentary discount vouchers to use at your next meal. For more information or to make a reservation please call 3717 2222.

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There are many great benefits of being a member of The British Chamber of Commerce. One of those is the Member Benefits program which is an exclusive package of discounts that range from discounted car rental, reduced hotel accommodation, airfares and even relocation costs.

Every six months we invite members to prepare a tailor made offer to all the members of the British Chamber. You can find these benefits listed below and for more details please visit our website www.britcham.com

Home Allied Pickfords Hong Kong | For any Home Search completed by SIRVA Relocation, members will receive a FREE local move. Please call 2823 2077 or email homesearch@ sirva.com Bowers & Wilkins | B & W are offering members a 10% discount on all listed price items in the B&W Showrooms in Tsim Sha Tsui and Central. For more information please call 3472 9388 or 2869 9916 Colourliving | As a member of the British Chamber of Commerce, you can enjoy a 10% discount on all normal price merchandise when shopping at colourliving in Wanchai.

Please call 2510 2666 or visit www.colourliving.com

Travel & others Avis | Members can receive up to 20% discount off standard rates on car rental bookings. To make a booking please call 28822927 or visit www.avis.com.hk British Airways | As a member of the British Chamber of Commerce you can enjoy an exclusive offer from British Airways. To make a booking please visit www.britcham. com/memberdiscount/british-airways Carey | As the world’s finest chauffeured services company Carey are pleased to offer Britcham members a 10% discount on the base rate of any service, anywhere in the world. For more information please call the international reservations team on +800 0123 4578 or email international.support@carey.com Compass Offices | Compass Offices, a premium serviced office provider, are offering members a one month free Serviced Office space or three months free with a Virtual Office Package. For more information please call 3796 7188 or email hksales@ compassoffices.com Flight Centre | Members will receive HKD150 off the first booking made as well as a complimentary Airport Express ticket per booking. For all holiday and flight enquiries please call Paul Jeffels on 2830 2793 or email paul.jeffels@flightcentre.com.hk Virgin Atlantic Airways | Special offers to London are available exclusively for members of the British Chamber of Commerce. Please call 2532 6060 for more details or to make a reservation.

VisitBritain | British Chamber members can enjoy a 5% discount on all purchases from the VisitBritain online shop. Please call 3515 7815 or visit www.visitbritaindirect.com for further information.

Terms and Conditions apply. All member discounts are subject to availability. If you are interested in providing a tailored offer to our members or for more information please contact Emily Ferrary on 2824 1972 or email emily@britcham.com

37

THE BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND STANDARD CHARTERED BANK ANNUAL BALL 2012 ♥

Friday 8th June 2012 Grand Ballroom, The Grand Hyatt 7:30pm - Late Dress Code: Themed Fancy Dress – Camelot Chic

With thanks to our sponsors: Title Sponsors:

Gold Sponsors:

Silver Sponsors:

Other Sponsors and Supporters:

Many thanks to the following companies who donated prizes for the Annual Ball 2012

We are looking for the Best of British.

Is that you?

The British Chamber of Commerce Shanghai takes great pleasure in announcing the official launch of the British Business Awards 2012 and invites applications.

The British Business Awards are an awards programme organised by the British Chambers of Commerce in China to recognise and promote excellence in innovation enterprise and endeavour, in the British business community in China. Established in 2008, the awards programme is now held every two years.

Through eight categories, the Awards will showcase organisations and individuals who are achieving outstanding results and who demonstrate the highest level of commitment to Sino-British trade and investment relations in a variety of disciplines in China. The Awards will also recognise the excellent accomplishments of Chinese businesses operating in the UK. The British Business Awards are open to all majority British Owned companies or organisations operating in China*, Chinese* Alumni of a British Higher Education Institution as well as Chinese* companies or organisations with a presence in the UK. *mainland China/ Chinese nationals only Applications are now open and the British Business Awards invites all eligible individuals and organisations to enter.

Five finalists in each of the eight categories will be chosen by an independent panel of judges and announced at a Finalists Event in late June. The highlight event of the Awards, a Gala Awards Dinner will take place on the 8th November, when the winners will be announced.

Application deadline is 18th May 2012.

More information is available at www.britishbusinessawards.cn or contact admin@britishbusinessawards.cn The British Business Awards 2012 Awards Categories and sponsors:

News Clifford Chance advises CVC on US$105 million investment in Venturepharma Group in China Leading international law firm Clifford Chance has acted for funds advised by CVC Asia Pacific Limited on its US$105 million investment in convertible bonds issued by Venturepharma Group in China.

Beijing partner Terence Foo who led the core team said, “We were delighted to partner with CVC on yet another successful investment in China. This deal highlights the strong interest by private equity in China’s healthcare and pharmaceutical sector, which is set to become one of the largest markets in the world in the coming few years.”

Venturepharma is an integrated specialty pharmaceutical company that has a broad product portfolio in a number of fast growing therapeutic areas, particularly Central Nerve System (CNS) and Anti-Allergy. CVC’s investment will be used to fund the growth expansion of the Company and further strengthen its R&D, manufacturing and sales functions.

Wellness Program is the New Weapon to Combat Rising Costs of Employee Healthcare and to Improve Productivity and Performance As the number of unhealthy, high-risk employees continues to rise in Asia Pacific, employers are beginning to feel the impact of corresponding significant increases in their direct and indirect health costs. Across the region, 35% of the 899 companies that participated in a recent Mercer Marsh Benefits survey spent over 6% of their annual payroll on health benefits in 2011, with 10% of those spending in excess of 15%.

Alarmingly, 59% of responding employers expect their health benefits spend to rise in 2012, and senior management is growing increasingly anxious about their employees’ health. 81% of companies reported that they are concerned about their employees’ health and worry how this may impact their ongoing success and competitiveness.

The good news is that many companies in the region are looking to enhance their health programs in the next two years through an expanded use of health risk assessments (47%), and interventions including stress management (46%) and chronic disease management (43%), as indicated by survey respondents. “We’ve seen a huge spike in requests to help organisations obtain greater value from their benefits spend in 2012, with many finally acknowledge that unhealthy employee behaviours are driving their health benefits costs,” said Rosaline Chow Koo, Mercer’s Asia Pacific Employee Health and Benefits Leader for Mercer.

Jones Lang LaSalle Scoops 12 Awards at The International Property Awards Asia Pacific 2012-13 Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL), the global financial and professional services firm specialising in real estate, has been honoured at the International Property Awards Asia Pacific, in association with HSBC, held in Kuala Lumpur on 27 April 2012. The firm won a total of 12 awards; the five star ‘Best Property Consultancy’ award in nine countries across the region, and highly commended awards in a further three countries.

Jones Lang LaSalle secured the five star award in the following countries: Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea and Taiwan. The firm was also named Highly Commended Property Consultancy in Hong Kong, Indonesia and Thailand.

New Appointments Clifford Chance announces five new counsel, including lateral hire for Asia Pacific

Senior New Arborist Joins aec Team

Leading international law firm Clifford Chance today announces the hire of real estate and finance specialist Keerati Kanjanawenich to our Bangkok office. He is joined by four senior lawyers who have been promoted to counsel in Asia Pacific, effective 1 May.

aec, Hong Kong’s largest independent ecological consultancy, has announced the appointment of its newest senior arborist, Mr. Anthony D. Pickering Tony.

Previously, Keerati was head of legal and compliance at Double A and National Power Supply in Bangkok. He has also worked for Linklaters, Norton Rose and in-house for Lehman Brothers and Nomura. Keerati has gained a wealth of transactional experience throughout his career and will be able to provide specialised advice on Thai law. Keerati graduated with first class honours from Thailand’s Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok, and completed two LLMs, one from Georgetown University in 1997 and the other from New York University in 1998.

The other new counsel are the following: Yusuke ABE, Counsel, Finance, Tokyo Alan GIBSON, Counsel, Corporate, Perth Kabir SINGH, Counsel, L&DR, Singapore Paul WEE Ei Don, Counsel, Finance, Beijing “I’m delighted to announce this new group of counsel for Asia Pacific,” said Peter Charlton, Clifford Chance’s Regional Managing Partner, Asia Pacific. “They all have excellent legal practice experience and will bring strong, talented leadership to their new roles.

The demand for professional arborists has been steadily growing in Hong Kong, and in response aec has invested much effort in strengthening their arboricultural talent. Tony, who has worked for 30 years in the arboricultural industry for 30 years and has been a member of the Arboricultural Association for 20 years, serving the public, private and educational sectors in the UK and US. He has worked for Europe’s largest gardeining firm and one of the largest arboriculture companies in the US. aec sought out Tony in the UK after finding a lack of adequately qualified arborists in Hong Kong.

Britain in Hong Kong

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Upcoming Events Business Luncheon in Honour of Lord Green, Minister of State for Trade and Investment, UK

The British Chamber of Commerce and Standard Chartered Bank Annual Ball 2012

Event date: Wed, 30/05/2012 - 11:45 - 14:00 Venue: Bauhinia Room, The Hong Kong Convention Centre Speaker: Lord Green, Minister of State for Trade and Investment, UK

Event date: Fri, 08/06/2012 - 19:30 - 23:59 Venue: Grand Ballroom, The Grand Hyatt

Please join the British Chamber of Commerce and the HKTDC for a business luncheon in honour of Lord Green, UK Minister of State for Trade and Investment.

Following on from the HKTDC Hong Kong promotion, “Think Asia, Think Hong Kong”, in London last September, this luncheon will be an excellent occasion to hear from Lord Green about the UK’s strategy for economic growth, as well as to explore partnership opportunities between the two economies.

Shaken Not Stirred Networking Drinks Event date: Thu, 31/05/2012 - 18:30 - 20:30 Venue: Dickens Bar, The Excelsior, Causeway Bay Join us for our monthly networking drinks at the all-new Dickens Bar. The newly renovated Dickens Bar promises new standards of British flair!

The Chamber’s biggest yearly event - the Annual Ball is not to be missed!

We Collect and deliver your car FREE OF CHARGE (subject to distance) We provide good, quick repair service at reasonable prices

Our competitive Labour charges:

From

Lubrication Service

$ 110

Tune Up Engine

$ 220

Engine Decoke & Grind Valves

$ 1,500

Engine Overhaul

$ 4,000

Brake System Overhaul

$ 900

Clutch Mechanical Overhaul

$ 1,000

Official British & Irish Lions ‘One Year To Go’ Lunch

Air Condition Freon Recharge

$ 400

Event date: Fri, 01/06/2012 - 12:00 - 16:00 Speaker: Andy Irvine, Gerald Davies, Derek Quinnell, John Eales Venue: Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong

Alternator Overhaul

$ 400

Starter Motor Overhaul

$ 400

Celebrate the two greatest rugby teams in the world at a one-off “Year To Go” lunch to honour the British & Irish Lions against the Barbarians in Hong Kong. On Friday 1 June 2012 a star-studded collection of rugby greats will officially launch the countdown to the Lions’ 125th anniversary Tour that will begin in Hong Kong against the revered Barbarians exactly a year later.

A Celebration Of The Diamond Jubilee Of HM Queen Elizabeth II Event date: Tue, 05/06/2012 - 20:00 - 23:00 Venue: Garden Lounge, The Hong Kong Club The British Chamber of Commerce, The Royal Commonwealth Society, The Royal Geographical Society, The Royal Over-seas League, The Royal Society of St. George, St. Andrew’s Society, St. David’s Society, St Patrick’s Society & The Oxford and Cambridge Society of Hong Kong request the pleasure of your company at a celebration of the Diamond Jubilee of HM Queen Elizabeth II.

Sterling Banner The British Chamber’s Sterling Members

Thank you for your continued support

ALL REPAIRS WITH THREE MONTHS GUARANTEE

Our Business Hours 8am-6pm, Mon-Sat & Public Holiday Our 24hrs. Emergency Towing Agent “Firstone Towing Services” 8203 3411 Please call us at 2565 6166 or Fax: 2856 1047 E-mail Address: fookie@netvigator.com

FOOKIE MOTORS CO. LTD. Shop 7, G/F, Paramount Bldg., 12 Ka Yip Street, Chai Wan, Hong Kong.

New Members CORPORATE ADDITIONAL FIL Investment Management (Hong Kong) Limited Kerry Ching Managing Director HK Tel 2629 2886 kerry.ching@fil.com 56/F, One Island East, 18 Westlands Road, Hong Kong Financial Services Links Recruitment Limited John Eyres Managing Director Tel 3915 0234 john.eyres@linksrecruitment.com 12/F, 8 Wyndham Street, Central Hong Kong Hong Kong Airlines Limited Albert Chan General Manager - Hong Kong Sales Tel 3923 7399 albert.chan@hongkongexpress.com 28/F, Bank of East Asia, Harbour View Centre, 56 Gloucester Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong Aviation & Aerospace Regal Hongkong Hotel Glen Farmer General Manager Tel 2837 1678 rhk.gm@regalhotel.com 88, Yee Wo Street, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong Hospitality

STARTUP RHC Asia Rosie Halfhead Owner Tel 9680 8657 rosie.halfhead@gmail.com Flat A, 22/F, King’s Court, 62D, Robinson Road, Hong Kong Consultancy Karma Technologies Limited Jeff Smith Managing Director Tel +44 (0) 20 7193 1131 jeff.smith@karmatechnologies.co.uk 9B, Amtel Building, 148 Des Voeux Road, Central, Hong Kong Graphic Design

YNETWORK

FIL Investment Management (Hong Kong) Limited KP Luk Head of HK Institutional Business Tel 2629 2855 kimping.luk@fil.com 56/F, One Island East, 18 Westlands Road, Hong Kong Financial Services

HSBC Edmund Tang Head of Business Finance, Global Banking ASP Tel 6891 0692 edmundtang@hsbc.com.hk HSBC Main Building, 1 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong Banking

Jo Laufer Kellett School Association Ltd Deputy Principal Designate Tel 2551 8234 jlaufer@kellettschool.com 2 Wah Lok Path, Wah Fu, Pokfulam, Hong Kong Education

Discovery Bay Resort Spa Marianna Tang Director of Sales & Marketing Tel 6317 3560 marianna.tang@dbh.hkri.com Hotel Pre-opening Office: Unit LG12-17, 92 Siena Avenue, Discovery Bay, Lantau Island, Hong Kong Hospitality

Belenda Ryan Kellett School Association Ltd Development Director Tel 2551 8234 bryan@kellettschool.com 2 Wah Lok Path, Wah Fu, Pokfulam, Hong Kong Education Nicola Sawyer Kellett School Association Ltd Communications Officer Tel 2551 8234 nsawyer@kellettschool.com 2 Wah Lok Path, Wah Fu, Pokfulam, Hong Kong Education UniGroup Worldwide – Hong Kong Limited Edwin Sun Sales Manager Tel 2418 4333 edwin_sun@unigroupworldwide.com Units 2612-2616, Level 26, Metroplaza Tower 1, 223 Hing Fong Road, Kwai Chung,Hong Kong Relocation & Transportation Hong Lok Yuen International School Roy F. White Head of School - ICHK Tel 2655 9018 rwhite@ichk.edu.hk 20th Street, Hong Lok Yuen, Tai Po, New Territories, Hong Kong Education Hudson Tony Pownall General Manager Tel 2528 1191 tony.pownall@hudson.com Unit 1501-07, 15/F, Tower One, Times Square, 1 Matheson Street, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong Recruitment

Jane Morgan Ketchum Vice President Tel 3141 8013 jane.morgan@knprhk.com 33/F, Two Chinachem Exchange Square, 338 King’s Road, North Point, Hong Kong PR & Marketing KCS Hong Kong Limited Bill Fong Director, Fund Administration Services Division Tel 3589 8824 bill.fong@kcs.com 8/F, Gloucester Tower, The Landmark, 15 Queen’s Road, Central, Hong Kong Business Services CB Richard Ellis Ltd Edward Farrelly Director, Head of Hong Kong Research Tel 2820 2882 edward.farrelly@cbre.com.hk 4/F, Three Exchange Square, 8 Connaught Place, Central, Hong Kong Property / Real Estate Services CB Richard Ellis Ltd Gerry Kipling Executive Director, Asset Services – HK, Macau & Taiwan Tel 2820 1570 gerry.kipling@cbre.com.hk 4/F, Three Exchange Square, 8 Connaught Place, Central, Hong Kong Property / Real Estate Services

Evercore Partners Chalk Yin Wan Associate Tel 3653 4333 chalkyin.wan@evercore.com 14/F, Two Exchange Square, Hong Kong Financial Services Deutsche Bank Eric Hui Assistant Vice President Tel 9663 7662 mkhui81@hotmail.com 55/F, Cheung Kong Center, 2 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong Investment Banking HSBC Bank International Limited Christopher Liddard Premier Relationship Manager Tel 2822 3274 christopherliddard@hsbc.com.hk Level 6, HSBC Main Building, 1 Queen’s Road, Central, Hong Kong Banking HSBC Bank International Limited Jack Guest Premier Relationship Manager Tel 2822 3274 jackguest@hsbc.com.hk Level 6, HSBC Main Building, 1 Queen’s Road, Central, Hong Kong Banking

INDIVIDUAL John Lawrence Tel 2169 2000 jdljohnpols@gmail.com 11/F, The Centrium, 60 Wyndham Street, Central, Hong Kong

STERLING Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Alan Glen Principal Tel 2852 1673 aglen@deloitte.com.hk 35/F, One Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Admiralty, Hong Kong Accounting

Britain in Hong Kong

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Shaken Not Stirred Sponsored By

Mar 28 2012, Jack Wills, Causeway Bay

Taffany Leung (BT), Paul Kidman (Headstrong)

Dennis Ly (Risk Management), David Day (British Council), Meredith Yeung (Westpac Banking Corporation)

Cammie Leung (Tanner de Witt), Kit Ping Au-Yeung (Coats North-East Asia)

Alfred Aung (Architex Interiors), Michelle Woo (TMF Group)

Lucy Payne (Consultant), Matthew Waldron (HSBC)

Will Sweeney (Concise Group), Liz Hamerton (Secretarial Office Services)

James Carss (Hudson), Gary Lam (Hudson)

Francesca Cooke (Lauren Richards), Sally Ann Klap (Sheraton)

Donald B. Ma (rogenSi), Terry Ng (Interglobe Corporate Solutions Ltd)

Gregory Seitz (AGS Four Winds), Donny De Silva (Hudson)

David Stanton (AEC), Leigh Mackeurtan (Concise Group), Andrea Demy (AGS Four Winds)

Alex Silcox (Kleio), Dominic McCarthy (Quintessentially)

Lucy Jenkins and Dovenia Chow Emily Ferrary (British Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong), Stephanie Gubser (First), Alison Asome (Hart Giles) (British Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong)

Merry Fei, Robert Eldred

43