Applications invited for flag days in 2025-26

2024-04-17 10:00 Last Updated At：04-18 01:53

Join us for flag days 2025-26: apply now!

Charitable organisations wishing to hold flag days between April 2025 and March 2026 are invited to apply to the Social Welfare Department (SWD) from today (April 17) to May 16.

To enable more organisations to solicit donations through flag sales, 28 flag days in 2025-26 will be assigned as regional flag days so that three organisations can sell flags concurrently on those days, one each on Hong Kong Island, in Kowloon and in the New Territories. There will also be 28 territory-wide flag days to be held in the year.

An SWD spokesman said today that applicant organisations must be bona fide non-profit-making organisations exempt from tax under Section 88 of the Inland Revenue Ordinance (Cap. 112) and, after the recognition of tax exemption, have organised charitable activities in each of the past three years. Applicant organisations should refer to the eligibility criteria as detailed in the Explanatory Notes for Application for Flag Days in 2025-26.

"Flag day applications will be considered by the Lotteries Fund Advisory Committee according to factors including the organisation's integrity and management capability; the nature, value and standard of its existing services; its financial need; and its ability to organise a flag day," the spokesman said.

The application form and the Explanatory Notes for Application for Flag Days in 2025-26 can be downloaded from the SWD website at www.swd.gov.hk or obtained from the Lotteries Fund Projects Section of the SWD at Rooms 3601-02, 36/F, Dah Sing Financial Centre, 248 Queen's Road East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, from today to 6pm on May 16. Applications for flag days in 2025-26 can also be submitted online. Please refer to the SWD website for application details.

The completed application form together with the required documents should reach the department at the above address by 6pm on May 16. Late applications will not be considered.

"Applicant organisations will be informed of the result around October this year," the spokesman added.

Enquiries can be made by telephone to 2832 4318 or 2832 4301, by fax to 2838 0441, or by email to eolf5@swd.gov.hk.

Hong Kong Films Shine at Chicago's Asian Pop-up Cinema, Strengthening Cultural Ties

2025-04-06 16:00 Last Updated At：16:08

New York ETO showcases Hong Kong cinematic talents in Chicago

The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, New York (New York ETO) supported Season 19 of Chicago’s Asian Pop-up Cinema (APUC) by showcasing nine exceptional Hong Kong films and documentaries, including the United States premiere of "The Last Dance" on April 4 (Chicago time).

The Office also strengthened the cultural, business and educational ties between Hong Kong and Chicago, Illinois, during a duty visit to the city from April 3 to 5.

At the United States premiere of "The Last Dance" on April 4, Hong Kong actress Michelle Wai was honoured with the Extraordinary Actors Award for her outstanding performance. Director Anselm Chan joined her at the post-screening sharing session.

This year's APUC also welcomed four Hong Kong filmmakers, who presented their works and engaged with the audience. They included directors Ho Miu-ki ("Love Lies") and Albert Mak ("Hit N Fun"), as well as producers Chan Hing-ka ("Love Lies") and Paul Chan ("To Be Continued").

Addressing the award ceremony, the Director of the New York ETO, Ms Maisie Ho, praised the filmmakers, noting that they represent the diverse and exceptional talents within Hong Kong's creative industry.

"Through our Film Development Fund, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government continues to support and nurture the growth of Hong Kong's creative industry, ensuring its presence on the global stage. By fostering talent, enhancing local production, and expanding audiences, we remain committed to bringing the best of Hong Kong cinema to the world," she said.

On April 3, the New York ETO cohosted a spring reception with the Hong Kong Business Association of the Midwest and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council . The annual event, attended by over 100 guests from Chicago's business, legal, academic, and cultural sectors, highlighted the strong ties between Hong Kong and Chicago.

Ms Ho noted in her welcome remarks that the Year of the Snake, a symbol of wisdom, adaptability, and transformation, perfectly reflects Hong Kong's ability to continuously reinvent itself while maintaining its leadership in finance and trade. The event also showcased the works of Chicago-based Hong Kong artist Cherry Tung and featured a Hong Kong-themed cocktail.

Ms Ho also had a meeting with Vice President for International Relations at Northwestern University Devora Grynspan to discuss areas of mutual interest and introduce Hong Kong's talent admission schemes available to university graduates. Northwestern University is among the list of eligible institutions under the Top Talent Pass Scheme.