US-bound HK Goods Rule Opposed

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government said it strongly objects to the notice published today on the US Federal Register by the Customs & Border Protection in relation to origin marking of Hong Kong products.

In a statement, the Hong Kong SAR Government emphasised that the new rule on origin marking of Hong Kong products originates from an executive order issued by US President Donald Trump on July 14 and reflects that the US ignores Hong Kong's status as a separate member of the World Trade Organization (WTO).

The statement pointed out that the rule may not be consistent with WTO rules and will not help protect consumers' interest. It also indicated that the rule will only cause confusion and affect the interests of all parties, including the US.

The Hong Kong SAR Government noted that the special status as a separate customs territory enjoyed by the Hong Kong SAR under "one country, two systems" is conferred by the Constitution of the People's Republic of China and the Basic Law. It is recognised by multilateral organisations such as the WTO, and is not granted or revocable by an individual country.

According to the notice, the new rule will be implemented after 45 days.

The Hong Kong SAR Government explained that it is clarifying certain important implementation details with US authorities through the Economic & Trade Office in Washington, DC, in order to decide on the way forward.

The Hong Kong SAR Government said it will also carefully consider if the US' measures contravene WTO rules, and does not rule out the possibility of taking action under WTO rules if necessary to protect Hong Kong's interests.