The Central People's Government has approved the appointment of Louise Ho as Commissioner of Customs & Excise on the recommendation of Chief Executive Carrie Lam.

Ms Ho’s appointment took effect from today when Hermes Tang proceeded on pre-retirement leave after 34 years’ service.

The Chief Executive said Ms Ho has served in the Customs & Excise Department for 30 years and has extensive experience in departmental operations.

“She possesses solid management and leadership skills. I am confident that she will lead the department in meeting the challenges ahead," Mrs Lam added.

Mrs Lam also conveyed heartfelt appreciation to Mr Tang for his contribution to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and wished him a happy retirement.

Speaking to the media this afternoon, the new customs chief said national security will form an important part in the training of new recruits of the department.

“We expect all new recruits should have a good understanding of the role and obligation of customs officers in safeguarding national security.

“Therefore, (we have) integrated the concept of the National Security Law into the induction courses for inspectors, customs officers and assistant trade controls officers.”

She added that the security law will be covered in the learning programme alongside the Constitution and the Basic Law for serving officers.

“We have tailor-made a new e-learning programme (which covers) the Constitution, the Basic Law and the National Security Law.

“So all serving officers can easily access resources relating to Hong Kong Special Administrative Region's constitutional order, the National Security Law, as well as Customs' role in all these related areas.”

Ms Ho joined the Customs & Excise Department as Inspector of Customs & Excise in 1991. She was promoted to Superintendent and Senior Superintendent of Customs & Excise in 2010 and 2013.

She became Assistant Commissioner of Customs & Excise in 2017 and Deputy Commissioner in 2019.