The Central People’s Government, on Chief Executive John Lee’s nomination and recommendation, approved today the appointment of Deputy Commissioner of Customs & Excise Chan Tsz-tat as Commissioner of Customs & Excise, and the removal of Louise Ho from the post of Commissioner of Customs & Excise, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government announced.

Ms Ho went on pre-retirement leave today after serving the department for 33 years.

Commenting on the new appointment, the Chief Executive said: “Mr Chan has served in the Customs & Excise Department for 30 years and has extensive experience in departmental operations. He possesses solid management and leadership skills. I am confident that he will lead the Customs & Excise Department in meeting the challenges ahead.”

Mr Lee also commended Ms Ho for her sustained efforts in leading the department, yielding distinguished results on the prevention of smuggling activities, protection of government revenue on dutiable goods, detection and deterrence of narcotics trafficking and abuse of narcotic drugs, protection of intellectual property rights and consumer interests, and combat of money laundering and counter-financing of terrorism.

During her tenure since October 2021, Ms Ho has also been committed to maintaining close collaboration with international and regional partners to uphold Hong Kong’s position as an international trade centre and logistics hub, the Chief Executive added.

“On behalf of the Hong Kong SAR Government, I convey my heartfelt appreciation to Ms Ho for her contribution to the city and I wish her a happy retirement.”