Kwok Kwok-chuen will take over as Government Economist on October 11, succeeding Tang Kwong-yiu who has been on pre-retirement leave since May 8.

Secretary for the Civil Service Joseph Wong today said Mr Kwok possesses sound professional skills in economic analysis, solid work experience in both the public and private sectors, and proven administrative abilities. 

"I am confident Mr Kwok will lead the Economic Analysis & Business Facilitation Unit in further enhancing the quality of its assessment and advice and in promoting the Government's efforts in facilitating business."

Mr Wong thanked Mr Tang for his 32 years of loyal and dedicated service, adding the Economic Analysis Division of the Financial Services & the Treasury Bureau has provided the Government with quality analytical and advisory services under Mr Tang's leadership.

A wealth of experience

Mr Kwok, 50, was formerly the Chief Regional Economist, East Asia, of Standard Chartered Bank. He is a University of Hong Kong graduate, majoring in economics and statistics. He was subsequently awarded two postgraduate degrees in economics in 1984 and public administration in 1986.

Mr Kwok started his career as a professional economist in 1985 when he joined the then Economic Services Branch of the Government as an economist.

He had also held senior economist positions in the Hongkong & Shanghai Banking Corporation and the Office of the Commissioner of Banking.