The HK Service Suppliers certification service will launch on Thursday.

The Government has set up the scheme for telecoms sector service suppliers, allowing them to claim preferential treatment under CEPA, the Trade & Industry Department says.

The Mainland agreed on September 29 to grant preferential treatment in an additional sector, taking the total number of sectors covered under CEPA to 18.

The Mainland will apply to service suppliers in Hong Kong the specific commitments set out in CEPA Annex 4 as of October 1 for the telecoms sector, and from January 1 for the other 17 sectors.

Service suppliers in Hong Kong will be able to enjoy the preferential treatment provided they fulfil the definition and related requirements of Hong Kong service suppliers stipulated in CEPA Annex 5.

They should apply to the department for a Certificate of HK Service Supplier before they apply to Mainland authorities for provision of relevant services there.

Service suppliers in the telecoms sector can submit their applications from October 2.

For details, please browse the department's website.