Short-term tenancies will be offered to the Trade Development Council for temporary use of the Tamar Site for exhibitions from April 10 to May 8, and September 26 to October 23 in the three years from 2005 to 2007.

Secretary for Commerce, Industry & Technology John Tsang said today the council will be required to pay market rent for the tenancies.

He said the decision was made after careful consideration, and serves to satisfy the unmet demand for exhibition space in respect of the council's annual Gifts & Premium Fair in April and Electronics Fair in October.

"The Government attaches great importance to ensuring that Hong Kong has adequate exhibition facilities to reinforce its position as an international business centre and trade fair capital," he said.

"We consider that allowing the council to make use of the Tamar Site on a short term basis will be beneficial to both the exhibition trade and Hong Kong's economy."