The Trade & Industry Department has announced the 2005 arrangements for local manufacturers to request additional Hong Kong origin products imported by the Mainland to be included in the next phase of zero-tariff implementation under the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement.

Under CEPA provisions, manufacturers of Hong Kong-origin goods that do not yet enjoy the Mainland's preferential treatment of zero-tariff status may submit applications to the department.

The Mainland and Hong Kong will conduct consultations on the applications.

For details of the arrangements, refer to a circular the department issued today. It can be downloaded from the department's "CEPA Trade in Goods" webpage.

For enquiries, call the department's Mainland Branch at 2398 5676. Enquiries can also be sent by fax (2398 9973) or by e-mail (ma_registry@tid.gov.hk)