The freedom to trade internationally is one of Hong Kong's economic pillars, Director-General of Trade & Industry Raymond Young says, adding December's WTO 6th Ministerial Conference will bring the city considerable benefits.

Speaking on a radio talk show today, Mr Young said Hong Kong, being a WTO member, has been keen in removing trade barriers s to boost its business opportunities. It will also reap benefits from WTO multi-lateral agreements.

He said Hong Kong's priorities in the Doha Round are market-access related issues, notably market access for non-agricultural products and for services.

Secretary for Commerce, Industry & Technology John Tsang, who will chair the December conference, held a number of informal meetings with WTO ministers aiming to achieve substantial progress. However, the July Approximation cannot be achieved as scheduled due to member countries' different views.

Optimistic outlook

Mr Young said the process of negotiation is complex, adding he is optimistic but prudent on the outcome of the December conference.

Turning to the conference's security arrangements, Mr Young said the Hong Kong Ministerial Conference will be the first to house the Centre for the Non-Governmental Organisations under the same roof as the conference proper.

He said measures will be taken to enable peaceful demonstrations and that Police are capable of handling large-scale events. The Government also has on-going dialogue with NGOs regarding the conference arrangements and a meeting will be held with NGOs before the conference to discuss issues of concern.

Mr Young said schools, in particular those in Wan Chai, have been advised to suspend classes on December 13, the first day of the conference, as there will be traffic diversions.