Hong Kong's foreign relations and defence are the responsibility of the People's Republic of China. Hong Kong has retained considerable autonomy in all aspects, including economic and commercial relations, customs control, except diplomatic relations and defence. Hong Kong continues to be an active, independent member of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum.

Prior to the entering into force of The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office Act 1996 enacted by the United Kingdom Parliament, Hong Kong represented its interests abroad through the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Offices (HKETO) and via a special office in the British Embassies (or High Commissioners), but the latter has ceased after reunification in 1997. At present, the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Offices under the Government of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region in countries that are the major trading partner of the HKSAR, including Japan, Canada, Australia, Singapore, the UK, Belgium (the EU), Switzerland and the US. These offices serve as the official representative of the HKSAR Government in these countries. Its major functions include facilitating trade negotiations and handling trade related matters, inter-government relations with foreign governments; the promoting of investment in Hong Kong; and liaising with the media and business community. The Government of Hong Kong also has set up the Hong Kong Tourism Board with offices in other countries and regions to promote tourism. Other countries, likewise, have set up consulates-general or consulates in Hong Kong that are subordinate to the embassy in China in Beijing.

The Government of Hong Kong has also an liaison office in Beijing, and an HKETO at Guangzhou, Guangdong. The PRC government also maintains a liaison office in Hong Kong. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has a representative office in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong makes strenuous law enforcement efforts, but faces serious challenges in controlling transit of heroin and methamphetamine to regional and world markets; modern banking system provides a conduit for money laundering; rising indigenous use of synthetic drugs, especially among young people.

Hong Kong has its own immigration policy, and issues its own passports. Residents of Hong Kong and mainland China need a passport-like document (the Home Return Permit and the exit endorsement ) to cross the Hong Kong-mainland China border. Visitors from other countries and regions with no waiver programme are required to apply for visas directly through the Hong Kong Immigration Department.

International organization participation

APEC, AsDB, BIS, CCC, ESCAP (associate), ICFTU, International Maritime Organization (associate), Interpol (subbureau), IOC, ISO (correspondent), WCL, WMO, WTrO

See also

• Foreign relations of the People's Republic of China

Reference

• CIA - The World Factbook 2003