New legislation in Hong Kong imposes up to seven years’ jail and HK$500,000 fines for disclosing investigations or providing false information to Beijing’s national security office, HKFP reports. Additional offences include obstructing officials and forging documents. Authorities say the laws are essential for national security, though critics warn of further erosion of civil liberties.
Family of US-based Hong Kong activist arrested over alleged financial support
Hong Kong police have arrested the father and brother of US-based pro-democracy activist Anna Kwok for allegedly managing her finances, BBC reports. Kwok, wanted under national security laws, fled in 2020 and now leads the Hong Kong Democracy Council. Her father has been denied bail, marking the first such case against relatives of overseas “absconders.”
CK Hutchison defends ports deal amid global scrutiny
CK Hutchison said its sale of global port assets, including a key Panama Canal operator, will comply fully with legal standards, Reuters reports. The $22.8 billion deal with a BlackRock-led consortium faces criticism from both U.S. President Trump and Chinese state media. The company emphasized regulatory approvals are pending and will address concerns at its May 22 shareholder meeting.
Hong Kong immigration chief acknowledges competition after O’Sullivan eyes Middle East move
Hong Kong faces “many competitors” in attracting global talent, said Immigration Director Benson Kwok, after snooker star Ronnie O’Sullivan revealed plans to relocate to the Middle East despite recently gaining Hong Kong residency, HKFP reports. O’Sullivan had praised Hong Kong’s tax system and culture but has not returned recently to pursue planned ventures in the city.
Hongkongers alarmed by UK plans to tighten BN(O) settlement terms
Hongkongers holding BN(O) visas have expressed anxiety over the UK’s proposed immigration changes, including extending the settlement period to 10 years and raising language requirements, SCMP reports. The UK’s white paper omits clarity on whether BN(O) holders are exempt, sparking concern among families planning relocation or already settled, with some reconsidering their emigration plans.
China criticises UK for trade deal terms aligned with US security demands
China has warned the UK over its new US trade deal, saying the agreement’s security conditions unfairly target Chinese firms, The Guardian reports. The deal offers tariff relief for UK car and steel exports but requires supply chain scrutiny. Beijing claims the terms undermine international norms and harm efforts to improve UK-China relations.
US and China agree to 90-day tariff cut in bid to ease trade tensions
The US and China have agreed to slash tariffs for 90 days following talks in Geneva, marking a de-escalation in their trade war, Financial Times reports. US duties on Chinese goods will drop to 30% and China’s to 10%. The move spurred a market rally and raised hopes for a longer-term agreement between the two powers.
China accused of forcing Solomon Islands minister to quit anti-Beijing alliance
Solomon Islands minister Daniel Waneoroa has resigned from the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China, citing national stability, The Independent reports. Transparency Solomon Islands and IPAC blamed Beijing for coercing his exit through threats and pressure. China’s embassy denied interference, but critics say the incident marks another case of China undermining democratic institutions in the Pacific region.
