Deconstructing the 2026 Budget Financial Secretary Paul Chan released the 2026 Budget, revealing that the Hong Kong government successfully turned a loss into a profit in its consolidated account this year, recording a surplus of $2.9 billion. However, economist Simon Lee (Li Siu-po) pointed out that if the amounts for bond issuance and repayment are excluded, the actual deficit reaches $100.4 billion, questioning whether the early surplus is merely an illusion. Issuing $970

On February 25, 2026, Financial Secretary Paul Chan delivered the 2026-2027 Budget , carrying a distinct theme: "I&T Driving, Financial Empowerment; Diversified Development, Caring for People." Public attention often focuses on the "sweeteners" (relief measures): the doubling of tax reduction ceilings for Salaries Tax and Profits Tax to $3,000, rates concessions for residential properties for two quarters (capped at $500 per household per quarter), and increased tax allowance

As Hong Kong approaches the 2025-26 fiscal year, the city faces mounting global competition and internal pressures for transformation....