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B July / August 2012 Volume 158 Travel & Leisure Interview with a Chief – Rogier Verhoeven, Shun Tak Holdings 4 Spreading the Wealth 14 Bring Memories Back Home to Share 30 Loraine Wong | Designer at project A

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July / August 2012

Volume 158

Travel & LeisureInterview with a Chief – Rogier Verhoeven, Shun Tak Holdings 4

Spreading the Wealth 14

Bring Memories Back Home to Share 30

Loraine Wong | Designer at project A

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Contents3 Chairman’s Note

4 News and ViewsInterview with a Chief

12 Tax FocusResearch & Development Deduction Hong Kong (local) Tax Planning

14 LeadstorySpreading the WealthLuxury Travel and Leisure in Asia

17 Investment FocusFrom Shanghai to Myanmar: Travel and Invest

18 China FocusStealth Marketing

19 Talking Point

20 Members' Corner

21 Lifestyle

31 Events

34 Enquiries and Information

36 Dutchcham Information

The magazine for members of the Dutch

Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong

Suite 5702, 57th Floor, Cheung Kong Center,

2 Queen’s Road, Central, Hong Kong

Tel.: (852) 2815 2801

E-mail: [email protected]

Website: www.dutchchamber.hk

Skype: Dutchchamberhk

Editorial Committee

Alexander de Nerée tot Babberich (Chairman)

Diederik Heinink

Candice Lee

Faith Fung

Editor

Kristen Beattie

Desktop publisher

Jean Michel Caille

General Manager

Jacqueline Baud

Cover photo

Loraine Wong, Designer at project A

Pictures: Gassan Diamonds, Garuda Indonesia and Asia Yacht Services

Advertisers

ABN AMRO

BLUE 8 GOLF LTD.

KLM ROYAL DUTCH AIRLINES

HEINEKEN

HKWJ TAX LAW & PARTNERS LTD.

ING COMMERCIAL BANKING

PHILIPS

RABOBANK

RANDSTAD

ROYALE INTERNATIONAL

z This magazine is distributed free of charge to all members and relations of the Dutch Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong.

z For annual subscription, please mail your business card and a crossed cheque for HK$490 to the above address. Cheques should be made payable to “The Dutch Chamberof Commerce in Hong Kong”.

z The content of this magazine is largely based on information from third parties. The editors do not necessarily agree with the views expressed therein. All rights arereserved by the Dutch Chamber of Commerce. Permission may be granted for reprints in any format upon request.

z To enable us to improve our service and avoid multiple mailings or errors with company details, please send us your latest information so that we can update our database.

1

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DutchCham Board of Directors

DutchCham Advisory Board

DutchCham Office

Mr Robert ScholtenChairman; Managing Director & Country Manager Greater China

of ING Commercial Banking

Mr Robert SchuddeboomChairman; Consul-General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands

Mr K. K. Yeung Chairman of KK Yeung Management Consultants Ltd.Mr Wiebo Vaartjes Chairman of Philips Electronics Hong Kong Ltd.

Mr Paul Zimmerman Founding member of Designing Hong KongSouthern District Councillor

Mr Dennis Ziengs CEO, Asia of Ageas

Mr Frank Koster CEO ING Insurance Asia Pacific

Mr Lodewijk Lamaison van den Berg Senior Vice President of EFG Bank

Mr René TheilVice-Chairman and Chairman of the SME Committee;

Managing Director of PromoClip Asia Ltd.

Mr Arend Oldenziel Treasurer; Partner of KPMG

Mr Alexander de Nerée tot BabberichChairman of the Public Relations & Publications Committee;Lawyer, De Nerée Advocates

Mr Harold van KootenCo-Chair of the China Committee;

Special Counsel, Baker & McKenzie

Mr Daniël de Blocq van Scheltinga Co-Chair of the China Committee;

Managing Partner of Polarwide Ltd.

Mr Tom VoûteChairman of the Membership Committee;Chief Executive Officer of Algorithmic Trading Group Ltd.

Mrs Jacqueline Baud General Manager

Ms Faith Fung Marketing & Communication Manager

Mrs Helen Yong Office Manager Robert Scholten

DutchCham Chairman

Up, up and Away!

If Hong Kong is anything, it is a tran-sient place. This means happy intro-ductions to new friends all the time

but also the dreaded goodbyes that comewith living among the ever mobile.

This time around we bid farewell to ourConsul General, Robert Schuddeboom, astaunch supporter of the Dutch Chamber and of the involve-ment of the Dutch community as a whole in the Hong KongBusiness and Cultural Community. Not to mention the bestconnected Consul General in Hong Kong to date.

We are sad to see Robert leave and thank him for all his sup-port over the past years. However, we are comforted by thethought that Robert will continue to be in touch as our firstfollower on Twitter. Following Robert´s shining example, thePR & Pub committee is working towards opening a Twitterfeed for members and all those interested; in addition to theChamber's activities on LinkedIn.

As if this weren't enough, we also say our goodbyes to AndréVerkade, the Deputy Consul General who will be leavingHong Kong. Like Robert, André is an active supporter of theDutch Chamber and we would like to thank him for his con-tributions to the board meetings which have been invaluable.

Finally we are sad to announce that our Marketing andCommunication Manager Faith Fung has decided to leave heremployment with the Chamber. We are happy to be able tosay that she will join the General Chamber of Commerce andwe congratulate Faith wholeheartedly on her fantastic newjob. We thank her for many contributions to the Chamber andwish her all the best for her new job.

We also extend our thanks to Lodewijk Lamaison van denBerg and Vincent Homrighausen who both stepped down asboard members during the recent Annual General Meeting ofthe Chamber. Lodewijk has been on the board for an unprece-dented tenure of ten years and we are pleased to announcethat his experience will not be lost to the Chamber sinceLodewijk has joined the Advisory Board.

"Though much is taken, much abides." We are happy to seethat the Chamber is buzzing with energy as a result of, forexample, the newly created Financial Platform, CreativePlatform and Tax Platform. These platforms bring togethertop professionals in their respective fields to discuss specifictopics and to organize activities for the business communityin Hong Kong in their field of expertise.

This will all lead in the future to greater involvement of morepeople with the Chamber and to a wider range of interestingactivities for our members. We will keep you posted.

In the meantime, on behalf of the entire board, I wish you afine summer holiday and we hope that this month’s Travel &Leisure edition of the magazine provides you with suitablereading material.

Chairman’s Note

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News and Views

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How is Shun Tak involved in the hospitality industry inHong Kong?

Interestingly our involvement in the hospitality industry inHong Kong is limited. We own only one property here, namelythe 658-room SkyCity Marriott. However, we were pioneers in

Macau in that we were the very first to bring international hotelbrands, including the Mandarin Oriental and Westin there. Before2000, when I started to work with the Group, Shun Tak didn’thave a Hospitality Services Division. Instead, all efforts werefocused on the Transportation Division (known for its red coloredTurboJet ferries) and real estate investments. Through these, theGroup’s Board recognized the hospitality industry’s potential andaspired to assemble an integrated tourism portfolio. I wastherefore assigned the task to start the Hospitality ServicesDivision, ‘STHSL’ to harness that potential.

Today, Shun Tak has become a well-integrated hospitalityconglomerate led by Ms. Pansy Ho. She is renowned amongstthe tourism industry both in the region, as well asinternationally. Ms Ho currently serves as a Member of theMacau SAR Tourism Development Committee, an ExecutiveCommittee Member of WTTC and Vice-Chairman of theChina Chamber of Tourism.

What is STHSL and who does it serve?

‘STHSL’ stands for Shun Tak Hospitality Services Limited; thecompany that regroups Shun Tak’s hospitality ventures. STHSL,through its subsidiaries, whether behind the scenes or directlyfacing guests, serves a wide range of stakeholders: travelers andproperty, as well as Meeting, Incentives, Conventions andExhibitions (MICE) venue owners. We own hotel properties andrestaurants, manage MICE venues and own a travel agencybrand. In addition we own a hospitality training academy inZhongshan, China.

How many MICE events do you organize annually?

Shun Tak manages two MICE venues: The Canton Tower and TheMacau Tower. STHSL has established a solid footprint in the PearlRiver Delta’s corporate scene. In 2011, STHSL served respectableclients and made significant strides in harnessing business fromnational-level summits and top-notch sports events. Clientsincluded China Mobile Group, GE Medical Service, Toshiba

Medical Service and a host of international luxury brands.National events included the Asia Pacific Economic CooperationABAC in February 2011 and the 5th China Cup InternationalRegatta 2011 “Blue Knight Festival” in October.

How many hotels in Hong Kong and Macau does theShun Tak Group own major interests in?

We own stakes in the SkyCity Marriot Hong Kong, theMandarin Oriental Macau, the Jumeirah Macau and the WestinResort Macau. Ms. Pansy Ho, through her own investment, is apartner of MGM Macau. Prior to joining Shun Tak, I had alsoassisted Pansy to develop MGM’s hotel. MGM and Shun Tak areseparate and operate independently.

How do you see the Group’s Hospitality ServicesDivision growing over the next 5 years?

Proactive expansion into the China market is definitely the focusof growth. Today, China is already the second largest tourismeconomy in the world and also one of the largest destinationcountries. Opportunities are abound and we are eager to makeour mark here. Taking up the management role of Canton Towermarks one of our first steps in that direction. We demonstratedour hospitality management capabilities through the ShanghaiExpo, we played an important role in Macau Pavilion, and havesince gained good exposure, benefiting from word of mouthpublicity, amongst Mainland corporates. We are currently intalks with various potential partners who share a similarbusiness vision - and we believe the potential for our Group isenormous. Apart from the PRC, Shun Tak is are also openlyseeking potential projects in South East Asia, Europe as well asAmerica – we are constantly on the lookout for opportunities tostrengthen our portfolio and generate synergistic values to ourcurrent network.

Macau

What is Shun Tak’s association with the Sociedade deTurismo e Diversoes de Macau?

The Group owns an effective interest of 11.5% in STDM, whichin turn owns a 55.23% stake in Sociedade de Jogos de Macau(SJM). As Shun Tak is a non-gaming company its associationwith STDM is purely that of an investor.

Interview with a Chief

Rogier Verhoeven, Executive Director, President of Hospitality Division at Shun Tak HoldingsRogier Verhoeven, Executive Director and President of theHospitality Division at Shun Tak Holdings talks to us aboutShun Tak’s involvement in the hospitality industry in thePearl River Delta, the expansion into the China market andthe face of tourism in Macau.

z By Kristen Beattie

Rogier Verhoeven

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How has Macau tourism changed in the last 10 years?

Over the past decade, Macau has experienced fundamentalchanges in terms of tourist composition and market dynamics.Firstly, the Mainland has overtaken Hong Kong to becomeMacau’s primary source of visitors. Mainland travelers grewfrom 3 million in 2001 to 16 million in 2011. Secondly, travelerscoming to Macau nowadays seek all kinds of novel and luxuryofferings. With increased wealth and sophistication, demandsare ever increasing.

In terms of the city’s offering, Macau has gradually diversifiedfrom gaming and strengthened other tourism elements such asretails, MICE, cultural heritage, events and festival.

Who is visiting Macau and why?

Typically, the answer is short-haul tourists who spend an averageof about 1 day in Macau. Contrary to popular belief that touristsvisit Macau primarily for gaming, a report published by theUniversity of Macau (Faculty of Business Admin) in April 2012found that the top two reasons for visit are tourist attractions(36.9% of visitors) and shopping (17.7% of visitors). Gaming-related activities follow as third accounting for 16.5% ofvisitors. The same report also shows that Macau is no longer atag-on option. Nowadays, 52.5% of tourists are visiting Macauas a single destination in their travel.

Where do most tourists come from?

Taiwan is the 3rd largest tourist source country. In the first 4 monthsof 2012, the total number of tourists visiting Macau was 9,324,476(100%). The tourist per region breakdown looks like this:

- Mainland China: 5,618,826 (60.3%)- Hong Kong: 2,375,016 (25.5%)- Taiwan: 335,532 (3.6%)- South Korea: 153,701 (1.6%)- Japan: 137,864 (1.5%)

How many hotels are there now?

Up until March 2012, there were 95 hotels offering a total of22,272 rooms.

How dependent is Macau on gaming?

Today, gaming still plays a predominant role in driving theeconomy, in fact 72% of government revenue comes from thissector. Total government revenue totalled MOP 88.4b in 2010,of which MOP 63b was from gaming. Whilst the governmentstrives to diversify the economy, the gaming and tourismindustries will continue to be the driving force behind thedevelopment of other peripheral industries.

How is Macau’s infrastructure coping with the rise invisitors?

Although infrastructure has lagged behind tourism growth overthe past decade, two major infrastructure projects, to becompleted in the coming years, are expected to improve thesituation substantially. Firstly, the Macau Light Rapid TransitSystem, now under construction, will connect most urban areaswithin the Macau Peninsula, Taipa and Cotai. This system willalso connect Macau to the intercity rapid transportationnetwork of the PRC, designed to link Macau and Guangzhouwithin a 1-hour journey. Secondly, on a regional scale, the HongKong-Zuhai-Macau Bridge is expected to be completed in 2016.This will link the west side of Hong Kong to Macau and Zhuhai,reinforcing regional economic integration within the Pearl RiverDelta region.

What does Macau offer to those not interested in gambling?

Attractions other than gaming: - Unique melting pot of Chinese and Portuguese cultures- World Heritage Site enlisted under UNESCO, historical relics,

customs and attractions- Native and international cuisine- New casino complexes provide a wide range of non-gaming

offerings: world class entertainment shows (e.g. House ofDancing Water), MICE, shopping, etc...

- Sports events (e.g. Macau Grand Prix)

What is the future for the hospitality industry in Macau?

The future of Macau’s hospitability industry lies in our ability toreinvent itself, in terms of developing a unique positioning andcompetitive advantage vis-a-vis regional competition, and also interms of how it can use gaming as an economic driver to fosterbalanced growth in other sectors. With the Macau government’scommitment, as well as the expansion blueprint of existingresort operators, Macau is on a very promising track.

News and Views

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News and Views

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Quote asks Dutch businessmen abroad about the hotspotsand challenges in their new hometown. This month, weare off to Hong Kong, where Tom Voûte (42), co-ownerof Algorithmic Trading Group has been living for fiveyears.

People in Hong Kong love money and they are very happy toshow this. It is important to look prosperous; which is whymany young girls, who hardly earn much, have Louis Vuittonbags. They might live in a small apartment, but if they are outand about, they look good and wealthy. This is also the city withthe highest number of Ferraris per inhabitant; there are threeFerrari dealers for 7 million inhabitants. Ferrari CEO Luca diMontezemolo pays a visit here annually, because it is such animportant market for his brand.

Hong Kong is continuously at war with its rival – the othereconomically large city state - Singapore. According to thepeople here, the two may be similar but yes, “it is not China.”But Hong Kong is not China either – and many things such asstrikes, which are forbidden in China, happen in Hong Kong.The Hong Kong people are very proud of the fact that this ispossible here; that is the ultimate evidence of freedom.

There are about 5,000 Dutch people in Hong Kong. That is alarge society, so there is also a very active chamber of commerce,the Dutch Chamber of Commerce, which brings together peoplein the business area, many of whom are entrepreneurs. Hong Kong is an enormous port, where lots of money can beearned via exporting goods. And China, where everything ismanufactured, is only half an hour across the border.

Starting a company is very easy: you fill in some forms and it’sready. Also the fifteen per cent turnover and profit tax helpsto set-up a company here. Five years ago, IMF FinancialMarkets, where I worked before, opened an office here and Icame to Hong Kong to help set up the business here. BecauseI liked it here, on both a business and a personal level, I stayedand set-up my own company, ‘Algorithmic Trading Group’, atrading company which trades on the stock exchangesworldwide with mathematic models. We currently have a staffof 15.

It is normal here for every family, Chinese or Western, to have afull-time helper here. There are in total three hundred thousandhelpers in Hong Kong, mostly from the Philippines andIndonesia. For a family with small children, like ours, it is ablessing to have such a help available six days a week and nicefor example if you want to dine out with your wife sometimes.

Hong Kong has one of the highest number of Michelin starrestaurants worldwide, but you can also dine exceptionally atlocal food stalls.

Dutch in the NewsOur Chairman of the Membership Committee Tom Voûte was interviewed in Quote magazine, May 2012 edition.

z By Author: Matthijs Goes – Translated by: The Dutch Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong

Facts• Inhabitants: 7 million, whereof 96% Chinese• Business centre: everywhere• Entertainment area: Wyndham Street, Lan Kwai Fong and

Wanchai (from chic to sleezy)• Must do: ‘Receiving a business card with two hands and

studying it carefully. Everything with lucky number 8 –associated with wealth.’

• Don’ts: ‘Getting angry or insulting the other as this leads toloss of face of your interlocutor. Everything with number 4– associated with death.

Hotspots for Food• At Wellington Street you have the Landmark, Yung Kee

restaurant. The specialty is goose, sourced fresh every daywww.yungkee.com.hk

• At Amber on the Queen’s Road, we have our two starDutch Chef Richard Ekkebus in the kitchen www.amber-hongkong.com

• In gambling paradise Macau – an hour by boat fromHong Kong – you can get a 3-course lunch at 3 starrestaurant Robuchon à Galera for EUR 40,-

Hotspots for Clubbing• At Dragon-I it’s models night every Wednesday, where

Asian and Western beauties can enjoy water for free.www.dragon-i.com.hk

• Grand Café Mes Amis is the only bar in Wanchai youwant to be seen in www.mesamis.com.hk

Tom Voûte

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News and Views

During the 10th Hong Kong - Asia Film Financing Forum(HAF), which took place on March 21st 2012 in HongKong, the winners of the various awards associated with

the HAF were announced.

The HAF/Fox Chinese Film Development Award, a new awardintroduced this year, went to psychological suspense drama TwoGraves to be directed by Netherlands-born, Hong Kong-basedfilmmaker Sammie Lau.

The Award, which is a new initiative to further boost filmproduction in the region, came with a cash prize of $12,900(HK$100,000) and a development contract with Fox InternationalProductions (Greater China) Ltd. “This is my first feature so it’s anamazing opportunity to work with Fox,” said Lau.

This year’s HAF is the milestone 10th edition, attending guestsinclude renowned filmmakers and HAF alumni like Peter CHAN

and HO Yu-Hang, marking the most memorable year of theHAF to date as a star-studded event.

“The consistent growth in participation at the HAF has made ita uniquely important platform for the investors, filmmakersand distributors,” says Roger Garcia, Executive Director of theHong Kong Film Festival Society, organiser of the HAF. “Itforms a bridge between the most dedicated and forward-looking people from the industry, contributing to thedevelopment of the Asian film industry and realising filmprojects that go on to bring great enjoyment to cinemaaudiences across Asia and the world.”

“2012 has been a record-breaking year for the HAF,” said Mr.Garcia, “in both number of entries and meetings, and the qualityof the projects has been exceptional. Considering the calibre ofthe projects at the HAF through the years right up to today, wecan be sure that the HAF will continue to go from strength tostrength, and continue to play a vital role in fostering co-production in this part of the world and beyond.”

About Hong Kong - Asia Film Financing Forum (HAF)

The Hong Kong - Asia Film Financing Forum (HAF) is widelyrecognised as the most important film-financing platform inAsia. The HAF brings Asian filmmakers with upcoming filmprojects to Hong Kong for co-production ventures with top filmfinanciers, producers, bankers, distributors and buyers.Attracting more than 1,000 filmmakers and financiers from atleast 35 countries and regions, around 30 projects are selectedannually to participate in the three-day event.

About The Hong Kong International Film Festival SocietyLimited (HKIFFS)

The Hong Kong International Film Festival Society Limited(HKIFFS) is a charitable, non-profit and non-governmentalorganisation dedicated to the discovery and promotion ofcreativity in the art and culture of film. Through its year-roundprogrammes, the mission of the Society is to strengthen globalappreciation of Chinese film culture and to promote inspiringfilms from around the world, enriching the cultural life of HongKong.

Dutch-born Hong KongFilmmaker Wins HAF Award

Sammie Lau

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News and Views

With May 1, 2012 on aTuesday and our tradition-al Queen’s Day untradi-

tionally celebrated on April 27 thisyear, we decided to go on a shorttrip. Where to go? Bangkok? To findout that Thai people are NOT friend-ly and only want to cheat you? Orto The Philippines for theumpteenth time, to watch youngAussies drink beer through theirnoses in Bali or maybe lock ourselves in a Malaysian resort again? Tempting,but no. We found a destination no expat had been to before. My travel agentsaid it was the first time in his career he had sold tickets to this place.

So there we were, after a 5,5 hour flight and a 3 hour + time difference. It wasthe middle of the night, pitch black outside and we noticed we were the onlyforeigners on the plane. On the tarmac we saw some rusty Tupolevs and aSikorsky helicopter. Outside it was 5 degrees and we understood why all otherpassengers had put on sweaters and coats. The arrival hall was about the sizeof my conference room and very cramped. We stood in front of an immigrationofficer for about as long as it takes me to read Tolstoy’s ‘War and Peace’ andthe locals thought this was very funny. Several slams of a chop later, we nego-tiated our way into an illegal taxi and drove to the city. On the outskirts of townwe saw a guy lying on the street; it looked like he had been shot through hishead - the excitement about our trip suddenly went up a notch.

For the next two days we roamed this city which has only been open to thepublic for twenty years now and we really enjoyed it. People were very friend-ly and many tried to help us wherever they could, even though their Englishwas very limited. The city is built around several bays and on numerous hills.Some of its buildings were crumbling, but most were painted in nice pastelcolors and the streets were filled with Japanese cars. The great weather alsohelped: crisp blue skies and 15 degrees! We frequented many bars. Somewere stuck in the 70s or 80s and others outclassed some clubs here! But themain difference was the clientele. The men were strongly built and all woreblack leather jackets. The girls were very beautiful, but we also suspectedmost to be prostitutes.

While enjoying another plate of great sushi, our friendly waiter covertly whis-pered something to us. “Ghello, ies maaybee not vehdy proh-vezsional koow-estion, gyes? Bud, Ghen you ghear ghai ghave ay Ruszian Akzent?” We saidthat we could and concluded that this was yet another highlight of our trip toVladivostok.

By Mark Scholz,

[email protected]

An Alternative Long Weekend Trip

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This year, the Queen’s Day Reception was held at theResidence of the Consul General of the Kingdom of theNetherlands on the 27th of April, since this is also the

birthday of our Crown Prince Willem Alexander van Oranje.

All Dutch were dressed with a ‘touch of orange’ while enjoyingthe typical Dutch snacks, from bitterballen and frikadellen toherrings and poffertjes in the beautiful garden of the Residence.

The Consul General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Mr. Robert Schuddeboom gave his last speech during a Queen’sDay Reception at the Residence, since he is leaving Hong Kongthis August. He mentioned that luckily he had rented amarquee that night, since it was typical Dutch weather that

night - raining cats and dogs and there was a thunderstormwarning, which he had not before encountered on a Queens’Day Reception during his four years in Hong Kong. He alsothanked the sponsors for this reception, which made it possibleto offer popcorn, photo service, Dutch food and a nice feast toeveryone.

More than 500 guests enjoyed the reception, with the singing ofthe national anthem – which everyone knows by heart- as thehighlight of the event.

The Dutch Chamber congratulates the Consulate of theKingdom of the Netherlands for a well organized and successfulQueen’s Day Reception.

Located in the vibrant heart of Hong Kong, dynamiclifestyle hotel, Langham Place, Mongkok, brings your nextevent to life. Blending trendy sophistication and

contemporary chic, the 665-room vibrant hotel directly connectsyou to markets, over 300 shops and the train station, making itthe hottest location in the city. Its state-of-the-art functionfacilities combine advanced technology and extraordinaryservice to create an engaging environment. Versatile meetingfacilities come with video conferencing, simultaneous recordingand screening, and built-in LCD projectors with multiple, largedrop down screens.

Home to a contemporary art collection of over 1,500 pieces, thehotel promises a sparkling stay with it soul-soothing TraditionalChinese Medicine-inspired Chuan Spa featuring over 60 treatments,a glamorous roof-top pool, and stellar dining ranging from the two-

Michelin starred contemporary Cantonese restaurant, Ming Court,to The Backyard outdoor cocktail deck and modern take onJapanese, at Tokoro Robatayaki & Whisky Bar.

Book now for exclusive rates for members of The Dutch Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong with our sparkling Senior Sales Manager– Europe Benjamin Mueller-Rappard at (852) 3552 3044 or [email protected]

Langham Place555 Shanghai Street, Mongkok, Kowloon, Hong Kong Hongkonglanghamplacehotels.comT: (852) 3552 3044

News and Views

Queen’s Day Reception

Exclusive Rates at Langham Place, MongkokLangham Place, Mongkok is the preferred hotel of The Dutch Chamber of Commerce in HK

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The Dutch Cheese and More recently opened its first pilotstore in Hong Kong, on Queen’s Road Central, markingthe first step in its major operation to introduce Asian

markets to the fine tastes of Dutch cheese.

The Forgotten Legend

Dutch cheese goes a long way back. Cheese was a chanceinvention by prehistoric inhabitants of the Low Countries. Forcentury after century, as Holland developed as the Land ofDairy, Dutch farmers would produce cheeses in their picturesquefarmhouses.

Dutch cheese is now back on the world stage. Finding it unfairthat their countrymen kept the forgotten legend of Dutch cheesea secret, entrepreneurs Dirk Jasper en Nick Pauli matured a boldplan: to bring Dutch cheese to all corners of the world.

The taste is back

The Dutch Cheese and More has been created with passion andtraditional Dutch entrepreneurship, to confront contemporarytaste-sensitive global citizens with a distinct taste from the past:the Dutch cheese tradition. Modern day Asian consumers valuea product with such a legacy. Tasting cheese, combined with acarefully selected glass of wine, is an aspect of European lifestylethat is fast catching on in Asia.

Fresh retail concept

From the rich and inspiring Dutch cheese culture, a specific newbrand was created, directed at the China market. Chineseconsumers are all the more interested in cheese (including winepairings), but are asking for information and knowledge on thesubject. With that in mind, The Dutch Cheese and More becamea basic retail concept directed at explaining the various tastesand pinpointing the best combinations. A select range ofcharacteristic, popular cheeses from The Netherlands wasintegrated in a luxurious but affordable store brand.

Crafted for the modern Chinese lifestyle, The Dutch Cheese andMore is designed as a sensational, Western and attractive retailformula, in which hip and trendy Asian city life is combined withDutch tradition. Stereotypical orange and black reflects Dutchdesign.

Welcome to The Dutch

Chinese consumers show confidence in Dutch products,particularly dairy. In this respect, The Dutch Cheese and More

story appeals in a modern way to the ‘Holland’ brand, with allits positive associations.

The Dutch Cheese and More store offers a comfortable andwelcoming atmosphere in which to explore Dutch taste throughunique combinations of cheese and wine. Expect (over the nextfew years), The Dutch Cheese and More stores to be establishedin all major Chinese cities, based on this innovative franchiseformula.

z 232 Queen’s Road Central, Hong KongOpen daily, from 11am to 9pmMore information on the website: www.thedutch.hkFollow on Twitter: @TheDutchCheese

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Press Release News and Views

Dutch Cheese Comes to Hong KongThe taste of Holland now on Queen's Road

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Over the last few years, the Dutch Government has put alot of effort into further stimulating the knowledge-basedeconomy. An important incentive in its policy is the

Research & Development Deduction (RDD) that has beenintroduced in 2012. The RDD is an extra deduction aimed atfacilitating the costs (other than employment costs) andinvestments attributable to R&D.

This facility comes on top of the other tax incentives which havethe objective to promote R&D: (i) a rebate on the employer’s remittance of wage withholding

tax (wage withholding tax incentive; “WBSO”), and (ii) an effective reduction of the Dutch corporation tax rate from

25% to 5% applicable to proceeds derived from qualifyinginnovations (innovation box) that we discussed in one of our2011 columns.

The extra deduction concerns costs (other than employment cost)and expenses attributable to R&D. Qualifying costs are costswhich

(i) have already been paid, (ii are for the account of the taxpayer, (iii) are directly attributable to R&D carried out by the taxpayer

and (iv) have not been previously eligible for an RDD certificate.

Apart from these costs, expenses are also recognized. In additionto the already mentioned requirements regarding costs, expensesmust relate to the acquisition of new, never previously used

business assets. Expenses of €1.000.000 or more are not takeninto consideration as a lump sum but are taken into considerationover a five-year period.

For 2012, the extra deduction is set at 40% of the total amountof qualifying costs and expenses. This amounts to a net tax savingof 8 to 10%. The RDD application includes an estimate of thefuture costs and expenses attributable to R&D activities. TheRDD application is linked to the application for the R&D wagetax credit (‘WBSO’) and both applications have to be submittedsimultaneously to the government agency.

If the government agency approves the application, a certificatespecifying the amount of RDD deduction will be issued to thetaxpayer. The date of the certificate decides the moment at whichthe deduction reduces the taxable income.

Within three months after the end of the calendar year or – if thatoccurs later – within three months after the issuance of the lastRDD certificate related to that year, the taxpayer is obliged toprovide information on the actual incurred costs and expenses.

The correction RDD certificate is the final element of the RDD.This certificate overrides the costs and expenses described in theRDD certificate, replacing them with the actual costs andexpenses. Please note that the amount of the RDD cannot behigher than the earlier RDD estimates. The date of the correctionRDD certificate decides the moment at which the adjusted figurehas to be taken into account.

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Tax Focus

Research & DevelopmentDeductionz By Carola van den Bruinhorst ([email protected]) and Josine van Wanrooij ( [email protected]), Loyens & Loeff N.V.

Carola van den Bruinhorst Josine van Wanrooij

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Tax Focus

Willem Hoogland

Hong Kong (Local) Tax Planningz By Willem Jan Hoogland ([email protected]), HKWJ

For Hong Kong companies with full substance/operations/proper substance in Hong Kong, taxplanning is less straightforward than for resident Hong

Kong companies with hardly any substance or for residentHong Kong companies that are mostly used for re-invoicingpurposes. The latter group of resident companies can easilyrequest for the offshore regime to be applied, but the taxableprofits of the first group of resident companies are howeverlikely to be fully taxable in Hong Kong.

Although Hong Kong currently applies a corporate incometax rate of 16,5%, which is considered low by manyEuropean countries, local Hong Kong resident companies orHong Kong companies with proper substance but withoverseas parents still wonder if and how they can reducetheir tax liability. Although local tax planning is possible,one should be careful with its execution and one has toensure that proper documentation is in place.

Some tax advisers might toy with the concept of ‘bonuspayments versus dividend payments’ in order to reduce localcorporate income taxes, while others might suggest settingup regional offices in other jurisdictions, and still othersmight suggest putting certain royalty structures in place. Onemust be prudent, however, and take into account various HKcase laws and Hong Kong’s anti-abuse/avoidance provisions.

Import Processing versus Contract Processing

Special attention should also be given to import processingversus contract processing arrangements. Benefits for aHong Kong company might arise when part of itsmanufacturing process takes place with an entity inMainland China as an agent or as a sub-contractor.

Under these latter arrangements, a factory in China would beresponsible for the processing and manufacturing of aportion of the products. The factory would charge the HongKong company a processing fee. The Hong Kong companywould complete the product and also often provide the rawmaterials needed to make the product. By means of DIPN 21,the Hong Kong Inland Revenue is however willing toapportion the profit made by the Hong Kong company as aresult of the products sold to third parties on a 50:50 basis.

As a result of cases such as “CG Lighting Limited versusCIR” and “Datatronics versus CIR,” it has become moreevident that the structure of the arrangements is quiteimportant. Within these court cases, the Court of FirstInstance came to the conclusion that the Hong Kongcompanies’ involvement in the manufacturing business of the

Mainland China company (whether or not the agreement inplace was one of import processing or contract processing)included antecedent or incidental activities where the profit-making transactions are the sale of goods and therefore theabove-mentioned DIPN 21 cannot be applied.

Securities Trading

Hong Kong is known for its trade in securities andcommodities. For profits from dealing in securities orcommodities it is often said that these do have their sourcewhere the contracts of sale and purchase are affected. If thissource is in Hong Kong, then the profits realised would befully taxable in Hong Kong at the corporate income tax rateof 16,5%. In addition to the above rules, several case laws,especially where commissions are involved, need to be takeninto consideration in order to judge whether or not the localactivities in reality resulted in Hong Kong corporate incometax. However, when properly structured, security traderscould save some money in Hong Kong.

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Bart Jan Kimman - Asia Yacht Services & Northrop andJohnson Asia

Dutchman Bart Jan Kimman runs the HK office of globalyacht brokerage Northrop and Johnson. They have bro-kers in 10 Asian countries, acting on behalf of yacht buy-

ers and sellers for both new and pre-owned vessels as well asarranging charters. Kimman also runs Asia Yacht Services whichacts as a shore agent for visiting and resident ‘super yachts’ -handling all port formalities, berthing, services, supplies andground and air transport.

Representing both owners and buyers Kimman tells us “We arealways looking for yacht-owners to represent and our reputationis such that owners contact us to handle the sale of their yachts.We also may be representing buyers of yachts. This is more likea consultant - establishing the specific wishes of a client and thensearching a yacht, new or pre-owned that matches the profile setby the buyer.” The company also acts as a yacht matchmaker –between owners of yachts and customers who are looking tocharter a yacht.”

Despite the economy, Kimman has sold over 10 yachts in the lastyear alone, although he does acknowledge that the future isunclear given the fact that he is dealing with a luxury item whichis, as he puts it, last in, first out! Kimman tells us that they havean extensive network of contacts, both local and expat, whichthey look to continuously extend by attending boat shows, pri-vate events, yacht races and other opportunities to findprospects.

Asia Yacht Services started in 2005, with the Superyacht servic-es starting modestly some 4 years ago with around 3 visitingyachts per year. It has since grown to 12-15 yachts per year, jus-tifying a small team of four staff catering for their needs.Kimman explains that often the function they play is projectmanager with various subcontractors providing the actual serv-ices or materials. “We generally make sure that the yacht, herowner and her crew are happy campers during their stay inHong Kong.”

These yachts are still predominantly European and American-owned. Kimman notes, however that the number of super yachts

owned by Asians is growing steadily. Why is Hong Kong an idealdestination for Superyachts? According to Kimman, “HongKong is a great hub. There is a range of service facilities, it is easyto fly in and out of and it is virtually tax free which allows forthe delivery of expensive parts. Also crew like to stay in HongKong when the yacht is not being used by the owners.”

Hong Kong makes a great base from which to explore othercountries such as China, Vietnam, the Philippines and Borneo.This is one of the major appeals for the city in addition to offer-ing some very nice cruising grounds with 235 islands to choosefrom (although it is hard to compete with the diving and cultur-al diversities of some of the countries located around the ChinaSea).

And where does Kimman see the future of luxury yachting in theRegion? He concedes that Hong Kong will remain a hub. Thespokes are new cruising destinations which keep being developedmaking this Region so interesting for large yachts. As far as infrastructure goes however, Kimman explains thatregion is seriously lacking. China has started to develop somemarinas, there is very little in Vietnam, Cambodia and thePhilippines, next to nothing in Indonesia and Myanmar.Thailand, Singapore and Malaysia, however, have reasonablefacilities. This lack of infrastructure is however good for HongKong as mega yachts like to cruise in remote areas but from timeto time they need a full range of facilities to stock up and servicesystems on board. So Hong Kong is definitely at an advantage inthat regard!

With many clients being repeat customers, the saying seems to betrue that once you visit Hong Kong you become hooked.Kimman is certainly pleased about this, “We try and do an excel-lent job for our clients and it is rewarding when they return fortheir next project.”

Riza Perdana Kusuma - PT Garuda Indonesia

After a turbulent history, Garuda is now leading the field andhas recently been awarded ‘Best International Airline’ by RoyMorgan, an Australian market research company. The result ofa complete corporate overhaul (starting in 2011), Garuda is nowone of several 4 star airlines in Asia – with ambitions to become

Spreading the WealthLuxury Travel and Leisure in Asiaz By Kristen Beattie

Sail around Asia in a Super yacht? Travel to the Land ofthe Gods on one of Asia’s 4 star airlines with the youngestfleet in the industry or Book a private Diamond tour toAmsterdam? How will you spend your next luxury holiday?We talk to Bart Jan Kimman of Asia Yacht Services &Northrop and Johnson Asia about the business of luxuryboating, Riza Perdana Kusuma, General Manager ofGaruda Indonesia about how his revamped airline ispoised for 5 star status and to Benno Leeser of GassanDiamonds about his luxury diamond tours which are particularly popular amongst Asians. Riza Perdana Kusuma Benno Leeser Bart Jan Kimman

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a 5 star airline. With an average fleet age of just 6 years, safetyand environmental protection have been given priority.

The airline has a good network of destinations. Their mainroute? A ‘double daily’ from Hong Kong to Jakarta. Since HongKong is a main hub, it brings in passengers from outside of HongKong to destinations such as Bali. Garuda flies 3 times a week toBali and 4 times a week to Surabaya.

How has the airline evolved? Having one of the youngest fleetsin Asia they consume much less fuel (older aircraft are less effi-cient). In the industry up to 40% of costs are fuelrelated. Besides a younger fleet, Riza Perdana Kusuma tells usthat “Since we were given our 4 star status, we have been tryingto improve our level of service. And we have switched our targetsegment to serve business travellers and the mid to high levelleisure sector. So we have added value to our product.”

All of this is in line with Garuda’s grand plan, named the‘Quantum Leap’. And a grand plan indeed. In 2011, Garudawent public, 2012 is to be the ‘year of the Alliance’, the follow-ing year the ‘year of expansion’ and by 2015, Garuda aims to bea 5 star airline – doubling its fleet and creating a first class in itsnew 777 aircraft, something Skytrack (which evaluates and ratesairlines) requires for 5 star status.

With only one current European destination (Jakarta -Amsterdam via Dubai) the airline plans to expand next year toother European destinations in Europe including Rome, Parisand London - dependent on the economic outlook on the conti-nent.

Apart from 4 star service and an expanding service network,Garuda stand out from its competitors by offering in-flightimmigration and visa services on their Japan, Amsterdam andKorea routes – with plans to do this for their Hong Kong routes(inbound for Indonesia). Immigration staff on-board the air-craft will issue and process visas and stamp passports. Thissaves time for inbound non-Indonesian passengers arriving (noqueues!).

Garuda’s top destinations in the Region? Singapore, KL,Bangkok, HK, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing, Korea and therecently- launched route, Jakarta to Taipei – which is mostly forbusiness travelers. In targeting the business traveler, Garuda areinterested in creating as many relationships with as many com-panies as possible in Hong Kong – and continuously looking into

how they can support and develop our businesses together.Destination Indonesia? The airline is trying to put their homecountry on the radar with marketing campaigns and other initia-tives - did you know that there are more than 5,000 islands inIndonesia? Riza concedes that Hong Kong, with countries suchas Thailand and Malaysia close by, is a tough and unique mar-ket as it is a mixture of both locals and expats. Any campaignstherefore have to target people from many different countries.“We see this as a good opportunity for Garuda to promoteIndonesia to a mixed audience.” he says.

This year, ‘Garuda Orient Holidays’ have appointed LOTUStours as their partner to provide special package holidays, andexpanding their destinations from 1 to 5, aimed at the middle tohigh end of the market. A local website and library with bookson Indonesia are two other ways initiatives the airline are tryingto enhance their service offerings to Hong Kongers. Riza alsotells us that they have recently launched an eco-program throughthe ‘Masarang’ foundation, a local non-profit foundation – withan organizer based in London – to promote eco-tourism inIndonesia. Through this program, Garuda hopes to show itsconcern for conservation and forestry –and to attract eco-tourists to Indonesia.

Garuda is keen to spread the word that they are truly an inter-national airline by promoting other destinations – in addition toBali. They have seen that traffic from their Hong Kong -Australia route is growing. “We are going to try to increase themarket share from Hong Kong – but the real HK market is out-side of Hong Kong since HK airport is a hub. So we’ll be target-ing global companies and also expanding our coverage toinclude more places in China and a route to Macau” he says.

Riza explains that while many Indonesians coming to HongKong are business traveler, there are many visiting the city to goshopping. The booming Indonesian economy has given themmore purchasing power and these visitors often come 3-4 timesa year! Their frequent traveler are also using Garuda to fly toHong Kong and then onwards to other destinations. As part oftheir efforts to attract more Indonesians to Hong Kong, Garudaare currently working with the Hong Kong tourist board andother companies such as Disneyland and Citybank to create spe-cial promotions for this market.

Since being granted ‘Best airline in the world’ by Roi Morgan,total traffic on all routes has increased as awareness of the air-line increases. Garuda are happy but not complacent – they want

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to get the word about their improved service and 4-star statusout. Riza tells us that Garuda are in the process of joining the'SkyTeam Alliance' of airlines and hope to have that completedby the end of this year – which will enable them to expand theirconnections. So if a visit to Indonesia is on your calendar thereis 4 star airline ready to serve!

Benno Leeser - Gassan Diamonds

Founded by Samuel Gassan (grandfather of Benno Leeser) inOctober 1945, Gassan Diamonds began business focusing onpolishing; as well as the import and export of rough and pol-ished diamonds, colored stones and diamond jewelry – both forwholesale and retail.

Located in ‘The City of Diamonds’ (as Amsterdam has beenknown for over 425 years) in what was the largest steam-drivendiamond factory in Europe, today Gassan Diamonds receivesmore than 360,000 visitors per year. The company, which is alsosupplier of diamonds to a wide variety of well-known brands,has jewellery and watch retail shops in Schiphol Airport inAmsterdam and in City Airport in London; as well as 5 stores atSingapore’s Changi Airport; in addition to a main retail store,Gassan Dam Square in a prime retail spot in downtownAmsterdam.

As well as offering bespoke packages in conjunction with localhotels, Gassan Diamonds offers specialized tours of its factory –for those interested in knowing more about these precious stonesand about the history of this Amsterdam craft. You can watchtheir diamond cutters at work and see for yourself how asparkling diamond emerges from the rough stone.

These tours are particularly popular with tourists from Asia duein part to the many languages the tour is offered in (Gassanoffers tours in 26 different languages!). In addition, the value ofdiamonds and their symbol of status entices many to take thetour. Gassan also offers their clients an upgrade policy in whichthey can trade in their purchase for a larger stone. For manyinvestment-savvy Asians this is a draw. Gassan has also partici-pated in the Millionaire Fair in Shanghai on two separate occa-sions to great success.

Since its founding in 1945, the factory has been basically open7 days a week, 365 days a year with tours freely available foranyone who walks in. What does the tour entail? Leeser tells us,“We give an insight on how rough diamonds are polished intodazzling gems and how stones are graded according to the 4 Cs(Carat, Cut, Clarity and Color). We also show different quali-ty diamonds for comparison and the polishers at work.Of course we also show the finished product stones and dia-mond jewellery.”

Gassan Diamonds’ most popular product - The classic solitairering. Leeser tells us that “Our own Gassan 121 cut diamonds arebig sellers. This world-wide patented cut was developed a fewyears ago by our company and has been very successful; theextra facets (121 in total) compared to the number of facets of abrilliant cut diamond (57) gives the diamonds even more sparklebecause of optimal reflection.” Visitors on the tours can spendupwards €15,000! Generally, however, most spend between € 500 to € 3,000. A sparkly tour indeed.

Pitch�x Divot Repairer is the perfect corporate golf giftto the golf pros who love the game, understanding itstradition and respect the rules. We are proud to o�eryou selections of Original, Classic and T-BoneCollection. The Classic and Original Collections areequipped with a removable ball marker, which can bepersonalized with any logo or image, ensuring yourlogo is always “on top of the game”.

Repair the mark by working the edges towards the center, without lifting the center of themark. Finish by smoothing the area with a club or your foot. Try to get the area smoothenough to putt over.

16

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Asia is large and is changing fast. The business landscape isundergoing an incredible evolution as private marketsincreasingly drive investment decisions and consumption

choices. The physical landscape is also changing as developmentspreads.

In fact, the change occurring around the region from China toMyanmar is so dramatic that a constant updated assessment ofthe business and physical landscape is needed. The best way todo is to get out see as much of the region for yourself as possible,rather than relying on the knowledge and insight of ‘Old Hands’;people who have been in the region for decades but whose coreopinions could by now be well out of date.

If you’re reading this you’ve probably traveled quite a bitalready. No doubt you’ve been to China and probably Shanghai?I lived and studied in Shanghai in 1991 when the city’spopulation was about 12 million and it’s per capita income alittle over US$1,000 per year. There were a few tall buildings andit was by large a low rise city. Now with a population of 23million and an average per capita income of over US$12,000, ithas changed dramatically. As much as I like the city, I don’t thinkyou get much real insight on the unfolding ‘China Story’ byvisiting Shanghai nowadays, since it is not that dissimilar toHong Kong or Singapore now.

And as the Shanghai Composite share index tells us there’scertainly more to understanding China’s investment landscapethan merely looking at economic numbers. From a level of about1,000 in 2005 this index rose sharply to almost 6,000 by late2007. Then one year later in late 2008, the index fell to about1,700 and has since oscillated around in a 2,000 to 3,000 range.

Speculative juices can run hot in this market and on-the-groundinsight can be very useful.

One place, among many worth a visit is Haerbin in the north easternprovince of Heilongjiang. The greater Haerbin area has a populationof about 10 million, a Russian legacy stemming from Russia’s 1917revolution, remnants of Japan’s occupation of Manchuria in the1930s and was a major focus point of industrial policy throughChina’s communist period post-1949. It is now changing rapidly tobetter integrate with the modern world. Go for the winter Ice Festivalthat includes full scale replicas of such buildings as Greece’sParthenon built purely out of ice. Take warm clothing as its very coldand don’t be shy to try the hotpot in local restaurants.

If you don’t like the thought of cold weather in north easternChina, look to Myanmar. The country’s modern politicsdominate the papers and it faces considerable developmentchallenges to realise its full potential. Myanmar plans to open astock exchange by 2015 and I’m sure it will periodicallyexperience the sharp sentiment swings that often impactimmature markets. There is a rich cultural heritage awaitinginquisitive visitors. Bagan, for example, is a fascinating exampleof Burmese industrialness. Through a 200 year period from the11th to 13th century, there was an explosion of constructionactivity and about 10,000 Buddhist temples, pagodas andmonasteries were built on the Bagan plains. Many still stand andit makes for a fascinating and relaxing holiday destination whilstyou take the pulse of the local economy.

If you are an ‘Old Hand’, as I’m fast becoming, you should getout and see new places to both update your knowledge andenjoy a fun trip!

From Shanghai to Myanmar:Travel and Invest?

Investment Focus

z By Dr. Adrian Foster, Asia-Pacific Head of Financial Markets Research, Rabobank Adrian Foster

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China Focus

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When I see them, I avoid getting too close. The groups of ‘1 color fits allcap’ labeled domestic tourist groups. In front is the guide. Equipped witha portable voice enhancer and holding up a small flag with the travel

agency’s logo.

Who are these groups and whyare they even willing to travelin this way? Walking around inChina since 1997, I must con-fess that I have mistakenlysigned up for small itineraries.As a result, I ended up as oneof these group membersmyself. These groups vibratewith enthusiasm and curiosity.Comparable with how it feltgoing on a field trip at primaryschool.

Experiences, family photos - and even food are exchanged among the travelers.It almost feels like a big family. Soon I know all kind of (very) personal informationabout my companions.

The bus stops at a little shop and we are advised to have a look inside. A crappystore with uninteresting local gadgets. I suspect them to be available all overChina. “This fruit is very special. A local delicacy. It’s good for man.” To me thatjust looks like a pear. I shrug my shoulders and make my way back to the bus witha slow pace. My travel companions seem to be more interested in the item then Iam. They start to ask many questions - partly aimed at the confused shopassistant and partly to whoever seems willing to listen. A middle-aged women inour group also has an opinion. She has read about this fruit and saw an item onTV. “It can cure a bunch of unpleasant minor diseases and ‘lowers the heat’ insideyour body.” She now is considered to be an expert and starts advising the otherswhich pears are good and which one not.

My travel buddies are convinced. This is THE item they should bring back to theirfriends, family, neighbors, colleagues and anyone else that needs to get themessage that their well-being is considered as important.

I know firsthand that guides for long trips abroad, pay substantial amounts to thetour operator. These guides are ‘small entrepreneurs’ (paying USD 50 per head)and start with a loss that will be more than compensated by kickbacks andcommissions from visited shops and attractions. The travelers, in their turn, arevery selective for the initial price of the trip. But once on the road, money doesn’tseem to matter anymore. No wonder the tour guide has to share his/hercommissions with the tour operators.

I suspect our pear expert to be the secret wingman of the tour guide.I walk back and buy one pear for fun. By doing so, I unintentionally started a salesargument. The group goes bananas! I enjoy the scene, the pear and memories ofmy childhood trips. Man can wait. Let me be a child for this moment.

By Ron Cune,

[email protected] Stealth Marketing

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Talking Point

Thank you Hans, Pen received! What keeps amazing me about Hong Kong and Chinais the obsession with food – and numbers! I still remember the conversation I hadwith my first (and last) Hong Kong boss:

“Sjoerd, when will you retire?”“With sixty-five, I guess?”“Sixty-five years?”“No, sixty-five million!”

Rolling laughter followed - but it could also be that what made my boss laugh was theabsurd notion of me ever having sixty-five million dollars in my bank account at the ratethat he was paying me… I quit the job not long after and started my own business.

I initially arrived in Hong Kong from Japan in 1995, on a stopover from Tokyo back toAmsterdam. I was too intrigued by Asia to return to the Netherlands that soon. I foundwork as an interior designer. My wife (then girlfriend) Esther joined me a year later.

We called our newly founded design consultancy ‘Three Dogs ‘, after the boisterous bunchof mongrels we inherited from the previous tenant of our studio space. In ten years or sowe built the company into a retail interior design and visual merchandising specialistserving local and international clients.

Our projects can be found anywhere from Seoul to Istanbul, with the majority in China andHong Kong. We have helped you get a SmarTone subscription, buy a pair of Crocs and ordera coffee at Caffe Habitu-The Table. Our latest project is the creation of space to appreciatethe beauty of art, with the design of the blockbuster Picasso exhibition at the HeritageMuseum in Hong Kong. See more of our work on our website http://www.threedogs.hk

I’d think one of the reasons we’ve succeeded is that we’ve been able to adapt ourstraightforward, witty Dutch design sensibility to the local taste. Probably the best way toillustrate this is by looking at how the annual gift for our clients has developed over the years.

Our very first present was incredibly cool – or so we thought. It was a small desktopclock, with a little dog on the second hand, chasing the bones that made up the minuteand hour hands. On delivering the finished clocks, our supplier was so kind to point outthat by giving someone a clock, you essentially wished death upon them.

“But”, he added cheerily, “Since you are foreigners, it doesn’t matter!”

We have come a long way since. This Chinese New Year, we gave away boxes of exclusiveLong Yin ‘Dragon’ tea, which was much appreciated. But our clients’ favorite so far wasour gift in the Year of The Ox: dried beef jerky.

It’s still a few years to go but we’re already agonising over the gift for the Year of the Rat.

For a box-fresh view of Hong Kong, I will pass the pen to Cees de Bont, who has recentlybeen appointed to Dean of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, School of Design.

Passing the penEating by numbers

By Sjoerd Hoekstra,

[email protected]

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Thorn is one of the lighting brands of the Zumtobel Group in Austria.

Thorn is a globally trusted supplier of both outdoor and indoor luminaires and integrated controls. Our mission is toprovide products and services which make it easier for customers to specify, install and maintain good quality, energyefficient lighting. A key factor in this goal is our commitment to excellence in optical performance and installerfunctionality. Thorn started a sales office in Hong Kong in 1988 and expanded from there to other Asian countries suchas China, India, Singapore, Korea and Taiwan. Before moving to Hong Kong, John der Weduwe worked for more then30 years in the lighting industry for several companies and gained experience in development, product marketing,manufacturing and sales of lighting solutions. Within the Thorn Asia regional team he is responsible for sales.

• John der Weduwe, Sales Director Thorn Asia, unit 4301, Tower 1 Metroplaza 223 Hing Fong Road, Kwai ChungHong Kong – Tel. +852 2503 6814 – [email protected]

NEW ASSOCIATE MEMBER : John der Weduwe – HORN

Seeding innovative ideas into Client organizations is the duty of effective management consulting firms over theworld. However when it comes to “SEED” those ideas in the context of Europe to China businesses, ExecutiveManagement needs to focus on specialized Advisory Firms. This is where SEED Advisory intervenes to coach com-pany executives by addressing critical challenges in their EU/China strategy.

SEED Advisory Ltd. is a sister Company of SEED Advisory Belgium, with the purpose of personally followingClients in their Strategy, Innovation, Business Process and Corporate Finance Management Programs between thetwo continents. Our approach makes the bridge between Strategy and operational Excellence byenabling Effective Decision. As part of our corporate culture and experience, we specialize in technology-driven ven-tures, industrial activities, manufacturing, financial services for SME, mid-caps and large groups. Companies likeSEED Advisory benefit from their limited size to offer state-of-the art management knowledge at acompetitive price. This is possible thanks to a solid partner network who can associate when needed while having avery lean cost structure. Let’s SEED your organization and grow further with innovative ideas.

• Cédric Thiry, Managing Director & Founder SEED Advisory Belgium & SEED Advisory Hong KongUnit C, 12/F, Vulcan House, 21-23 Leighton Road, Causeway Bay – Hong Kong – Tel. +852 9616 6932 – [email protected]

NEW SME MEMBER : Cédric Thiry – SEED Advisory Ltd.

NEW MEMBERS OF THE DUTCH CHAMBER

LONG FAI BUS LTD.Contact: Ms Monique Man – Relationship Manager, [email protected]: 3/F, Longfield Centre, 129 - 131 Castle Peak Road, Yuen Long, Hong KongWebsite: www.longfaibus.comIndustries: Long Fai Bus Ltd provides safe, reliable, punctual and friendly bus rental services including shuttle bus services, local tours, weddings and

other bus rentals. Founded in 1996, the group owns 37 buses at present, including 28-, 29-, 53-, 61- and 66 - seaters. Give us a call or sim-ply submit an online quotation request on our website.

INTERGLOBE CORPORATE SOLUTIONS LIMITEDContact: Mr Terry Ng – Business Development Executive, [email protected]: 17/F, Beautiful Group Tower, 77 Connaught Road Central, Hong KongWebsite: www.interglobe-intl.comIndustries: Interglobe Corporate Solutions are here to help meet your financial needs no matter where you are in the globe. With products and servic-

es that range from corporate formations to financial solutions for businesses of all sizes, we work with you to develop a strategic vision andstrategy that fully utilises our expertise in corporate solutions, private equity, trading, and business support, to capitalise and seize marketopportunities.

AONContact: Mr Jord Oostrom – Intern at Business Development & Sales,[email protected]: 28/F Times Square, 1 Matheson Street, Causeway Bay, Hong KongWebsite: www.aon.com/hongkongIndustries: Aon plc is the leading global provider of risk management services, insurance and reinsurance brokerage and human capital consulting and

outsourcing. Through its 62,000 professionals worldwide, Aon readily delivers distinctive client value via innovative and effective risk man-agement and workforce productivity solutions. (#1 – Rated risk services broker, reinsurance intermediary, and human resource consultingand outsourcing provider / 62.000 – Number of Aon colleagues around the world / 600 – number of global offices / 120 – Number of coun-tries in which Aon operates / US$11.3B – Total revenue generated by Aon in 2011

NEW YOUNG PROFESSIONAL MEMBERS

Members’ Corner

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Lifestyle

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The Dutch Chamber not only supports members to shareknowledge and to develop business relations, they alsoprepare students for the world of business. On May 18th,

2012, together with other industry advisors, the Chamber spenta day mentoring and encouraging Hong Kong School studentsduring South Island School’s annual Business Day.

12 groups of Business and Economics students from SouthIsland School (SIS), Shatin College and Renaissance Collegebattled throughout the day to win the coveted prizes of MostAccumulated Donations and Best Final Business Presentation.The aim of the day was to produce a business strategy for aproduct or service that could produce a revenue stream for thelocal charity, the KELY Support Group (KELY).

The event called for creativity, sharp thinking, relentless energy anda touch of charisma as the students completed a variety of tasks,culminating in the presentation of their strategies to judges fromthe local business community. Given the limited time to prepare,the quality of the presentations was outstanding and the KELY haslots of great ideas to take away with them. Final honours wereevenly divided between SIS and Renaissance College.

About KELY Support Group

KELY is a non-government funded bilingual charity whichprovides non-judgmental, empathetic and confidential support

to young people between the ages of 14 to 24 in Hong Kong.KELY provides a wide range of programmes and services whichfocus on drug prevention and intervention, as well as thedevelopment of healthy self-esteem amongst young people.

These include the provision of:- Harm reduction education to schools; - Multimedia art projects for students; - Circus arts and peer support training; - Youth forums and discussion groups; and - A youth helpline on drugs and suicide.

z KELY Support Group2/F East Wing, 12 Borrett Road, Central, Hong Kong T: 2521 6890 - E: [email protected]

Chamber Helps HK School Students Prepare for Business

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InterCham, which every year honors the Chief Executive witha lunch immediately after his Policy Address and theFinancial Secretary on delivery of his Budget, is the voice of

the 27 International chambers of Commerce in Hong Kong.Proceeds of these 500 plus delegate luncheons go to theScholarship Fund for Hong Kong Students.

Also hosting a series of Cocktails for Young Professionals during theyear, Intercham donates the proceeds of these to a charity chosen bythe organising chambers, which are chosen by roster.

The Danish, Japanese and Swedish Chambers donated the proceedsfrom the February 2012 cocktail; which amounted to HK$48,120,to Hong Kong Society for the Protection of Children (HKSPC).

Hong Kong Society for the Protection of Children has beenserving and nurturing young children since 1926. It is one of thelongest established organizations in the field. Today, they run 27centers caring for around 3,000 children daily. Their servicesinclude a Children’s Residential Home, 5 day Crèches, 17Nursery Schools and 2 Children and Family Services Centers.

The Chairman of InterCham Pearl River Delta Committee Mr.Jens-Erik Olsen presented the donation certificate to MsAngelina Lee, HKSPC Fund Raising Committee Chairperson.They are flanked by from the left: Mr. Masakazu Yagyu(Japanese Chamber), Mr. Dan Fjeldheim (Swedish Chamber),Ms Angelina Lee (HKSPC Fund Raising Committee), Mr. Jens-Erik Olsen (Intercham), Ms Henriette Leung (HKSPC),Ms. Jacqueline Liu (HKSPC), and Ms Sophie Sidenius (DanishChamber).

After the event, Angelina Lee (HKSPC Funding RaisingCommittee) wrote:

“We are extremely grateful to InterCham for their generoussupport of Hong Kong Society for the Protection ofChildren. HKSPC has a long history of serving youngchildren. Times have changed since we were founded in 1926,yet our mission remains the same: To ensure that as manydisadvantaged children as possible, in Hong Kong, live in ahealthy, happy and safe environment. Today, we run 27 centrescaring for around 3,000 children daily. Our services include ourChildren’s Residential Home, Day Crèches, Nursery Schools andtwo Children and Family Services Centers.

“We are only partially subsidized by the Government and relyheavily on direct donations and fundraising among thecommunity we serve. The Government does not providefunding to all of our centres. Our two Children and FamilyServices Centers rely solely on the generosity of donors andprovide an invaluable supportive network to families at risk oreven in crisis.

“We are currently looking for additional funds to expand: to extendour care and programs to more needy children and families, and torenovate or enlarge old facilities and centres. Besides support inmonetary terms, we welcome volunteers to help out in our centres.”

z To find out how you can help make a difference please contactDebby Ng via telephone, on 2396 0264 or via email, [email protected].

InterCham Donates to Hong Kong Societyfor the Protection of Children

Lifestyle

22

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23

It is always more fun flying next to someonewho shares the same interests. If you agree,you may be tempted to try out KLM’s inno-

vative Meet & Seat service, which offers trav-ellers on intercontinental flights the opportu-nity to see who’s on board their flight and toget in touch with fellow passengers.

Meet & Seat facilitates contact with fellowtravellers who have the same background or in-terests, making air travel even more stimulatingfor KLM passengers. They can find out whethersomeone they know will be travelling on thesame flight, or discover who else will be attend-ing the same conference in the USA, for exam-ple. Through Meet & Seat, they might arrangeto have a coffee before their flight, select adjoin-ing seats or decide to share a taxi afterwards.

Passengers can only see other Meet & Seat participants after link-ing their Facebook or LinkedIn profile to their flight. They candecide what personal information from their Facebook orLinkedIn account they would like to share with other passengers.

Meet & Seat is available using Manage MyBooking on intercontinental flights only. Pas-sengers can choose their seat via Manage MyBooking from 90 days until 48 hours beforedeparture, and therefore easily make contactwith fellow travellers.

By Meet & Seat, you can connect with interest-ing people and make your journey even moreinspirational.

Since its launch in February for three pilot des-tinations, KLM Meet & Seat has now been ex-tended to cover 13 routes worldwide, and willsoon be rolled out on all intercontinentalflights.

With the offer of Meet & Seat, KLM hasbecome the first airline to integrate social networking inits regular flight process. This new service perfectly fitsKLM’s brand values: inspiring people and recognizingtheir needs.

Lifestyle

Social Seating - Meet & Seat

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24

Lifestyle

When you live in HongKong, it’s necessary to getaway every 4 to 6 weeks.

It’s easy to book a package of 3days 2 nights and if you plan well,you don’t even have to take annualleave.

We are spoilt in Hong Kong’sextremely service-oriented societyand expect the same thing whentraveling. In Thailand we canalways expect the perfect smile,whether it’s truely from the heart ornot, it does make you feelwelcome. When checking into yourfive star hotel or (especiallyconvenient when you have kids)resort, you expect the porter takingyour luggage from the car straightto your room and the receptionladies bowing to you when youtake a seat in the comfortablechairs and sip on your welcomedrink. This is all justified by the fact that you tip them of course.

Locals in Hong Kong have another travel style; they grew up in this service-drivensociety and expect even more. I have spoken to many locals who just not wantto think – in other words – want to turn off their brains when traveling. This meansbooking a full service tour including a guide speaking your own language andadvising the best (Cantonese) food abroad. Most of the time you will sit on thecomfortable seats of the coach and it feels like a trip from school when you wereyounger. The idea is that you are taken care of; the guide is responsible formaking you feel happy, entertained and nurtured the entire journey.

During the long hours on the coach, you will have the chance to meet and minglewith your fellow travelers, whether you like it or not. I know that best friends oreven husbands or wives are found during these tours.

When traveling, there is not one way better than the other, simply because youcannot compare everything and the expectations are different.

From a Western point of view, you might miss the flexibility to explore on yourown if you join a tour, though from a local Hong Kong point of view, planning atrip with your family is as tough as planning your own wedding. So if you aregoing to spend money anyway, why not leave the planning to the experts?

As for me - happy in the middle of two cultures - I enjoy the freedom of traveling,so the planning is the price I am willing to pay.

A Real Get Away By Faith Fung

Page 27: 158 - Travel & Leisure

And here's the list. Everywhere. In one comprehensivevolume. Defining everywhere was no easy task. Jottingdown the 192 member states of the United Nations was

the easy part; deciding which other destinations to includeprovoked much spirited debate and food for thought. LonelyPlanet is very proud of this book, an all-consuming project thathas involved huge input from authors, staff, photographers andexperts from around the globe. Like any serious addiction, thetravel bug requires constant attention. If you consider travel tobe an important part of your life, then this book will be badnews - it shows us that no matter how far we travel, there'salways further to go. Lonely Planet believes passionately in the

power of independent travel to transform travelers and thecommunities to which they travel. Bringing respect, sensitivity,curiosity and a generous dose of humour to the travel experienceis enormously important, and they hope this book acts not justas a reference tool, but also as a valuable introduction to a bettertravel experience. Travel is the world's most important business,but it means far more than just money and employment. It isthrough travel that you go out and meet the world and the worldcomes to meet you. So open The Travel Book and dive inside,soon you'll want to turn the printed experience into a real one.

z Source: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/

This French bistro restaurant’s food is definitely classic French – complete with creamy and butterydishes. Even the décor is akin to that found in Paris and tables are fairly spacious. Unpretentious,informal, and affordable, La Marmite is named after the cast-iron cooking pot long used in Franceto serve up hearty dishes – and inspired by the back-to-basics trend that has swept the Paris restau-rant scene in the wake of the financial crisis.

La Marmite’s classic bistro dishes are rotated weekly on a blackboard menu. There are daily spe-cials depending on what produce is in season and fresh that day. The Head Chef (Mr. Ping) is veryfriendly and enjoys explaining the menu to guests and answering all questions about the Frenchcooking style.

Book reviewThe Travel Book: A Journey Through Every Country in the World By Lonely Planet - Lonely Planet (2011) - Paperback - 447 pages - ISBN 1742200796

Restaurant & Bar review: La Marmite Bistrot Français

Location:46 Staunton StreetSoHo, Central

Opening hours:Monday to Friday: 11:00AM – 10:30PM

Saturday, Sunday, Public Holiday:10:00AM – 11:00PM

Weekend (Sat-Sun) and Public Holiday Brunch: 10:00AM – 5:00PM

Reservations:Tel: 2803 7808

25

Lifestyle

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26

Why Invest in a Villa in Bali?

Whether you simply want to live somewhere else, retireone day in Bali or are looking for a good return onyour investment, the fundamental reasons for

choosing Bali are basically the same:

A wide range of attractions combined with good infrastructureand convenient airline connections have made this beautifulisland extremely popular as a tourist destination and home ofchoice for many foreigners.

Because of this, and the still reasonable prices, propertyinvestment on the island has been generating high regularreturns, and property values have continued to appreciate evenduring difficult times.

What’s so special about this Island?

Annual Reader Surveys by major travel magazines continuallyconfirm the perception of Bali as the most enchanting traveldestination in the world. The friendly people and the absence ofsecurity problems guarantee a completely relaxing stay. Becauseof the physical beauty of the island and its wide variety ofattractions, Bali is seen by many experienced travellers as the“Ultimate Island”.

Living in Bali

Communication has been improving every year (nowadaysBroadband Internet connection is no problem), and frequentdirect flights connect Bali with many places around the world.There are several International Schools on the island and a widerange of imported food and drinks is available. Full-time cooks,maids, gardeners, drivers, etc. are easily affordable which meansyou can live very comfortably in Bali at low cost.

Medical services are provided by local hospitals andinternational clinics such as International SOS and the “Bali

International Medical Center” (BIMC) which both use overseasexperts for tele-diagnosis. If you need to see Western doctors,both Singapore and Perth in Australia are only a short flightaway.

If you want to do business, you can register a PMA (ForeignInvestment) company which will entitle you (and yourdependents) to a Resident Visa and Work Permit. RetirementVisas are available for anybody above 55 years of age.

The Bottom Line

Buying or building a beautiful villa in Bali that you can rent outwhen you’re not using it yourself, has become attractive formany tourists, working expats, future retirees and keeninvestors.

Bali is (still) much cheaper than buying a villa in places such asPhuket and Samui in Thailand, and Bali does not have the longrainy season or security problems you find in many othercountries. Flying time to reach Bali or Thailand is about thesame from most places in the world.

Even more important: If you invest in a top-class villa in Bali youwill receive a guaranteed income from having it rented out whenyou’re not staying there yourself without any hassles orresponsibilities. You can also expect a steady increase in value.

When you decide one day it’s the right time, you can apply fora “Retirement Visa” and live permanently in Bali.

z Contact details: Bali.com Ltd, 3401-1, 34th. Floor, AIA Tower,183 Electric Road, North Point, Hong Kong, S.A.R., ChinaTelephone +852 8302-5793; Fax +852 8303-4824E-mail: [email protected].

z Source: www.bali.com

Lifestyle

Investing in Property & Real Estate inBali, Indonesia

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27

Airports excite m

e. The promise of far flung pla

ces hangs in the air,

of course, but for me what attr

acts me most is the idea of lea

ving.

Up and away. I would like to b

e able to say that it has gotten

less,

now that I'm a man of the wor

ld. An experienced business tr

aveler with a

passport full of stamps. But to

be honest, despite the fact th

at I tell the

stories that you are suppose to

tell about 'how tedious the wa

iting' and

the 'horrible delays', travelling

has never lost its luster for me

.

You can imagine my exciteme

nt when my company won ten

business class

tickets to fly anywhere from Ho

ng Kong with British Airways.

Now normally, before we won

the tickets as well as ever sin

ce, I fly economy

class. That meant that the first

time I used an award ticket to

fly to London, I

was a rookie to the mores of

flying business class. That I

was a first timer,

became apparent quick enoug

h. First of all, you have to keep

in mind that you

fly business class. So you don

't fly 'in' business class or 'in t

he' business class

– just business class.

The other surprise is that the a

irline staff will call you by your

name. In economy

class, that would only happen

if you are to be arrested at a

rrival is my guess

"Could you come with us, plea

se, Mr. Smith? No, you won't

be needing your

luggage…"

Another lesson I have learned

from my year with the high ro

llers is that under

no circumstance you are to sho

w any kind of excitement about

the fact that you

are flying business class. Mor

e experienced travelers will co

me in the cabin,

plonk their stuff down, whip t

heir laptops out to look at so

me spreadsheets

while ignoring the champagne

offered. Right after take-off th

ey stomp to the

toilet to change into sweat pan

ts, put on an eye mask and go

to sleep without

having dinner.

I, on the other hand, was busy p

ushing all buttons on my chair,

making a choice

from the various starters and m

ain dishes, four types of wine a

nd 200 films on

offer while constantly being fre

tted over by the numerous airlin

e staff that kept

offering me things.

My sweat pants clad fellow trav

ellers, who actually paid for the

tickets did not

seem to get much out of the tr

ip. At least they got to listen to

me laughing at

films the whole night. I am sur

e they were grateful.

By Alexander de Nerée tot Babberich,

[email protected]

Up in the Air

Lifestyle

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28

Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) is the most widely recognised andinfluential artist of the 20th century. The Hong KongHeritage Museum is thrilled to present the exhibition

“PICASSO – Masterpieces from the Musée National Picasso,Paris”. Showcasing 56 of the artist’s original works from thepermanent collection of the museum, this is by far the mostcomprehensive exhibition of Picasso’s works ever held in HongKong.

Capturing every phase of Picasso’s prolific career, theretrospective covers his Blue, Rose, Cubist and Classical periodsas well as showing some of his primitive and Expressionistworks. It also includes 41 documentary photographs and adocumentary film which help to present a detailed picture of theartist’s life. Not only does the wealth of materials enrich ourunderstanding of Picasso and his oeuvre, but it also marks outthe exhibition as a truly unmissable event.

This exhibition is jointly presented by the Consulate General ofFrance in Hong Kong and Macau and the Leisure and CulturalServices Department and jointly organised by the Hong KongHeritage Museum and the Musée National Picasso, Paris.

Major partner of Le French May: The Hong Kong Jockey ClubCharities Trust.

With the support of: Mr Cheung Chung Kiu, BNP Paribas,LVMH and Louis Vuitton 15th Anniversary of the Establishmentof the HKSAR.

Opening Hours

The Museum will be opened from 10am to 8pm daily during thespecial exhibition period. The special exhibition will be closedon Museum rest day on Tuesdays.

Lifestyle

Picasso Exhibition Comes to Hong Kong!19 May 2012 - 22 July 2012 at the Hong Kong Heritage Museum

Buste de femme (Etude pour “Les demoiselles d’Avignon”) Oil on Canvas58.5 x 46.5 cmSpring 1907Paris Musée national Picasso, ParisDation Pablo Picasso, 1979, MP 18© Succession Picasso, 2012© Musée National Picasso, Paris© Paris, Réunion © des Musées Nationaux

Jeune fille assise Oil on plywood130.3 x 80.3 cm21 November 1970 MouginsMusée national Picasso, ParisDation Pablo Picasso, 1979, MP 225© Succession Picasso, 2012© Musée National Picasso, Paris© Paris, Réunion © des Musées Nationaux

Le sculpteurOil on Plywood128.5 x 96 cm

7 December 1931Paris

Musée national Picasso, ParisDation Pablo Picasso,

1979, MP 135© Succession Picasso, 2012

© Musée National Picasso, Paris© Paris, Réunion

des Musées Nationaux

Le déjeuner sur l’herbe” d’après Manet Oil on Canvas, 130 x 195 cm

3 March – 20 August 1960, Vauvenargues Musée national Picasso, Paris

Dation Pablo Picasso, 1979, MP 215© Succession Picasso, 2012 © Musée National Picasso, Paris

© Paris, Réunion des Musées Nationaux

Source: www.heritagemuseum.gov.hk

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29

Good sales were reported at the fifth and last edition ofART HK. The 4-day event ran from 17–20 May at theHong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre

(HKCEC) and attracted 266 galleries from 38 countriesworldwide. This year, ART HK had a record 67,205 visitors, a6% increase on last year’s Fair. In 2013, the Fair will be replacedby the first Hong Kong edition of Art Basel.

Major sales of Asian and Western Contemporary Art atART HK 12 included:

• De Sarthe Gallery from Hong Kong sold No. 313, 1969 byChinese artist Chu Teh-Chun for over US $3 million to aSouth East Asian collector. The gallery also sold HansHartung’s work T1966-H32, 1966 to a Singaporean collectorfor US $400,000.

• Tornabuoni Art sold five works by Alighiero Boetti from theirsolo presentation of his work, including Mappa, 1984 whichsold for EUR1 million.

• Elegy to the Spanish Republic No. 45, 1960 by RobertMotherwell was sold by Bernard Jacobson Gallery for US$1million.

• White Cube sold George Baselitz’s Stalin und Woroschilovpissen von der Kremlmover for EUR500,000 to an Asiancollector.

• Hauser & Wirth London and Zurich sold Western MashMonument, 2006/2011, a fine silver sculpture by PaulMcCarthy, for US$450,000 to a Latin American collection.

• Sprüth Magers Berlin and London sold Sterling Ruby’s workSP191, 2011 for US$155,000 to an Australian collector andGeorge Condo’s Toy Head, 2012 for US$150,000 to an Asiancollector.

• Blum & Poe from Los Angeles sold two works by Zhu Jinshi,No.5, 2006 and Thick Strokes, No.4, 2006 for US$70,000each to an Asian collector.

• The Fair drew a crowd of prominent individuals from theinternational art world. Notable artists who attended the Fairincluded Maurizio Cattelan, Paul Chan, Subodh Gupta, KAWS,Bharti Kher, Anselm Kiefer, Joseph Kosuth, Mariko Mori,Takashi Murakami, Pipilotti Rist, Luc Tuymans and Jeff Wall.

ART HK 12 was also attended by some of the world’s mostinfluential museum directors and curators, including LarsNittve, Executive Director of M+, the Contemporary Artmuseum in Hong Kong’s planned US$2.1 billion West Kowloon

Cultural District; Charles Saumarez Smith CBE, Secretary andChief Executive, Royal Academy of Arts, London; Dr. MelissaChiu, Director of the Asia Society Museum; Elizabeth AnnMacGregor, Director of the MCA Australia; Hans Ulrich Obrist,Co-Director of Exhibitions and Programs and Director ofInternational Projects at the Serpentine Gallery in London; KlausBiesenbach, Director of MoMA PS1 (New York); PhilippeVergne, Director of Dia Art Foundation (New York) and SamKeller, Director of the Fondation Beyeler (Switzerland).

Private museum owners and directors, and collectors from acrossAsia and Europe attended the fair including Nigel Hurst, Directorof the Saatchi Gallery in London; Ginevra Elkann, President ofthe Pinacoteca Agnelli, Turin; Wang Huangsheng, Director ofCAFA Gallery, Beijing; Dr Oei Hong Djin, owner of OHDMuseum, Indonesia and Wang Wei, owner of the Dragon ArtMuseum, Shanghai, which will open November 2012; RichardChang (Beijing & New York); David Tang (Hong Kong); BudiTek, owner of the Yuz Museum (Jakarta); Maja Hoffman(Switzerland); Judith and Paris Neilson of the White RabbitFoundation (Sydney); Guy Ullens, founder of the UCCA - UllensCentre for Contemporary Art in Beijing; Uli Sigg (Switzerland);Eric and Suzanne Syz (Geneva); Thomas Ou (Shanghai);Monique Burger (Hong Kong); Dai Zhi Kang, founder of theHimalayas Art Museum (Shanghai); Zhu Tong, Director of theSifang Art Museum (Nanjing) and François Pinault (Paris).

ART HK’s major highlights this year included the return of the‘Private Museum Forum’, which debuted at last year’s Fair. Theunique round table seminar brought together 40 major ownersand directors of private museums worldwide to explore how tosustain and develop such innovative institutions. ART HKinvited last year’s participants to return, as well as additionaldirectors and owners of private museums worldwide.

The ART HK Private Museum Panel offered participants aninvaluable opportunity to share their goals and concerns in anopen and supportive environment. This seminar will lead to thedevelopment of an active working group to explore how privatemuseums can cooperate - sharing information and exhibitions ina way that public museums routinely do.

z For further Hong Kong-based enquiries regarding ART HK 12please contact: Louise Oram, Cohn & Wolfe-impactasia+852 2521 1498, [email protected]

Lifestyle

ART HK - Good Sales and RecordNumber of Visitors

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Lifestyle

30

Ma Hui is well-established as an artist in northernEurope, but her roots go deep as a child of the CulturalRevolution - a period of turmoil in China that forever

changed her life and the lives of countless others. The 53-year-oldleft her homeland 25 years ago and moved to Europe. But she hasreturned to China to face her past and to seek recognition fromChinese art lovers for her unique form of abstract art thatincorporates materials such as ropes, chains and keys.

When and why did you start to draw and paint?

When I was very young, I wanted to become an architect. But Icould not get the proper mathematics education in those days ofpolitical unrest during the Cultural Revolution. I was living in[the northwestern autonomous region of] Ningxia at the time. Iwas told that I could draw very well. All of my childhoodmemories in Ningxia were so beautiful and poetic: the windbattling with the trees, grey grazing grounds on the banks of theYellow River, the yellow earth, a single red dot in the sky, rapidsin the stream, this never-ending road. That’s why I eventuallydecided to enrol in the only academy with a fine arts departmentin northwest China. That was the Xian Academy of Fine Arts. Ithad a good reputation and a strong Chinese identity.

As a child, you spent eight years in the countryside,forced into labour. Why was this?

My father was an intellectual and also a high-ranking CommunistParty official in the 1950s. I was born in Beijing. When I was justone year old, my family, including myself, my two sisters and mythree brothers, moved to Ningxia. We lived in a big house with awalled garden and lots of servants. I must have been eight yearsold when Mao Zedong’s Cultural Revolution (1966-1976)started to put an end to “capitalist roaders” [seeking to restorethe political and economic rule of capitalism]. The so-called RedGuards initiated a witch-hunt against intellectuals. Almost allyoung people in urban areas were forced to go to the countrysideto be “re-educated through labour”.

How did you build up your career?

When I emigrated to Europe I started to feel free to express myintense feelings for my country, my people and my past. Iincorporated threads, rope, keys, silk embroidery and Chineseelements into my etchings, as a form of mixed media to expressmyself. I also like to sew red ropes to my Chinese ink washpaintings. These items always remind me of Ningxia, which Iloved as much as I hated. When I created works, I felt I was stillin China and suffering through the painful 1960s and 1970s. Butat the same time, my works also expressed my happiness andhope for a new life. This process resembles an artistic crossoverbetween the two different cultures of the East and West, makingmy works attractive and unique in the European art market. Ideveloped a network of art contacts in Switzerland. Galleries inHolland, Belgium and Denmark asked me for exhibitions, andthe city of Amstelveen, near Amsterdam, offered me a studio.

Since then, I have held regular shows in Taiwan, Denmark,Switzerland and Belgium. In 2008, the owner of the TolmanCollection, an American named Norman Tolman, who hasgalleries in New York, Tokyo, Singapore and Hong Kong, invitedme to show my etchings in Shanghai and at ARTSingapore [Asia’slongest-running contemporary art fair]. It was quite successful.

What do you plan to do in China?

Many of my friends who moved abroad 20 or 30 years ago havecome back to be recognised in their own country. For me, it ismore important to gain respect in my motherland than it is inEurope. The art of using comprehensive materials in etchings isstill quite new for Chinese art lovers. I hope I can promote suchabstract art to encourage Chinese people to express their feelingsand concerns about their society. In June, the Beijing Museum ofContemporary Art will organise a unique group event with fourfemale abstract artists from the Netherlands, Germany, Taiwanand China. I’m one of them. The four of us are all trying tocreate abstract work about common concerns regarding China’sindustrial rise, with all of its consequences. I will exhibit a wallof 1,500 anti-pollution mouth masks that I collected on themainland to show how severe pollution is in China. InSeptember, I will exhibit old drawings of Tibetans in Beijing’s798 Art Zone. Other shows will follow with the help of mycontacts - artists of my generation who were the first to graduateafter the Cultural Revolution.

Are there any hurdles to developing your career on themainland?

Commercialism is taking its toll among colleagues here. Theavant-garde of the early 1980s has been widely copied andexploited to please Western art collectors. It is tempting to followthe mainstream, looking solely at commercial benefits. Some arequite lost, forsaking their initially pure intentions. I want to talkwith Chinese artists and art lovers and encourage more people toenjoy and respect non-mainstream art. Personally, I believe that ifI’m ever forced to compromise my art to accommodate potentialbuyers, it will be time to go back to Europe.

[email protected]

Bring Memories Back Home to ShareArtist Ma Hui draws on her harsh childhood in the Cultural Revolution for inspi-ration and uses visions of the countryside she loves to produce unique work.z By He Huifeng (Source: South China Morning POST – June 3, 2012)

Phot

o Pa

ul v

an R

iel

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Events

31

Annual SME Spring Event The Annual SME Spring Event was enjoyed by 40 guests at Hong Kong’s only original boutique winery: The 8th Estate. The winery buysthe frozen grapes from France and Italy, ships them to Hong Kong and produces the wine which makes it a true ‘made in Hong Kong prod-uct.’ The evening started with a wine tasting and a tour behind the scenes, followed by a BBQ and more wine on the outdoor terrace whileenjoying the views over the Lamma Channel.

Friday 11 May 2012, 19:00-21:00, Room 306, Harbour Industrial Centre, Ap Lei Chau

Jake van der Kamp, one of Asia's best-known financial affairs columnists:Views on the News Jake van der Kamp writes the thrice weekly Jake's View column on the front business page of the South China Morning Post. Jake previ-ously worked as an investment analyst in Hong Kong for, among others, Sun Hung Kai Securities, Morgan Stanley Asia and Hoare Govett.He is a native of the Netherlands, a Canadian citizen, and has now lived in Hong Kong for more than 30 years.

Wednesday 25 April, 12:00-14:00, Club Lusitano, 16 Ice House Street, Central

MUNCH on the Move to Algorithmic Trading Group The lunch is sponsored by Algorithmic Trading GroupAlgorithmic Trading Group (ATG) Ltd. is a young dynamic trading company founded in Hong Kong in June 2009. During the MUNCH,the CEO Mr. Tom Voûte explained how ATG specializes in high frequency automated trading on the major financial markets around theworld.

Wednesday 18 April, 12:30-14:00, Suite 901, 9/F, Beautiful Group Tower, 77 Connaught Road Central, Central

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Events

'Mongolia: Overview, Opportunities & Challenges' Philip ter Woort has been the Head of the Resident Office of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development ('EBRD') inMongolia since 2009. Mongolia has recently emerged on the world’s stage as one of the fastest growing economies in the world withexpected GDP growth rates between 10 and 20% in the coming years thanks to its vast mineral resources. During the presentation, Philiptapped into these growth prospects by providing the opportunities it may offer for portfolio and foreign direct investors and shared someof the challenges the country might be facing in its development path.

Friday 25 May, 12:30-14:00, Suite 5702, 57/F Cheung Kong Center, 2 Queen's Road Central

Lecture "China New Mega Cities" Daan Roggeveen is a Shanghai-based architect. In 2011, together with journalist Michiel Hulshof, he launched: ‘How the City Moved toMr Sun’, a book describing the transformation of emerging megacities in central and western China. During the seminar, Daan spoke aboutUrbanisation in China, from farmer to urbanite and emerging cities like Wuhan and Chengdu.

Thursday 3 May, 8:30-10:00, Suite 5702, 57/F, Cheung Kong Center, 2 Queen's Road Central

MUNCH on the Move to the Consulate What can Diplomats do for you? Will the Consul General tell all?The main priority of the Consulate is promoting the economic interests of the Netherlands. In practice that means helping Dutch com-panies set up business in Hong Kong and attracting investments to the Netherlands. During the MUNCH, Robert Schuddeboom, Headof Mission of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Hong Kong SAR and Macao SAR explained what Diplomats can do for the Dutch inHong Kong.

Thursday 10 May, 12:30-14:00, Suite 5702, 57/F Cheung Kong Center, 2 Queen's Road Central

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Events

Upcoming Eventsw Summer MUNCH at the Orange Tree

The Dutch Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong would like to inviteall regular members to the Annual General Meeting. This is the eventfor you as an Ordinary Member regular member to attend, discuss ideasand give your input! Chairman and Directors will be elected or re-elect-ed on this occasion. An official invitation will be sent to you by e-mail.

Friday 20 July, 12:30-14:00, Orange Tree Restaurant, 17 Shelley Street, Mid Levels

w Summer Networking CocktailYou are invited to join us at the Oasis Room, Renaissance where you canenjoy the incredible view over the Victoria Harbour. The Summer NetworkingCocktail is organized on an annual base by four powerful chambers and offersa friendly networking opportunity. Please register as soon as possible to avoiddisappointment.

Thursday 9 August, 18:30-21:00, Oasis Room, 8/F, Renaissance Harbour View Hotel,1 Harbour Road, Wanchai

w InterCham 50th Young Professional CocktailThe InterCham 50th Young Professional Cocktail will be held on Tuesday,21 August 2012. This event provides an excellent opportunity for you tomeet and mingle with hundreds of like-minded business professionalsfrom 27 international Chambers of Commerce in Hong Kong. Co-organ-ized by the Canadian and the Dutch Chamber of Commerce in HongKong, fabulous prizes can be won while enjoying the music from the liveband of the Hard Rock Cafe. This is a very popular event and tickets willsell out quickly. Please contact your Chamber and book early to avoid dis-appointment. All proceeds from this event will be donated to The Nesbitt

Centre, which enables adults with special needs the opportunity to maxi-mize their life potential. No tickets sold at the door. No ticket, no admit-tance.

Tuesday 21 August, 18:30-21:00, Hard Rock Cafe, LG/F, LKF Tower, 55 D’AguilarStreet, Lan Kwai Fong, Central

w MUNCH by AOPThe MUNCH is a monthly gathering for members/potential members whowant to Mingle and Lunch. This event is for Dutch Chamber members whowant to take this opportunity to broaden your network and meet new people.In addition, potential members are most welcome! AOP focuses on assessmentcenters, career coaching and training. During the MUNCH, Saskia van Buurenand Ardine Verhoog will do a little workshop on coaching and training.

Thursday 6 September, 12:30-14:00, Suite 5702, 57th Floor, Cheung Kong Center, 2 Queen’s Road Central

w Investing in IndonesiaMore information will follow soon.

Thursday 20 September, 12:30-14:00, Suite 5702, 57th Floor, Cheung Kong Center, 2 Queen’s Road Central

w China Seminar 2012This year’s China Seminar is all about Outbound Investments, threat or oppor-tunity? More information will follow shortly.

Wednesday 17 October, 19:00-22:00, The Hong Kong Banker’s Club, 43-44/FGloucester Tower, The Landmark

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The GLR is a Dutch creative college for media, designand technology. The GLR is a Dutch creative collegefor media, design and technology - the largest creative

college of its kind in the Netherlands. With over 350 quali-fied staff and educators and more than 4,000 ambitious stu-dents, the GLR offers a broad range of college-level educa-tional programs dedicated to preparing our students for fu-ture careers in the media, design and technology industries.Students acquire valuable knowledge and skills for practicalapplication in different fields such as interactive media andgraphic design, animation, games, film and video, stage and

theatre technique, sound design, media management, mediatechnology, (digital) printing, finishing and a long list of ex-citing specializations. All our programs are conducted in theDutch language with the exception of the internationalcourse for Media Design which is entirely in English.

z For more information, please contact Tereza Andrews via:Heer Bokelweg 255 (Headquarters) 3032 AD Rotterdam, the NetherlandsTelefoon: +31 88 200 1500E-mail: [email protected]

Enquiries and Information

34

Dear Sir/Madam,

The only way you will ever find out what is on the inside is by taking a closer look. This saying points out exactlywhy I am looking for an internship this summer in Hong Kong. I am currently an exchange student at the HongKong University Faculty of law but unfortunately the semester is nearly ending.

After the end of this semester I will obtain my LLB degree. This means that I am in transition. I'll start my mastersat Utrecht University in February and to prepare myself for my masters I’d like to obtain some practical experience.

In November of this year I’ll start with an internship in the Netherlands at the Dutch law firm Houthoff Buruma as a “studenttrainee”, but until that time I will be free to do a internship here in Hong Kong.

At the Hong Kong University I enrolled in the following courses; International Trade Law, Intellectual Property Law andCommercial law. The trade law course was focused on the carriage of goods by sea. I liked this course most of all, so I would bevery happy If I could learn more about this topic in a practical way.

I would like to ask you to contact me if you would be interested in employing me as a trainee this summer. Please feel free to con-tact me at +852 63199715 or at my e-mail address [email protected].

Yours sincerely,

Annet Vis

INTERNSHIP & JOB VACANCY

The Grafisch Lyceum Rotterdam

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35

Enquiries & Information

IN THE NETHERLANDS IN HONG KONG / CHINA

KleinefabriekLocation: Amsterdam RAIDate: 8 & 9 July 2012Exhibit: International children’s Trade FairOrganizer: Modefabriek BVEmail: [email protected] Website: www.kleinefabriek.nl

Modefabriek 2012Location: Amsterdam RaiDate: 22 & 23 July 2012Exhibit: Fashion trendsOrganizer: Modefabriek BVEmail: [email protected] Website: www.modefabriek.nl

6th European Academy of Forensic Science (EAFS) Location: The Hague (University of Applied Sciences and NFI Field Lab)Date: 20-24 August 2012Organizer: NFI AcademyEmail: [email protected] Website: www.eafs2012.eu

Amsterdam Woon Beurs Location: Amsterdam RaiDate: 25-30 September 2012Exhibit: creative sectorOrganizer: Sanoma Media BVEmail: [email protected] Website: www.woonbeurs.nl

2012 Hong Kong High End Audio Visual Show Location: HKCECDate: 10-12 August 2012Organiser: Audio TechniqueEmail: [email protected] website: www.audiotechnique.com

Natural Products Expo Asia Location: HKCECDate: 23-25 August 2012Organiser: Penton Media Asia Ltd Email: [email protected] Website: www.naturalproductasia.com

Comic World Location: HKCECDate: 25-26 August 2012Organiser: Comic World HK LtdEmail: [email protected] website: www.cwhk.org

Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair 2012Location: HKCEC Date: 5-9 September 2012Exhibit: timepieces event Organiser: HKTDCEmail: [email protected] website: www.hktdc.com

These trade enquiries were received by the Economic Section of the Consulate-General ofthe Netherlands in Hong Kong. Interested parties may approach the companies directly or contact Betty Liu, the Consulate’s trade officer, on (852) 2868 0690, by fax to (852) 2868 5388 or via email [email protected]

Hong Kong Agents/ Importers wantedHOME COUTURE; CUSHIONS, PLAIDS, LAMPSCompany: The Soft WorldPhone: 31 6 1680 5612Email: [email protected]: www.thesoftworld.comContact: Ms Beatrice Waanders

Dutch agents / importers wantedNATURAL BOTANICAL SMALL MOLECULES MEDICINECompany: Hong Kong Small Biomolecules LaboratoryAddress: Room 212, HK Institute of Biotechnology Bldg, 2 Biotechnology Avenue, Shatin, Hong KongPhone: 852 2603 6066Email: [email protected]: www.sdtl-biofactor.comContact: Ms Juliana Tse, Executive Director

TRADE ENQUIRIES

TRADE SHOW CALENDAR

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MEMBERSHIP &ANNUAL FEES

OUR SERVICESThe Dutch Chamber ofCommerce in Hong Kong offersadvice and assistance to itsmembers. Areas where we canhelp include:

• Providing organising and networking facilities;

• Planning programmes for student groups and overseas delegations;

• Providing updated informationon legal systems;

• Preparing specific promotions or organising tailor-made seminars;

• Providing updated information about financial systems;

• Using our members' know how;

• Invitations to annual functions such as the Dutch Business Awards Gala Dinner and the China Seminar; and

• Providing useful information on our website.

36

DutchCham Information

MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE

• Tom Voûte (Chairman)• Eduard Wehry• Job van der Noord• Matthew Hoyle• Diederik Heinink• Jacqueline Baud

CHINA COMMITTEE

• Harold van Kooten (Co-Chair) • Daniël de Blocq van Scheltinga (Co-Chair)• Connie Leung• Diederik Maessen• Maarten Koning• Jacqueline Baud • Faith Fung

SME COMMITTEE

• René Theil (Chairman) • Bas Fransen • Hans Pompen• Tom Uiterwaal• Ester van Steekelenburg• Jacqueline Baud

TAX COMMITTEE

• Sytske Kimman (Chairman)• Jennifer Chan• Eric Kampman• Carola van den Bruinhorst • Willem Hoogland• Diederik Werdmölder• Jochem Temmerman• Jacqueline Baud

PR AND PUBLICATION COMMITTEE

• Alexander de Nerée tot Babberich (Chairman)

• Kristen Beattie (editor)• Diederik Heinink• Candice Lee• Faith Fung

• Gold Member

HK$ 20,000

• Corporate Member

HK$ 8,500

• SME Member

HK$ 3,500

• Associate Member

HK$ 3,500

• Young Professional

HK$ 1,500

• Overseas Member

HK$ 2,500

NO JOINING FEE

GOLD, SME & CORPORATE

MEMBERS ENJOY VOTING

RIGHTS

We are a memberdriven organisationenabling ourmembers to shareknowledge & todevelop businessrelations in andbetween theNetherlands, Hong Kong,Mainland Chinaand the AsiaPacific Region.

DUTCHCHAM COMMITTEES

Suite 5702, 57th Floor, Cheung Kong Center,2 Queen’s Road, Central, Hong Kong

Tel.: (852) 2815 2801E-mail: [email protected]: www.dutchchamber.hkSkype: Dutchchamberhk

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