TVB News at 7:30｜27 MAR 2025｜HONG KONG English Latest NEWS

Summary

The video covers a range of global and local topics. It discusses Hong Kong's government seeking a solution to CK Hutchinson's controversial sale of Panama Canal ports to BlackRock, along with U.S. President Trump's plans for tariffs on auto imports. The video also highlights China's push for economic cooperation, U.S. immigration issues, the TikTok sale, and a decrease in severe flu cases in Hong Kong. Additionally, it addresses the rise in norovirus cases and a domestic abuse case involving an Indonesian maid. The coverage concludes with announcements about Hong Kong's upcoming rugby event.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Hong Kong government is in talks with CK Hutchinson to find a reasonable solution regarding the controversial sale of two Panama Canal ports to a consortium led by BlackRock.
• 😀 The Hong Kong government has ordered state-owned enterprises to pause all new joint projects with CK Hutchinson.
• 😀 The Hong Kong authorities emphasize that all transactions must comply with legal requirements and reflect the nation's interests.
• 😀 Vice Premier Ding Sh urged Asian countries to cooperate, suggesting China will continue to open up its economy while promoting new productive forces.
• 😀 U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 25% tariff on all auto imports, which shook global markets, particularly affecting Asian automakers.
• 😀 The new auto tariffs are set to go into effect on April 3rd, with concerns over potential disruptions in the auto industry due to increased costs and reduced demand.
• 😀 European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney criticized Trump's auto tariffs, warning of negative impacts on businesses and workers.
• 😀 A Turkish doctoral student at the University of Massachusetts, Boston, was detained by U.S. immigration authorities after expressing support for Palestinians in the Gaza conflict.
• 😀 U.S. President Donald Trump suggested he might reduce tariffs on China to facilitate a deal regarding the sale of TikTok's U.S. operations, with a deadline looming for a decision on April 5th.
• 😀 The Hong Kong winter flu season has ended with fewer severe cases, thanks to successful vaccination campaigns, but authorities warn the public not to be complacent as the flu season transitions to summer.
• 😀 The Hong Kong government is taking action against the rise of norovirus cases, particularly in schools, and advises thorough handwashing to prevent further outbreaks.

Q & A

What is the issue regarding CK Hutchinson's plan to sell its Panama Canal ports?

The Hong Kong government is holding talks with CK Hutchinson over its controversial plan to sell two Panama Canal ports to a consortium led by BlackRock. The government is looking for a reasonable way out of the deal due to the potential high financial and political costs of backing out.

What did the Hong Kong Chief Executive say about the situation with CK Hutchinson?

Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee mentioned that the matter has garnered significant attention and emphasized that all transactions must adhere to legal requirements. He also pointed out that the options available to resolve the issue are limited due to the high costs involved.

How did China respond to the trade concerns over the Panama Canal port deal?

China, through its Foreign Ministry, opposed economic coercion and bullying tactics, stressing that commercial transactions should consider the national interests of all parties involved.

What was Vice Premier Ding's message at the Boao Forum for Asia?

Vice Premier Ding emphasized the need for Asian countries to strengthen cooperation, enhance trust, and work together for mutual benefit, stressing that China would continue to open up its economy and expand domestic demand.

What are the potential effects of the new US auto tariffs announced by Donald Trump?

The 25% tariffs on auto imports are expected to disrupt the global automotive industry, raise prices, and harm automakers that rely on global supply chains. Critics are concerned about the impact on both production costs and consumer demand.

How did the auto industry react to the news of Trump's tariffs?

Shares in major automakers such as General Motors and Fiat Chrysler dropped, while Ford’s stock showed a slight increase. Experts expressed concern about the higher transaction prices of vehicles and the potential impact on production and employment.

What is the significance of the TikTok sale issue between the US and China?

The TikTok sale involves the Chinese parent company ByteDance divesting most of its US operations to address national security concerns. The US government has imposed a deadline for a potential sale by April 5th, with President Trump suggesting a reduction in tariffs to help facilitate the deal.

How is the US government approaching the sale of TikTok's US operations?

The US government is actively involved in discussions to facilitate the sale of TikTok’s US operations. President Trump suggested that a reduction in tariffs might be used as a bargaining chip to finalize the deal.

What is the current status of the winter flu season in Hong Kong?

The winter flu season in Hong Kong has come to an end, with a notable decrease in severe cases and deaths. The flu season lasted 11 weeks, significantly shorter than the previous year, and vaccination campaigns played a role in reducing cases.

What measures are being taken to prevent future flu outbreaks in Hong Kong?

Authorities are preparing for the upcoming seasonal flu vaccination drive for the year 2025-26 and focusing on encouraging vaccinations for vulnerable groups, including children under two and people aged 50-60. Public awareness campaigns are being intensified.