The Government's Helping Business Programme aims to create a more business-friendly environment, thereby maintaining Hong Kong's position as one of the best places in the world for doing business. Measures are initiated under the programme to make government regulations and procedures more business-friendly and reduce compliance costs to business. During the year, 15 studies and projects were completed or initiated; and over 30 recommendations for improvements were implemented.

An Economic and Employment Council (EEC), comprising representatives from the political, business, labour and academic sectors as well as concerned Directors of Bureaux, was set up by the Government in January. The EEC and its sub-group on Business Facilitation guide the programme. The current foci of the programme are on sector-specific reviews, particularly the regulatory framework impacting on the construction, real estate, retail and entertainment business sectors. Industry representatives provide input through their involvement in the review task forces.

The Business Facilitation Division of the Economic Analysis and Business Facilitation Unit under the Financial Secretary's Office has taken over the above functions from the Commerce and Industry Branch since June. The unit also provides support to the EEC, the sub-group and its task forces.