Staying ahead: Keeping Hong Kong‘s Digital Ecosystem Competitive

The Future of the Digital Ecosystem in Hong Kong

TRPC Roundtable 2017.8.11

Charles Mok Legislative Councillor (Information Technology)

Source: Ooma (May 2017)

Hong Kong: Top of the league in average internet connection speed

Source: Akamai‘s State of the Internet report Q1 2017

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Source: Office of the Communications Authority, Hong Kong (www.ofca.gov.hk)

Take a closer look

“ Broadband means the capacity to

transmit data at the rate of

1Mbps or above.

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…OFCA’s definition of ‘broadband service’?

Source: Office of the Communications Authority, Hong Kong

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Source: Annual Report 2015/16 of Office of the Communications Authority, Hong Kong

Do we need an update to improve broadband service quality?

How competitive is Hong Kong’s digital ecosystem?

Neither ‘Stall Out’ nor

‘Stand Out’

“ Video streaming services see rising demand as more viewers

prefer high-resolution videos 8

Consuming more HD content on mobile devices

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Another driver of internet traffic

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Gaming / eSport

Accessible and affordable internet access: crucial in a innovation-led digital ecosystem

Pushing beyond ‘digital plateau’

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Coverage and quality of broadband connections

Lack of choice and

quality service in remote areas

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Capacity of network infrastructure VS rising mobile data consumtpion

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Network Neutrality in existing laws Telecommunications Ordinance

- ss.36A & 36B: determine terms of interconnection & issue direction - s.24(1)(c): telecom officer wilfully detains or delays any message Licence conditions of the telecommunications service - General Condition: requirement for provision of service & control of interference & obstruction Competition Ordinance, Trade Descriptions Ordinance

- prohibits unfair trade practices

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Incentivizing investment in network infrastructure

Preserving freedom and openness of internet access to consumers

More dialogue and transparency needed Need a path forward to achieve win-win-win solution for ISPs, Content Service Providers and consumers

Thank you charlesmok@charlesmok.hk Facebook: Charles Mok www.charlesmok.hk Follow @charlesmok