Why Hong Kong's property curbs may not be lifted anytime soon

But government is open for adjustments.

In a report, Secretary for Transport & Housing Prof Anthony Cheung says measures introduced earlier to curb property speculation are still needed, but the Government will make adjustments when appropriate.

Speaking to the media last July 05, Prof Cheung said the Government understands the measures may affect related trades, and it will pay attention to the matter.

He pointed out market risks would be greater and economic effects more adverse if the Government had not introduced them.

The measures are beneficial to society's overall interests, he added.

The level of transactions depends on many factors, including prices, supply and demand, and public awareness of external economic changes.

Though the measures have cooled down the market to a certain extent, it has not entirely settled and could still be volatile, he said.

As the Financial Secretary said clearly when the measures were introduced, they were intended for exceptional circumstances.

“Therefore, when the market returns to normal, we will adjust the measures, including withdrawing them,” Prof Cheung said.