Immigration Chief Dismisses Tax Haven Theory as Fourth Snooker Star Joins Hong Kong Talent Scheme
HK01 · 1 SOURCESabout 1 hour ago6 MIN
Summary
Hong Kong's Director of Immigration Frederick Kwok Chun-fung appeared on TVB's "Clear and Clear" program to discuss the city's talent recruitment drive, addressing speculation about why top snooker players are choosing to settle in Hong Kong. The Immigration Department recently released a video featuring Jimmy White, the legendary "White Tornado," who confirmed he obtained Hong Kong residency through the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme. At 64 years old, White is the fourth world-class snooker player to join the scheme, following Ronnie O'Sullivan, Judd Trump, and Neil Robertson. Kwok emphasized that while Hong Kong's low tax rate is indeed attractive, it is not the sole factor driving talent to the city.
Key Points
- The Immigration Department uploaded a video showcasing Jimmy White (占美韋德), known as the "White Tornado," who became a Hong Kong resident through the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme
- Kwok Chun-fung stated that from 2023 to the first half of this year, Hong Kong recruited 138 current and retired athletes, with over 10 being snooker players
- Approximately 120,000 to 130,000 talents have entered Hong Kong through various talent schemes; 60,000 high-end talent pass holders have seen their permits expire, with 53% choosing to remain
- Addressing claims that Jimmy White relocated to Hong Kong for tax avoidance, Kwok noted that some Middle Eastern nations offer zero percent tax rates, questioning the logic of choosing Hong Kong solely for tax reasons
- Kwok highlighted Hong Kong's advantages including good public security, convenient transportation, and high-quality education as key attractions
- Regarding Ronnie O'Sullivan's rumored departure, Kwok clarified that the snooker legend has not given up his Hong Kong residency and splits his time between the Middle East and Hong Kong
- O'Sullivan reportedly hopes to find more commercial sponsorship opportunities in Hong Kong and is not yet ready to formally relocate
Why It Matters
This development underscores Hong Kong's efforts to position itself as a comprehensive destination for global talent, rather than merely a tax-efficient location. With four world-class snooker players now calling Hong Kong home, the city hopes to leverage their celebrity status to attract a broader range of professionals across different industries through a "word-of-mouth" effect.
This development underscores Hong Kong's efforts to position itself as a comprehensive destination for global talent, rather than merely a tax-efficient location. With four world-class snooker players now calling Hong Kong home, the city hopes to leverage their celebrity status to attract a broader range of professionals across different industries through a "word-of-mouth" effect.