The regulation of data privacy in Hong Kong

Abstract

This paper seeks to provide a critical analysis of the regulation of data protection in Hong Kong, and then to suggest several recommendations in that regard. In particular, three aspects of regulation will be considered, namely, enforced compliance, public consultation and public education. The article concludes that while there have been commendable efforts in the area of public consultation and education, the time has come for a greater degree of regulatory compulsion in the form of various suggested reforms, in order for Hong Kong to develop a robust data protection regime. This is particularly important in our digital age, where data protection is crucial for the maintenance of trust in e-commerce and online transactions. © 2008 Ji Lian Yap.