Population
Hong Kong has a population of 6.8 million of whom 98% are Chinese. English and Cantonese are the official languages. English is widely spoken throughout the territory and is also used in Government departments and in business.

Climate
Hong Kong enjoys a generally sub-tropical climate. Daytime temperatures in November vary between 20 - 28°C and evening temperatures vary from 15 - 25°C. There may be occasional rain.

Time
Hong Kong time is 8 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time.

Language
The official language of the meeting will be English. There will be no simultaneous translation.

Dress
Outside official functions, light autumn clothes or casual dress may be worn.

Currency
Most foreign currencies and traveller's cheques are easily exchanged at banks, hotels and money-changers. A passport is required for money exchange services. Exchange rate of US$1 = approx. HK$7.80.

The Hong Kong Dollar is available in $10, $20, $50, $100, $500 and $1,000 denominations. Coinage is in 10, 20, 50 cents and $1, $2, $5 and $10.