Overview

The Hong Kong Government released the Personal Data (Privacy) Amendment Bill 2011 in July. At the same time, the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data, Mr. Allan Chiang, commenced a consultation process regarding the launch of the Data User Return Scheme in a further move set to change the landscape of compliance with data protection obligations in Hong Kong.

Under Part IV of the PDPO, the Commissioner has the ability to specify a class of data users and require them to submit data user returns containing “prescribed information” which includes, among other things, the kinds of personal data they control and the purposes for which the personal data are collected, held, processed or used.

The Commissioner has now indicated that, as awareness regarding personal data privacy rights has been growing in the community, it is important to put measures in place to ensure data users have responsible data policies and practices and are “open and transparent about them” through the introduction of the DURS.

This briefing outlines how the new rules will affect Hong Kong businesses, how the scheme will be implemented and how businesses will need to prepare for it. Click 'View Briefing' for full details.