Hong Kong Data Hk (HKDHK) is an easily accessible government database where users can view and download public datasets, data products, maps and interactive charts. There’s also a search function, data visualizations and interactive charts, which allows them to explore by topic or industry to locate statistics reports forecasts analysis etc. Users must register before accessing this resource but it is free.
The DataHK serves as the central repository of publicly accessible health-related data in Hong Kong, such as statistics and trends on healthcare, research studies conducted, quality healthcare service provision and monitoring and evaluation activities. All government departments collaborate on using its platform for policy formulation, needs assessments and monitoring and evaluating of health services.
Data hk is operated by the HKSAR Department of Health and is an invaluable resource for the community and researchers, businesses, healthcare providers and citizens alike. Engineered to allow one search across all health-related databases within Hong Kong’s boundaries – its user-friendly design provides a full picture of national health status.
Hong Kong Data Protection Legislation and Cross-Border Transfers
Hong Kong’s data protection legislation (the Personal Data Protection Ordinance, or PDPO), places obligations on entities who process personal data both within the territory and outside. The PDPO regulates collection, holding, processing, use and disposal by reference to six data protection principles.
One of the central elements of PDPO is its requirement that transfers of personal data are only permitted if certain conditions are fulfilled, including when data transfers occur to entities located in other jurisdictions; or when data flows between entities that both belong to one data user.
Typically, data transfer requirements can be fulfilled when a data user provides their personal information collection statement (PICS) to a data subject before collecting his/her personal data and notifies him or her that their personal data may be transferred across borders for specific purposes as stated in their PICS. By doing this, informed consent for transfer can be given by data subjects.
However, in addition to this notification obligation, data users must have a lawful basis for any transfer that takes place, which might include contractual provisions or any other method that ensures it complies with PDPO regulations.
Data users must not disclose personal data provided to them to third parties for compensation or direct marketing. Any violation may lead to prosecution against them.
Due to ongoing discussion regarding modernising data protection laws in Hong Kong, business operators should remain mindful of their obligations regarding compliance with PDPO requirements – this can help avoid any additional risk or costs caused by any breaches in compliance with such legislation. PDPO requirements are in line with many global data privacy laws and should therefore not be treated differently from others globally.