December 10
Contents> 2> AMIG@S Carmen Vaz de Lock Meet the new members and find the AMIG@ card promotions 4> WHAT’S ON? Hong Kong news digest 6> CHAMBER NEWS Agenda of the Spanish Chamber of Commerce 10> FOCUS ON The influence of the Renminbi in Hong Kong 13> TABLE TALK The World of Tapas. Discover the most traditional way to eat in Spain 17> CULTURA CON Ñ Palabra del mes, Ágora, El asedio 19> ONE SHOT Basílica de la Sagrada Familia, Barcelona 19> VOICES Send your letters
Message from the Secretary Dear Members and Friends, The Spanish Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong is pleased to present the third edition of “La Gaceta”, our e-newsletter covering current issues relevant to Spain and Hong Kong business as well as the Chamber’s main activities in the past few months. We hope you find it interesting as well as entertaining. We are pleased to introduce Mr. Javier Sanz, the new Spanish Trade Commissioner. Prior to his arrival in Hong Kong, Mr. Sanz was the Economic and Commercial Counselor of the Spanish Embassy in Stockholm. Between September 2008 and September 2010 he was CEO of Invest in Spain, Spain’s public investment promotion agency. We wish him every success in his new role as Spanish trade Commissioner in Hong Kong. The Second Economic Forum organized by the Spanish Chamber of Commerce and BBVA took place on 3rd December at BBVA’s Head Office in Hong Kong which mainly focused on economic projections for China and Hong Kong and the raising importance of the RMB, successfully covered by Mrs. Alicia García-Herrero (BBVA Chief Economist for Emerging Markets) and Mr. Stephen Schwartz (Chief Economist for Asia). The Chamber also celebrated its 2010 Christmas gala Dinner on 8th December, an event increasingly recognized as one of the highlights in the Hong Kong social calendar. We would like to thank our members and friends for their participation as well as extend an invitation to all of you to join us next year. Thanks to the Chamber’s efforts in 2010, La Gaceta is now consolidated as an increasingly important channel of communication among our membership. Our new goal for 2011 is to widen its distribution in order to attract more readers and thus have greater impact both in Hong Kong and in Spain. In this respect we would appreciate any suggestions or advice on how to make this publication better for you. I wish you all a happy Christmas and a productive 2011.
Ángel Garralda
Secretary of the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong
Credits * Thanks> With special thanks to Carmen Vaz de Lock (President Asociación de Mujeres de Habla Hispana). Disclaimer: the Spanish Chamber does not guarantee the accuracy of the information printed in this document.
LA GACETA.
Spanish Chamber of Commerce In Hong Kong
Sponsors
Amig@ of the month >
Carmen Vaz de Lock Company Name Asociación de Mujeres de Habla Hispana
In Hong Kong since 1996 - 2001 and 2007 until present time Professionally likes to... Sports, I am proud to still be a member of the “Latin Dragons” dragon boat team, and also practice martial arts
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Spanish Chamber of Commerce In Hong Kong
Your “Best” and “Worst” of Hong Kong I love the vibrancy and diversity of Hong Kong. I dislike the air and light pollution Your Spanish Side I was born in Celanova, Galicia. However, I was brought up in London from the age of twelve
My message to the Spanish Chamber of Commerce You are doing a wonderful job in keeping us up-to-date with what is happening in Hong Kong and would like to suggest that the next Tapas Tour Passports have a longer validity
La Gaceta. Spanish Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong
MEMBER BENEFITS @ 10% discount on all products at pata negra house shop @ 10% discount on mandarin / cantonese / english courses at executive communications centre @ 10% discount at uno mas restaurant @ discount on all food & beverage consumption in eclipse h.k. outlets @ 10% discount on food and beverage at opus grill restaurant @ a free shirt for every suit ordered at manesh manolo bespoke tailoring @ 20% discount for all purchase of pure cashmere / pashmina & blended embroidered at pashmina place @ 20% discount in all the classes at tiara club @ special discounts at cellarmaster wines @ enjoy 20% discount at aspasia @ 10% at all concept creations outlets, tapeo and frites restaurants @ 30% discount on all purchases at dejavu lingerie from dejavu webasite
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Members Corporate - New Members *World Services Co Ltd *Renaissance Harbour View Hotel Hong Kong *Hong Kong Bestpoint Enterprise Ltd t/a Pata Negra *HTM GSA *Summergate Limited *Kedington Wines
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Spanish Chamber of Commerce In Hong Kong
What’s on?> BBVA goes for Citic capital increase
Hong Kong becomes China's offshore yuan base
Citic Bank, the medium-sized lender, in which Spain's second-largest bank BBVA has a 15% stake, has announced a plan to raise $3’8 quarter of next year to strengthen its capital base. 10 held, for a total of 8.59 billion shares in Shanghai and Hong Kong. The lender's Spanish partner BBVA has agreed to spend Spanish media reports. Zhao Xiaofan, the bank's vice-president, said the lender will raise 17 percent of the total market and he expects the liquidity-draining billion yuan, a better-than-expected result boosted by growing demand for its loans and fee-based services.
Blueprint for a New China Urbanization on the Chinese mainland is advancing at an annual rate of 1%, which means that about 13 million people move from rural areas to cities each year. The enormous changes to the country’s urban blueprint in the years ahead are expected to create huge demand in the construction and engineering sectors, and will cause a great development of small and medium sized cities. The mainland’s urbanization program is sure to attract more investment of construction and engineering companies from Hong Kong, sector 1980s.
outside mainland China to have an interbank market for Chinese Renminbi (RMB) foreign exchange, and lending and borrowing business after the latest relaxation of RMB business in Hong Kong. Interbank transfer of RMB deposits in Hong Kong is now permitted and there will no longer be any limit on RMB exchanges by companies in Hong Kong as long as the funds remain in the territory. However, restrictions on individuals will still apply. Such a development will accelerate the RMB centre. increasing use of RMB outside the country will speed up the internationalization of the RMB.
Co-operation on legal services for commercial Matters and Arbitration
Hong Kong Fair Calendar
The Department of Justice of the SAR government and the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade signed the Co-operation Arrangement on Legal Services for Commercial Matters and Arbitration Monday.
10-12 Jan 2011 / HKTDC Hong Kong International Licensing Show 10-13 Jan 2011 / Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair 10-13 Jan 2011 / Hong Kong International Stationery Fair 10-13 Jan 2011 / HKTDC Hong Kong Baby Products Fair 17-20 Jan 2011 / HKTDC Hong Kong Fashion Week for Fall/Winter 17-20 Jan 2011 / HKTDC World Boutique 17-20 Feb 2011 / HKTDC Education & Careers Expo 4-8 March 2011 / HKTDC Hong Kong International Jewellery Show 21-24 March 2011 / Hong Kong International Film & TV Market (FILMART) 13-16 April 2011 / HKTDC Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Spring Edition) 13-16 April 2011 / HKTDC International ICT Expo 13-16 April 2011 / HKTDC Hong Kong International Lighting Fair (Spring Edition) 20-23 April 2011 / HKTDC Hong Kong International Hong Kong Textiles Fair 20-23 April 2011 / Hong Kong Houseware Fair 27-30 April 2011 / HKTDC Hong Kong Gifts & Premiun Fair 27-30 April 2011 / Hong Kong International Printing & Packaging Fair
The arrangement aims to strengthen information exchanges and to collaborate in organizing conferences on legal services and to facilitate enterprises in both places in providing training in commercial and arbitra tion law. ment to boost Hong Kong’s status as a regional legal service.
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The Hong Kong Fair Calendar shows you the upcoming Fairs in January, February, March and April
Spanish Chamber of Commerce In Hong Kong
La Gaceta. Spanish Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong
HONG KONG ANNUAL POLICY ADDRESS 2010-2011
alleviate poverty and strengthen links with the Mainland. growth of between 5% and 6% this year. The Chief Executive unveiled plans to launch a new type of subsidized housing to be known as the My Home
On environmental protection, Hong Kong’s emission reduction strategy emphasizes the wider use of cleaner and low-carbon energies and fuels in power generation. By implementing this strategy, the Government expects the carbon intensity to be reduced by 50-60% by 2020 compared with the 2005 level. Greenhouse gas emissions will decrease by 19-33% compared with 2005. Renminbi and the increased convertibility of the Mainland's capital account. He said Hong Kong would continue to strengthen links with the Mainland to ensure a sound foundation for the city's sustainable economic growth. "To ensure that Hong Kong can better leverage its unique advantages and functions during the National 12th Five-Year Plan period, we will strive to
Trash Talk: Hong Kongers Produce the Most Garbage in the World
For most of Chinese tourists, Hong Kong is a favourite destination
Hong Kong thrives as gateway to China trade For centuries, Hong Kong has thrived as a trade gateway between China and the rest of the world. As China's booming export engine mainland, Hong Kong has risen with it.
few clues that this city might have a trash problem on its hands. Eventually, the city's manic rate of consumption starts to seem normal. Problem is, it's not. Hong Kong generates more trash per capita than any other place in the world. Seven million Hong Kongers generated a total of 6.45 million tons of waste in 2009, which, on a per capita basis, breaks down to 2000 pounds (921 kg) of municipal solid waste per person, more than double than countries like Japan (900 pounds per capita) and South Korea (837 pounds).
The Tourism Research Institute of China, has issued a survey of preferences of Chinese tourists traveled abroad in 2010. According to the report, there has been a growth of 23.5% in people traveling to other countries. According to the survey, Hong Kong has become a favorite spot for tourists from mainland China. Also, there has been a 30% increase in the number of tourists from China to Japan and Korea. In the case of Russia, there was an increase of 13%, making that country one destination privileged in Europe. In this year increased the number of tourists who traveled to Asia, where increased by about 16%, while in the Americas was 33%, in and 188% in Oceania. World Cup South Africa resulted in an increase in the number of Chinese into Africa, with a record of 132%.
But China's historic boom has led to increasing tensions with its trading partners, who have cried foul, arguing that an undervalued yuan and surging trade surpluses are proof that Beijing isn’t playing fair. Now, Hong Kong's historic role as the go-between for East and West could become contentious global economic battle known as the "currency wars." T hough the yuan cannot be freely traded on global currency markets, Beijing’s leaders have between Hong Kong and the mainland.
LA GACETA.
Spanish Chamber of Commerce In Hong Kong
Chamber News >
Tuesday 14th September
Luncheon - Romano Prodi. "A New World Order? Trilateral Relationship among China, the US, and the EU" Our members and friends were invited to a Lunch Event with Mr. Romano Prodi, former President of the European Commission, and former Prime Minister of Italy, organized by the European Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong, with EUBIP funding, the American Chamber of Commerce Hong Kong and the Asia Society, on Tuesday, September 14, 2010. The topic was on "A New World Order? Trilateral Relationship among China, the US, and the EU" and he spoke on the China-US, China-Europe, and US-Europe bilateral relationships.Thoughts from the Former President of the European Commission on how the three Powers can establish a New World Order.
Friday 24th September to 6th Wednesday October
Valencia Food & Wine
Monday 26th to Thursday 30th September
Galeón Andalucía was visiting Hong Kong
Tuesday 1st October
Spanish October
Galleon Andalucía is the only replica of a Spanish galleon of the 17th century that actually sails. The Galleon was the most universal Spanish ship that starred in the commercial and cultural relations that existed among Spain, America and Asia for three centuries (XVI-XVIII) doing commercial shipping route longest in duration and route that records the history of browsing.
Friday 29th September
SCC Annual General Assembly
Region of Valencia is an autonomous region of Spain, known as one of the most beautiful areas on the eastern coast, bathed by the waters of the Mediterranean, Valencia is famous for its sparkling citrus orchards, fantastic long beaches, pleasant year-round climate and delicious Mediterranean cuisine.
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Members were gathered to be updaded about membership status, Financial review 2009, main activities and services such as events, publications, training & Spanish language courses and services was revised in the Annual by the President and the Secretary General of the Spanish Chamber.
Spanish Chamber of Commerce In Hong Kong
To celebrate the National Day on October 12th and with the aim of recovering the tradition of organizing activities in Hong Kong to help promote the image of Spain in Hong Kong, the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong works alongside the Consulate General of Spain in Hong Kong and the Spanish Trade Commisresources to create cultural gastronomical and promotional activities that will increase the interchange between Spain and Hong Kong.
Friday 1st to Tuesday 12th October
Spanish National Day celebrations by King parrot, Tapeo & ARTE Madrid
Monday 18th, 19th, 25th, 26th & Tuesday 27th October
V Spanish Film Festival
Spanish National Day. The Spanish King Parrot organized Journey Deluxe Food and Flamenco dancer Dance Performer with Carolina Vera. Fifth year in a row that the Spanish Film Festival was organized by the Spanish Chamber in Commerce in Hong Kong with more than 800 people attending the event.
Tropical fiesta by AMHH
Our members and friends were invited to “Tropical Fiesta” party at Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club. The event is organized by Spanish Speaking Women’s Association (Asociación de Mujeres de Habla Hispana - AMHH).
Tapas Tour 2010
wine, beer of water. After visiting each of the outlets, the PASSPORT holder had a chance to participate in the lucky draw to win an air ticket to Spain with Lufthansa airlines.
At this luncheon, the business community were be able to hear Mr. Tsang’s further elaboration on his policy address and to learn more about the initiatives put forth by the HKSAR Government in the year ahead.
Saturday 6th November
Friday 1st October to Tuesday 30th November As part of the Spanish October, the Spanish Chamber organized the Tapas Tour 2010 from 1st October to 30th November featuring 7 Spanish restaurants. The Chamber and restaurants sold passports to its members and contacts, the holder of the passport could visit each of the establishments featured in the passport during the dates about to get 1 tapa
Joint Business Community Luncheon. Donald Tsang
Our members and friends were invited to Joint Business Community Luncheon with the Honourable Donald Tsang, HKSAR Chief Executive, organized by the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce.
Our members and friends could enjoy the
ARTE Madrid decided to give away a Stamped Croc Passport Holder with any single net purchase of $3,000 or above on “Holiday in Spain” Collection. Ponty Wines also decided to give away with a 25% discount on Spanish wines.
Wednesday 3th November
Five movies were screened at the Hong Kong arts Centre during the Festival in the framework of the Spanish October: REC II, Rosas, Goya best supporting actor, Goya best original music, Goya best wardrobe design, Goya best photography; Intacto, Goya best novel director and Goya best novel actor; Camarón, Goya best actor, Goya best makeup and Goya wardrobe; and Barcelona un mapa.
This party was a good opportunity to meet the charity for which the association raises funds for several years, 'The Cradle of Hope'.
Friday 12th November
Luncheon - Helmut Sohmen “Hong Kong: the path to 2047”
Our members and friends were invited to invite you to a luncheon conference “Hong Kong: The Path to 2047” organized by the European Chamber of Commerce. The focus will be on Hong Kong's long term perspective after having served as the gateway to China to continue its attraction of being the best place for business in Asia. opening were invited to the Opening cocktail by Uno más.
The distinguished guest, Dr. Helmut Sohmen, Chairman of BW Group Limited, will provide the audience with valuable insights and discussion points from decades of experience traversing the globe from his nature Austria to hometown Hong Kong.
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Spanish Chamber of Commerce In Hong Kong
Wednesday 24th November
Luncheon with the new Spanish Trade Commissioner, Mr. Javier Sanz
Our members were invited to the luncheon to introduce them the new Spanish Trade Commissioner, Mr. Javier Sanz.
Thursday 25th November
Happy hour at Republik Our Happy Hour on Thursday 25th November took place at Republik, Central, the exciting new bar modern and imaginative, with quirky artwork and textured finishes.
Some of the subjects treated were: • Economic Projections for China and HK: RMB prospects • Economic Projections for China: Long Term challenges • Economic Situation in Europe and BBVA’s vision/forecast
The event gathered many members and friends, who they enjoyed Spanish wine, sangria and tapas.
Friday 3rd December Mr. Javier Sanz is a graduate in Business Management and Administration from the CUNEF and has a Master in Leadership in Public Management from the IESE. He is member of the body of Commercial and Economic Technicians of the State.
Second Economic Forum organized by BBVA and the Spanish Chamber of Commerce There were big professionals conducting the seminar such as Mr. Manuel Galatas, Managing Director BBVA Asia, Mrs. Alicia García-Herrero, BBVA Chief Economist for Emerging Markets – Asia, Latin America, Eastern Europe and Mr. Stephen Schwartz, Chief Economist for Asia.
Wednesday 8th December
Christmas Gala Dinner 2010 “Spanish Hong Kong” The Spanish Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong’s annual Christmas Gala Dinner Ball is the paramount event in its calendar and is widely recognized in Hong Kong as year. The event had delicacies from Spain, a
He has held a range of posts in the Ministries of Economy and Industry, Trade and Tourism, and Government. Prior to his appointment he was the Economic and Commercial Counsellor of the Spanish Embassy in Stockholm. Between September 2008 and September 2010 he was CEO of Invest in Spain, the Spanish public investment promotion agency.
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Spanish Chamber of Commerce In Hong Kong
menu designed by the chefs David Izquierdo (Uno más) and Álex Fargas (Fofo); entertainment such as Musical Performance by Sinfonietta Quartet, Performance by Murder Mystery HK, Flamenco Performance by Antonio Carmona and "Sol y Flamenco"; and many prizes. This year we funded to help the activities of the charity Changing Young Lives.
Sponsorship for The Spanish Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong’s Christmas Gala Dinner 2010 “Spanish Hong Kong”
Branded Spirits Limited LA GACETA.
Spanish Chamber of Commerce In Hong Kong
Focus on> Influence of the RMB in Hong Kong Currently, there is growing interest in the US dollar, and the impact this
from other countries. Therefore, it seems logical that import prices are determinants of Hong Kong’s
factors have a bigger importance in Hong Kong.
economy
Recent studies by several agencies suggests that the effects of an appreimport prices and aggregate demand,
how we can perceive. In the past two decades, although it seems hard to believe, there has been no
and asset prices could be more significant.
Department (C&SD), retained %yoy
Chart 1: Consumer price and import price in ation
15 12 9 6
three channels: changes in import prices, aggregate demand, and
3 0 -3
-6 -9
2010
2008
2006
2004
2002
2000
1998
1996
1994
1992
-15
Retained import unit value index
CPI excluding rent
On the other hand, consumer price
%yoy 12
China in 2008 were 11.9% of the total. This percentage, if we compare it with other countries, shows us that is smaller than the euro area or Japan, and slightly higher than South Korea or Singapore. However, recent studies from HKMA shows that the retained imports
-12 1990
the renminmi exchange stable against the US dollar. Due to economic recovery, and increased exports of Asia, there is great interest in whether the renminbi exchange will appreciate against the US dollar the near future. The answer has a great importance on the monetary and financial stability of Hong Kong.
depending on how much of Hong Kong’s retained imports are from the Mainland. According with the
Chart 2: Consumer price and home price in ation
10
because of not considering the rate of the re-export margin. This has been around 23% in the last years, therefore, as a source of retained imports for Hong Kong, the Mainland is probably larger than Japan, but smaller than the euro area. Hong Kong could reduce the
8 6 4 2 0
The price of imported goods from Mainland is the channel which can be
-2 -4 -6 -8
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Spanish Chamber of Commerce In Hong Kong
Residen al property prices
CPI excluding rent
2010
2008
2006
2004
2002
2000
1998
1996
1994
1992
of the renminbi. Hong Kong is a service and small open economy, and
1990
-10
imports from Mainland to other economies. Nonetheless, Mainland suppliers may have a greater market power for most perishable goods such as fresh and raw foods. However, as fresh meats, vegetables and seafood are only around 4% of Hong Kong’s consumer price index (CPI)
Retained imports from major trading partners in 2008
Euro area Japan Mainland China Singapore South Korea US Taiwan Malaysia India Thailand Others Total
Imports by origin (HK$ bn) 356 306 1413 105 148 136 205 82 67 66 139 3025
Re-exports by origin (HK$ bn) 205 218 1708 29 87 93 178 56 43 47 69 2733
Retained imports (HK$ bn) 170 108 92 79 69 52 43 31 27 23 76 770
Re-export margin (%) 9.0 9.0 22.6 9.0 9.0 9.0 9.0 9.0 9.0 9.0 9.0 17.5
The chart show that the re-exports from Mainland have been bigger than the re-exports and Hong land together.
basket, the impact of an apprecialimited, but will have a bigger impact on lower income families.
by gross trade flows, which may increase though Mainland’s net exports decrease.
Aggregate demand
Merchandise exports and traderelated services
Share in total retail imports (%) 22.1 14 11.9 10.2 9 6.7 5.6 4 3.5 3 9.9 100
% of GDP
Chart 4: Hong Kong's export earnings from merchandise trade with the Mainland
25
affected by a stronger renminbi though its effect in the aggregate demand of Hong Kong.
Trade Channels Hong Kong has a role as a re-exporter for Mainland China. Its export earnings depend on the imports and exports between China and other countries through Hong Hong Kong’s cross-border goods
The demand of the rest of the world for the Hong Kong’s re-exports from Mainland China is expected to be adversely affected, because of the land exports. On the other side, the Mainland’s demand for re-exports through Hong Kong from the rest of
15
exports
Margin of re-exports to the Mainland 5
0 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009
Over the last few years, the margins generated from re-exports with origin in China have been
Hong Kong are expected to increase because the great purchasing power of Mainland importers.
sum of margins from re-exports
Chart 3: Hong Kong's merchandise trade with the Mainland % of GDP
80
Value of Re-exports origina ng from the Mainland
60 Value of domes the Mainland
40
of Mainland, meanwhile its effect on Hong Kong’s export earnings
Value of domes to the Mainland
10
100
A stronger renminbi might have a
Margin of re-exports origina ng from the Mainland
20
exports to
Value of re-exports to the Mainland
20
to Mainland. This is because the margin rates for re-exports with origin in Mainland have been about 23%, much higher than the average margin of 9% from other places.
0 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009
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Spanish Chamber of Commerce In Hong Kong
Focus on> Chart 5: Hong Kong's export earnings from merchandise trade with the Mainland % of GDP
and asset prices
25
20
Margin of re-exports origina ng from the Mainland
15
Value of domes the Mainland
10
exports to
Margin of re-exports to the Mainland
5
0 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009
This suggests that the net effect for
renminbi terms, coupled with a rally in Hong Kong’s equity market (see
because of the export earnings. In
firms to list and raise funds through Hong Kong’s capital markets.
Kong’s companies about trading and manufacturing in Mainland, might also fall, as the result of a reduced demand for Mainland goods. Exports of tourism and financial services The demand from Mainland visitors for services related to tourism in Hong Kong may increase with a stronger renminbi, because it will boost their purchasing power. In the other hand, Hong Kong residents will spend less in Mainland. Exports of financial services to the Mainland may benefit by a stronger renminbi due to the improved price and brokerage fees and charges for other financial services priced in
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renminbi would support asset outlook for asset prices and the flows to Hong Kong. Even without a real movement the renminbi may suffice to pull capital into Hong Kong. Hong Kong equity and property markets could benefit from the increase in buyers from Mainland. the Mainland would increase the
Income and wealth effects
Concluding remarks investment and a great source of revenue for Hong Kong. Therefore, external factor income flows will effect. Although it is also true, invest ment income in terms of renminbi could fall if output growth on the stronger currency. Kong residents, including H shares, red chips, renminbi deposits and property holdings, may also be boosted by a
ary pressure on consumer prices in Hong Kong.
Spanish Chamber of Commerce In Hong Kong
may influence Hong Kong’s upward pressure on import prices and indirectly by that affect aggregate demand, liquidity if the spot exchange rate does not to be appraised can lead to significantly higher capital flows Hong Kong. It is important to note also, that a relative decline in asset prices in Hong Kong with respect to Mainland, will make this very atractive market for Mainland consumers.
Table Talk> The World of Tapas The origin of the word “tapa” (cover) comes from the ancient custom of covering the cups and glasses of wine in the taverns with a piece of bread or a slice of ham to prevent flies and dust inside the glass.
La Tapa so as to be meaningful has to be eaten between main meals as food
Histor y The wise king (Alfonso the 10th) decreed that no wine was to be served in any people who, through lack of money to buy a nourishing meal, drank alcohol on an empty stomach. There are many theories about how tapa was created, but we should consider common sense to explain that the first tapa first appeared because of the need of farmers and workers of other unions to take a small amount of food during their working time, which allowed them to carry on working until time for the main meal.
lished throughout Spain, the wise King’s decree remained in place. For that reason, the glass or jar of wine was served covered with a slice of either smoked ham or cheese, for two reasons: first to prevent insects or other imputhey had drunk with something solid, as King Alfonso had advised. This was the origin of the tapa, a solid food that
Regions The snack is called “alifara” in northern Spain, Aragón and Navarra; and later, in the Vasque Country, it began to be called “poteo”, because the wine had to be drunk in “potes” (jars). Wine was the natural accompaniment to this snack, as it induced a mellow mood and increased strength, against very cold days in the fields and in the workshops of the Middle Ages. In summer, the drink taken in the South was “gazpacho” (cold tomato soup), instead of wine, which increased body heat rather than providing the necessary cold refreshment.
region: young “txakolí” in the Basque Country, Penedés wine or Cava in Cataluña, “ribeiro” in the North-
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Spanish Chamber of Commerce In Hong Kong
in the centre, or fine sherry in the south. In Asturias and in northern parts, where apples grow in abundance, cider replaces wine. Nowadays, beer is the most popular drink to have tapa, in fact, usually people only drink beer. are usually those including the many variety of olives, dry nuts, as well as many kinds of cold cuts. Nowadays, the tapa courses were supplemented with bread. However, today, those courses are included in the tapas world. Tapas recipes use a wide variety of animal-derived products, such as meat, fish and eggs and agricultural products such as vegetables. Together with the olives, slices of garlic or smoked-ham sausages, slices of cheese or jamón curado, became famous worldwide.
The Most Typical Tapas PAN CON TOMATE Toast the slices of bread (best are pan-fried slices). While they are flavour. Also rub the bread with half of the tomato. Add a pinch of salt, olive oil and finally top with the slice of ham. You could taste it at Tapeo during the Tapas Tour 2010.
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Table Talk> TORTILLA DE PATATAS Peel the potatoes and slice thinly. Cut the onion in very small pieces and add to the potatoes. Fry potatoes and onions in a generous when cooked and drain well. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and mix with the potatoes. Leave for a few minutes so that the eggs fully absorb the potatoes. Heat a pan with a Tbsp. of oil and then pour the mixture into the pan, over a low heat and let it thicken Use a big flat dish or a lid to turn the mixture over and allow to cook on the other side. You could taste it at Tapeo during the Tapas Tour 2010.
CALAMARES FRITOS have to be removed along with the innards, keeping only the body. the excess flour. Fry them in deep very hot oil and then allow to rest could taste it at, Tapeo, Uno más, La Bodega during the Tapas Tour 2010.
BROCHETA DE POLLO Place first one piece of chicken and then a piece of red/green pepper and repeat again. Aprox 4 pepper slices and 4 or 5 pieces of chicken. When are ready, place in large dish or pyrex to oven and time in time turn up with carefully the skewers to broist are ready when the chicken meat is golden deep.
You could taste it at Estudio Ibérico during the Tapas Tour 2010.
PINCHO DE JAMÓN Cut the strips of bread and toast in a circle in a pan for a few minutes. (You can use any other kind of bread like focaccia, etc.). Place the Iberian ham ready-to cibulet over toast. You could taste it at 1/5 Nuevo during the Tapas Tour 2010.
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Spanish Chamber of Commerce In Hong Kong
PATATAS BRAVAS Peel the potatoes and cut them into small pieces, then fry, on a low heat. Once cooked, drain the potatoes. Make the tomato sauce: Add a spoon of oil to the pan and then fry the deseeded and peeled tomatoes, smashing it. When cooked, add a few drops of vinegar, a teaspoon of flour and another teaspoon of spicy ground pepper and could taste it at, Tapeo, La bodega and Uno más during the Tapas Tour 2010.
CROQUETAS DE JAMÓN flame, add the flour, mixing well with a wooden spoon to form a roux. When the roux turns yellows slowly add the cold milk (always
pieces of ham so they are incorporated throughout the roux by the from the pot and shape it with your hands. Place the 2 well beaten eggs in a bowl and in another bowl place the finely grated bread. Coat again into the grated bread and fry them in very hot and deep oil (6 You could taste it at Uno más and Viva Ana during the Tapas Tour 2010.
GAMBAS AL AJILLO In a sauté pan or heavy frying pan, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes and sauté for about one minute or until they begin to brown. Raise the heat to high and add the shrimp, lemon juice, sherry or cognac and paprika. Stir well, then sauté, stirring briskly until the shrimp turn pink and curl – about 3 minutes. You could taste it at Fofo by el Willy during the tapas Tour 2010.
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Spanish Chamber of Commerce In Hong Kong
Cultura con Ñ > La palabra del mes
AMIGO El significado de Amigo/a se caracteriza sobre todo por una relativa estabilidad que no se ve demasiado afectada por el paso del tiempo. En la edición de 1726 del Diccionario de la Real Academia Española de la Lengua se nos dice que deriva del latín Amicus y se define como “la persona que tiene amistad, amor y cariño a otra”. También se recoge aquí una segunda acepción algo olvidada hoy en día: “el que vive amancebado” (del latín Concubinarius). Curiosamente, dicha acepción parece reservarse al sexo femenino a partir de la edición de 1791, donde se dice que amiga equivale a “manceba, barragana”, como si los varones hubiesen hecho voto de castidad perpetua a partir de tan señalada fecha. Una tercera acepción de Amigo todavía en uso hoy en día reza así: “Ser amigo o amiga de algo significa tener gusto o afición a una cosa”. Más curiosa es la acepción ya recogida en la edición de 1726, donde se entiende por “amiga” a la que es “maestra de niñas”, de uso frecuente en Andalucía, parece ser. En la edición de 1780 “amiga”, además de “maestra de niñas” en Andalucía, pasa a significar “escuela de niñas”. Y se nos pone el siguiente ejemplo: “fulana (sic) ha
puesto amiga, esto es, escuela de niñas”. Finalmente, en la edición de 1950 dicha escuela adquiere carácter de nocturnidad “entre paréntesis” aparece “de noche”.
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A partir de ahí se van añadiendo algunos nuevos significados sin que se modifique sustancialmente lo dicho ya en 1726. Por ejemplo, en la edición de 1780 se recoge el uso de amigo como “antiguo tratamiento de rey a vasallo”. En la de 1803 se añade la acepción “amigo del alma”, “el que lo es íntimo y de mucha confianza”, todavía corriente hoy en día. Un significado muy parecido a este se recoge en la expresión “amigo del asa”, recogido en la edición de 1817, al que se oponen “amigo de la taza de vino” y “amigo de pelillo” (esta segunda voz de 1927) “el que lo es por interés y conveniencia”. Está también el término “amigo hasta las aras” definido como “el que profesa una amistada otra persona sin exceder los límites de lo justo y honesto”, recogido por primera vez en la edición de 1817.
Otra novedad importante es la noción matemática de “números amigos” a los que los pitagóricos ya atribuían propiedades místicas, que no se llega a definir quizás por su excesiva prolijidad. En las ediciones de 1925 y 1927 se añaden alguna voces de uso corriente hoy en día: “cara de pocos amigos” y la expresión coloquial “amigote”.
Por fin en 1899 se introducen cambios de mayor calado con una acepción de amigo vinculada al campo de la minería: “palo que se coloca atravesado en la punta del tiro o cintero para que montándose los operarios, bajen y suban por los pozos”.
Tenemos que esperar a 1989 para que se mencione por primera vez que la voz coloquial de “amigote” o “amigacho” tienen connotaciones despectivas asociadas con las francachelas.
Spanish Chamber of Commerce In Hong Kong
También se recoge la voz “pie de amigo” que se dice que equivale a “amigo del asa”, mencionado anteriormente. En 1933 se menciona un uso metafórico de amigo que hace referencia a objetos materiales y es típico de textos poéticos, donde significa “benéfico, benigno o grato”, como en la frase “su calor amigo” y en 1950 se dice que “amiga” también es “una planta bulbosa de Méjico, llamada también jazmín de las Indias”.
EL ASEDIO Autor: Arturo Pérez-Reverte Género: Novela Año de publicación: 2010 País: España Cádiz, 1811… Es una ciudad sitiada por los franceses en plena vorágine de la Guerra de la Independencia española contra las tropas napoleónicas. En medio del fragor de los bombardeos, cadáveres de mujeres degolladas y desolladas a latigazos parecen querer anunciar dónde caerá la siguiente bomba francesa. El relato discurre así dentro de un francés, un inspector de policía corrupto y brutal, la guapa heredera de una rica casa comercial gaditana, un arrojado capitán corsario, un sencillo y emotivo guerrillero español, un taxidermista misántropo espía de los gabachos y un oculto y despiadado asesino en serie. La novela nos muestra en un principio a un Pérez Reverte en estado puro: un trasfondo histórico minuciosamente documentado, una trama bien planteada en sus inicios, una buena caracterización y un prodigioso dominio del lenguaje, donde el decepciona algo esta vez. Viene a ser como un gatillazo que nos deja un tanto desconcertados después de tanta tensión literaria acumulada.
ÁGORA Dirección: Alejandro Amenábar Género: drama histórico Año: 2009 País: España Duración: 141 minutos En el siglo IV, Egipto era una provincia del Imperio Romano. Su ciudad más emblemática, Alejandría, se había convertido en el último baluarte de un mundo en crisis, confuso y violento. En el año 391, las revueltas callejeras alcanzaron una de sus instituciones más legendarias: la biblioteca. Atrapada tras sus muros, la su joven esclavo, Davo, se debate entre el amor que le profesa en secreto y la libertad que podría alcanzar uniéndose al imparable ascenso del Cristianismo... ateísmo militante, se articula un doble relato, sobre el orden del universo, por una parte, y el advenimiento de los fundamentalismo religioso. Alejandro Amenábar juega con deslumbrante desenvoltura sus bazas, su ya demostrada solvencia y su capacidad para moverse en distintos géneros. Brillante cuando se propone el espectáculo, cerebral cuando aborda su aparente temacoartada, minuciosa en su reconstrucción histórica y emocionante cuando todo se precipita, Ágora es una nueva y reconfortante sorpresa más en la larga e inusual carrera del más ambicioso de los directores del cine español.
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