[Hong Kong Financial Services and Treasury Bureau: International Virtual Asset Trading Platforms Must Comply with Regulations to Enter Hong Kong; Currently 13 Platforms Licensed] BlockBeats reported on November 5th that there are currently 13 virtual asset trading platforms licensed by the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) in Hong Kong. Acting Secretary for the Financial Services and Treasury, Chan Ho-lim, responded yesterday to questions regarding attracting international platforms, stating that international virtual asset trading platforms can apply for licenses from the SFC as long as they meet relevant legal requirements and SFC regulatory requirements. The SFC and InvestHK have also been in contact with relevant international platforms to introduce Hong Kong's regulatory requirements and market opportunities. He stated that the Hong Kong SAR government and the SFC attach great importance to the quality of licensed platforms to properly manage risks and fully protect investors. Chan Ho-lim pointed out that the government and the SFC will soon submit a bill to the Legislative Council to include more types of virtual asset services in the regulatory system, promote the operation of more diversified international service providers in Hong Kong, and continue to enhance the competitiveness of the digital asset market through clear regulation, talent and infrastructure development, and international cooperation. He also mentioned that the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) has been gradually expanding the products and services that licensed platforms can offer in recent years, facilitating access to global liquidity, and developing more digital assets and tokenized products under appropriate safeguards. According to the SFC's requirements, applicants to become licensed virtual asset trading platforms must apply for licenses for Type 1 and Type 7 regulated activities under the Securities and Futures Ordinance, as well as a virtual asset service provider license under the Anti-Money Laundering Ordinance, and meet conditions such as having a physical presence in Hong Kong and appointing at least two approved responsible personnel. [Original Link]