between the HKSAR and the Central governments formally began, and a regional trade agreement was hammered out and formally named “Mainland/Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement” or CEPA. HKGCC then submitted a paper entitled “Topwards a Regional Trade Agreement between China and HKSAR” to Antony Leung on 21 January 2002, put forward seven principles to guide the discussions on the RTA, emphasizing that CEPA must be compliant with WTO principles. Despite being put on hold for months due to the outbreak of SARS during March – June 2003, negotiations resumed and CEPA's text was finally concluded by the Central and HKSAR government negotiators, and signed on 29 June 2003. Environmental policy The Chamber claims to support environmental protection. In partnership with Hong Kong Business Coalition on the Environment, the Clean Air Charter was introduced in 2005 to encourage Hong Kong and Guangdong companies to reduce air pollution. More than 600 companies have endorsed the Charter. References External links The Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce Official website Clean Air Charter Official website Certificates of Origin Services, HKGCC Official website Customs & Excise Department, HKSAR Government Official website Chambers of commerce in Hong Kong 1861 establishments in Hong Kong