In brief
The Hong Kong Journalists Association reveals that numerous journalists and independent outlets are under tax inspections, intensifying fears of censorship and governmental pressure, alongside concerns for their personal lives and finances.
In a worrying development for press freedom in Hong Kong, journalists are expressing alarm over rigorous tax inspections that add to already existing pressures stemming from the national security crackdown. The Hong Kong Journalists Association disclosed this week that various journalists, alongside six independent news outlets and their founders, are currently subjected to tax investigations. They argue that these actions are part of an escalating trend that stifles journalistic work in the region.With the shadow of self-censorship looming larger, the association noted that the investigations even extend to the personal taxes of journalists’ spouses and parents. Many individuals under scrutiny have received additional tax demands, and in some instances, they have had to provide comprehensive financial records spanning up to seven years. Selina Cheng, chair of the association, remarked that the tax investigations often lack appropriate rationale, pointing out that the local authorities frequently overstate journalists' revenues while neglecting the necessary business expenses. "Journalists in Hong Kong do not have very high income," Cheng stated, emphasizing the undue stress of having to refute baseless tax claims on top of financial pressures.Although the total number of tax investigations in Hong Kong remains comparatively low, with around 1,800 audits recorded by the Inland Revenue Department between 2023 and 2024, the department maintains that its reviews follow standard protocols, unaffected by the taxpayer's industry or background.
