The State Council on Tuesday appointed Chan Tsz-tat as the Commissioner of Customs and Excise, replacing Louise Ho.

Chan joined the department as an inspector in 1994. He became an assistant commissioner in 2020, and was promoted to deputy commissioner two years later, responsible for the force's management and strategic development.

Chief Executive John Lee expressed confidence in Chan's ability to lead Customs.

"Mr Chan has served in the Customs and Excise Department for 30 years and has extensive experience in departmental operations. He possesses solid management and leadership skills," he said in a statement.

Lee also conveyed his appreciation to Ho for her contributions to the city.

Ho, 57, has proceeded on pre-retirement leave.

She joined Customs in 1991, and became Hong Kong's first female Customs chief in 2021.