On July 16, 2023 the Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority (MPFA) published a press release in relation to the upcoming eMPF Platform which seeks to „standardise, streamline and automate the administration processes of Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF) schemes“. In the statement, MPFA Chairman Mrs. Ayesha Macpherson Lau provides an update on the progress of the eMPF Platform project, which is regarded as the largest reform initiative since the implementation of the MPF system. Notably, the software development phase has made significant headway, and it is expected that the 20-plus core functions of the system will be completed soon. This marks a crucial milestone in laying a solid foundation for the future smooth and efficient operation of the eMPF Platform.
The migration of MPF account information to the Platform is set to commence in the second quarter of 2024, with the entire onboarding process expected to be completed in 2025. Once the Platform is operational, scheme members and employees will be able to manage their MPF through this user-friendly and advanced digital platform. Additionally, this transition is poised to enhance the efficiency of MPF management while reducing fees for scheme members, thanks to the „straight pass-on“ of savings in administration costs, as stipulated in the legislation. This move is anticipated to further strengthen the retirement protection for scheme members.
Looking ahead, the contractor and independent assessors will undertake rigorous testing to ensure the stability and seamless functioning of the Platform, catering to user requirements and expectations. The tests include system integration, user acceptance, loading, and security assessments, all of which are targeted to be completed within the current year.
Moreover, alongside software development, the preparation of hardware and operation components is also making substantial progress. „The hardware components and related data centers have been completed“ according to the planned schedule. In preparation for the second quarter of 2024 when the Platform is set to begin its operations, the contractor is setting up service centers in key locations such as Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and the New Territories. Outreach service teams, information centers, and eMPF kiosks will also be established in various districts to provide Platform users with a pleasant and seamless experience.
Following the completion of the Platform’s construction and the related tests, the first batch of MPF trustees (referred to as early adopters) are expected to migrate their MPF schemes to the eMPF Platform, starting in the second quarter of 2024. Subsequently, the accounts under the remaining MPF schemes will be onboarded based on the ascending order of the value of assets managed by the trustees. A graphic of the envisioned implementation schedule is shown below.
Graphic 1 – Envisioned Schedule for the Implementation of the eMPF Platform
To ensure a smooth migration process, the MPFA, Platform Company, and contractor have been in close communication with trustees, assisting them in preparing for data migration, which involves various technical procedures and testing. Additionally, the MPFA will conduct on-site inspections to ensure readiness of trustees.
As the eMPF Platform moves toward the commencement of the operation stage, Mrs. Lau reaffirms the unwavering commitment of the MPFA and Platform Company in overcoming all challenges to meet the target of full Platform operation by 2025. The efforts put into the successful implementation of this ambitious project are aimed at providing enhanced retirement protection and a more streamlined MPF management experience for all scheme members and employees.