In a significant advancement for Hong Kong’s pension system, the Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority (MPFA) has introduced the eMPF Platform as of June 2024. This innovative e-platform aims to centralise and digitalise the management of the Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF), the territory’s compulsory pension scheme. The launch of this platform represents the most substantial reform to the MPF system since its inception in December 2000.
What is the eMPF Platform?
The eMPF Platform is an electronic system designed to centralise and modernise the administration of MPF processes for employers, employees, and MPF trustees. Its primary goals are to improve user experience, enhance operational efficiency, and reduce administrative costs. The platform allows users to handle various MPF tasks—including enrolment, contributions, account consolidation, portfolio management, and benefit withdrawals—through a single digital interface, eliminating the need for paper forms.
Currently, Hong Kong’s 12 MPF trustees operate independent scheme management systems, many of which involve manual processes. The eMPF Platform will unify these processes and integrate data from different MPF trustees into one administrative system. It will be accessible via online and mobile applications.
When Will It Launch?
The MPFA initiated a phased onboarding process for MPF trustees to the eMPF Platform, starting on 26 June 2024. Trustees will be onboarded progressively throughout 2025, based on their asset management size. YF Life Trustees, the smallest trustee, was the first to transition, while larger trustees such as AIA, Manulife, and HSBC will be onboarded later. The platform is expected to be fully operational by the end of 2025.
Once a trustee is onboarded, MPF administration instructions must be submitted through the eMPF Platform rather than directly to the trustee.
What Does This Mean for Employers?
For employers, the eMPF Platform simplifies the management of MPF contributions with features such as diverse online payment options, prepopulated contribution reports, and automated calculations. It also streamlines the employee enrolment process with detailed digital account records and real-time enrolment notifications. Additionally, employers can report employee cessation and submit Statutory Long Service or Severance Payment offsetting applications through the platform.
What Does This Mean for Employees?
Employees will benefit from the ability to manage and monitor their MPF portfolios from a single platform. The eMPF Platform will facilitate online submissions and expedite processes for fund switching, transfers, and withdrawals, reducing reliance on paper forms. It also simplifies account consolidation, especially during job changes.
Key Takeaway for Employers
Employers should be aware of their current MPF trustees' onboarding schedules to the eMPF Platform. It is crucial to inform relevant staff, including HR and payroll professionals, as well as existing and new employees, about the new system to ensure a smooth transition. MPF trustees are expected to provide resources and support, and the MPFA has set up a dedicated eMPF website with user guides, tutorial videos, and a customer service hotline. Familiarising oneself with the new system's features and providing adequate support to employees will be essential for a successful integration.
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