Better commute, security for SH metro

Shanghai's metro system is expected to carry 3.6 million passengers each day during the Olympics. That's almost 20 percent more than normal. Shanghai's metro will increase the number of trains on its number 2 and number 8 lines heading into the expected peak during the Games. Three hours prior to matches, the network will put extra trains on stand-by in case of a major passenger rush.

And trains will be available after matches to help bring spectators safely home. Security will also be beefed up, especially along the number 1 and number 4 lines near the Shanghai Stadium. Some stations close to the venue will perform security checks on everyone, and some will close off some of their entrances and exits. Passengers are being told to expect longer trips if they take the subway.

Chinese mainland, HK sign expanded economic accord

The Chinese central government and the government of the Hong Kong SAR have signed a supplement to their Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement. The CEPA supplement will allow Hong Kong enterprises greater and easier access to the mainland market. The supplement was the fifth one added to CEPA, which has been expanded each year since it was first signed in 2003.

Mr Jiang Zengwei (R, front), vice minister of the Ministry  of Commerce of the People's Republic of China, shakes hands with John Tsang Chun-wah, financial secretary of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China after they signed the Supplement V to the Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement Signing Ceremony in Hong Kong, south China, on July 29, 2008.(Xinhua photo)

Hong Kong Chief Executive Donald Tsang says the deal will introduce 29 measures to build on the liberalization of 15 service sectors. It will also open two more mining-related service sectors to Hong Kong businesses, bringing the total number of service sectors covered by CEPA and its supplements to 40. The deal comes into effect on January 1st.