On Monday, December 15, 2025, a Hong Kong court opened a session to deliver its verdict in the high-profile case of media tycoon Jimmy Lai. The ruling, coming more than five years after his initial arrest under the region’s national security law, is expected to reverberate across Asia’s financial hub.
Lai, founder of Next Digital and the defunct Apple Daily newspaper, was charged in August 2020 with collusion with foreign forces and other offenses under the national security law imposed in mid-2020. His trial has drawn international attention as observers assess its implications for press operations and legal norms in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
- August 2020: Lai arrested and charged under national security law.
- November 2025: Final arguments presented in the High Court.
- December 15, 2025: Verdict session opens.
Legal analysts say the decision will shape perceptions of judicial independence in the region and could influence investor confidence. More than 100 media figures and civil society leaders have faced security law charges since its enactment.
The court did not set a timeline for announcing the verdict. Stakeholders worldwide will watch whether judges deliver a ruling immediately or reserve it for later this week.
We’ll continue to monitor developments and provide updates once the verdict is announced.
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Hong Kong court opens session to deliver verdict on Jimmy Lai's case
cgtn.com
