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DIT Group Limited — Proxy Solicitation & Information Statement 2020
Jun 16, 2020
49427_rns_2020-06-15_222280c0-312c-4a22-9bde-14e357ebcd37.pdf
Proxy Solicitation & Information Statement
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THIS CIRCULAR IS IMPORTANT AND REQUIRES YOUR IMMEDIATE ATTENTION
If you are in any doubt as to any aspect of this Circular or as to the action to be taken, you should consult a licensed security dealer or other registered institution in securities, bank manager, solicitor, professional accountant or other professional adviser for independent advice.
If you have sold or transferred all your shares in DIT Group Limited, you should at once hand this Circular, together with the enclosed form of proxy to the purchaser or the transferee or to the licensed securities dealer, registered institution in securities or other agent through whom the sale or transfer was effected for transmission to the purchaser or the transferee.
Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited and The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited take no responsibility for the contents of this Circular, make no representation as to its accuracy or completeness and expressly disclaim any liability whatsoever for any loss howsoever arising from or in reliance upon the whole or any part of the contents of this Circular.
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DIT GROUP LIMITED 築 友 智 造 科 技 集 團 有 限 公 司
(Incorporated in Bermuda with limited liability)
(Stock Code: 726)
(1) DISCLOSEABLE AND CONNECTED TRANSACTIONS — EPC SERVICE ARRANGEMENT AND PARK DESIGN SERVICE ARRANGEMENT; AND
(2) CONTINUING CONNECTED TRANSACTIONS — SUPPLY ARRANGEMENT AND PC DESIGN SERVICE ARRANGEMENT AND
NOTICE OF SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING
Independent Financial Adviser to the Independent Board Committee and the Independent Shareholders
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Capitalised terms used in this cover page shall have the same meanings as those defined in the section headed ‘‘Definitions’’ in this Circular.
A letter from the Board is set out on pages 6 to 26 of this Circular. A letter of advice containing the recommendation from the Independent Board Committee to the Independent Shareholders is set out on pages 27 to 28 of this Circular. A letter of advice from Fortune Financial Capital Limited, the Independent Financial Adviser, to the Independent Board Committee and the Independent Shareholders is set out on pages 29 to 61 of this Circular.
A notice convening the SGM to be held at Unit Nos. 7707–7708, 77/F, International Commerce Centre, 1 Austin Road West, Kowloon, Hong Kong on Friday, 17 July 2020 at 10:00 a.m. is set out on pages 67 to 69 of this Circular. A form of proxy for use at the SGM is enclosed with this Circular. Whether or not you are able to attend and vote at the SGM in person, you are requested to complete the accompanying form of proxy in accordance with the instructions printed thereon and return it to the Company’s branch share registrar and transfer office in Hong Kong, Computershare Hong Kong Investor Services Limited, at 17M Floor, Hopewell Centre, 183 Queen’s Road East, Wanchai, Hong Kong as soon as possible and in any event not later than 48 hours before the time appointed for the holding of the SGM or any adjournment thereof (as the case may be).
Completion and return of the form of proxy will not preclude you from attending and voting in person at the SGM or any adjournment thereof should you so wish and in such event, the form of proxy shall be deemed to be revoked.
PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES FOR THE SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING
Please see page 1 of this circular for measures being taken to try to prevent and control the spread of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) at the special general meeting, including:
. compulsory temperature checks . compulsory wearing of surgical face masks for each attendee . no distribution of corporate gifts or refreshments Any person who does not comply with the precautionary measures or is subject to any Hong Kong Government prescribed quarantine may be denied entry into the venue of the special general meeting. The Company also encourages its shareholders to consider appointing the chairman of the meeting as its/his/her proxy to vote on the relevant resolutions at the special general meeting as an alternative to attending the meeting in person.
16 June 2020
CONTENTS
| Page | |
|---|---|
| PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES FOR THE SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING . . . . |
1 |
| DEFINITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . | 2 |
| LETTER FROM THE BOARD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . | 6 |
| LETTER FROM THE INDEPENDENT BOARD COMMITTEE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
27 |
| LETTER FROM THE INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . | 29 |
| APPENDIX — GENERAL INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
62 |
| NOTICE OF SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
67 |
– i –
PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES FOR THE SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING
In view of the ongoing Novel Coronavirus (‘‘COVID-19’’) epidemic and recent requirements, if any, for prevention and control of its spread, the Company will implement the following preventive measures at its special general meeting (‘‘SGM’’):
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(i) Compulsory body temperature check will be conducted on every shareholder, proxy and other attendee at the entrance of the SGM venue. Any person with a body temperature of over 37.4 degrees Celsius may be denied entry into the SGM venue and be asked to leave the SGM venue.
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(ii) Shareholders that (a) have travelled, and have been in close contact with any person who has travelled, outside of Hong Kong (as per guidelines issued by the Hong Kong government at www.chp.gov.hk/en/features/102742.html) at any time in the preceding 14 days; (b) are, and have been, in close contact with any person who is, subject to any Hong Kong Government prescribed compulsory quarantine (including home quarantine); (c) are, and have been, in close contact with anyone who has contracted COVID-19, has been tested preliminarily positive of COVID-19 or is suspected of contracting COVID-19; or (d) have any flu-like symptoms, may be denied entry into the SGM venue and be asked to leave the SGM venue.
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(iii) All shareholders, proxies and other attendees are required to wear surgical face masks inside the SGM venue at all times. Any person who does not comply with this requirement may be denied entry into the SGM venue and be asked to leave the SGM venue. A safe distance between seats are also recommended.
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(iv) No refreshments will be served, and there will be no corporate gifts.
To the extent permitted under the laws of Hong Kong, the Company reserves the right to deny entry into the SGM venue or require any person to leave the SGM venue in order to ensure the safety of the attendees at the SGM.
In the interest of all stakeholders’ health and safety and consistent with recent COVID-19 guidelines for prevention and control, the Company reminds all shareholders that physical attendance in person at the SGM is not necessary for the purpose of exercising voting rights. As an alternative to attending the meeting in person, shareholders are encouraged to consider appointing the chairman of the SGM as their proxy to vote on the relevant resolutions at the SGM by submitting forms of proxy with voting instructions inserted.
The form of proxy is attached to this circular for shareholders who opt to receive printed copies of the Company’s corporate communications. Alternatively, the form of proxy can be downloaded from the Company’s website at http://cmdrawin.todayir.com and the website of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited at www.hkexnews.hk. If you are not a registered shareholder (if your shares are held via banks, brokers, custodians or the Hong Kong Securities Clearing Company Limited), you should consult directly with your banks or brokers or custodians (as the case may be) to assist you in the appointment of proxy.
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DEFINITIONS
In this Circular, the following terms and expressions shall have the following meanings unless the context requires otherwise:
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‘‘Board’’
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the board of Directors
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‘‘Circular’’
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this circular issued by the Company in accordance with the Listing Rules in respect of the transactions contemplated under the Framework Agreements
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‘‘Company’’
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DIT Group Limited, a company incorporated in Bermuda with limited liability, the Shares of which are listed on the Main Board of the Stock Exchange
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‘‘connectedconnected person(s)’’’’
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‘‘connectedconnected person(s)’’’’ has the meaning ascribed to it under the Listing Rules ‘‘controlling shareholder’’ has the meaning ascribed to it under the Listing Rules
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‘‘Director(s)’’
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the director(s) of the Company from time to time
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‘‘Drawin Construction Design’’
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China Minsheng Drawin Construction Design Co., Ltd.* (中民築友建築設計有限公司), a company established under the laws of the PRC with limited liability and an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Drawin Manufacture
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‘‘Drawin Construction Design Group’’
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Drawin Construction Design and its subsidiaries from time to time
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‘‘Drawin Construction Technology’’
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China Minsheng Drawin Construction Technology Group Co., Ltd.* (中民築友建設科技集團有限公司), a company established under the laws of the PRC with limited liability and a direct wholly-owned subsidiary of Drawin Manufacture
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‘‘Drawin Construction Drawin Construction Technology and its subsidiaries from Technology Group’’ time to time
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‘‘Drawin Manufacture’’
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Drawin Intelligent Manufacture Technology Industry Limited (築 友 智 造 科 技 產 業 集 團 有 限 公 司) (formerly known as China Minsheng Drawin Technology Industry Limited (中 民 築 友 科 技 產 業 有 限 公 司)), a company established under the laws of the PRC with limited liability and an indirect controlling shareholder of the Company
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‘‘Drawin Manufacture Group Entities’’
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Drawin Manufacture and its subsidiaries from time to time, but excluding the Group for the purposes of this Circular
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‘‘EPC’’
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engineering, procurement and construction
– 2 –
DEFINITIONS
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‘‘EPC Service Arrangement’’
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‘‘Framework Agreement I’’
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‘‘Framework Agreement II’’
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‘‘Framework Agreements’’
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‘‘Group’’
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‘‘HK$’’
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‘‘Hong Kong’’
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‘‘Independent Board Committee’’
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‘‘Independent Financial Adviser’’
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the provision of EPC general contracting services by the Drawin Construction Technology Group to the Group for the development of the Group’s technology parks in the PRC as set out in the Framework Agreement I
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the agreement entered into between the Company and Drawin Construction Technology on 11 May 2020 in relation to the EPC Service Arrangement and the Supply Arrangement
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the agreement entered into between the Company and Drawin Construction Design on 11 May 2020 in relation to the Park Design Service Arrangement and the PC Design Service Arrangement
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the Framework Agreement I and the Framework Agreement II
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the Company and its subsidiaries from time to time
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Hong Kong dollars, the lawful currency of Hong Kong
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the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China
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an independent board committee of the Board comprising all three (3) independent non-executive Directors, namely Mr. Jiang Hongqing, Mr. Lee Chi Ming, and Mr. Ma Lishan, established to advise the Independent Shareholders in respect of the Framework Agreements (including the Proposed Supply Arrangement Annual Cap and the estimated transaction values under the EPC Service Arrangement and the Park Design Service Arrangement) and the transactions contemplated thereunder
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Fortune Financial Capital Limited, a corporation licensed under the Securities and Futures Ordinance (Chapter 571 of the Laws of Hong Kong) to conduct type 6 (advising on corporate finance) regulated activities under the SFO, being the independent financial adviser appointed to advise the Independent Board Committee and the Independent Shareholders in respect of the Framework Agreements (including the Proposed Supply Arrangement Annual Cap and the estimated transaction values under the EPC Service Arrangement and the Park Design Service Arrangement) and the transactions contemplated thereunder
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DEFINITIONS
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‘‘Independent Shareholders’’
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‘‘Latest Practicable Date’’
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‘‘Listing Rules’’
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‘‘Park Design Service Arrangement’’
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‘‘PC Design Service Arrangement’’
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‘‘PRC’’
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‘‘Previous Framework Agreement I’’
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‘‘Previous Framework Agreement II’’
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‘‘Previous Framework Agreements’’
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‘‘Proposed PC Design Service Arrangement Annual Cap’’
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‘‘Proposed Supply Arrangement Annual Cap’’
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‘‘RMB’’
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all Shareholders other than the Shareholders with a material interest in the Framework Agreements and the transactions contemplated thereunder
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10 June 2020, being the latest practicable date prior to the printing of this Circular for the purpose of ascertaining certain information contained herein
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the Rules Governing the Listing of Securities on the Stock Exchange
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the provision of design services by Drawin Construction Design Group to the Group in respect of the Group’s technology parks in the PRC as set out in the Framework Agreement II
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the provision of design services by Drawin Construction Design Group to the Group in respect of the prefabricated construction components and products sold by the Group as set out in the Framework Agreement II
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the People’s Republic of China which, for the purpose of this Circular, excludes Hong Kong, the Macau Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China and Taiwan
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the framework agreement entered into between the Company and Drawin Construction Technology on 3 April 2019 in relation to the EPC service arrangement and the supply arrangement for 2019
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the framework agreement entered into between the Company and Drawin Construction Design on 3 April 2019 in relation to the technology park design service arrangement and prefabricated construction components and products design service arrangement for 2019
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the Previous Framework Agreement I and the Previous Framework Agreement II
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the proposed annual cap in respect of the PC Design Service Arrangement over the term of the Framework Agreement II
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the proposed annual cap in respect of the Supply Arrangement over the term of the Framework Agreement I
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Renminbi, the lawful currency of the PRC
– 4 –
DEFINITIONS
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‘‘SFO’’
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the Securities and Futures Ordinance (Chapter 571 of the Laws of Hong Kong)
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‘‘SGM’’
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the special general meeting of the Company to be held at Unit Nos. 7707–7708, 77/F, International Commerce Centre, 1 Austin Road West, Kowloon, Hong Kong on Friday, 17 July 2020 at 10:00 a.m. or any adjournment thereof for the Independent Shareholders to consider and, if thought fit, approve the EPC Service Arrangement, the Supply Arrangement, the Park Design Service Arrangement and the terms of the EPC Service Arrangement, the Supply Arrangement and the Park Design Service Arrangement contemplated under the Framework Agreements (including the Proposed Supply Arrangement Annual Cap and the estimated transaction values under the EPC Service Arrangement and the Park Design Service Arrangement), the notice of which is set out on pages 67 to 69 of this Circular
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‘‘Share(s)’’
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the ordinary share(s) of par value HK$0.10 each in the share capital of the Company
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‘‘Shareholder(s)’’ holder(s) of the Share(s)
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‘‘Stock Exchange’’ The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited
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‘‘subsidiaries’’
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has the meaning ascribed to it under the Companies Ordinance (Chapter 622 of the Laws of Hong Kong)
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‘‘Supply Arrangement’’
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the supply of prefabricated construction components and products by the Group to the Drawin Construction Technology Group for its construction projects engaged by third party developers or contractors as set out in the Framework Agreement I
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‘‘%’’ per cent
For the purpose of illustration only, amounts denominated in RMB in this Circular have been translated into HK$ at the rate of HK$1 = RMB0.91302. Such translations should not be construed as a representation that the amounts in question have been, could have been or could be converted at any particular rate at all.
- The English names of the PRC entities mentioned in this Circular marked with ‘‘*’’ are translations from their Chinese names and are for identification purposes only. In case of any inconsistency, the Chinese names shall prevail.
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LETTER FROM THE BOARD
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DIT GROUP LIMITED 築 友 智 造 科 技 集 團 有 限 公 司
(Incorporated in Bermuda with limited liability)
(Stock Code: 726)
Executive Directors: Mr. Wu Po Sum (Chairman) Mr. Guo Weiqiang (Chief Executive Officer)
Non-Executive Directors: Ms. Wu Wallis (alias Li Hua) Mr. Wang Jun
Independent Non-Executive Directors: Mr. Jiang Hongqing Mr. Lee Chi Ming Mr. Ma Lishan
Registered office: Victoria Place, 5th Floor 31 Victoria Street Hamilton HM 10 Bermuda
Principal Place of Business in Hong Kong: Unit Nos. 7707 and 7708, Level 77 International Commerce Centre 1 Austin Road West Kowloon 16 June 2020
To the Shareholders
Dear Sir/Madam,
(1) DISCLOSEABLE AND CONNECTED TRANSACTIONS — EPC SERVICE ARRANGEMENT AND PARK DESIGN SERVICE ARRANGEMENT; AND
(2) CONTINUING CONNECTED TRANSACTIONS — SUPPLY ARRANGEMENT AND PC DESIGN SERVICE ARRANGEMENT AND NOTICE OF SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING
– 6 –
LETTER FROM THE BOARD
INTRODUCTION
Reference is made to the announcement issued by the Company on 11 May 2020 in relation to, among others, (a) the Framework Agreement I entered into between the Company and Drawin Construction Technology in relation to (i) the EPC Service Arrangement and (ii) the Supply Arrangement; and (b) the Framework Agreement II entered into between the Company and Drawin Construction Design in relation to (i) the Park Design Service Arrangement and (ii) the PC Design Service Arrangement.
The purpose of this Circular is to provide you with, among other things:
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(i) further information on the terms of the Framework Agreements;
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(ii) the letter from the Independent Board Committee setting out its recommendation to the Independent Shareholders in connection with the Framework Agreements (including the Proposed Supply Arrangement Annual Cap and the estimated transaction values under the EPC Service Arrangement and the Park Design Service Arrangement);
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(iii) the letter of advice from the Independent Financial Adviser containing its advice in connection with the Framework Agreements (including the Proposed Supply Arrangement Annual Cap and the estimated transaction values under the EPC Service Arrangement and the Park Design Service Arrangement); and
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(iv) a notice convening the SGM for the Independent Shareholders to consider and, if thought fit, approve the EPC Service Arrangement, the Supply Arrangement, the Park Design Service Arrangement and the terms of the EPC Service Arrangement, the Supply Arrangement and the Park Design Service Arrangement contemplated under the Framework Agreements (including the Proposed Supply Arrangement Annual Cap and the estimated transaction values under the EPC Service Arrangement and the Park Design Service Arrangement).
PRINCIPAL TERMS OF THE FRAMEWORK AGREEMENT I
Date: 11 May 2020 (after trading hours)
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Parties: (1) the Company; and
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(2) Drawin Construction Technology
Term: For a term commencing from the approval date of the Framework Agreement I by the Independent Shareholders and ending on 31 December 2020. The Framework Agreement I may, subject to compliance with relevant laws and regulations and the Listing Rules (including independent Shareholders’ approval requirement under Chapter 14A of the Listing Rules, if required) as well as the agreement of the parties, be extended or renewed.
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LETTER FROM THE BOARD
Subject matters:
- (1) EPC Service Arrangement
The Group plans to develop, construct and continue to construct eight technology parks in 2020 which are located at Shandong, Chongqing, Sichuan, Wuhan, Tianjin, Jiangsu, Henan and Hefei.
Pursuant to the EPC Service Arrangement, the Drawin Construction Technology Group may participate in the selection or bidding process arranged by the Group for the construction of technology park(s) of the Group. Upon selection of the Drawin Construction Technology Group as the contractor through the selection or bidding process, Drawin Construction Technology will provide, or procure its subsidiaries to provide, EPC general contracting services to the Group for the development of the Group’s technology parks in the PRC in accordance with the terms of the tender and relevant service contract.
EPC general contracting services is a form of arrangement where the EPC contractor is made responsible for all activities from procurement, construction, commission and handover of the technology parks to the Company.
The Group will, from time to time, select contractors for the construction of its technology parks through the selection or bidding process. The Group will consider the tender proposals and compare the quotations from all bidders, including that from the Drawin Construction Technology Group. During the selection process, the investment management department of the Group will conduct in-depth evaluation based on a scoring system applicable to all bidders, which will each be assessed on areas including price, credentials (including past experience and qualifications), quality of services, ability to satisfy specifications and safety standard. The investment management department will then prepare a summary report and submit the same to the head of legal and risk management department of the Group and the deputy general manager of the investment management department of the Group for consideration and for making the final decision. Where the Drawin Construction Technology Group is the only bidder, the Group will compare its quotation with the market price expected to be charged or offered by other construction contractors in the city or district in which the relevant technology park being constructed is located, and where the construction timetable of the relevant technology park permits, invite price quotations from at least two other independent construction contractors for review and comparison purposes. The Group believes that the pricing of the EPC general contracting services is, in general, transparent and can be obtained through making enquiries with market participants. The tender price for provision of EPC general contracting services is also available on the government websites of the public resources trading centers. The Group will contract with the Drawin Construction Technology Group pursuant to the Framework Agreement I if the price quoted by the Drawin Construction Technology Group is lower than, or within the range of market price.
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LETTER FROM THE BOARD
(2) Supply Arrangement
Pursuant to the Supply Arrangement, the Group may participate in the bidding process arranged by the Drawin Construction Technology Group for the supply of prefabricated construction components and products. Upon selection of the Group as the contractor by the Drawin Construction Technology Group, the Company will supply, or procure its subsidiaries to supply, prefabricated construction components and products to the Drawin Construction Technology Group for its construction projects in accordance with the terms of the tender and relevant supply contract.
The Board is of the view that, although the EPC Service Arrangement and the Supply Arrangement are services in different nature, are not inter-conditional and are not related otherwise, covering the two services in the same Framework Agreement I will not be detrimental to the interest of the Company and its Shareholder because the two services will have their respective independent selection or bidding process, approval process and internal control measures and will be subject to the relevant requirements under the Listing Rules respectively and individual service contracts will be entered into according to the two services respectively. In addition, as the EPC Service Arrangement and the Supply Arrangement are made between the same parties, the Board is of the view that covering them in the same Framework Agreement I according to the Company’s past practice will save administrative and legal costs and speed up preparation and internal approval time, and is in the interest of the Company and the Shareholders as a whole.
Pricing:
(1) EPC Service Arrangement
Under the EPC Service Arrangement, the contract price for EPC general contracting services to be provided by the Drawin Construction Technology Group to the Group should be determined with reference to the estimated costs of a construction project plus a profit margin and management fee of not more than 5% of the construction costs and should not exceed RMB2,600 per square metre (inclusive of tax) in principle. Pursuant to the Framework Agreement I, the Drawin Construction Technology Group shall not quote a contract price for EPC general contracting services higher than the market rate within the industry.
The proposed profit margin and the contract price for EPC general contracting services per square metre are set with reference to the average construction price quoted from the other market participants in 2019 and the projected level of demand for EPC general contracting services of the Group in 2020.
The price quoted by the Drawin Construction Technology Group to the Group is determined by a cost-plus pricing basis, and the Company has considered the gross profit margin of EPC related services of comparable companies primarily engaged in EPC projects which is in the range of 5% to 12%. Therefore, the mark-up made by the Drawin Construction Technology Group has been set at not more than 5% on its estimated construction costs, which is generally lower than the gross profit margin of comparable companies. In addition, as the average contractual and settlement prices of the Group’s previous construction projects was around RMB2,600 per square metre (inclusive of tax) and the prices of construction
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LETTER FROM THE BOARD
materials is expected to remain relatively stable, the contract price is agreed not to exceed RMB2,600 per square metre (inclusive of tax). Based on the above, the Board is of the view that the basis in setting (i) the profit margin and management fee of not more than 5% of the construction costs and (ii) the price cap of RMB2,600 per square metre (inclusive of tax) is fair and reasonable.
(2) Supply Arrangement
Pursuant to the Supply Arrangement, the integrated unit price of the prefabricated construction components and products to be supplied by the Group to the Drawin Construction Technology Group should be the prevailing market price of each unit. In principle, the provisional unit price should not exceed RMB3,200 per cubic metre (inclusive of tax). Subject to the actual volume of the unit supplied, the final unit price may be adjusted.
The integrated unit price of the prefabricated construction components and products are set with reference to the average unit price per cubic metre of the prefabricated construction components and products quoted from the other market participants in 2019, the projected level of demand for prefabricated units from the Drawin Construction Technology Group and other market participants in 2020, and the estimated costs of each unit manufactured by the Group in 2020. In addition, the Company has considered and compared the latest price of prefabricated construction materials in the PRC included in the price list of construction materials published on local government websites, and determined that the price cap of RMB3,200 per cubic metre is comparable with and able to cover the prevailing market prices in respect of the majority of prefabricated construction components and products supplied by the Group to the Drawin Construction Technology Group. As such, the Board is of the view that the basis in setting a price cap of RMB3,200 per cubic metre (inclusive of tax) is fair and reasonable.
The pricing of prefabricated construction materials in the PRC is, in general, transparent and is available on local government websites, as prefabricated construction materials are included in the price list of construction materials published by the local governments. When determining the prevailing market prices, the Group will use the latest price of prefabricated construction materials included in the price list of construction materials published on local government websites as reference. The marketing department of the Group will also assess and determine the proposed sale price of the prefabricated construction components and products with reference to (i) the market price range of such units as charged by the largest supplier in the relevant locality, (ii) a comparison of the quality and standard of those prefabricated construction components and products, and (iii) the demand for such components and products in the market at the relevant time. The Group’s marketing department will review and assess whether the proposed sale price is no less favorable to the Group than those offered to other independent customers, taking into account the difference in the quality and standard of the prefabricated construction units and the development of long term business relationships with the Group’s customers. The general manager responsible for the business segment of supplying the prefabricated construction components and products will make the final decision in setting the sale price. As at the Latest Practicable Date, there is no connected person at the issuer level of the Company in its marketing department and the general manager is not a connected person at the issuer level of the Company, and to ensure the
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LETTER FROM THE BOARD
independence of the marketing department as well as the evaluation, selection and approval process, the Company will ensure that no connected person of the Company who are related to the Drawin Manufacture Group Entities will join the marketing department or be the general manager and no information in relation to the evaluation, selection and approval of contractors will be disclosed to such connected persons of the Company.
Payment arrangement:
The Framework Agreement I provides that details of the payment mechanism for all fees and payments due to the Drawin Construction Technology Group pursuant to the EPC Service Arrangement or due to the Group pursuant to the Supply Arrangement should be specified in the relevant service or supply contracts to be entered into by the relevant parties.
PRINCIPAL TERMS OF THE FRAMEWORK AGREEMENT II
Date: 11 May 2020 (after trading hours)
Parties: (1) the Company; and (2) Drawin Construction Design
Term: For a term commencing from the approval date of the Framework Agreement II by the Independent Shareholders and ending on 31 December 2020. The Framework Agreement II may, subject to compliance with relevant laws and regulations and the Listing Rules (including independent Shareholders’ approval requirement under Chapter 14A of the Listing Rules, if required) as well as the agreement of the parties, be extended or renewed.
Subject matters:
(1) Park Design Service Arrangement
The technology parks of the Group which will require design services in 2020 are located at Chongqing, Sichuan, Wuhan, Tianjin and Henan.
Pursuant to the Park Design Service Arrangement, the Drawin Construction Design Group may participate in the selection or bidding process arranged by the Group for provision of design services for the Group’s technology parks in the PRC. Upon selection of the Drawin Construction Design Group as the service provider through the selection or bidding process, Drawin Construction Design will provide, or procure its subsidiaries to provide, design services to the Group in respect of the Group’s technology parks in the PRC in accordance with the terms of the tender and relevant service contract.
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LETTER FROM THE BOARD
The Group will, from time to time, select contractors for the design of its technology parks through the selection or bidding process. The Group will consider the tender proposals and compare the quotations from all bidders, including that from the Drawin Construction Design Group. During the selection process, the investment management department of the Group will conduct in-depth evaluation based on a scoring system applicable to all bidders, which will each be assessed on areas including price, credentials (including past experience and qualifications), quality of services and ability to satisfy specifications. The investment management department will then prepare a summary report and submit the same to the head of legal and risk management department of the Group and the deputy general manager of the investment management department of the Group for consideration and for making the final decision. Where the Drawin Construction Design Group is the only bidder, the Group will compare its quotation with the market price expected to be charged or offered by other service providers in the city or district in which the relevant technology park being constructed is located, and where the construction timetable of the relevant technology park permits, invite price quotations from at least two other independent design services providers for review and comparison purposes. The Group believes that the pricing of technology park design services is, in general, transparent and can be obtained through making enquiries with market participants. The tender price for provision of technology park design services is also available on the government website of the public resource trading centers. The Group will contract with Drawin Construction Design Group pursuant to the Framework Agreement II if the price quoted by the Drawin Construction Design Group is lower than, or within the range of market price.
(2) PC Design Service Arrangement
Pursuant to the PC Design Service Arrangement, the Drawin Construction Design Group may participate in the selection or bidding process arranged by the Group for provision of design services for the Group’s prefabricated construction components and products. Upon selection of the Drawin Construction Design Group as the service provider through the selection or bidding process, Drawin Construction Design will provide, or procure its subsidiaries to provide, design services in respect of the prefabricated construction components and products sold by the Group in accordance with the terms of the tender and relevant service contract.
The Group will, from time to time, select contractors for the design of the Group’s prefabricated construction components and products through the selection or bidding process. The Group will consider the tender proposals and compare the quotations from all bidders, including that from the Drawin Construction Design Group. During the selection process, the investment management department of the Group will conduct in-depth evaluation based on a scoring system applicable to all bidders, which will each be assessed on areas including price, credentials (including past experience and qualifications), quality of services and ability to satisfy specifications. The investment management department will then prepare a summary report and submit the same to the head of legal and risk management department of the Group and the deputy general manager of the investment management department of the Group for consideration and for making the final decision. Where the Drawin Construction Design Group is the only bidder, the Group will compare its quotation with the market price expected to be charged or offered by other service providers in the city or district in which the prefabricated
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LETTER FROM THE BOARD
construction components are to be supplied to the customers of the Group, and where the prefabricated construction components and products production timetable permits, invite price quotations from at least two other independent design services providers for review and comparison purposes. The Group believes that the pricing of product design services is, in general, transparent and can be obtained through making enquiries with market participants. The tender price for provision of product design services is also available on the government website of the public resources trading centers. The Group will contract with Drawin Construction Design Group pursuant to the Framework Agreement II if the price quoted by the Drawin Construction Design Group is lower than, or within the range of market price.
The Board is of the view that, although the Park Design Service Arrangement and the PC Design Service Arrangement are services in different nature, are not inter-conditional and are not related otherwise, covering the two services in the same Framework Agreement II will not be detrimental to the interest of the Company and its Shareholder because the two services will have their respective independent selection or bidding process, approval process and internal control measures and will be subject to the relevant requirements under the Listing Rules respectively and individual service contracts will be entered into according to the two services respectively. In addition, as the Park Design Service Arrangement and the PC Design Service Arrangement are made between the same parties, the Board is of the view that covering them in the same Framework Agreement II according to the Company’s past practice will save administrative and legal costs and speed up preparation and internal approval time, and is in the interest of the Company and the Shareholders as a whole.
Pricing:
(1) Park Design Service Arrangement
Under the Park Design Service Arrangement, the contract price for the design services to be provided by Drawin Construction Design Group to the Group should be determined with reference to the estimated costs of the design services plus a profit margin and management fee of not more than 5% of the design costs and the provisional contract price should not exceed RMB25 per square metre (inclusive of tax) in principle. Subject to the actual size of the park for which the design is rendered, the final contract price may be adjusted. Pursuant to the Framework Agreement II, the Drawin Construction Design Group shall not quote a contract price for technology park design services higher than the market rate within the industry.
The proposed profit margin and the contract price for the technology park design services are set with reference to the average design service fee per square metre generally charged by the other market participants in 2019 and the projected level of demand for design service of the Group in 2020.
The price quoted by the Drawin Construction Design Group to the Group is determined by a cost-plus pricing basis, and the Company has considered the gross profit margin of design services offered by the Drawin Construction Design Group to other independent customers which is higher than 5% and that similar rationale and basis as the EPC Service Arrangement have been adopted in determining the profit margin and management fee in respect of the Park Design Service Arrangement. Therefore, the mark-up made by the Drawin
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LETTER FROM THE BOARD
Construction Design Group has been set at not more than 5% on its estimated design costs, which is lower than the gross profit margin Drawin Construction Design Group offered to other independent customers. In addition, as the price cap of RMB25 per square metre (inclusive of tax) has been the highest price quoted to the Group by the Drawin Construction Design Group in previous park design projects and is generally lower than the price quoted by the Drawin Construction Design Group to other independent customers in park design services, and the design costs is expected to remain relatively stable, the contract price is agreed not to exceed RMB25 per square metre (inclusive of tax). Based on the above, the Board is of the view that the basis in setting (i) the profit margin and management fee of not more than 5% of the design costs and (ii) the price cap of RMB25 per square metre (inclusive of tax) is fair and reasonable.
(2) PC Design Service Arrangement
Under the PC Design Service Arrangement, the contract price for the design services in respect of the prefabricated construction components and products to be sold by the Group should be determined with reference to the estimated costs of the design services plus a profit margin and management fee of not more than 5% of the design costs and the provisional contract price should not exceed RMB70 per cubic metre (inclusive of tax) in principle. Subject to the actual volume of the prefabricated construction component for which the design is rendered, the final contract price may be adjusted. Pursuant to the Framework Agreement II, the Drawin Construction Design Group shall not quote a contract price for prefabricated construction components and products design services higher than the market rate within the industry.
The proposed profit margin and the contract price of the prefabricated construction components and products design services are set with reference to the average product design services fee per cubic metre generally charged by the other market participants in 2019 and the projected level of demand for product design services of the Group in 2020.
The price quoted by the Drawin Construction Design Group to the Group is determined by a cost-plus pricing basis, and the Company has considered the gross profit margin of design services offered by the Drawin Construction Design Group to other independent customers which is higher than 5%. Therefore, the mark-up made by the Drawin Construction Design Group has been set at not more than 5% on its estimated design costs, which is lower than the gross profit margin Drawin Construction Design Group offered to other independent customers. In addition, as the price cap of RMB70 per cubic metre (inclusive of tax) is lower than the price quoted by the Drawin Construction Design Group to other independent customers in prefabricated construction components and products design services, and the design costs is expected to remain relatively stable, the contract price is agreed not to exceed RMB70 per cubic metre (inclusive of tax). Based on the above, the Board is of the view that the basis in setting (i) the profit margin and management fee of not more than 5% of the design costs and (ii) the price cap of RMB70 per cubic metre (inclusive of tax) is fair and reasonable.
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LETTER FROM THE BOARD
Payment arrangement:
The Framework Agreement II provides that details of the payment mechanism for all fees and payments due to Drawin Construction Design Group pursuant to the Park Design Service Arrangement or the PC Design Service Arrangement should be specified in the relevant service contracts to be entered into by the relevant parties.
THE PREVIOUS FRAMEWORK AGREEMENTS
As disclosed in the announcement of the Company dated 3 April 2019, on 3 April 2019, the Company entered into (i) the Previous Framework Agreement I with Drawin Construction Technology in relation to the EPC service arrangement and the supply arrangement and (ii) the Previous Framework Agreement II with Drawin Construction Design in relation to the technology park design service arrangement and the prefabricated construction components and products design service arrangement.
The Company was required to set an annual cap in respect of the maximum aggregate transaction amounts under the supply arrangement over the term of the Previous Framework Agreement I and an annual cap in respect of the maximum aggregate transaction amounts under the prefabricated construction components and products design service arrangement over the term of the Previous Framework Agreement II. The actual realized transaction amounts in 2019 and the relevant annual caps are set out below:
| Actual realized | ||
|---|---|---|
| transaction | ||
| Under the Previous Framework Agreements | amounts | Annual cap |
| (RMB, | ||
| approximately) | (RMB) | |
| Supply arrangement | 103.78 million | 300.00 million |
| Prefabricated construction components and | ||
| products design service arrangement | 1.99 million | 9.00 million |
In respect of the supply arrangement in 2019, the aggregate demand from the Drawin Construction Technology Group was approximately 42,100 cubic metres, which represented approximately 22% of the total supply of the Group in 2019, and the average unit selling price under the supply contracts with the Drawin Construction Technology Group was approximately RMB2,462 per cubic metre. In respect of the prefabricated construction components and products design service arrangement in 2019, the prefabricated construction components and products of the Group which required design services was approximately 46,400 cubic metres, which was the same as the amount of units designed by the Drawin Construction Design Group, and the average contract price under the service contracts with the Drawin Construction Design Group was approximately RMB43 per cubic metre.
In respect of the EPC service arrangement and the technology park design service arrangement, the actual realized transaction amounts in 2019 were RMB123.56 million and RMB0.13 million, respectively.
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LETTER FROM THE BOARD
In respect of the EPC service arrangement in 2019, the aggregate construction area of the Group was approximately 98,200 square metres, the construction area constructed by the Drawin Construction Technology Group was approximately 63,200 square metres, and the average contract price under the service contracts with the Drawin Construction Technology Group was approximately RMB1,956 per square metre. In respect of the technology park design service arrangement, the aggregate area of the Group’s technology parks which required design services was approximately 5,600 square metres, which was the same as the area designed by the Drawin Construction Design Group, and the average contract price under the service contracts with the Drawin Construction Design Group was approximately RMB23 per square metre.
The actual transaction amounts in relation to the supply arrangement and the prefabricated construction components and products design service arrangement were lower than the respective annual caps primarily because the former ultimate controlling shareholder of the Company, who also the former ultimate controlling shareholder of Drawin Construction Technology and Drawin Construction Design, had liquidity issue in 2019 and was unable to commence or complete most of its construction projects as planned, resulting in a significant decrease in the demand for prefabricated construction components and products manufactured by the Group; and correspondingly, leading to a significant decrease in the demand for prefabricated constriction components and products design services by the Group, as the portion of prefabricated constriction components and products planned to be sold by the Group to the Drawin Construction Technology Group for its planned construction projects were no longer needed; hence, the corresponding design services were no longer required by the Group.
It is expected that the impact of the above factor will be alleviated in 2020 because the liquidity issue of the former ultimate controlling shareholder of Drawin Construction Technology was an isolated event. With the change of the ultimate controlling shareholder of Drawin Construction Technology and the Company in July 2019, it is expected that the Drawin Construction Technology Group will have sufficient resources to continue its construction projects as planned.
The Directors therefore believe that, in order to put the Group in a competitive position to be awarded with mandates by the Drawin Construction Technology Group and to secure prefabricated construction components and products of competitive designs, it would be important that the Proposed Supply Arrangement Annual Cap and the Proposed PC Design Service Arrangement Annual Cap under the Framework Agreement I and the Framework Agreement II, respectively, are set at the proposed level so that the Group may submit tenders for supply mandates and continue to produce prefabricated construction components and products of competitive designs without being limited by annual caps set at a lower level. Please see the sub-section headed ‘‘BASIS OF DETERMINATION’’ below for details.
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LETTER FROM THE BOARD
PROPOSED ANNUAL CAPS AND ESTIMATED TRANSACTION VALUES IN RESPECT OF THE CONTINUING CONNECTED TRANSACTIONS UNDER THE FRAMEWORK AGREEMENTS
Proposed annual caps for the Supply Arrangement and the PC Design Service Arrangement
Pursuant to Rule 14A.53 of the Listing Rules, the Company is required to set an annual cap in respect of the maximum aggregate transaction amounts under the Supply Arrangement over the term of the Framework Agreement I and an annual cap in respect of the maximum aggregate transaction amounts under the PC Design Service Arrangement over the term of the Framework Agreement II. The Proposed Supply Arrangement Annual Cap and the Proposed PC Design Service Arrangement Annual Cap are set out below:
Estimated maximum
| Estimated maximum | ||
|---|---|---|
| aggregate amounts payable: | Proposed Annual Cap | |
| (equivalent to | ||
| approximately | ||
| (RMB) | HK$) | |
| by the Drawin Construction Technology Group to | ||
| the Group under the Supply Arrangement | 200 million | 219.05 million |
| by the Group to the Drawin Construction Design | ||
| Group under the PC Design Service Arrangement | 2.2 million | 2.41 million |
The actual value of each transaction under the Supply Arrangement and the PC Design Service Arrangement will, when it is entered into, be determined according to the pricing mechanism set out in the relevant Framework Agreements and the relevant supply or service contracts as described above.
Estimated transaction values under the EPC Service Arrangement and Park Design Service Arrangement
The Company estimates that the maximum value of the transactions under the EPC Service Arrangement over the term of the Framework Agreement I may reach RMB160 million (equivalent to approximately HK$175.24 million) and the maximum value of the transactions under the Park Design Service Arrangement over the term of the Framework Agreement II may reach RMB2.5 million (equivalent to approximately HK$2.74 million). The actual value of each transaction under the EPC Service Arrangement and the Park Design Service Arrangement will, when it is entered into, be determined according to the pricing mechanism set out in the relevant Framework Agreements and the relevant service contracts as described above.
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LETTER FROM THE BOARD
Basis of determination
In arriving at (i) the Proposed Supply Arrangement Annual Cap, (ii) the Proposed PC Design Service Arrangement Annual Cap, and (iii) the estimated maximum values of the transactions under (a) the EPC Service Arrangement and (b) the Park Design Service Arrangement, the Directors have taken into consideration the following factors (as appropriate):
-
(i) in respect of the EPC Service Arrangement,
-
(a) the Group’s plan to develop, construct and continue to construct eight technology parks in 2020 where the outstanding aggregate construction area to be constructed is expected to be approximately 125,800 square metres. As the average expected or actual construction price in respect of EPC general contracting services to be offered by independent construction contractors to the Group is generally higher than that offered by the Drawin Construction Technology Group, based on past experience and the Group’s technology parks development and progress plan, the Company estimated that the maximum aggregate construction area to be constructed by the Drawin Construction Technology Group in 2020 will be approximately 61,500 square metres; and
-
(b) the contract price for EPC general contracting service that may be quoted by the Drawin Construction Technology Group to the Group under the Framework Agreement I shall not exceed RMB2,600 per square metre (inclusive of tax).
-
(ii) in respect of the Supply Arrangement,
-
(a) the estimation by the Company that the demand of prefabricated construction components and products from the Drawin Construction Technology Group will be approximately 56,000 cubic metres, based on a recent discussion between the Company and the Drawin Construction Technology Group, with a 10% buffer to be factored in based on past experience;
-
(b) based on the above, the estimated demand from the Drawin Construction Technology Group for prefabricated construction units in 2020 being approximately in the range of 50,000 to 62,000 cubic metres;
-
(c) the Group’s plan to develop, construct and continue to construct eight technology parks in 2020. The Company therefore believes that it will be in a better position to acquire greater market share in the prefabricated construction unit market in general and to fulfill the demand of the Drawin Construction Technology Group of prefabricated construction units in 2020; and
-
(d) the unit selling price of the prefabricated construction components that may be quoted by the Group to the Drawin Construction Technology Group under the Framework Agreement I shall not exceed RMB3,200 per cubic metre (inclusive of tax).
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LETTER FROM THE BOARD
-
(iii) in respect of the Park Design Service Arrangement,
-
(a) the aggregate area of the technology parks which the Group plans to finalize their design in 2020 will be approximately 100,000 square metres;
-
(b) the contract price for the technology park design service that may be quoted by Drawin Construction Design Group to the Group under Framework Agreement II shall not exceed RMB25 per square metre (inclusive of tax); and
-
(c) the estimation by the Group that the demand for technology park design services of the Group will be fully satisfied by the Drawin Construction Design Group based on past experience, taking into account a number of factors, including the design fees offered by the Drawin Construction Design Group, the design quality of the Drawin Construction Design Group, the project efficiency and smooth communication between the Group and the Drawin Construction Design Group in the park design process.
-
(iv) in respect of the PC Design Service Arrangement,
-
(a) the level of demand from the Drawin Construction Technology Group for prefabricated construction units in 2020; and
-
(b) the contract price for the product design service that may be quoted by the Drawin Construction Design Group under Framework Agreement II shall not exceed RMB70 per cubic metre (inclusive of tax).
-
(v) the Company’s belief that the PRC government policies (as set out in detail under the section headed ‘‘REASONS FOR AND BENEFITS OF ENTERING INTO THE FRAMEWORK AGREEMENTS’’) will support the development of the Group’s prefabricated construction unit business in the PRC. Hence, the Company expects that it will be able to acquire more mandates for prefabricated units from the Drawin Construction Technology Group under the Supply Arrangement, and has therefore set the Proposed Supply Arrangement Annual Cap at the proposed level. The Company has also set the maximum transaction value of the EPC Service Arrangement at the proposed level in order to facilitate the expansion of the Company’s production capacity by developing new technology parks in cities across the PRC, so as to ensure that the Company will have sufficient production capacity to fulfill any increased demand for prefabricated units under such favourable government policies.
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LETTER FROM THE BOARD
REASONS FOR AND BENEFITS OF ENTERING INTO THE FRAMEWORK AGREEMENTS
The Group has been continuously developing and constructing technology parks in major cities across the PRC and has established presence predominantly in east-central region of the PRC. In the current financial year, the Group expects to continue the development in this area to meet market demand for business and technological development and requirements and to strengthen its industrialized and prefabricated construction capabilities in line with the market trends and the favorable PRC government policies. The PRC government policies are supportive of the development of the Group’s prefabricated construction unit business in the PRC. For example, the 13th Five Year Plan of the PRC for 2016-2020 stated its support for environmental and economical building construction and gradual increase in the use of prefabricated construction units. In addition, the directive issued by the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development of the PRC which requires (i) 15% or more of all newlyconstructed buildings in the PRC, and (ii) 20% or more of all newly constructed buildings in certain focused regions to be constructed using prefabricated construction units, will continue to be implemented across the PRC which will help alleviate the negative impact caused by the property cooling off measure in the PRC. The Group believes that the demand for prefabricated construction units will continue its upward trend in 2020. In light of the favorable government policies and a growing market trend, the Company will continuously develop technology parks in 2020 so as to enable it to meet the growing demand for prefabricated construction units and to improve the quality of its prefabricated construction units taking advantage of such PRC government policies.
With its principal business in real property construction and engineering business, Drawin Construction Technology has the requisite capabilities and competencies for constructing the technology parks of the Group. Drawin Construction Design, which engages in design business, has the requisite capabilities and competencies designing the technology parks of the Group, as well as the prefabricated construction components and products of the Group. The Group may thereby leverage the expertise of the Drawin Construction Technology Group and the Drawin Construction Design Group as general contractor through the EPC Service Arrangement as contemplated under the Framework Agreement I and the Park Design Service Arrangement and the PC Design Service Arrangement as contemplated under the Framework Agreement II. The Group also believes that the collaboration between the Group and the Drawin Construction Technology Group under the Supply Arrangement will enable the Group to fully realize the opportunities and the additional income stream presented by its prefabricated construction business.
The Framework Agreement I and the Framework Agreement II set out coherent frameworks for further cooperation amongst the parties. By setting out certain key terms which the parties have agreed in-principle regarding future cooperation, including but not limited to pricing terms, the parties do not require prolonged negotiation and approval process in respect of any further cooperation each time when the parties propose to enter into specific contracts under the Supply Arrangement, the EPC Service Arrangement, the Park Design Service Arrangement and the PC Design Service Arrangement.
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LETTER FROM THE BOARD
The agreed terms stipulated under the Framework Agreement I and the Framework Agreement II shall streamline the internal approval process and improve the project efficiency for further cooperation. The Group believes that the internal control measures as detailed in the sub-section headed ‘‘INTERNAL CONTROL MEASURES’’ can ensure the fairness and reasonableness of the transactions entered into pursuant to the Framework Agreement I and the Framework Agreement II.
Internal Control Measures
The Company has adopted a number of internal control measures to safeguard the aforesaid transactions to be carried out in a fair and reasonable manner and in the interests of the Company’s Shareholders as a whole.
As disclosed in the sections headed ‘‘PRINCIPAL TERMS OF THE FRAMEWORK AGREEMENT I’’ and ‘‘PRINCIPAL TERMS OF THE FRAMEWORK AGREEMENT II’’, each time when the Group selects a contractor for the provision of EPC general contracting services, technology park design services or prefabricated construction components and products design services, the Group will consider the quotation from the Drawin Construction Design Group or the Drawin Construction Technology Group (as applicable) and compare it with that from other bidders and the market prices expected to be charged or offered by other service providers in the city or district in which (in the case of EPC general contracting services and technology park design services) the relevant technology park being constructed is located or (in the case of product design services) the prefabricated construction components are to be supplied to customers of the Group (as applicable). During the selection process, the investment management department of the Group will conduct indepth evaluation based on a scoring system applicable to all bidders, which will each be assessed on areas including price, credentials (including past experience and qualifications), quality of services, ability to satisfy specifications and safety standard (as applicable). The investment management department will then prepare a summary report and submit the same to the head of legal and risk management department of the Group and the deputy general manager of the investment management department of the Group for consideration and for making the final decision. The Group will only contract with the Drawin Construction Design Group or the Drawin Construction Technology Group (as applicable) under the relevant Framework Agreements if the price quoted by them is lower than, or within the range of, the market price to be charged or offered by independent third parties. As such, there is no guarantee that the Drawin Construction Design Group or the Drawin Construction Technology Group will be selected as the contractor for the provision of the relevant services as there may be other readily available, comparable and competent contractors in the market for the Group to consider. As at the Latest Practicable Date, there is no connected person at the issuer level of the Company in its investment management department, and to ensure the independence of the investment management department as well as the evaluation, selection and approval process, the Company will ensure that no connected person of the Company who are related to the Drawin Manufacture Group Entities will join the investment management department and no information in relation to the evaluation, selection and approval of contractors will be disclosed to such connected persons of the Company.
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LETTER FROM THE BOARD
The Company intends to ensure ongoing compliance with such pricing policies by requiring the approval from the finance department of the Company for each proposed transaction to be entered into under the EPC Service Arrangement, the Park Design Service Arrangement and the PC Design Service Arrangement. This shall enable regular monitoring of the pricing terms of each transaction proposed by the Drawin Construction Design Group or the Drawin Construction Technology Group (as applicable) under the relevant arrangements.
Furthermore, the finance department of the Company will monitor the aggregate transaction volume under (i) the EPC Service Arrangement and the Park Design Service Arrangement, and (ii) the PC Design Service Arrangement to ensure the respective proposed annual cap or the maximum transaction value will not be exceeded. Monthly financial statements setting out the aggregate value of the transactions under (i) the EPC Service Arrangement and the Park Design Service Arrangement, and (ii) the PC Design Service Arrangement will be submitted to the finance department of the Company.
INFORMATION OF THE PARTIES
The Company
The Company was incorporated as an exempted company with limited liability in Bermuda, the Shares of which are listed on the Stock Exchange. It is an investment holding company with subsidiaries principally engaged in prefabricated construction business and property investment in the PRC.
Drawin Construction Design
Drawin Construction Design is a company established under the laws of the PRC with limited liability and is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Drawin Manufacture. The principal business of Drawin Construction Design includes real property design and decoration and product design.
Drawin Construction Technology
Drawin Construction Technology is a company established under the laws of the PRC with limited liability and is a direct wholly-owned subsidiary of Drawin Manufacture. The principal business of Drawin Construction Technology includes real property construction and decoration, installation of mechanical and electrical equipment, construction of base foundation and infrastructure.
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LETTER FROM THE BOARD
Drawin Manufacture
Drawin Manufacture is a company established under the laws of the PRC with limited liability. As at the Latest Practicable Date, Drawin Manufacture indirectly held approximately 63.5% of the issued Shares, thus an indirect controlling shareholder of the Company. Drawin Manufacture is also indirectly wholly-owned by Mr. Wu Po Sum, who is an executive Director. Drawin Manufacture is an investment holding company. Apart from the equity interests in the Company, Drawin Manufacture, through its PRC subsidiaries, is principally engaged in general consultation and design of prefabricated construction business in the PRC.
LISTING RULES IMPLICATIONS
Drawin Construction Technology and Drawin Construction Design are both whollyowned subsidiaries of Drawin Manufacture. As at the Latest Practicable Date, Drawin Manufacture indirectly held approximately 63.5% of the issued Shares; hence, a controlling shareholder of the Company. Drawin Manufacture is also indirectly wholly-owned by Mr. Wu Po Sum, who is an executive Director. Therefore, each of Drawin Manufacture, Drawin Construction Technology and Drawin Construction Design is a connected person of the Company under the Listing Rules.
Framework Agreements
As the EPC Service Arrangement and the Park Design Service Arrangement are both capital in nature which involve different aspects in the construction of a technology park and Drawin Construction Technology and Drawin Construction Design are either direct or indirect wholly-owned subsidiaries of Drawin Manufacture, the EPC Service Arrangement and the Park Design Service Arrangement require aggregation under Rules 14.22 and 14A.81 of the Listing Rules. As the applicable percentage ratios in respect of the estimated maximum values of the EPC Service Arrangement and the Park Design Service Arrangement under the relevant Framework Agreements exceed 5% but are less than 25%, the EPC Service Arrangement and the Park Design Service Arrangement constitute (i) discloseable transactions of the Company which are subject to the reporting and announcement requirements under Chapter 14 of the Listing Rules, and (ii) connected transactions of the Company which are subject to the reporting, announcement and Independent Shareholders’ approval requirements under Chapter 14A of the Listing Rules.
As the Supply Arrangement is of revenue nature in the ordinary and usual course of business of the Group and one or more of the applicable percentage ratios in respect of the Proposed Supply Arrangement Annual Cap exceed 5%, the contemplated transaction under the Supply Arrangement constitutes a continuing connected transaction which is subject to the annual review, reporting, announcement and Independent Shareholders’ approval requirements under Chapter 14A of the Listing Rules.
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LETTER FROM THE BOARD
Further, as all applicable percentage ratios in respect of the Proposed PC Design Service Arrangement Annual Cap are less than 5% and the Proposed PC Design Service Arrangement Annual Cap is less than HK$3 million, the contemplated transaction under the PC Design Service Arrangement constitutes a continuing connected transaction which is fully exempt from the annual review, reporting, announcement and Independent Shareholders’ approval requirements under Chapter 14A of the Listing Rules.
To the best of the Directors’ knowledge and belief after having made all reasonable enquiries, Mr. Wu Po Sum (an executive Director), who indirectly holds the entire equity interests in Drawin Manufacture and is a controlling shareholder of the Company, is considered to have a material interest in the Framework Agreements and the transactions contemplated thereunder. For good corporate governance purpose, both Mr. Wu Po Sum and Ms. Wu Wallis (alias Li Hua) (a non-executive Director and the daughter of Mr. Wu Po Sum) had abstained from voting on, among others, the relevant Board resolutions approving the Framework Agreements and the transactions contemplated thereunder.
The Independent Board Committee has been established to advise the Independent Shareholders in relation to the Framework Agreements (including the Proposed Supply Arrangement Annual Cap and the estimated transaction values under the EPC Service Arrangement and the Park Design Service Arrangement). The Company has appointed Fortune Financial Capital Limited as the Independent Financial Adviser to advise the Independent Board Committee and the Independent Shareholders in this regard.
RECOMMENDATION
The Board (including all the independent non-executive Directors after taking into consideration the advice from the Independent Financial Adviser but excluding Mr. Wu Po Sum, who is an executive Director and indirectly holds the entire equity interest in Drawin Manufacture, and Ms. Wu Wallis (alias Li Hua), who is a non-executive Director and the daughter of Mr. Wu Po Sum) is of the view that:
-
(i) the terms and conditions of the Framework Agreements are on normal commercial terms which are fair and reasonable;
-
(ii) the Proposed Supply Arrangement Annual Cap and the estimated transaction values under the EPC Service Arrangement and the Park Design Service Arrangement are fair and reasonable; and
-
(iii) the Framework Agreements and the transactions contemplated thereunder were entered into and will be conducted in the ordinary and usual course of business of the Company and its subsidiaries, and are in the interest of the Company and the Shareholders as a whole.
The Directors (excluding Mr. Wu Po Sum and Ms. Wu Wallis (alias Li Hua)) would recommend the Shareholders to vote in favour of the relevant resolutions at the SGM.
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LETTER FROM THE BOARD
SGM
The notice convening the SGM to be held at Unit Nos. 7707–7708, 77/F, International Commerce Centre, 1 Austin Road West, Kowloon, Hong Kong on Friday, 17 July 2020 at 10:00 a.m. is set out on pages 67 to 69 of this Circular.
At the SGM, ordinary resolutions will be proposed to the Independent Shareholders to approve the EPC Service Arrangement, the Supply Arrangement, the Park Design Service Arrangement and the terms of the EPC Service Arrangement, the Supply Arrangement and the Park Design Service Arrangement contemplated under the Framework Agreements (including the Proposed Supply Arrangement Annual Cap and the estimated transaction values under the EPC Service Arrangement and the Park Design Service Arrangement). Pursuant to Rule 13.39(4) of the Listing Rules, any vote of the Shareholders at the SGM must be taken by poll except where the chairman of the SGM, in good faith, decides to allow a resolution which relates purely to a procedural or administrative matter to be voted on by a show of hands. Accordingly, all resolutions to be considered and, if thought fit, passed at the SGM will be voted by way of poll by the Shareholders.
Shareholders with a material interest in the Framework Agreements and the transactions contemplated thereunder will abstain from voting upon the relevant resolutions at the SGM. As at the Latest Practicable Date, (1) Jiayao Global Investments Limited, Jiacheng (Holding) Investment Limited, Jiaheng (Holding) Investment Limited, Jiaxin (Holding) Investment Limited, Jianuo (Holding) Investment Limited and Jiamin (Holding) Investment Limited, which are indirect wholly-owned subsidiaries of Drawin Manufacture which is in turn indirectly wholly-owned by Mr. Wu Po Sum (an executive Director), and (2) Joy Bright Investments Limited, which is directly wholly-owned by Mr. Wu Po Sum (an executive Director), collectively control and are collectively entitled to exercise control over the voting right in respect of 7,121,769,700 Shares, thus collectively interested in approximately 63.5% of the issued Shares of the Company. In this respect, they will be required to abstain from voting in relation to the relevant resolutions at the SGM. Save for the above, to the best of the Directors’ knowledge, information and belief, having made all reasonable enquiries, as at the Latest Practicable Date, no other Shareholder is required under the Listing Rules to abstain from voting on the relevant resolutions to be proposed at the SGM.
A form of proxy for use at the SGM is enclosed with this Circular. Whether or not you are able to attend the SGM in person, you are requested to complete and return the form of proxy in accordance with the instructions printed thereon to the Company’s branch share registrar and transfer office in Hong Kong, Computershare Hong Kong Investor Services Limited, at 17M Floor, Hopewell Centre, 183 Queen’s Road East, Wanchai, Hong Kong as soon as possible and in any event not later than 48 hours before the time appointed for the holding of the SGM or any adjourned meeting thereof. Completion and return of the form of proxy will not preclude you from attending and voting in person at the SGM or any adjourned meeting thereof. An announcement on the results of the SGM will be made by the Company following the SGM in accordance with the Listing Rules.
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LETTER FROM THE BOARD
CLOSURE OF REGISTER OF MEMBERS
The register of members of the Company will be closed from Tuesday, 14 July 2020 to Friday, 17 July 2020, both dates inclusive, for the purpose of ascertaining the Shareholders’ entitlement to attend and vote at the SGM. In order to be eligible to attend and vote at the SGM, all transfer documents accompanied by the relevant share certificates must be lodged for registration with the Company’s branch share registrar and transfer office in Hong Kong, Computershare Hong Kong Investor Services Limited, at Shops 1712–1716, 17th Floor, Hopewell Centre, 183 Queen’s Road East, Wanchai, Hong Kong, not later than 4:30 p.m. on Monday, 13 July 2020.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Your attention is also drawn to:
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(i) the letter from the Independent Board Committee, the text of which is set out on pages 27 to 28 of this Circular;
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(ii) the letter from the Independent Financial Adviser, the text of which is set out on pages 29 to 61 of this Circular; and
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(iii) the general information set out in the Appendix to this Circular.
Yours faithfully, By order of the Board of DIT Group Limited Wu Po Sum
Chairman and Executive Director
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LETTER FROM THE INDEPENDENT BOARD COMMITTEE
The following is the text of the letter of advice from the Independent Board Committee, prepared for the purpose of incorporation into this Circular, setting out its recommendation to the Independent Shareholders regarding the Framework Agreements (including the Proposed Supply Arrangement Annual Cap and the estimated transaction values under the EPC Service Arrangement and the Park Design Service Arrangement) and the transactions contemplated thereunder.
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DIT GROUP LIMITED
築 友 智 造 科 技 集 團 有 限 公 司
(Incorporated in Bermuda with limited liability)
(Stock Code: 726)
16 June 2020
To the Independent Shareholders
Dear Sir/Madam,
(1) DISCLOSEABLE AND CONNECTED TRANSACTIONS — EPC SERVICE ARRANGEMENT AND PARK DESIGN SERVICE ARRANGEMENT; AND
(2) CONTINUING CONNECTED TRANSACTIONS — SUPPLY ARRANGEMENT AND PC DESIGN SERVICE ARRANGEMENT AND
NOTICE OF SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING
We refer to the circular of the Company to the Shareholders dated 16 June 2020 (the ‘‘Circular’’), of which this letter forms a part. Unless the context requires otherwise, capitalised terms used in this letter shall have the same meanings given to them in the section headed ‘‘DEFINITIONS’’ of the Circular.
We are members of the Independent Board Committee which has been formed by the Board to advise the Independent Shareholders as to whether, in our opinion, (i) the terms and conditions of the Framework Agreements were determined after arm’s length negotiation and are on normal commercial terms which are fair and reasonable, (ii) the Proposed Supply Arrangement Annual Cap and the estimated transaction values under the EPC Service Arrangement and the Park Design Service Arrangement are fair and reasonable and (iii) the
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LETTER FROM THE INDEPENDENT BOARD COMMITTEE
Framework Agreements and the transactions contemplated thereunder were entered into and will be conducted in the ordinary and usual course of business of the Company and its subsidiaries, and are in the interest of the Company and the Shareholders as a whole.
We also wish to draw your attention to the letter of advice from Fortune Financial Capital Limited, being the Independent Financial Adviser appointed to advise the Independent Board Committee and the Independent Shareholders on the terms of the Framework Agreements (including the Proposed Supply Arrangement Annual Cap and the estimated transaction values under the EPC Service Arrangement and the Park Design Service Arrangement), which contains, among other things, Fortune Financial Capital Limited’s advice, opinions and recommendations regarding the terms of the Framework Agreements (including the Proposed Supply Arrangement Annual Cap and the estimated transaction values under the EPC Service Arrangement and the Park Design Service Arrangement), as set out on pages 29 to 61 of the Circular, and the Letter from the Board as set out on pages 6 to 26 of the Circular.
Having given due consideration to the reasons and factors relating to the Framework Agreements and their terms (including the Proposed Supply Arrangement Annual Cap and the estimated transaction values under the EPC Service Arrangement and the Park Design Service Arrangement) and to the advice and the recommendations of Fortune Financial Capital Limited contained in its letter of advice set out on pages 29 to 61 of the Circular, we consider that (i) the terms and conditions of the Framework Agreements were determined after arm’s length negotiation and are on normal commercial terms which are fair and reasonable, (ii) the Proposed Supply Arrangement Annual Cap and the estimated transaction values under the EPC Service Arrangement and the Park Design Service Arrangement are fair and reasonable and (iii) the Framework Agreements and the transactions contemplated thereunder was entered into and will be conducted in the ordinary and usual course of business of the Company and its subsidiaries, and are in the interest of the Company and the Shareholders as a whole.
Accordingly, we recommend the Independent Shareholders to vote in favour of the ordinary resolutions to be proposed at the SGM to approve the EPC Service Arrangement, the Supply Arrangement, the Park Design Service Arrangement and the terms of the EPC Service Arrangement, the Supply Arrangement and the Park Design Service Arrangement contemplated under the Framework Agreements (including the Proposed Supply Arrangement Annual Cap and the estimated transaction values under the EPC Service Arrangement and the Park Design Service Arrangement).
Yours faithfully, Independent Board Committee of DIT Group Limited Mr. Jiang Hongqing Mr. Lee Chi Ming Mr. Ma Lishan Independent Non-executive Directors
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LETTER FROM THE INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISER
The following is the text of a letter of advice from the Independent Financial Adviser to the Independent Board Committee and the Independent Shareholders in respect of Framework Agreements (including the Proposed Annual Cap and the estimated transaction value thereunder), which has been prepared for the purpose of incorporation in the Circular.
43/F, COSCO Tower 183 Queen’s Road Central Hong Kong
16 June 2020
To the Independent Board Committee and the Independent Shareholders
DIT Group Limited Unit Nos. 7707 and 7708, Level 77 International Commerce Centre 1 Austin Road West Kowloon, Hong Kong
Dear Sir/Madam,
(1) DISCLOSEABLE AND CONNECTED TRANSACTIONS — EPC SERVICE ARRANGEMENT AND PARK DESIGN SERVICE ARRANGEMENT; AND (2) CONTINUING CONNECTED TRANSACTIONS — SUPPLY ARRANGEMENT AND PC DESIGN SERVICE ARRANGEMENT
INTRODUCTION
We refer to our appointment as the independent financial adviser to advise the Independent Board Committee and the Independent Shareholders in respect of the EPC Service Arrangement, the Supply Arrangement, the Park Design Service Arrangement and the PC Design Service Arrangement, and the terms of the EPC Service Arrangement, the Supply Arrangement, the Park Design Service Arrangement and the PC Design Service Arrangement contemplated under the Framework Agreements (including the Proposed Supply Arrangement Annual Cap, the Proposed PC Design Service Arrangement Annual Cap, and the estimated transaction values under the EPC Service Arrangement and the Park Design Service Arrangement). Details of the Framework Agreements are set out in the ‘‘Letter from the Board’’ contained in the circular of the Company dated 16 June 2020 (the ‘‘Circular’’), of which this letter forms part. Capitalized terms used in this letter shall have the same meanings as defined in the Circular unless the context requires otherwise.
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LETTER FROM THE INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISER
The Framework Agreements
Reference is made to the circular of the Company dated 14 June 2019 in relation to two framework agreements dated 3 April 2019 (collectively, ‘‘Previous Framework Agreements’’) entered into by Company with Drawin Construction Technology Group (the ‘‘Previous Framework Agreement I’’), in respect of (i) the provision of EPC general contracting services by Drawin Construction Technology Group to the Group (i.e. EPC Service Arrangement); (ii) the supply of prefabricated construction components and products by the Group to Drawin Construction Technology Group (i.e. Supply Arrangement); and with Drawin Construction Design Group (the ‘‘Previous Framework Agreement II’’), in respect of (iii) the provision of design service of by Drawin Construction Design Group to the Group in respect of the Group’s technology parks in the PRC (i.e. Park Design Service Arrangement); and (iv) the provision of design services by Drawin Construction Design Group to the Group in respect of prefabricated construction components and products sold by the Group (i.e. PC Design Service Arrangement), respectively.
Taken into consideration of that (i) the Previous Framework Agreements already expired on 31 December 2019; (ii) 2 out of 8 sites under development which commenced Phase One construction of technology parks under Previous Framework Agreements are yet completed; (iii) 4 out of the 8 sites have not engaged contractors, the Company renewed the two framework agreements on 11 May 2020 (collectively, the ‘‘Framework Agreements’’) in relation to (a) the EPC Service Arrangement and the Supply Arrangement (the ‘‘Framework Agreements I’’) and (b) the Park Design Service Arrangement and the PC Design Service Arrangement (the ‘‘Framework Agreements II’’), respectively, with intention to complete transactions under the Previous Framework Agreements.
Framework Agreement I
The Group entered into a framework agreement with Drawin Construction Technology on 11 May 2020 in respect of (i) the EPC Service Arrangement; and (ii) the Supply Arrangement.
Under the EPC Service Arrangement, upon selection of Drawin Construction Technology Group as the service provider through the selection or bidding process arranged by the Group, Drawin Construction Technology will provide, or should procure its subsidiaries to provide, EPC general contracting services to the Group for the development of the Group’s several technology parks in the PRC in accordance with the terms of the tender and relevant service contract.
Under the Supply Arrangement, upon selection of the Group as the contractor through the selection or bidding process arranged by Drawin Construction Technology Group, the Company will supply, or procure its subsidiaries to supply, prefabricated construction components and products to Drawin Construction Technology Group for its construction projects in accordance with the terms of the tender and relevant supply contract.
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LETTER FROM THE INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISER
Framework Agreement II
The Company entered into a framework agreement with Drawin Construction Design on 11 May 2020 in respect of (i) the Park Design Service Arrangement; and (ii) the PC Design Service Arrangement.
Under the Park Design Service Arrangement, upon selection of Drawin Construction Design Group as the service provider through the selection or bidding process arranged by the Group, Drawin Construction Design will provide, or procure its subsidiaries to provide, design services to the Group in respect of the design of the Group’s several technology parks in the PRC in accordance with the terms of the tender and relevant service contract.
Under the PC Design Service Arrangement, upon selection of Drawin Construction Design Group as the service provider through the selection or bidding process arranged by the Group, Drawin Construction Design will provide, or procure its subsidiaries to provide, design services in respect of the design of prefabricated construction components and products sold by the Group in accordance with the terms of the tender and relevant service contract.
LISTING RULES IMPLICATIONS
As at the date of this letter, Drawin Manufacture indirectly held approximately 63.5% of the issued Shares; hence, a controlling shareholder of the Company. Drawin Construction Technology and Drawin Construction Design are both wholly-owned subsidiaries of Drawin Manufacture. Therefore, each of Drawin Manufacture, Drawin Construction Technology and Drawin Construction Design is a connected person of the Company under the Listing Rules. Accordingly, each of the transactions under the Framework Agreements constitutes a connected transaction of the Company under Chapter 14A of the Listing Rules.
Framework Agreements
As the EPC Service Arrangement and the Park Design Service Arrangement are both capital in nature which involve different aspects in the construction of a technology park, while Drawin Construction Technology and Drawin Construction Design are either direct or indirect wholly-owned subsidiaries of Drawin Manufacture, the EPC Service Arrangement and the Park Design Service Arrangement require aggregation under Rule 14.22 and Rule 14A.81 of the Listing Rules. As the applicable percentage ratios in respect of the estimated maximum values of the EPC Service Arrangement under Framework Agreement I and the Park Design Service Arrangement under Framework Agreement II over the term of the Framework Agreements exceed 5% but are less than 25%, the EPC Service Arrangement and the Park Design Service Arrangement constitute connected transactions of the Company which are subject to the reporting, announcement and independent shareholders’ approval requirements under Chapter 14A of the Listing Rules.
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LETTER FROM THE INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISER
As the Supply Arrangement is of revenue nature in the ordinary and usual course of business of the Group and one or more of the applicable percentage ratios in respect of the Proposed Supply Arrangement Annual Cap exceed 25%, the contemplated transaction under the Supply Arrangement constitutes a continuing connected transaction which is subject to the annual review, reporting, announcement and Independent Shareholders’ approval requirements under Chapter 14A of the Listing Rules.
Further, all applicable percentage ratio in respect of the Proposed PC Design Service Arrangement Annual Cap are less than 5% and the Proposed PC Design Service Arrangement Annual Cap is less than HK$3 million, the contemplated transaction under the PC Design Service Arrangement constitutes a continuing connected transaction which is fully exempt from the annual review, reporting and announcement and Independent Shareholders’ approval requirement under Chapter 14A of the Listing Rules.
The over-lapping Shareholders, who are both shareholders of the Group and the Drawin Manufacture, have abstained from voting on the relevant resolutions for good corporate governance.
THE INDEPENDENT BOARD COMMITTEE
The Independent Board Committee, comprising all the independent non-executive Directors, namely Mr. Jiang Hongqing, Mr. Lee Chi Ming, and Mr. Ma Lishan, has been established to consider, and give advice and recommendation to the Independent Shareholders and the independent financial adviser on the Framework Agreements and the transactions contemplated thereunder as to whether (i) the terms of the Framework Agreements are on normal commercial terms which are fair and reasonable as far as the Independent Shareholders are concerned; (ii) the Proposed Annual Caps are fair and reasonable so far as the Independent Shareholders are concerned; (iii) the entering into the Framework Agreements and the transactions contemplated thereunder are conducted in the ordinary and usual course of business of the Company and its subsidiaries, and are in the interests of the Company and the Shareholders as a whole; and (iv) how the Independent Shareholders should vote in respect of the resolutions relating thereto to be proposed at the SGM, taking into account the recommendation of the Independent Financial Adviser.
INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISER
As the independent financial adviser to the Independent Board Committee and the Independent Shareholders, our role is to give an independent opinion to them as to whether (i) the terms of the Framework Agreements are on normal commercial terms which are fair and reasonable as far as the Independent Shareholders are concerned; (ii) the Proposed Annual Caps are fair and reasonable so far as the Independent Shareholders are concerned; (iii) the entering into the Framework Agreements and the transactions contemplated thereunder are conducted in the ordinary and usual course of business of the Company and its subsidiaries, and are in the interests of the Company and the Shareholders as a whole; and (iv) our recommendation on how the Independent Shareholders should vote in respect of the resolutions relating thereto proposed at the SGM.
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LETTER FROM THE INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISER
We acted as the independent financial adviser to the independent board committee and the independent shareholders of the Company with regard to the connected transactions under the Previous Framework Agreements. Save for the aforesaid engagements, we have not acted as independent financial adviser nor financial adviser to the Company in relation to any other transactions of the Company in the last two years prior to the date of this letter.
Apart from the normal advisory fee payable to us in connection with our appointment as the Independent Financial Adviser, no arrangement exists whereby we shall receive any other fees or benefits from the Company or any other parties that could reasonably be regarded as relevant to our independence. Accordingly, we consider that we are independent pursuant to Rule 13.84 of the Listing Rules.
BASIS AND ASSUMPTIONS OF OUR ADVICE
In formulating our opinion, we have reviewed, amongst others, (i) the Framework Agreement I entered into between the Group and Drawin Construction Technology Group; (ii) the Framework Agreement II entered into between the Group and Drawin Construction Design; (iii) the previous Framework Agreements; (iv) the annual report of the Company for the year ended 31 December 2018 (‘‘2018 Annual Report’’); (v) the annual report of the Company for the year ended 31 December 2019 (‘‘2019 Annual Report’’); and (vi) other information as set out in this Circular.
We have relied on the statements, information, opinions and representations contained or referred to in the Circular and/or provided to us by the Company, the Directors and the management of the Company (the ‘‘Management’’). We have assumed that all statements, information, opinions and representations contained or referred to in the Circular and/or provided to us were true, accurate and complete at the time they were made and continued to be so as at the date of the Circular. The Directors collectively and individually accept full responsibility, including particulars given in compliance with the Listing Rules for the purpose of giving information with regard to the Group. The Directors, having made all reasonable enquiries, confirm that to the best of their knowledge and belief, the information contained in the Circular is true and accurate, valid and complete in all material respects and not misleading or deceptive, and there are no other facts and omission of which would make any statement in the Circular misleading.
We have no reason to believe that any statements, information, opinions or representations relied on by us in forming our opinion is untrue, inaccurate or misleading, nor are we aware of any material facts the omission of which would render the statements, information, opinions or representations provided to us untrue, inaccurate or misleading. We have assumed that all the statements, information, opinions and representations for matters relating to the Group contained or referred to in the Circular and/or provided to us by the Company and the Management have been reasonably made after due and careful enquiry and have relied on such statements, information, opinions and representations. We consider that we have been provided with and have reviewed sufficient information to reach an informed view and to provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. We have not, however, conducted any independent investigation into the business, financial conditions and affairs or the future prospects of the Group.
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LETTER FROM THE INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISER
This letter is issued for the information of the Independent Board Committee and the Independent Shareholders solely in connection with their consideration of (i) the EPC Service Arrangement and the Supply Arrangement (including the Proposed Supply Arrangement Annual Cap and the estimated transaction values under the EPC Service Arrangement and the Supply Arrangement); and (ii) the Park Design Service Arrangement and the PC Design Service Arrangement (including the estimated transaction values under the Park Design Service Arrangement and the Proposed PC Design Service Arrangement Annual Cap), and, except for its inclusion in the Circular, is not to be quoted or referred to, in whole or in part, nor shall this letter be used for any other purposes, without our prior written consent.
PRINCIPAL FACTORS AND REASONS CONSIDERED IN RELATION TO THE DISCLOSEABLE AND CONNECTED TRANSACTION AND CONTINUING CONNECTED TRANSACTION
In arriving at our opinion and recommendation, we have considered the principal factors and reasons set out below:
1.1 Background information of the Group and its relationship with the Drawin Construction Technology Group and Drawin Construction Design
The Group was principally engaged in the research and development, design, manufacture sale of assembled building prefabricated units, licensing and property investment in the PRC. As at the Latest Practicable Date, Mr. Wu Po Sum, who indirectly held approximately 63.5% of the issued share capital of the Company, is the ultimate controlling shareholder of the Company. Drawin Construction Technology is a company established under the law of the PRC with limited liability and a direct wholly-owned subsidiary of Drawin Manufacture. The principal business of Drawin Construction Technology includes real property construction and decoration, installation of mechanical and electrical equipment, construction of base foundation and infrastructure. Drawin Construction Technology possesses a qualification ‘‘ 一 ’’ license (Level 1: 房屋建築工程施工總承包企業 級資質 ) issued by the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development of the PRC, which permits it to undertake real property construction, installation of mechanical and electrical equipment and construction of base foundation and infrastructures.
Drawin Construction Design is a company established under the laws of the PRC with limited liability and an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Drawin Manufacture. The principal business of Drawin Construction Design includes real property design and decoration and product design.
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LETTER FROM THE INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISER
1.2 Latest business development and performance of the Group
The Group has been continuously developing technology parks in major cities across the PRC and has completed the fundamental layout in major developed regions in the middleeastern part of the PRC. As discussed with the Management, due to the demand for business and technological development and requirements, the Group will continuously develop technology parks, so as to strengthen its industrialised and prefabricated construction capabilities in line with the market trends and the favourable PRC national policy.
Over the past three years, the Group has strived to secure suitable sites for the construction of technology parks.
As described in the circular of the Company dated 14 June 2019 with regard to the EPC Service Arrangement under the Previous Framework Agreement, the Group had 10 sites which were under construction or expected to commence construction in 2019. The following are the latest development of the aforesaid with regard to the EPC Service Arrangement under the Framework Agreement I.
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(i) 2 of the 10 sites of the Group (i.e. site No. 6 and site No. 11 set out in the table below), which were scheduled to complete construction in 2019, had extended the construction plan to 2020 and 2021;
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(ii) 1 of the 10 sites of the Group (i.e. site No. 5 set out in the table below) which had commenced Phase Two construction of the technology parks under the Previous Framework Agreement in 2018 and is scheduled to complete in 2020;
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(iii) 1 of the 10 sites of the Group (i.e. site No. 7 set out in the table below) which was scheduled to complete construction in the fourth quarter of 2019 was temporarily suspended due to insufficient demand for prefabricated construction components and products in the local market as previously estimated by the Management;
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(iv) 2 of the 10 sites of the Group (i.e. site No. 8 and site No. 18 set out in the table below) which scheduled to complete construction in the third quarter of 2019 were disposed to independent third parties in 2019;
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(v) 4 of the 10 sites of the Group (i.e. site No. 12, site No. 15, site No. 16 and site No. 17 set out in the table below), which had commerced construction under the Previous Framework Agreement, are still under construction and scheduled to complete in 2020.
As discussed with the Management, as at the date of this Circular, the Company had newly secured site for future development of a technology park (i.e. site No. 19 set out in the table below).
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LETTER FROM THE INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISER
| Expected | production | capacity in the | year ending | 2020 | (cu.m.) | 90,000–120,000 | 60,000–80,000 | 90,000–120,000 | 60,000–80,000 | 60,000–80,000 | N/A | N/A | N/A | 40,000–50,000 | 40,000–50,000 | N/A | N/A | 60,000–80,000 | 40,000–60,000 | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Designed | production | capacity | (cu.m.) | 300,000 | 180,000 | 300,000 | 150,000 | 180,000 | 150,000 | 150,000 | N/A | 150,000 | 150,000 | 150,000 | 150,000 | 180,000 | 120,000 | 150,000 | 150,000 | 150,000 | N/A | 80,000 | |||||||
| Year of | commencement | of production | 2H 2016 | 2H 2016 | 2H 2016 | 2H 2017 | 2H 2017 | 1H 2021 | TBD | N/A | 2H 2019 | 2H 2019 | TBD | TBD | 2H 2016 | 2H 2016 | TBD | TBD | TBD | N/A | 1H 2021 | ||||||||
| Reason of the | variance | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | A | A | A | N/A | N/A | N/A | A | A | N/A | N/A | A | A | A | N/A | N/A | |||||||||
| Actual/expected Actual/expected Actual/expected Actual/expected |
Phase One Actual/expected date of date of Phase Two Actual/expected date of date of |
construction as Phase One commencement completion of construction as Phase Two commencement completion of |
disclosed in construction of Phase One Phase One disclosed in construction of Phase Two Phase Two |
No. Location Date acquired Site area 2019 Circular area construction Construction 2019 Circular area construction construction |
(sq.m) (sq.m) (sq.m) (sq.m) (sq.m) |
1 Changsha 14/9/2016 235,000 50,000 50,000 2Q 2015 1Q 2016 30,000 30,000 2Q/3Q 2017 3Q 2018 |
2 Hengyang 28/10/2015 100,000 41,000 41,000 3Q 2016 4Q 2016 20,000 20,000 3Q/4Q 2017 4Q 2017 |
3 Nanjing 22/3/2016 100,838 40,000 40,000 3Q 2016 4Q 2016 25,000 25,000 3Q/4Q 2017 4Q 2017 |
4 Foshan 28/10/2016 82,066 30,000 30,000 2Q 2017 2Q 2018 N/A N/A N/A N/A |
5 Hefei (Note 1) 28/6/2017 102,600 30,000 30,000 2Q 2017 2Q 2018 N/A 26,000 3Q 2019 2Q 2020 |
6 Jiaozhou (Note 2) 30/9/2017 62,000 20,000 20,000 4Q 2017 4Q 2020 N/A N/A N/A N/A |
7 Yuxi (Note 3) 14/9/2017 73,898 20,000 20,000 4Q 2017 TBD N/A N/A N/A N/A |
8 Haikou (Note 4) 26/10/2018 60,054 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A |
9 Xiuwu 14/6/2018 53,467 20,000 41,000 2Q 2018 2Q 2019 N/A N/A N/A N/A |
10 Xiangtan 26/5/2018 65,967 20,000 23,000 2Q 2018 2Q 2019 N/A N/A N/A N/A |
11 Huai’an (Note 5, 8) 12/4/2018 80,000 20,000 20,000 4Q 2018 2H 2021 N/A N/A N/A N/A |
12 Qijiang (Note 8) 7/2/2018 60,040 20,000 20,000 4Q 2018 1H 2021 N/A N/A N/A N/A |
13 Huiyang 4/8/2015 (Note 9) N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A |
14 Kunshan N/A (Note 10) N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A |
15 Jintang (Note 8) 02/03/2018 66,667 20,000 20,000 2H 2020 2H 2021 N/A N/A N/A N/A |
16 Jiangxia (Note 8) 3/7/2018 51,990 20,000 20,000 2H 2020 1H 2021 N/A N/A N/A N/A |
17 Dongli (Note 8) 26/05/2018 55,475 20,000 20,000 2H 2020 1H 2021 N/A N/A N/A N/A |
18 Lin’an (Note 6) 7/11/2018 80,446 18,000 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A |
19 Zhoukou (Note 7, 8) 26/03/2020 95,375 N/A 20,000 2Q 2020 4Q 2020 N/A N/A N/A N/A |
Abbreviations: | A — Change of construction schedule | N/A — Not applicable | 2019 Circular — a circular issued by the Company dated 14 June 2019 in relation to the Previous Framework Agreement | TBD — To be determined |
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LETTER FROM THE INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISER
Notes:
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The Phase Two construction of Heifei technology park, which was scheduled to complete in 2Q2019 as set out in 2019 Circular, has not been completed by the end of 2019 due to a change of the construction plan. The remaining Phase Two construction of approximately 30% is expected to be completed by 2Q2020.
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The construction of Jiaozhou technology park, which was scheduled to complete in 3Q2019 as set out in 2019 Circular, has not been completed by the end of 2019, due to a delay in capital injection from our partners. The remaining construction of approximately 20% is scheduled to complete by 4Q2020.
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The construction of Yuxi technology park, which was scheduled to complete in 4Q2019 as set out in 2019 Circular, is temporarily suspended due to insufficient demand for prefabricated construction components and products in the local market as previously estimated by the Management. As discussed with the Management, there is no plan to resume construction in the short run.
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Haikou technology park has been entirely disposed to an independent third party in 2019 due to a change of business plan, and thus it is no longer operated by the Group.
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The construction of Huai’an technology park, which was scheduled to complete in 3Q2019 as set out in 2019 Circular, has not been completed by the end of 2019, due to the Group’s change of ultimate control. The remaining construction of approximately 70% is scheduled to complete by 2H2021.
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The controlling interests of Lin’an technology park has been disposed to an independent third party in 2019 due to a change of business plan, and thus it is no longer operated by the Group.
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The Group has already secured the site for the development of Zhoukou technology park and engaged an independent third party as the construction contractor in March 2020.
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The outstanding aggregate construction area of the 8 technology parks (i.e. site No. 5, No. 6, No.11, No. 12, No. 15, No. 16, No. 17 and No. 19) to be carried out in the years ending 31 December 2020 and 2021 is approximately 125,800 sq.m..
The Group recorded revenue generated from sales of prefabricated units of approximately HK$423.6 million and HK$579.9 million for the years ended 31 December 2018 and 2019, respectively. The increase in revenue was mainly attributable to the utilised capacity of technology parks for the manufacturing and sale of prefabricated units continuously increased during the year.
1.3 Prospects of the Group
As disclosed in the 2019 Annual Report, the year of 2019 sees booming periods when prefabricated construction experiences rapid growth which is evidenced by the advice documents specific to the local areas on implementation and planning of the prefabricated construction issued by all of the 31 provinces including autonomous regions and municipalities directly administered under the Central Government in China. According to the Action Proposal on prefabricated construction under the 13th Five-Year Plan, it provides that the prefabricated construction in 2020 shall represent over 15% of the market share of newly built construction. In the passing year as recent as in 2019, the industry of fabricated construction continues to expand in terms of its overall scale thanks to the combined effect of the guidance of policies together with the faster speed in investment momentum for real estate development. Based on the forecast report entitled ‘‘Overview Profile of Prefabricated Construction Industry in China’’ published by Qianzhan Industry Institute, the new floor areas
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LETTER FROM THE INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISER
under construction of prefabricated construction in the market of real estate development amount to 252 million square metres, accounting for 12% with the market scale of RMB630.0 billion.
On the basis of the aforesaid background, the Group will continue its effort of facilitating the advancement of technological innovation and output of actual results, particularly in the synergetic effect of the industry and enhancement in efficiency by cost reduction which will be implemented with its added devotion and determination so as to target at a higher level of technology development with better products while better business turnover and return of profitability will be achieved.
1.4 Section summary
Taking into account of the principal activities of the Group, the Company’s strategy to continue to develop its industrialised and prefabricated construction capabilities under the abovementioned market trends and national policy, we consider the Framework Agreements and the transactions contemplated thereunder adhere to the business strategy of the Company, and is in the ordinary and usual course of business of the Company.
2 Reasons for and benefits of entering into the Framework Agreements
The reasons for entering into the Framework Agreements are described in the paragraph headed ‘‘Reasons for and benefits of entering into the Framework Agreements’’ in the ‘‘Letter from the Board’’ of the Circular.
Drawin Construction Technology, with its principal business in the real property construction and engineering business, has the requisite construction capability and qualification to serve as a competent contractor for constructing the technology parks of the Group. On the other hand, Drawin Construction Design, which engages in design business, has the requisite capabilities and competencies designing the technology parks of the Group, as well as the prefabricated construction components and products of the Group. The EPC Service Arrangement contemplated under the Framework Agreement I and the Park Design Service Arrangement and PC Design Service Arrangement contemplated under the Framework Agreement II will thereby enable the Company to leverage the comparative advantage of the Drawin Construction Technology Group and Drawin Construction Design Group as general contractors. In addition, the collaboration between the Company and Drawin Construction Technology Group under the Supply Arrangement will enable the Group to fully realise the opportunities and the additional income stream presented by its prefabricated construction business. The Framework Agreement I and the Framework Agreement II set out coherent frameworks which will streamline the process and improve the efficiency for further cooperation amongst the parties.
The Management is of the view, and we concur, that each of the Framework Agreements covers two services in different nature, which are not inter-conditional and not related otherwise, covering the two services in each of the Framework Agreements will not be detrimental to the interest of the Company and its Shareholder because (i) the two services will have their respective independent selection or bidding process, approval process and internal control measures; (ii) the two services will be subject to the relevant requirements
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under the Listing Rules, respectively; and (iii) individual service or supply contracts will be entered into according to the two services, respectively. Furthermore, given that two services under each of the Framework Agreements are contracted with the same counterparty, we concur the view of the Management that, covering two services in each of the Framework Agreements according to the Company’s past practice will save administrative and legal costs and speed up preparation and internal approval time, and is in the interest of the Company and the Shareholders as a whole.
3 Principal terms of the Framework Agreements
Details of the Framework Agreements are set out in the ‘‘Letter from the Board’’ of the Circular.
3.1 Duration
It is designed for a term commencing from the approval date of the Framework Agreements by the Independent Shareholders and ending on 31 December 2020. The Framework Agreements may, subject to compliance with relevant laws and regulations and the Listing Rules as well as the agreement of the parties, be extended or renewed.
By entering the Framework Agreements and fixing a term with the possibility to extend or renew after 31 December 2020, the Directors are of the view, and we concur, that it provide the Group flexibility to work with its EPC service providers (including the Drawin Construction Technology Group) and its customers for prefabricated construction components and products (including the Drawin Construction Technology Group), as well as to safeguard the interest of independent shareholders.
3.2 Pricing
3.2.1 With regard to the Framework Agreement I
EPC Service Arrangement
Pursuant to the EPC Service Arrangement, the contract price for EPC general contracting services to be provided by the Drawin Construction Technology Group to the Group should be determined with reference to the estimated costs of a construction project plus a profit margin and management fee of not more than 5% of the construction costs and should not exceed RMB2,600 per square metre (inclusive of tax) in principle. The Drawin Construction Technology Group further undertakes to the Company that the contractual price for EPC general contracting service will not be higher than the market rate within the industry. The proposed profit margin and the contract price for EPC general contracting service per square metre are set with reference to the average construction price quoted from the other market participants in 2019 and the projected level of demand for EPC general contracting services of the Group in 2020.
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As discussed with the Management, the estimated costs of a construction project are derived by reference to the existing price list of materials used for the construction services and the historical pricing for the construction of the Group’s technology parks in the PRC by independent construction contractors. Having reviewed and compared the price list of construction materials on certain local government websites, we noted that the latest price of major construction materials in the PRC is regularly collected and published for reference. The Management is of the view, and we concur, that such information is publicly available and, in general, transparent. As such, the Management is able to assess the fairness and reasonableness of the estimated costs of a construction project quoted by the Drawin Construction Technology Group (if it has been selected to provide EPC general contracting Service).
Further, as discussed with the Management, a project management fee as a percentage of the construction cost will normally be charged for EPC general contracting services, and the amount of such fee will depend on the contract size, the duration of the project and the complexity of project. Accordingly, the price quoted by the Drawin Construction Technology Group to the Group is determined by a cost-plus pricing basis, where the Drawin Construction Technology Group sets a mark-up of not more than 5% on its estimated construction costs for a reasonable level of profit. Having conducted research on certain comparable listed companies primarily engaged in EPC projects, we noted that their gross profit margin of EPC related services is in a range of 5% to 12%, which is generally higher than the profit margin and management fee of not more than 5% to be charged by the Drawin Construction Technology Group to the Group. As the prices of materials and construction costs are updated by the Management from time to time based on publicly available data updating every month on regional official authority websites, the Management will be able to derive the construction cost of the relevant project, and, in turn, estimate the project management fees payable by the Group to the Drawin Construction Technology Group (if it has been selected to provide EPC general contracting Service). We noted that the price cap of RMB2,600 per square metre (inclusive of tax) is comparable with the average contractual and settlement prices of the Group’s previous construction projects, and the prices of materials is expected to remain relatively stable as discussed with the Management. Based on the above, the Management is of the view, and we concur that the basis in setting (i) the profit margin and management fee of not more than 5% of the construction costs; and (ii) the price cap of RMB2,600 per square metre (inclusive of tax) is fair and reasonable.
Having reviewed the pricing policy of determining the contractual price for EPC general contracting service (i.e. estimated costs of a construction project plus a profit margin and management fee of not more than 5% of the construction costs) and compared, on a sampling basis, (i) the breakdown of historical costs in relation to the Group’s construction projects undertaken by Drawin Construction Technology Group during the year ended 31 December 2019; (ii) the actual clearing statements issued by Drawin Construction Technology Group to the Group at project completion to confirm the transaction amounts for EPC general contracting service
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provided; and (iii) invoices issued by the Drawin Construction Technology Group to the Group, against the list of materials used for construction services, as well as construction price quotations previously obtained from independent construction contractors by the Group, we are of the view that the construction costs and profit margin charged to the Group by the Drawin Construction Technology Group was comparable with those charged to the Group by the independent construction contractors. In addition, having discussed with the Management and the management of the Drawin Construction Technology Group responsible for construction works and reviewed sample contracts, we noted that the project management fees offered by the Drawin Construction Technology Group (with regard to the EPC general contracting Service) to the Group was either the same or slightly better than those offered by the Drawin Construction Technology Group to its other independent customers.
In accordance to the selection or bidding process as set out in the Framework Agreement I, each time when the Group selects a contractor for the provision of EPC general contracting services, the Group will consider the quotation from the Drawin Construction Technology Group and compare it with the market price expected to be charged or offered by other service providers in the city or district in which the relevant technology park being constructed is located. According to the National Bureau of Statistics of PRC, there were more than 64,500 construction contractors offering EPC related services in the PRC in 2018. As such, the Group is able to obtain price quotations through making enquiries with market participants without any obstacles. It is also noted that some tender prices for provision of the EPC general contracting services may be available on the government websites of the public resources trading centers for reference. In addition, the price information of major construction materials is also publicly available and, in general, transparent as aforementioned. As such, the Management is of the view, and we concur, that pricing of the EPC general contracting services is, in general, transparent.
Having taken into account the aforesaid, we are of the view that the pricing mechanism under the EPC Services Arrangement is fair and reasonable.
Furthermore, we have (i) reviewed the relevant internal control policies of the Group; (ii) discussed with the Management; and (iii) reviewed relevant transaction records, as aforementioned, for the year ended 31 December 2019, to understand the internal control measures adopted by the Group in respect of the pricing mechanism and the aggregate transaction volume under the EPC Service Arrangement, including, for instance, the regular monitoring by the Management of the prices of materials and construction costs from time to time, as well as the requirements for approvals by the finance department of monthly financial statements submitted by the relevant subsidiaries of the Group setting out the aggregate value of the transactions. Based on the above, we consider that the internal control measures of the Group are in place to safeguard the subject transactions to be carried out in a fair and reasonable manner and in the interests of the Company’s shareholders as a whole.
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Supply Arrangement
Pursuant to the Supply Arrangement, the integrated unit price of the prefabricated construction components and products to be supplied by the Group to the Drawin Construction Technology Group should be the prevailing market price of each unit. In principle, the provisional unit price should not exceed RMB3,200 per cubic metre (inclusive of tax). Subject to the actual volume of the unit supplied, the final unit price may be adjusted. The integrated unit price of the prefabricated construction components and products is set with reference to the average unit price per cubic metre of the prefabricated construction components and products quoted from the other market participants in 2019, the projected level of demand for prefabricated units of the Drawin Construction Technology Group and other market participants in 2020, and the estimated costs of each unit manufactured by the Group in 2020.
As discussed with the Management, we understand that latest price of prefabricated construction materials in the PRC is included in the price list of construction materials published on local government websites and used by the Group as reference when determining the prevailing market prices. In addition to the prevailing market prices, the marketing department of the Group will assess and make reference to (i) the market price range of such units as charged by the largest supplier in the relevant locality; (ii) a comparison of the quality and standard of those prefabricated construction components and products, and (iii) the demand for such components and products in the market at the relevant time, in preparation of the price quotation to be provided to the Drawin Construction Technology. Furthermore, we understand from the Management that various factors may also be taken into consideration, including, among others, the production costs of the Group, the duration of the relevant projects, the complexity of the relevant projects, and the terms of the existing sales contracts entered into between the Group and other independent customers, to ensure the pricing for the Supply Arrangement is determined on an arm’s length basis. Having reviewed and compared latest price of prefabricated construction materials in the PRC , we noted that the price cap of RMB3,200 per cubic metre is comparable with and able to cover the prevailing market prices in respect of the majority of prefabricated construction components and products supplied by the Group to Drawin Construction Technology. As such, the Management is of the view, and we concur that the basis in setting a price cap of RMB3,200 per cubic metre (inclusive of tax) is fair and reasonable.
Having reviewed the pricing policy of determining the pricing for Supply Arrangement and compared, on a sampling basis, (i) the breakdown of unit production costs in relation to the Group’s prefabricated construction components and products supplied to Drawin Construction Technology Group during the year ended 31 December 2019; (ii) the actual clearing statements issued by the Group to Drawin Construction Technology Group to confirm the transaction amounts for the sales of prefabricated construction components and products; and (iii) invoices issued by the Group to the Drawin Construction Technology Group, against the breakdown of unit production costs in relation to the Group’s prefabricated
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construction components and products supplied to other independent customers during the year ended 31 December 2019, as well as sales prices previously offered to other independent customers by the Group, we are of the view that the unit production costs and profit margin applied in the calculation of the Group’s provisional prices for the Drawin Construction Technology Group was comparable with those for the independent customers.
In addition, we noted that, given the price list of materials used for the construction services (i.e. including the prefabricated construction components and products) in the PRC are publicly available and, in general, transparent, both the Group and its customers (including the Drawin Construction Technology Group) are able to assess the prevailing market price per unit of such prefabricated construction components and products. As the Supply Arrangement is a continuing connected transaction, the marketing department will, from time to time, review and assess if such provisional prices by the Group is no less favourable to the Group than sales prices offered to other independent customers. In the circumstances where the Group’s actual unit production costs considerably differs from the estimated unit production costs due to the change in volume of the unit supplied, the general manager, who is responsible for the business segment of supplying the prefabricated construction components and products, will make final approval of the adjusted unit prices. The Management confirms that Drawin Construction Technology Group does not have any influence to the marketing department of the Group nor the general manager in respect of pricing of the prefabricated construction components and products.
Having taken into account the aforesaid, we are of the view that the pricing mechanism under the Supply Arrangement is fair and reasonable.
Furthermore, we have (i) reviewed the relevant internal control policies of the Group; (ii) discussed with the Management, including the chief financial officer of the Group and the manager responsible for the Supply Arrangement in the PRC; and (iii) reviewed relevant transaction records, as aforementioned, for the year ended 31 December 2019, to understand the internal control measures adopted by the Group in respect of pricing mechanism under the Supply Arrangement, including, for instance, the continuing assessment by the marketing department of the Group as to whether the price quoted by the Group under the Supply Arrangement to the Drawin Construction Technology Group is no less favorable than that offered to the independent customers. Based on the above, we consider that the internal control measures of the Group are in place to safeguard the subject transactions to be carried out in a fair and reasonable manner and in the interests of the Company’s shareholders as a whole.
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3.2.2 With regard to the Framework Agreement II
Park Design Service Arrangement
Pursuant to the Park Design Service Arrangement, the contract price for the design services in respect of technology parks to be provided by Drawin Construction Design Group to the Group is determined with reference to the estimated costs of the design services plus a profit margin and management fee of not more than 5% of the design costs and the provisional contract price for technology park design services should not exceed RMB25 per square metre (inclusive of tax) in principle. Subject to the actual size of the park for which the design is rendered, the final contract price may be adjusted. Drawin Construction Design further undertakes to the Company that the contractual price for park design services to be quoted by Drawin Construction Design will not be higher than the market rate within the industry. The proposed profit margin and the contract price for the technology park design services are set with reference to the average design service fee per square metre generally charged by the other market participants in 2019 and the projected level of demand for design service of the Group in 2020. We understand that a framework agreement in relation to the Park Design Service Arrangement was first entered into between the Group and the Drawin Construction Design (i.e. Previous Framework Agreement II) in 2019, and renewed on 11 May 2020 (i.e. Framework Agreement II) with the same terms in respect of pricing.
In addition, based on the interview conducted with the management of Drawin Construction Technology Group, we understand that the similar rationale and basis as the EPC Service Arrangement have been adopted in determining the profit margin and management fee of not more than 5% on its estimated construction cost, which allows for a reasonable level of profit in respect the technology park design services provided to the Group by the Drawin Construction Design Group. We also noted that the price cap of RMB25 per square metre (inclusive of tax) was determined by the highest price quoted to the Group by the Drawin Construction Design Group, and the design costs is expected to remain relatively stable as discussed with the Management. Based on the abovementioned, the Management is of the view, and we concur, that the basis in setting (i) the profit margin and management fee of not more than 5% of the design costs; and (ii) the price cap of RMB25 per square metre (inclusive of tax) is fair and reasonable.
Having (i) discussed with the Management on the pricing policy of determining the contract price for technology park design services; (ii) compared, on a sampling basis, the contract prices offered by Drawin Construction Design Group to the Group and to independent third parties during the year ended 31 December 2019; and (iii) reviewed the actual clearing statements regarding the actual transaction amounts for technology park design services, we noted that the design fee charged to the Group by Drawin Construction Design Group was either comparable or slightly lower than those charged to independent third parties.
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Having taken into account the aforesaid, we are of the view that the pricing mechanism under the Park Design Arrangement is fair and reasonable.
Furthermore, we have (i) reviewed the relevant internal control policies of the Group; (ii) discussed with the Management, including the chief financial officer of the Group and the manager responsible for the Park Design Service Arrangement in the PRC; (iii) reviewed relevant transaction records, as aforementioned, for the year ended 31 December 2019, to understand the internal control measures adopted by the Group in respect of the pricing mechanism and the aggregate transaction volume under the Park Design Service Arrangement, including, for instance, the regular monitoring by the Management as to whether the transaction terms under the Park Design Service Arrangement are no less favorable than that offered by independent design service providers, as well as the requirements for approvals by the finance department of monthly financial statements submitted by the relevant subsidiaries of the Group setting out the aggregate value of the transactions. Based on the above, we consider that the internal control measures of the Group are in place to safeguard the subject transactions to be carried out in a fair and reasonable manner and in the interests of the Company’s shareholders as a whole.
PC Design Service Arrangement
Pursuant to the PC Design Service Arrangement, the contract price for the design services to be provided by Drawin Construction Design Group to the Group in respect of the prefabricated construction components and products to be sold by the Group is determined with reference to the estimated costs of the design services plus a profit margin and management fee of not more than 5% of the design costs and the provisional contract price should not exceed RMB70 per cubic metre (inclusive of tax) in principle. Subject to the actual volume of the prefabricated construction component for which the design is rendered, the final contract price may be adjusted. Pursuant to the Framework Agreement II, the Drawin Construction Design Group shall not quote a contract price for prefabricated construction components and products design services higher than the market rate within the industry. The proposed profit margin and the contract price of the prefabricated construction components and products design services are set with reference to the average product design services fee per cubic metre generally charged by the other market participants in 2019 and the projected level of demand for product design services of the Group in 2020.
We understand that a framework agreement in relation to the PC Service Arrangement was first entered into between the Group and the Drawin Construction Design (i.e. Previous Framework Agreement II) in 2019, and renewed on 11 May 2020 (i.e. Framework Agreement II) with the same terms in respect of pricing.
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Based on the interview conducted with the management of Drawin Construction Design Group, we understand that the price quoted by the Drawin Construction Design Group to the Group is determined by a cost-plus pricing basis, and the Drawin Construction Design Group sets a mark-up of not more than 5% on its estimated construction costs for a reasonable level of profit which is lower than the gross profit margin of design services offered by Drawin Construction Design Group to other independent customers. In addition, we noted the price cap of RMB70 per cubic metre (inclusive of tax) is lower than the price quoted by the Drawin Construction Design Group to other independent customers in prefabricated construction components and products design services, and the design costs is expected to remain relatively stable as discussed with the Management. Based on the above, the Board is of the view that the basis in setting (i) the profit margin and management fee of not more than 5% of the design costs and (ii) the price cap of RMB70 per cubic metre (inclusive of tax) is fair and reasonable.
Having (i) reviewed the pricing policy of determining the contract price for prefabricated construction components and products design services; (ii) compared the contract prices offered by Drawin Construction Design Group to the Group and to an independent third party customer during the year ended 31 December 2019; and (iii) reviewed the actual clearing statements regarding the actual transaction amounts for technology park design services, we noted that the design fee charged to the Group by Drawin Construction Design Group was slightly lower than those charged to the independent customer.
Having taken into account the aforesaid, we are of the view that the pricing mechanism under the PC Design Arrangement is fair and reasonable.
Furthermore, we have (i) reviewed the relevant internal control policies of the Group; (ii) discussed with the Management, including the chief financial officer of the Group and the manager responsible for the Park Design Service Arrangement in the PRC; (iii) reviewed relevant transaction records, as aforementioned, for the year ended 31 December 2019, to understand the internal control measures adopted by the Group in respect of the pricing mechanism and the aggregate transaction volume under the Park Design Service Arrangement, including, for instance, the regular monitoring by the Management as to whether the transaction terms under the PC Design Service Arrangement are no less favorable than that offered by independent design service providers, as well as the requirements for approvals by the finance department of monthly financial statements submitted by the relevant subsidiaries of the Group setting out the aggregate value of the transactions. Based on the above, we consider that the internal control measures of the Group are in place to safeguard the subject transactions to be carried out in a fair and reasonable manner and in the interests of the Company’s shareholders as a whole.
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3.3 Selection or bidding process
- 3.3.1 With regard to the Framework Agreement I
EPC Service Arrangement
Pursuant to the EPC Service Arrangement, the Drawin Construction Technology Group may participate in the selection or bidding process arranged by the Group for the construction of technology parks of the Group. Upon selection of the Drawin Construction Technology Group as the contractor through the selection or bidding process, Drawin Construction Technology will provide, or procure its subsidiaries to provide, EPC general contracting services to the Group for the development of the Group’s technology parks in the PRC in accordance with the terms of the tender and relevant service contract. Where the Drawin Construction Technology Group is the only bidder, the Group will compare its quotation with the market price expected to be charged or offered by other construction contractors in the city or district in which the relevant technology park being constructed is located, and where the construction timetable of the relevant technology park permits, the Group will also invite construction price quotations from at least two other independent construction contractors for review and comparison purposes.
Having discussed with the Management and reviewed internal records of contractor selection process for two construction projects (i.e. site No.19 and site No.5) during the year ended 31 December 2019, we noted that the Group had initiated tendering processes for the constructions of both Technology Parks. However, the Group has not received any tender from construction contractors for one of aforesaid construction projects (i.e. Site No.5). Thus, the Group has adjusted the terms and invited an independent construction contract for construction price quotation. We are of the view that the aforesaid arrangement was justifiable under such circumstance and in compliance with the relevant terms set out the Framework Agreement I. Based on discussion with the Management, we understand that, where the construction timetable of the relevant technology park permits, the Group will only enter into contracts with the Drawin Construction Technology Group pursuant to the Framework Agreement I if the construction price quotation from the Drawin Construction Technology Group in respect of the EPC general contracting services in the city or district in which the relevant technology park being constructed is located is lower than, or within the range of, the market price to be charged or offered by other independent construction contractors in the same local market. In addition to price, the Group also takes other factors into account, including but not limited to credentials, ability to satisfy specifications, construction quality and relevant qualifications, during the selection or bidding process.
Taken into consideration of (i) construction timetables of the relevant technology parks; (ii) the records of selection process, including documents and images; (iii) the selection of contractors has adhered to the policy prescribed by the Company, we are of the view that the the policy of selection or bidding process is properly implemented and complied with by the Group.
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Furthermore, we have (i) reviewed the relevant internal control policies of the Group; (ii) discussed with the Management, including the chief financial officer of the Group and the manager responsible for the EPC Service Arrangement in the PRC; and (iii) reviewed relevant transaction records, as aforementioned, for the year ended 31 December 2019, to understand the internal control measures adopted by the Group in respect of the selection or bidding process under the EPC Service Arrangement, including, for instance, the regular monitoring by the Management as to whether the quotations from the Drawin Construction Technology Group are compared to, and are no less favorable than, that offered by independent construction contractors, as well as the in-depth evaluation by the investment management department based on a scoring system which is applicable to all bidders. In addition, we noted that the investment management department of the Group is responsible for the selection of contractor. The Management further confirms that there is no connected person at the issuer level of the Company in its investment management department, and to ensure the independence of the investment management department as well as the evaluation, selection and approval process, the Company will ensure that no connected person of the Company who are related to the Drawin Manufacture Group Entities will join the investment management department and no information in relation to the evaluation, selection and approval of contractors will be disclosed to such connected persons of the Company. Based on the above, we consider that the internal control measures of the Group are in place to safeguard the subject transactions to be carried out in a fair and reasonable manner and in the interests of the Company’s shareholders as a whole.
3.3.2 With regard to the Framework Agreement II
Park Design Service Arrangement
Pursuant to the Park Design Service Arrangement, the Drawin Construction Design Group may participate in the selection or bidding process arranged by the Group for provision of design services for the Group’s technology parks in the PRC. Upon selection of the Drawin Construction Design Group as the service provider through the selection or bidding process, Drawin Construction Design will provide, or procure its subsidiaries to provide, design services to the Group in respect of the design of the Group’s technology parks in the PRC in accordance with the terms of the tender and relevant service contract. Where the Drawin Construction Design Group is the only bidder, the Group will compare its quotation with the market price expected to be charged or offered by other service providers and where the timetable permits, the Group will invite price quotations from at least two other independent design services providers for review and comparison purposes.
As discussed with the Management, we understand that, the Group will only contract with the Drawin Construction Design Group pursuant to the Framework Agreement II if the price quoted by Drawin Construction Design Group in respect of the technology park design services in the city or district in which the relevant technology park being constructed is located is lower than, or within the range of,
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the market price to be charged or offered by other independent design services providers in the same local market. In addition to price, the Group also takes other factors into account, including but not limited to credentials, ability to satisfy specifications and relevant qualifications, during the selection or bidding process. Having reviewed the internal reviewed internal records of selection process in respect of the technology park design services during the year ended 31 December 2019, we are of the view that the policy of selection or bidding process is properly implemented and complied with by the Group.
Furthermore, we have (i) reviewed the relevant internal control policies of the Group; (ii) discussed with the Management, including the chief financial officer of the Group and the manager responsible for the Park Design Service Arrangement in the PRC; and (iii) reviewed relevant transaction records, as aforementioned, for the year ended 31 December 2019, to understand the internal control measures adopted by the Group in respect of the selection or bidding process under the Park Design Service Arrangement, including, for instance, the regular monitoring by the Management as to whether the quotations from the Drawin Construction Design Group are compared to, and are no less favorable than, that offered by independent design service providers, as well as the in-depth evaluation by the investment management department based on a scoring system which is applicable to all bidders. In addition, we noted that the investment management department of the Group is responsible for the selection of contractor. The Management further confirms that there is no connected person at the issuer level of the Company in its investment management department, and to ensure the independence of the investment management department as well as the evaluation, selection and approval process, the Company will ensure that no connected person of the Company who are related to the Drawin Manufacture Group Entities will join the investment management department and no information in relation to the evaluation, selection and approval of contractors will be disclosed to such connected persons of the Company. Based on the above, we consider that the internal control measures of the Group are in place to safeguard the subject transactions to be carried out in a fair and reasonable manner and in the interests of the Company’s shareholders as a whole.
PC Design Service Arrangement
Pursuant to the PC Design Service Arrangement, the Drawin Construction Design Group may participate in the selection or bidding process arranged by the Group for provision of design services for the Group’s prefabricated construction components and products. Upon selection of the Drawin Construction Design Group as the service provider through the selection or bidding process, Drawin Construction Design will provide, or procure its subsidiaries to provide, design services in respect of the design of prefabricated construction components and products sold by the Group in accordance with the terms of the tender and relevant service contract. Where the Drawin Construction Design Group is the only bidder, the Group will compare its quotation with the market price expected to be charged or offered by other service providers in the city or district in which the
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prefabricated construction components are to be supplied to the customers of the Group, and where the prefabricated construction components and products production timetable permits, the Group will also invite price quotations from at least two other independent design services providers for review and comparison purposes.
Having discussed with the Management and reviewed internal records, we note that the Group only procured prefabricated construction components and products design services from Drawin Construction Design Group for four projects in 2019, which were for sales of prefabricated construction units to the Group’s independent customers. The Group has not obtained price quotations from independent design service providers due to time constraints, however, based on the past experience of the Management, the prices quoted by Drawin Construction Design Group in respect of the abovementioned projects are within the range of the market price to be charged or offered by other independent design services providers in the same local market. In addition to price, the Group also takes other factors into account, including but not limited to credentials, ability to satisfy specifications and relevant qualifications, during the selection or bidding process.
Furthermore, we have (i) reviewed the relevant internal control policies of the Group; (ii) discussed with the Management, including the chief financial officer of the Group and the manager responsible for the PC Design Service Arrangement in the PRC; and (iii) reviewed relevant transaction records, as aforementioned, for the year ended 31 December 2019, to understand the internal control measures adopted by the Group in respect of the selection or bidding process under the PC Design Service Arrangement, including, for instance, the regular monitoring by the Management as to whether the quotations from the Drawin Construction Design Group are compared to, and are no less favorable than, that offered by independent design service providers, as well as the in-depth evaluation by the investment management department based on a scoring system which is applicable to all bidders. In addition, we noted that the investment management department of the Group is responsible for the selection of contractor. The Management further confirms that there is no connected person at the issuer level of the Company in its investment management department, and to ensure the independence of the investment management department as well as the evaluation, selection and approval process, the Company will ensure that no connected person of the Company who are related to the Drawin Manufacture Group Entities will join the investment management department and no information in relation to the evaluation, selection and approval of contractors will be disclosed to such connected persons of the Company. Based on the above, we consider that the internal control measures of the Group are in place to safeguard the subject transactions to be carried out in a fair and reasonable manner and in the interests of the Company’s shareholders as a whole.
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3.4 Payment arrangement
The Framework Agreements provides that the details of all fees and payments due to the Drawin Construction Technology Group pursuant to the EPC Service Arrangement or due to the Group pursuant to the Supply Arrangement or due to the Drawin Construction Design Group pursuant to the Park Design Service Arrangement or the PC Design Service Arrangement should be specified in relevant service or supply contract to be entered into by the relevant parties. Having reviewed the relevant service or supply contracts entered into in 2019 under the Previous Framework Agreements, we understand that the respective payment arrangements for the two services in each of the Previous Framework Agreements were generally in line, which are separately summarised below. Given that relevant internal control policies have been adopted by the Group in respect of selection of construction contractors or design service providers, in which payment arrangement is one of the core factors to be reviewed by the Group, we consider it to be justifiable if the below payment arrangements are applied to or served as reference for new service or supply contracts to be entered into under the Framework Agreements.
3.4.1 With regard to the Framework Agreement I
EPC Service Arrangement
According to the Management, the payment arrangement between the Group and the Drawin Construction Technology Group with regard to the EPC Service Arrangement is set out as follow:
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(i) The Group shall pay the project progress payment to the Drawin Construction Technology Group every month based upon the construction progress, until the cumulative payment amount reaches 70% of the contract sum;
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(ii) Upon completion and settlement of the construction project, 95% of the final settlement price shall be paid; and
-
(iii) The remaining 5% shall be paid one-off when the warranty period of deficiency (i.e. usually two years) expires and no quality issue has arisen.
Having discussed with Management and by reviewing sample contracts, we noted that the payment terms granted by other independent construction contractors in the PRC are similar to that offered by the Drawin Construction Technology Group to the Group under the EPC Services Arrangement. We further understand from the Management that this is Drawin Construction Technology Group’s practice and in line with the terms offered by the Drawin Construction Technology Group to its other independent customers. Having considered the above, we are of the view that the payment method of the EPC Service Arrangement is fair and reasonable and on normal commercial terms.
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LETTER FROM THE INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISER
Supply Arrangement
According to the Management, the payment arrangement between the Group and the Drawin Construction Technology Group for Supply Arrangement is set out as follows:
-
(i) The Drawin Construction Technology Group shall make a prepayment to the Group within 10 days after the entering into of the supply contract, which shall account for 10% of the contract sum of the supply contract;
-
(ii) The Drawin Construction Technology Group shall pay the project progress payment to the Group every month according to the working progress, until the cumulative payment amount reaches 70% of the contract sum;
-
(iii) Upon completion and settlement of the relevant project, 95% of the final settlement price shall be paid; and
-
(iv) The remaining 5% shall be paid one-off when the warranty period of decency (i.e. usually two years) expires and no quality issue has arisen.
We have compared the payment terms offered by the Group to other independent customers (i.e. by reviewing (i) the contract list with summary of payment terms and (ii) randomly selected sample contracts) with that offered by the Group to the Drawin Construction Technology Group and noted that the payment terms applied to the Drawin Construction Technology Group are similar to those in the existing contracts entered into between the Group and other independent customers. Having considered the above, we are of the view that the payment method of the Supply Arrangement is fair and reasonable and on normal commercial terms.
3.4.2 With regard to the Framework Agreement II
Park Design Service Arrangement
According to the Management, the payment arrangement between the Group and the Drawin Construction Design Group for the Park Design Service Arrangement is set out as follows:
-
(i) The Group shall make a deposit to the Group within 7 days after entering into of the contract, which shall account for 5% of the contract sum of the contract;
-
(ii) The Group shall pay the project progress payment to the Drawin Construction Design Group according to the working progress, until the cumulative payment amount reaches 90% of the contract sum;
-
(iii) Upon completion and settlement of the relevant project, 95% of the final settlement price shall be paid; and
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LETTER FROM THE INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISER
- (iv) The remaining 5% shall be paid one-off when the warranty period of deficiency (i.e. usually two years) expires and no quality issue has arisen.
Having discussed with Management and reviewed the contract terms, we noted that the payment terms granted by other independent design services providers in the PRC are similar to that offered by the Drawin Construction Design to the Group under the Park Design Services Arrangement. We further understand from the Management that this is Drawin Construction Design’s practice and in line with the terms offered by the Drawin Construction Design to its other independent third party customers. Having considered the above, we are of the view that the payment method of the Park Design Service Arrangement is fair and reasonable and on normal commercial terms.
PC Design Service Arrangement
According to the Management, the payment arrangement between the Group and the Drawin Construction Design Group for the PC Design Service Arrangement is set out as follows:
-
(i) The Group shall make a deposit to the Drawin Construction Design Group within 7 days after entering into of the contract, which shall account for 20% of the contract sum of the contract;
-
(ii) The remaining 80% shall be paid within 7 days after the delivery of the whole set of blueprints.
Having discussed with Management, and reviewed (i) the contract terms between the Drawin Construction Design Group and the Group and (ii) the contract terms between the Drawin Construction Design Group and its other independent third party customers, we noted that the payment terms granted by the Drawin Construction Design Group to the Group are similar to or slightly better than the terms offered by the Drawin Construction Design Group to its other independent third party customers. Having considered the above, we are of the view that the payment method of the PC Design Service Arrangement is fair and reasonable.
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LETTER FROM THE INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISER
-
4 Historical and Proposed Transaction Value and Annual Cap
-
4.1 Historical transaction value and annual caps under the Previous Framework Agreements
In respect of the annual caps of the Supply Arrangement and PC Design Service Arrangement, and the estimated maximum transaction value of EPC Service Arrangement and Park Design Service Arrangement under the Previous Framework Agreements, the actual realized transaction amounts and the utilisation rates for the year ended 31 December 2019 are set out below:
| Annual cap/ | ||
|---|---|---|
| Actual realized | Estimated | |
| transaction | maximum | |
| amounts | transaction | |
| Under the Previous Framework Agreements | Annual cap | value |
| (RMB) | (RMB) | |
| Previous Framework Agreement I | ||
| EPC Service Arrangement | 123.56 million | 250 million |
| Supply Arrangement | 103.78 million | 300 million |
| Previous Framework Agreement II | ||
| Park Design Service Arrangement | 0.13 million | 6 million |
| PC Design Service Arrangement | 1.99 million | 9 million |
- 4.1.1 Historical transaction value for the EPC Service Arrangement
The estimated maximum transaction value for the EPC Service Arrangement as contemplated in the Previous Framework Agreement I was RMB250 million. The actual transaction value for the EPC Service Arrangement for the year ended 31 December 2019 was approximately RMB123.56 million, representing approximately 49.4% of the then estimated maximum transaction value.
We have discussed with the Management and noted the key reasons attributable to the low utilisation rate of the then estimated maximum transaction value were as follows:
-
(i) The former ultimate controlling shareholder of the Company, who also the former ultimate controlling shareholder of Drawin Construction Technology and Drawin Construction Design, had liquidity issue in 2019 and was unable to commence or complete most of its construction projects as planned;
-
(ii) Following the acquisition of 63.5% shares in the Group by Mr. Wu Po Sum in July 2019, the Group’s transactions with connected parties were temporarily put on hold during the second half of 2019;
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LETTER FROM THE INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISER
-
(iii) For certain technology parks which were expected to complete in 2019, due to the change of construction plans, part of the estimated transaction value for the year ended 31 December 2019 is deferred to the year ending 31 December 2020; and
-
(iv) For certain technology parks of which constructions were commenced in 2019 and will continue to carry out in 2020 and 2021, as the actual transaction value for EPC Service Arrangement was lower than the estimated transaction value for the year ended 31 December 2019, whereby the variance was captured as unused.
Given the change in construction plans, the time to successfully acquire a site and the market demand for prefabricated construction components and products are subject to change due to various factors uncontrolled by the Group, the Management believes, and we concur, that the estimated maximum transaction value not being fully utilised in the past has no bearing on the fairness and reasonableness of the basis to determine the then estimated maximum transaction value.
4.1.2 Historical transaction value for the Supply Arrangement
The proposed annual cap for the Supply Arrangement as contemplated in the Previous Framework Agreement I was RMB300 million. The actual transaction amount for the Supply Arrangement in 2019 was approximately RMB103.78 million, representing approximately 34.6% of the then proposed annual cap.
We have discussed with the Management and noted the key reasons attributable to the low utilisation rate of the then proposed annual cap was that the liquidity issue of the former ultimate controlling shareholder of the Company in 2019 resulted in a slow down of Drawin Construction Technology’s construction projects, which in turn reduced its demand for the Group’s prefabricated components and products during the year.
As a result of the above, the Group did not reach the projected sales amount of prefabricated units to Drawin Construction Technology for the year ended 31 December 2019. Given the demand of Drawin Construction Technology for prefabricated construction components and products is subject to change due to various factors uncontrolled by the Group, the Management believes, and we concur, that the relatively low utilisation rate of the proposed annual cap in the past have no bearing on the fairness and reasonableness of the basis to determine the then proposed annual cap.
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LETTER FROM THE INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISER
4.1.3 Historical transaction value for the Park Design Service Arrangement
The estimated maximum transaction value for the Park Design Service Arrangement in the Previous Framework Agreement II was RMB6.0 million. The actual transaction value for the Park Design Service Arrangement for the year ended 31 December 2019 was approximately RMB0.13 million, representing approximately 2.2% of the then estimated maximum transaction value.
4.1.4 Historical transaction value for the PC Design Service Arrangement
The proposed annual cap for the PC Design Service Arrangement as contemplated in the Previous Framework Agreement II was RMB 9.0 million. The actual transaction value for PC Design Service Arrangement for the year ended 31 December 2019 was approximately RMB1.99 million, representing approximately 22.1% of the then proposed annual cap.
We have discussed with the Management and noted the key reason attributable to the low utilisation rate of the then proposed annual cap was that the demand for PC design services in relation to purchase orders received from the Group’s customers in 2019 was less than expected;
Given the demand for prefabricated construction components and products design services is subject to change due to various factors uncontrolled by the Group, the Management believes, and we concur, that the proposed annual cap not being fully utilised in the past has no bearing on the fairness and reasonableness of the basis to determine the then proposed estimated transaction value.
We have discussed with the Management and noted the key reasons attributable to the low utilisation rate of the then estimated maximum transaction value was that for certain technology parks which were expected to finalise the park design and commence construction in 2019, due to the change of construction plans, part of the estimated transaction value for the year ended 31 December 2019 will be deferred to the years ending 31 December 2020 and 2021.
Given the change in construction plans, the time to successfully acquire a site and the market demand of prefabricated construction components and products are subject to change due to various factors uncontrolled by the Group, the Management believes, and we concur, that the estimated maximum transaction value not being fully utilised in the past has no bearing on the fairness and reasonableness of the basis to determine the then estimated maximum transaction value.
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LETTER FROM THE INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISER
4.2 Proposed transaction value and annual caps under the Framework Agreements
The proposed annual caps of the Supply Arrangement and PC Design Service Arrangement, and the estimated maximum transaction value of EPC Service Arrangement and Park Design Service Arrangement under the Framework Agreements, for the year ended 31 December 2020 are set out below:
| Proposed | Annual cap/ | |
|---|---|---|
| Under the Framework Agreements | Estimated maximum transaction value | |
| (equivalent to | ||
| (RMB) | approximately HK$) | |
| Framework Agreement I | ||
| EPC Service Arrangement | 160 million | 175.24 million |
| Supply Arrangement | 200 million | 219.05 million |
| Framework Agreement II | ||
| Park Design Service Arrangement | 2.5 million | 2.74 million |
| PC Design Service Arrangement | 2.2 million | 2.41 million |
- 4.2.1 Estimated transaction value for the EPC Service Arrangement under the Framework Agreement I
When arriving at our view with regard to the estimated maximum value of the transactions under the EPC Service Arrangement under Framework Agreement I of RMB160.0 million for the year ending 31 December 2020, we have (i) reviewed several service contracts samples signed between the Group and independent third parties; and (ii) discussed with the Management regarding the estimated costs and construction plans of the 8 secured sites (Note 1). We have also considered the following factors in determining the estimated maximum transaction value:
-
(i) According to the Management, the Group plans to develop, construct and continue to construct eight technology parks in 2020. Among which, two of the eight projects have engaged independent construction contractors, two have been attributable to Drawin Construction Technology Group under Previous Framework Agreement, and the rest four have not selected contractors;
-
(ii) the outstanding aggregate construction area to be constructed is expected to be approximately 125,800 square metres for the abovementioned eight technology parks;
-
(iii) Assuming that the Group will attribute a large portion of its demand for EPC general contacting services to the Drawin Construction Technology Group, as the average expected or actual construction price in respect of EPC general contracting services to be offered by independent construction contractors to the Group is generally higher than that offered by the Drawin Construction Technology Group, based on past experience and the Group’s technology parks development and progress plan;
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LETTER FROM THE INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISER
-
(iv) According to the Group’s technology parks development and progress plan, the Company estimates that the maximum aggregate construction area to be constructed by the Drawin Construction Technology Group in 2020 will be approximately 61,500 square metres; and
-
(v) the contract price for EPC general contracting service that may be quoted by the Drawin Construction Technology Group to the Group under the Framework Agreement I shall not exceed RMB2,600 per square metre (inclusive of tax)
Given that each of the abovementioned items has been supported and reasonably arrived at, we consider the estimated maximum value of the transactions under the EPC Service Arrangement for the year ending 31 December 2020 of RMB160.0 million, calculated by multiplying the aggregate estimated construction area of the technology parks in which construction activities will be completed by the year ending 31 December 2020 with the maximum contractual price of RMB2,600 per square metre, to be fair and reasonable.
Notes 1: The 8 secured sites include technology parks in Hefei, Jiaozhou, Huai’an Qijiang, Jintang, Jiangsia, Dongli and Zhoukou.
4.2.2 Proposed Annual Cap for the Supply Arrangement under the Framework Agreement I
When arriving at our view with regard to the Proposed Supply Arrangement Annual Cap of RMB200 million for the year ending 31 December 2020, we have performed the following work, such as (i) reviewed several supply contracts samples signed between the Group and independent third parties; (ii) interviewed with management of Drawin Construction Technology Group regarding their estimated demand for prefabricated construction units in 2020; and (iii) reviewed the summary of contracts on hand of Drawin Construction Technology Group. In addition, we have considered the following factors in determining the Proposed Annual Cap for the Supply Arrangement:
-
(i) According to the Management, the estimation by the Company that the demand of prefabricated construction components and products from the Drawin Construction Technology Group will be approximately 56,000 cubic metres, based on a recent discussion between the Company and the Drawin Construction Technology Group, with a 10% buffer to be factored in based on the past construction experience of the Drawin Construction Technology Group;
-
(ii) based on the above, the estimated demand from the Drawin Construction Technology Group for prefabricated construction units in 2020 being approximately in the range of 50,000 to 62,000 cubic metres;
-
(iii) the Group’s plan to develop, construct and continue to construct eight technology parks in 2020. The Company therefore believes that it will be in a better position to acquire greater market share in the prefabricated construction unit market in general and to fulfill the demand of the Drawin Construction Technology Group of prefabricated construction units in 2020; and
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LETTER FROM THE INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISER
- (iv) the unit selling price of the prefabricated construction components that may be quoted by the Group to the Drawin Construction Technology Group under the Framework Agreement I shall not exceed RMB 3,200 per cubic metre (inclusive of tax).
Based on the discussion with the Management and news media research conducted, we note that the PRC government policies are generally supportive of the development of the Group’s prefabricated construction unit business in the PRC. The industry of prefabricated construction has expanded in terms of its overall scale due to the combined effect of the guidance of policies together with the faster speed in investment momentum for real estate development, which was evidenced by the advice documents specific to the local areas on implementation and planning of the prefabricated construction issued by all of the 31 provinces including autonomous regions and municipalities directly administered under the Central Government in China. In view of the favorable policy environment, it is expected that the Group will be able to acquire more mandates for prefabricated units from the Drawin Construction Technology Group under the Supply Arrangement, and accordingly, the Proposed Supply Arrangement Annual Cap has been set at the proposed level after taking into consideration of the aforementioned factors.
Having interviewed with the management of Drawin Construction Technology Group and discussed with the Management, we understand that the actual demand for prefabricated construction units may vary as planned subject to changes of construction plan or change of design. Based on (i) historical transaction amount, (ii) Drawin Construction Technology Group’s demand according to their on hand contracts, (iii) maximum expected volume (i.e. 62,000 cubic metres) and maximum price as set out in the Framework Agreement I (i.e. RMB3,200 per cubic metre), despite the low utilization rate of the Proposed Annual Cap for the Supply Arrangement in 2019 as a result of the change of the ultimate controlling shareholder of the Group and the re-orientation of sales focus, taking into consideration the favorable policy environment of the prefabricated construction industry as aforementioned and the robust construction pipeline of the Drawin Construction Technology Group as supported by its construction contracts on hand, we are of the view that the maximum demand for prefabricated construction components and products of the Drawin Construction Technology Group, as mentioned in (ii) of the factors determining the Proposed Annual Cap, has been properly derived.
Given that each of the abovementioned factors has been supported and reasonably arrived at, we consider the Proposed Annual Cap under the Supply Arrangement for the year ending 31 December 2020 of RMB200 million to be fair and reasonable.
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LETTER FROM THE INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISER
- 4.2.3 Estimated transaction value for the Park Design Service Arrangement under Framework Agreement II
When arriving at our view with regard to the estimated maximum value of the transactions under the Park Design Service Arrangement under Framework Agreement II of RMB2.5 million for the year ending 31 December 2020, we have (i) reviewed the contacts entered into between the Company and Drawin Construction Design Group for the year ended 31 December 2019; and (ii) discussed with the Management regarding the development plan for 5 secured sites (i.e. 4 sites and 1 site which has engaged construction contractor but not yet designed). In addition, we have considered the following factors in determining the estimated maximum transaction value:
-
(i) the aggregate area of the 5 abovementioned technology parks which the Group plans to finalize their design in 2020 will be approximately 100,000 square metres; and
-
(ii) the contract price for the technology park design service that may be quoted by Drawin Construction Design Group to the Group under Framework Agreement II shall not exceed RMB25 per square metre (inclusive of tax).
Given that each of the abovementioned factors has been supported and reasonably arrived at, we consider the estimated maximum value of the transactions under the Park Design Service Arrangement for the year ending 31 December 2020 of RMB2.5 million, calculated by multiplying the aggregate estimated construction area of the 5 technology parks (Note 1) during the year ending 31 December 2020 with the maximum contractual price of RMB25 per square metre, to be fair and reasonable.
Note 1: The 5 sites include technology parks in Qijiang, Jintang, Jiangxia, Dongli and Zhoukou.
- 4.2.4 Proposed Annual Cap for the PC Design Service Arrangement under Framework Agreement II
When arriving at our view with regard to the Proposed PC Design Service Arrangement Annual Cap of RMB2.2 million (equivalent to approximately HK$2.41 million) for the year ending 31 December 2020, we have reviewed the breakdown of transactions entered into between the Company and Drawin Construction Design Group for the year ended 31 December 2019. In addition, we have considered the following factors in determining the Proposed Annual Cap for PC Design Service Arrangement:
-
(i) the level of demand for prefabricated construction components and products design services from the Group’s customers in 2020;
-
(ii) the contract price for the prefabricated construction components and products design services that may be quoted by the Drawin Construction Design Group under Framework Agreement II shall not exceed RMB70 per cubic metre (inclusive of tax).
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LETTER FROM THE INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISER
Given that each of the abovementioned items has been supported and reasonably arrived at, we consider the Proposed Annual Cap under the PC Design Service for the year ending 31 December 2020 of RMB2.2 million to be fair and reasonable.
RECOMMENDATION
Having considered the above principal factors and reasons, we are of the view that (i) entering into the Framework Agreements and the transactions contemplated thereunder is in the ordinary and usual course of business of the Company, and in the interests of the Company and the Shareholders as a whole; (ii) the terms of the Framework Agreements are on normal commercial terms and are fair and reasonable as far as the Independent Shareholders are concerned; and (iii) the Proposed Supply Arrangement Annual Cap and the Proposed PC Design service Arrangement Annual Cap, as well as the estimated transaction value under the EPC Service Arrangement and Park Design Service Arrangement, are fair and reasonable so far as the Independent Shareholders are concerned.
Accordingly, we recommend the Independent Shareholders, as well as the Independent Board Committee to advise the Independent Shareholders, to vote in favour of the resolutions to be proposed at the SGM to approve the Framework Agreements.
Yours faithfully, For and on behalf of Fortune Financial Capital Limited Alfred Wu Managing Director
Mr. Alfred Wu (‘‘Mr. Wu’’) is a responsible officer of Fortune Financial Capital Limited licensed to carry on Type 6 (advising on corporate finance) regulated activity under the SFO. Mr. Wu has over 10 years of experience in corporate finance advisory in Hong Kong.
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GENERAL INFORMATION
APPENDIX
RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT
This Circular, for which the Directors collectively and individually accept full responsibility, includes particulars given in compliance with the Listing Rules for the purpose of giving information with regard to the Company. The Directors, having made all reasonable enquiries, confirm that to the best of their knowledge and belief the information contained in this Circular is accurate and complete in all material respects and not misleading or deceptive, and there are no other matters the omission of which would make any statement herein or this Circular misleading.
DIRECTORS’ AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S INTERESTS AND SHORT POSITIONS IN SHARES, UNDERLYING SHARES AND DEBENTURES
Save as disclosed below, as at the Latest Practicable Date, none of the Directors and chief executives of the Company had or was deemed to have any interests or short positions in the shares, underlying shares or debentures of the Company or any of its associated corporations (within the meaning of Part XV of the SFO) which (i) were required to be notified to the Company and the Stock Exchange pursuant to Divisions 7 and 8 of Part XV of the SFO (including interests or short positions which they were taken or deemed to have under such provisions of the SFO); or (ii) were required pursuant to section 352 of the SFO to be entered in the register referred to therein; or (iii) were required pursuant to the Model Code for Securities Transactions by Directors of Listed Issuers to be notified to the Company and the Stock Exchange.
| Approximate | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| percentage of | |||
| the issued | |||
| Name of Director or | Capacity and nature | Number of | share capital of |
| chief executive | of interest | Shares held1 | the Company2 |
| Mr. Wu Po Sum3 | Interest in controlled | 7,121,769,700(L) | 63.5% |
| corporation |
Notes:
-
The letter ‘‘L’’ denotes the individual’s long position in Shares.
-
The percentages have been calculated based on 11,209,602,920 Shares in issue as at the Latest Practicable Date.
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GENERAL INFORMATION
APPENDIX
- As at the Latest Practicable Date, 7,118,440,000 Shares were indirectly held by Jianye Holdings Limited through its direct or indirect wholly-owned subsidiaries Construction Housing Group Company Limited, Construction Development (H.K.) Company Limited, Henan Hongdao Business Information Consultancy Company Limited* (河南弘道商務信息咨詢有限公司), Tianjin Drawin Technology Limited (天津築友智造科技有限公司), Drawin Manufacture, Jiaye Summit Global Investment Limited, Jiayao Global Investments Limited, Jialing (International) Investment Limited, Jiaheng (Holding) Investment Limited, Jiaxin (Holding) Investment Limited, Jianuo (Holding) Investment Limited, Jiamin (Holding) Investment Limited and Jiacheng (Holding) Investment Limited. In addition, 3,329,700 Shares were directly held by Joy Bright Investments Limited as at the Latest Practicable Date. As both Jianye Holdings Limited and Joy Bright Investments Limited are directly wholly-owned by Mr. Wu Po Sum, Mr. Wu Po Sum is deemed to be interested in 7,121,769,700 Shares in which the above-mentioned companies are interested in by virtue of the SFO.
At the Latest Practicable Date, (1) Mr. Wu Po Sum serves as a director of Jianye Holdings Limited, Construction Housing Group Company Limited, Construction Development (H.K.) Company Limited and Joy Bright Investments Limited, each of which is the Company’s direct or indirect controlling shareholder holding approximately 63.5% of the issued share capital of the Company in aggregate; and (2) Ms. Wallis Wu (alias Li Hua) serves as a director of Jianye Holdings Limited, Construction Housing Group Company Limited, Construction Development (H.K.) Company Limited and Joy Bright Investments Limited, each of which is the Company’s direct or indirect controlling shareholder holding in aggregate approximately 63.5% of the issued share capital of the Company in aggregate. Save as the above, none of the Directors is a director or employee of a company which has an interest or short position in the Shares or underlying Shares which would fall to be disclosed to the Company under the provisions of Divisions 2 and 3 of Part XV of the SFO as at the Latest Practicable Date.
Save as disclosed above, as at the Latest Practicable Date, the Directors were not aware of any other person (other than the Directors and the chief executive of the Company) who had, or was deemed to have, an interest or short position in the Shares or underlying Shares (including any interests in options in respect of such capital), which would fall to be disclosed to the Company and the Stock Exchange under the provisions of Divisions 2 and 3 of Part XV of the SFO, or who was expected, directly or indirectly, to be interested in 10% or more of the nominal value of any class of share capital carrying rights to vote in all circumstances at general meetings of any member of the Group.
DIRECTORS’ INTERESTS IN ASSETS
As at the Latest Practicable Date, none of the Directors, directly or indirectly, had any interest in any assets which had since 31 December 2019 (being the date to which the latest published audited financial statements of the Company were made up) been acquired or disposed of by or leased to any member of the Group, or were proposed to be acquired or disposed of by or leased to any member of the Group.
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GENERAL INFORMATION
APPENDIX
DIRECTORS’ INTERESTS IN CONTRACTS
As at Latest Practicable Date, there was no contract or arrangement subsisting in which any Director was materially interested, directly or indirectly, and which was significant in relation to the business of the Group.
DIRECTORS’ INTEREST IN THE FRAMEWORK AGREEMENTS
To the best of the Directors’ knowledge and belief after having made all reasonable enquiries, Mr. Wu Po Sum (an executive Director), who indirectly holds the entire equity interests in Drawin Manufacture and is a controlling shareholder of the Company, is considered to have a material interest in the Framework Agreements and the transactions contemplated thereunder. For good corporate governance purpose, both Mr. Wu Po Sum and Ms. Wu Wallis (alias Li Hua) (a non-executive Director and the daughter of Mr. Wu Po Sum) had abstained from voting on, among others, the relevant Board resolutions approving the Framework Agreements and the transactions contemplated thereunder.
EXPERT AND CONSENT
The following is the qualification of the expert who has given opinion or advice contained in this Circular:
Name Qualification Fortune Financial Capital Limited a corporation licensed to conduct type 6 (advising on corporate finance) regulated activities under the SFO.
The expert has given and has not withdrawn its written consent to the issue of this Circular with the inclusion of its letter and references to its name in the form and context in which it appears.
As at the Latest Practicable Date, the expert was not interested in any shares in the Company or any member of the Group, nor did it have any right or option (whether legally enforceable or not) to subscribe for or nominate persons to subscribe for any shares in the Company or any member of the Group.
As at the Latest Practicable Date, the expert had not had any interest, direct or indirect, in any assets which have been, since 31 December 2019 (being the date to which the latest published audited accounts of the Company were made up), acquired or disposed of by or leased to any member of the Group, or are proposed to be acquired or disposed of by or leased to any member of the Group.
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GENERAL INFORMATION
APPENDIX
DIRECTORS’ SERVICE CONTRACTS
As at the Latest Practicable Date, none of the Directors had entered into, or proposed to enter into, a service contract with the Company or its subsidiaries which will not expire or be determinable by the Company or its subsidiaries within one year without payment of compensation (other than statutory compensation).
NO MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE
As at the Latest Practicable Date, the Directors were not aware of any material adverse change in the financial or trading position of the Group since 31 December 2019, being the date to which the latest published audited consolidated finance statements of the Company were made up, and up to the Latest Practicable Date.
DIRECTORS’ INTERESTS IN COMPETING BUSINESS
As at the Latest Practicable Date, none of the Directors or their respective close associates (as defined in the Listing Rules) was interested in any business which competes or is likely to compete, either directly or indirectly, with the business of the Group which interest would be required to be disclosed under Rule 8.10 of the Listing Rules as if each of them was a controlling Shareholder.
MISCELLANEOUS
-
(i) The registered office of the Company is located at Victoria Place, 5th Floor, 31 Victoria Street, Hamilton HM 10, Bermuda.
-
(ii) The head office and principal place of business of the Company in Hong Kong is located at Unit Nos. 7707 and 7708 on Level 77 of International Commerce Centre, 1 Austin Road West, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
-
(iii) The company secretary of the Company is Mr. Tsang Ho Pong who is a member of The Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants.
-
(iv) The Company’s branch share registrar and transfer office in Hong Kong is Computershare Hong Kong Investor Services Limited, whose address is at 17M Floor, Hopewell Centre, 183 Queen’s Road East, Wanchai, Hong Kong.
-
(v) The registered office of the Independent Financial Adviser, Fortune Financial Capital Limited, is at 43/F, COSCO Tower, 183 Queen’s Road Central, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong.
-
(vi) The English text of this Circular prevails over the Chinese text.
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GENERAL INFORMATION
APPENDIX
DOCUMENTS AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION
Copies of the following documents are available for inspection during normal business hours from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (except Saturdays, Sundays and gazetted public holidays in Hong Kong), at Unit Nos. 7707 and 7708 on Level 77 of International Commerce Centre, 1 Austin Road West, Kowloon, Hong Kong from the date of this Circular up to and including the date of the SGM:
-
(i) the memorandum of association and bye-laws of the Company;
-
(ii) the Framework Agreements;
-
(iii) the Previous Framework Agreements;
-
(iv) the letter from the Independent Board Committee, the text of which is set out on pages 27 to 28 of this Circular;
-
(v) the letter from the Independent Financial Adviser, the text of which is set out on pages 29 to 61 of this Circular;
-
(vi) the written consents referred to in the paragraph headed ‘‘Expert and Consent’’ in this Appendix; and
-
(vii) a copy of this Circular.
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NOTICE OF SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING
==> picture [77 x 85] intentionally omitted <==
DIT GROUP LIMITED 築 友 智 造 科 技 集 團 有 限 公 司
(Incorporated in Bermuda with limited liability)
(Stock Code: 726)
NOTICE OF SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a special general meeting of DIT Group Limited (the ‘‘Company’’) will be held at Unit Nos. 7707–7708, 77/F, International Commerce Centre, 1 Austin Road West, Kowloon, Hong Kong on Friday, 17 July 2020 at 10:00 a.m. for the purpose of considering and, if thought fit, passing the following resolutions (with or without amendments) as an ordinary resolution of the Company:
ORDINARY RESOLUTIONS
Words and expressions that are not expressly defined in this notice shall bear the same meaning as those defined in the circular dated 16 June 2020 issued by the Company.
-
‘‘THAT
-
(a) the EPC Service Arrangement and the terms of the EPC Service Arrangement contemplated under the Framework Agreement I dated 11 May 2020 (a copy of which has been produced to the meeting and initialled by the chairman of the meeting for the purposes of identification) be and are hereby confirmed, approved and ratified;
-
(b) the estimated transaction values under the EPC Service Arrangement (as set out in the Circular) be and are hereby approved; and
-
(c) any one Director be and is hereby authorized to, on behalf of the Company, do all such acts and things and sign, seal, execute and deliver all such documents and take all such actions which he may consider necessary, appropriate, desirable or expedient for the purpose of or in connection with or to give effect to the EPC Service Arrangement contemplated under the Framework Agreement I.’’
2. ‘‘THAT
- (a) the Supply Arrangement and the terms of the Supply Arrangement contemplated under the Framework Agreement I dated 11 May 2020 (a copy of which has been produced to the meeting and initialled by the chairman of the meeting for the purposes of identification) be and are hereby confirmed, approved and ratified;
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NOTICE OF SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING
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(b) the Proposed Supply Arrangement Annual Cap (as set out in the Circular) be and are hereby approved; and
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(c) any one Director be and is hereby authorized to, on behalf of the Company, do all such acts and things and sign, seal, execute and deliver all such documents and take all such actions which he may consider necessary, appropriate, desirable or expedient for the purpose of or in connection with or to give effect to the Supply Arrangement contemplated under the Framework Agreement I.’’
3. ‘‘THAT
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(a) the Park Design Service Arrangement and the terms of the Park Design Service Arrangement contemplated under the Framework Agreement II dated 11 May 2020 (a copy of which has been produced to the meeting and initialled by the chairman of the meeting for the purposes of identification) be and are hereby confirmed, approved and ratified;
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(b) the estimated transaction values under the Park Design Service Arrangement (as set out in the Circular) be and are hereby approved; and
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(c) any one Director be and is hereby authorized to, on behalf of the Company, do all such acts and things and sign, seal, execute and deliver all such documents and take all such actions which he may consider necessary, appropriate, desirable or expedient for the purpose of or in connection with or to give effect to the Park Design Service Arrangement contemplated under the Framework Agreement II.’’
By order of the Board of DIT Group Limited Wu Po Sum Chairman and Executive Director
Hong Kong, 16 June 2020
Registered office: Victoria Place, 5th Floor 31 Victoria Street Hamilton HM 10 Bermuda
Principal place of business in Hong Kong: Unit Nos. 7707 and 7708, Level 77 International Commerce Centre 1 Austin Road West Kowloon Hong Kong
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NOTICE OF SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING
Notes:
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(1) The register of members of the Company will be closed from Tuesday, 14 July 2020 to Friday, 17 July 2020, both dates inclusive, for the purpose of ascertaining the entitlement of the shareholders of the Company to attend and vote at the SGM. In order to be eligible to attend and vote at the SGM, all transfer documents accompanied by the relevant share certificates must be lodged for registration with the Company’s branch share registrar and transfer office in Hong Kong, Computershare Hong Kong Investor Services Limited at Shops 1712–1716, 17th Floor, Hopewell Centre, 183 Queen’s Road East, Wanchai, Hong Kong, not later than 4:30 p.m. on Monday, 13 July 2020.
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(2) A shareholder entitled to attend and vote at the SGM convened by the above notice is entitled to appoint one or more proxy to attend and, in the event of a poll, subject to the provisions of the bye-laws of the Company, vote in his stead. A proxy need not be a shareholder of the Company. If more than one proxy is so appointed, the appointment shall specify the number and class of shares of the Company in respect of which each such proxy is so appointed.
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(3) A form of proxy for use at the SGM is enclosed. Whether or not you are able to attend the SGM in person, you are urged to complete and return the form of proxy in accordance with the instructions printed thereon as soon as possible. Completion and return of the form of proxy will not preclude you from attending and voting in person at the SGM or any adjournment thereof should you so wish and in such event, the form of proxy shall be deemed to be revoked.
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(4) In order to be valid, the form of proxy must be deposited together with a power of attorney or other authority, if any, under which it is signed or a notarially certified copy of that power of attorney or authority, at the offices of the Company’s branch share registrar and transfer office in Hong Kong, Computershare Hong Kong Investor Services Limited, at 17M Floor, Hopewell Centre, 183 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong as soon as possible and in any event not less than 48 hours before the time for the holding of the meeting or adjourned meeting thereof.
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(5) In the case of joint registered holders of any shares of the Company, any one of such joint registered holders may vote at the SGM, either in person or by proxy, in respect of such shares as if he/she/it were solely entitled thereto; but if more than one of such joint registered holders are present at the SGM, the vote of the senior who tenders a vote, whether in person or by proxy, shall be accepted to the exclusion of the votes of the other joint holders, and for this purpose seniority shall be determined by the order in which the names stand in the register of members of the Company in respect of the joint holding.
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(6) If typhoon signal No. 8 or above, or a ‘‘black’’ rainstorm warning is in effect any time after 7:00 a.m. on the date of the SGM, the meeting will be postponed. The Company will publish an announcement on the website of the Company at http://cmdrawin.todayir.com and on the website of the Stock Exchange at http://www.hkexnews.hk to notify shareholders of the Company of the date, time and place of the rescheduled meeting.
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(7) Voting at the SGM will be taken by poll.
As at the date of this notice, the Board comprises Mr. Wu Po Sum (Chairman) and Mr. Guo Weiqiang as executive Directors; Ms. Wu Wallis (alias Li Hua) and Mr. Wang Jun as non-executive Directors; Mr. Jiang Hongqing, Mr. Lee Chi Ming and Mr. Ma Lishan as independent non-executive Directors.
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