"Considering the serious nature of Lai's offenses, the court imposed a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment," stated the verdict delivered today by judges at the West Kowloon Court in Hong Kong.

The judges ruled that two of these years would run concurrently with a sentence Lai is already serving, meaning he will serve an additional 18 years.

Lai, 78, founder of Apple Daily, was convicted in 12/2025 under the national security law on charges of "collusion with foreign forces" and "publishing seditious publications".

Launched in 1995, Apple Daily initially gained readership through sensational news, celebrity gossip, and crime reporting. During Hong Kong's pro-democracy protests, the newspaper often criticized Beijing and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government. Following the implementation of Hong Kong's National Security Law, Jimmy Lai was arrested by police in 8/2020 on suspicion of collusion with foreign forces and fraud.

Apple Daily was forced to close in 6/2021 after police raided its headquarters and Hong Kong authorities froze its assets.

In court, Lai denied the charges. As he was led away, he waved to individuals in the public gallery, including his wife Teresa, former Hong Kong Bishop Cardinal Joseph Zen, and former Apple Daily reporters.

Outside the trial of media mogul Jimmy Lai at West Kowloon, Hong Kong on 9/2. AFP

Earlier, Lai's defense lawyer, Robert Pang, argued that a long prison sentence would be "harsh" given Lai's age and health. "Every day in prison will push him closer to death," Pang stated.

In response, the prosecutor cited a prison health report indicating Lai's "general health remains stable," and he had no complaints after treatment for heart, dental, and nail issues. The prosecutor added that Lai was held in solitary confinement at his own request to avoid harassment.

Lai's two children recently voiced concerns about their father's health, though officials maintained Lai received "adequate and comprehensive" care.

Eight other defendants, including six former Apple Daily executives, were also sentenced today. All had pleaded guilty.

Before the sentencing, several international leaders urged authorities in Hong Kong and Beijing to release Lai. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer mentioned raising the issue of Lai, a British citizen, during a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing last month. US President Donald Trump also called for Lai's release.

By Huyen Le (Based on AFP)