At a recent meeting of the Legislative Council Finance Committee, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, emphasized the need for technological innovations to propel Hong Kong’s development. This year’s budget aims to reinforce Hong Kong’s stature as an international innovation and technology (I&T) hub through a series of ambitious initiatives. The initiatives are structured around three key themes: enhancing the I&T ecosystem, promoting digital economy advancements, and integrating more closely with national development.
The first focus area is enhancing the I&T ecosystem. The budget allocates $1 billion to establish the Hong Kong Artificial Intelligence Research and Development Institute, aiming to bolster AI as a core industry. The Cyberport’s Artificial Intelligence Supercomputing Centre is already operational, facilitating R&D projects in various fields, including language models and synthetic biology. New funding schemes are being introduced to support smart production strategies and technological advancements in local enterprises, while plans for enhancing I&T support for start-ups are also underway.
Furthermore, the government plans to establish a third research cluster, targeting advanced manufacturing and sustainable development. Significant progress in areas like the Hong Kong Space Robotics and Energy Centre is anticipated, aiming to contribute to moon missions. In regard to infrastructure, the Hong Kong Park in the Hetao Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone is being developed vigorously, with plans for commercial land proposals to boost development and collaboration.
The budget also seeks to advance Hong Kong’s digital economy by improving government services through the “iAM Smart” platform, projected to enhance online service accessibility significantly. A progressive rollout schedule for the “Digital Corporate Identity” Platform is set to further digital transformations in businesses, whilst the Digital Policy Office will experiment with new AI technologies to streamline government processes.
Lastly, the strategy includes a strong initiative to bolster links with the Mainland. This includes extending data flow protections across industries and fostering cooperation between Cyberport and Mainland start-up hubs. Hosting the World Intellectual Property Organization Global Innovation Index 2025 Science and Technology Cluster Launch highlights Hong Kong’s position as an essential connector between the Mainland and the global stage.
Through these initiatives, the government showcases its unwavering commitment to establishing Hong Kong as a vibrant I&T ecosystem. Continued support from all stakeholders is vital for ensuring the successful execution of these plans, further cementing Hong Kong’s role in national and international contexts.
Hong Kong’s budget emphasizes innovation and technology to strengthen its role as a global I&T centre. Key initiatives include establishing an AI Research Institute, enhancing the digital economy through the ‘iAM Smart’ platform, and close collaboration with the Mainland to facilitate growth. Investment in infrastructure and smart manufacturing is also a priority, reflecting a commitment to creating a vibrant I&T ecosystem.
In conclusion, Hong Kong’s latest budget reinforces its ambitions to become a leading international I&T centre. Key initiatives include significant investment in AI research, infrastructure developments, and digital economy advancements. Collaboration with the Mainland is critical for future growth, as the government strives to create a robust I&T ecosystem. Ongoing support from the public and legislative members will be crucial in fostering sustainable development in Hong Kong’s innovation landscape.
Original Source: www.bastillepost.com
