Hong Kong’s 2025-26 Budget: Strategic Advancements in Artificial Intelligence
In the 2025-26 Budget, Financial Secretary Paul Chan unveiled a comprehensive strategy to solidify Hong Kong’s role as a leader in artificial intelligence (AI). This forward-looking budget outlines key investments and initiatives aimed at advancing the city’s AI capabilities and fostering technological innovation.
Establishment AI Research and Development Institute in Hong Kong
A cornerstone of the budget is the allocation of HK$1 billion for the establishment of the Hong Kong Artificial Intelligence Research and Development Institute. This institute will focus on facilitating cutting-edge research and the development of AI technologies across various industries, enhancing Hong Kong’s position as a global hub for AI innovation. The creation of this institute is expected to drive the city’s research output and promote AI applications that can address pressing challenges across sectors such as healthcare, finance, and logistics.
Expansion of AI Supercomputing Infrastructure
In support of AI advancements, Hong Kong has also committed to the expansion of its AI supercomputing infrastructure. The Cyberport AI Supercomputing Centre has already commenced operations, with plans to scale its computing capacity to 3,000 petaFLOPS in the coming months. This infrastructure will provide the computational power necessary for complex AI models, bolstering research and development efforts across various fields.
Hosting Global AI Conferences
As part of its broader strategy to foster international collaboration in AI, the Hong Kong government will host the inaugural International Conference on Embodied AI Robot and the International Young Scientist Forum on Artificial Intelligence. These events are set to bring together global experts, promote knowledge exchange, and showcase Hong Kong’s commitment to advancing AI technology on the world stage.
Focus on Semiconductor and Microelectronics Research
The Hong Kong Microelectronics Research and Development Institute, launched in September, will lead efforts in the development of third-generation semiconductor core technologies. This initiative aligns with Hong Kong’s goal of integrating AI with cutting-edge semiconductor research to support the next generation of AI applications.
Financial Secretary’s Vision for AI Investment
In his budget speech, Financial Secretary Paul Chan emphasized that Hong Kong’s investments in AI are part of a broader strategy to foster innovation across the region. The HK$1 billion allocated to the AI Research and Development Institute is a clear demonstration of the government’s commitment to strengthening Hong Kong’s technological infrastructure and driving economic growth through AI and related technologies.
A Vision for the Future of AI in Hong Kong
The measures outlined in the 2025-26 Budget are poised to transform Hong Kong into a global leader in artificial intelligence research and application. By investing in AI research, advancing supercomputing infrastructure, and hosting international conferences, Hong Kong is laying the groundwork for a future where AI plays a central role in driving innovation and economic development. The government’s commitment to these initiatives ensures that Hong Kong will remain at the forefront of AI advancements, attracting global talent and fostering collaborations that will benefit both the region and the world.
