Hong Kong Unveils Five‑Year Plan to Transform into Global Innovation Hub

Chief Executive John Lee announced Hong Kong’s First Five‑Year Plan, setting a clear path to become an international Innovation and Technology (I&T) centre and a magnet for high‑calibre talent. The roadmap leverages the world‑ranked research strengths of five local universities and centres on three new tech hubs: the Hetao Shenzhen‑Hong Kong Science & Technology Innovation Co‑operation Zone in the north, Science Park in the centre, and Cyberport in the south. It also earmarks funding for five key R&D institutions, including the Hong Kong Productivity Council, the Applied Science & Technology Research Institute, and newly created institutes for microelectronics, artificial intelligence, and life‑and‑health technology. The plan prioritises AI as a core industry, launching the AI+ Initiative across all sectors, and pushes for quantum and embodied‑intelligence research. In health, the government will establish a Centre for Medical Products Regulation, introduce a primary‑evaluation system by 2030, and build a digital clinical‑trial portal linking Hong Kong and Shenzhen. Talent strategy will be refreshed through the “Study in Hong Kong” brand and an updated Talent List, aiming to attract and nurture world‑class professionals.