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Speech by the Assistant Commissioner (Mainland and Industry Collaboration), Ms Cari Wu, at the “APEC AI Initiative: Building Digitally Resilient Societies and AI Capacities at All Levels” session of the “Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) 2026 The First Senior Officials’ Meeting and Related Meetings (Digital Economy Steering Group Meeting)” (with photos)

Good afternoon, Chair and fellow colleagues,

It is a great honour to join you today to share Hong Kong, China (HKC)’s holistic approach to strengthening digital and Artificial Intelligence (AI) capabilities across our society. Focusing on various dimensions including infrastructure and computing facilities, research and development (R&D), talent cultivation, application scenarios and industry empowerment, as well as governance and regulation, we aim to build an AI ecosystem on all fronts, thereby bringing our AI development strategy to life.

On digital infrastructure, HKC’s total computing power has reached 5 000 PFLOPS, with our tech flagship Cyberport contributing 3 000 PFLOPS through its AI Supercomputing Centre (or AISC in short). Complementing this advanced infrastructure, the Government has introduced a HK$3 billion (US$385 million) AI Subsidy Scheme. It provides funding support to encourage eligible users such as local institutions, R&D centres and enterprises to leverage AISC’s computing resources, thus accelerating AI innovation across different sectors.

To further promote the R&D and applications of AI, HKC has allocated HK$1 billion (US$128 million) to establish the Hong Kong AI Research and Development Institute. The Institute will spearhead cutting-edge R&D and industry applications of AI, facilitating upstream research, midstream and downstream transformation of outcomes, and expanding real-world application scenarios. In parallel, we also set up the AI Efficacy Enhancement Team last year, to foster AI adoption and technological reform in government departments, embedding AI into daily operations with the clear purpose of elevating efficiency, responsiveness and citizen experience.

In terms of governance and regulation, we formulated the Ethical AI Framework in 2021 and updated it last December (in 2025) to assist organisations in adopting AI technology in a structured and responsible manner, ensuring that ethical considerations are fully integrated into their IT projects and services. In April last year, we also promulgated the Hong Kong Generative Artificial Intelligence Technical and Application Guideline, which sets out appropriate codes and practices for the development and use of generative AI technology. Together, these initiatives establish a governance framework tailored to Hong Kong’s context, applicable across government, industry, academia and the wider community. Collectively, these initiatives ensure that our society harnesses the transformative power of AI in a safe, responsible and ethical way, while building public trust.

On talent cultivation, HKC has set aside HK$2 billion (US$256 million) to support primary and secondary schools, and will release the Blueprint for Digital Education in Primary and Secondary Schools this year. This blueprint will set out “AI literacy” learning framework, integrate AI education into the core curriculum and enhance AI training for teachers. Our goal is not only to teach students how to use technology, but to prepare a future-ready generation to thrive in the digital world.

HKC is also dedicated to ensuring the vulnerable groups can integrate into the digital society. We launched the city-wide Digital Accessibility Campaign to promote the inclusive design in websites and mobile apps, enabling persons with disabilities to access online information and services. In addition, our “Smart Silver” programme supports the elderly and those in need through outreach activities, digital technologies training and technical assistance. These measures greatly empower them to use digital technologies effectively and safely, and ensuring full integration into the digital society.

In closing, HKC will stay committed to fostering digitally resilient societies and strengthening AI capacities at all levels. As we continue this journey, we stand ready to share our experience, collaborate with partners across the region, and work together to build a digital and AI-driven society that is inclusive, resilient and beneficial to everyone. Thank you.

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