The 2018 Policy Address announced by Mrs Carrie Lam, the Chief Executive, on October 10 has featured a range of new measures to bring more momentum to the development of innovation and technology (I&T) in Hong Kong, and to cultivate and empower talent for the future.

Expediting Re-industrialisation
The government will launch a $2 billion Re-industrialisation Funding Scheme to subsidise manufacturers, on a matching basis, to set up smart production lines in Hong Kong. An additional $2 billion is also recommended as a provision for the Science Park (HKSTPC) on which to build the required manufacturing facilities in industrial estates for the dedicated advanced manufacturing sector.

Promoting R&D and Technology Transfer
The funding ceiling for Technology Transfer Offices of dedicated universities, Technology Start-up Support Scheme for Universities, State Key Laboratories and Hong Kong branches of the Chinese National Engineering Research Centre will be doubled, unleashing the strengths of local research and facilitate application of R&D results.

Smart City
The government will actively initiate digital infrastructure projects for smart city development, including the provision of electronic identity (eID) for Hong Kong residents. Implementation measures on opening up government data have been firmed up to enhance transparency of data processes, such plans will be published by the end of this year. A Smart Government Innovation Lab will be set up in 2019 to speed up the use of information technology to improve public services. Industry players will be invited to submit proposals and product suggestions. Introduction of artificial intelligence and chatbot functions in the GovHK portal and 1823 service will also be implemented in 2019. $500 million will be allocated for organising an annual City I&T Grand Challenge in the next five years. To create a vibrant I&T atmosphere in the community, the government will openly invite various sectors to put forward I&T solutions to tackle issues closely related to our daily lives.

International I&T Hub
The government will continue to develop the Greater Bay Area into an international I&T hub. With key agreements signed, achievements have been made in cross-boundary collaboration of research and development, policy and funding. With full national support, unprecedented opportunities lie ahead for I&T development.