High hopes on HK to spearhead innovation

Senior officials and delegates at China's two sessions meetings are calling on Hong Kong to anchor the nation's drive for technological self-reliance, leveraging the city's elite universities and global financial connectivity to meet goals outlined in the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30).

Lou Qinjian, spokesman for the fourth session of the 14th National People's Congress, told a news conference on Wednesday that the central government explicitly supports transforming Hong Kong and Macao into a "global highland" for high-caliber talent.

Lou said he is confident the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region will reach new heights by aligning its "distinctive advantages" — including its connection to international markets and the support of the mainland — with national strategic needs.

The annual session of the 14th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference kicked off on Wednesday; the annual session of the 14th NPC opens on Thursday.

Andrew Yao Cho-fai, an NPC deputy and council chairman of Lingnan University, proposed using the city's academic standing to fuel the 15th Five-Year Plan's science and technology agenda. Yao noted that Hong Kong boasts five of the world's top 100 universities and has implemented various admission schemes to attract global talent.

Yao suggested that top mainland universities and research institutions establish branches in Hong Kong to foster international collaboration. He also urged universities to provide venture funds and enterprise partnerships to help undergraduates transition from research to entrepreneurship.

"This helps turn their research into industrial growth, jobs, and GDP," Yao said.

Johnny Ng Kit-chong, a CPPCC National Committee member and tech entrepreneur, said Hong Kong's position under the "one country, two systems" framework allows for a seamless flow of capital and information that is vital for developing AI. He noted that AI development is a priority in the 15th Five-Year Plan and relies heavily on data and funding.

He further argued that Hong Kong's access to global data and international capital gives it a distinct edge over mainland-only application scenarios, particularly in fields like quantum technology.

Ng also proposed establishing Hong Kong as a pilot zone for private sector aerospace initiatives. He noted that while State-owned enterprises lead China's aerospace sector, Hong Kong's international networks could facilitate better coordination with global partners.

William Wong Kam-fai, a CPPCC National Committee member and professor at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, focused on the potential for a "full-chain mechanism" involving the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. Wong said Hong Kong's research strengths and global networks could be paired with Shenzhen's industrial manufacturing capabilities to accelerate development in sectors such as marine science and technology.