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Hong Kong is not only an international financial centre but also a regional innovation hub, the Deputy Commissioner for Innovation and Technology, Mr Andrew Lai, told the "Think Asia, Think Hong Kong" symposium in London yesterday (September 13, London time).
"Think Asia, Think Hong Kong", organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council and being held from September 12 to 16, is a promotion programme aiming to highlight Hong Kong's position as the best platform for British companies looking to tap new business opportunities in the region.
"The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government offers comprehensive and strong support to research and development (R&D) companies, including technological infrastructure, funding support and the collaboration framework with Mainland China." Mr Lai said.
On Hong Kong's technological infrastructure, Mr Lai said the Hong Kong Science Park provided state-of-the-art facilities for R&D companies and a comprehensive incubation programme for start-ups.
"Phases 1 and 2 of the Park are home to over 340 companies from five main industry clusters, namely electronics, information and communication technologies, precision engineering, biotechnology and green technology. Ten of these companies are UK-based. With the success of the first two phases of the Park, the development of Phase 3, which puts an emphasis on green technology, has already commenced," he said.
The HKSAR Government has also set up five R&D centres to facilitate technology transfer and accelerate commercialisation of research output.
In regard to funding support, Mr Lai pointed out that the HKSAR Government's Innovation and Technology Fund supports applied R&D projects by universities, R&D centres and companies. Under the R&D Cash Rebate Scheme launched in April 2010, enterprises conducting applied R&D projects in collaboration with public research institutes can enjoy a 10 per cent cash rebate on their R&D expenditure.
On Hong Kong's unique advantage in accessing the Mainland China market, Mr Lai said the city had established a strong collaboration framework with the Mainland at all levels.
"In particular, the governments of Hong Kong and Shenzhen have formed the Shenzhen-Hong Kong Innovation Circle to promote technological collaboration between the two cities.
"By establishing a presence in Hong Kong, UK companies can benefit from the favourable packages offered by Hong Kong and the Mainland to advance their business in the region." he said.
Ends/Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Issued at HKT 11:50
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