Following is the speech by the Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, at the Cyberport Venture Capital Forum 2025 today (November 6):

Simon (Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited, Mr Simon Chan), Hendrick (Chairman of the Cyberport Investors Network Steering Group, Mr Hendrick Sin), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

     I am glad to join you all today at the Cyberport Venture Capital Forum (CVCF) again this year.   

     Before I start, I am delighted to share some exciting news that underscores Hong Kong's growing stature in the global digital landscape. Just two days ago, the International Institute for Management Development released its latest World Digital Competitiveness Ranking 2025, in which Hong Kong achieved an impressive fourth place globally. This marks a continued upward trajectory - we climbed three positions last year, and we rose again by three more places this year. Such progress reflects not only our resilience and adaptability in this ever-evolving digital world but also our determination and capability to develop Hong Kong into an international innovation and technology (I&T) centre.

     Hong Kong has long been an ideal landing place for I&T enterprises and investors from the Mainland and overseas. Recognising the potential of AI as a key driver for our future growth, we continue to strengthen the AI readiness of our community, from upgrading our digital infrastructure, to establishing our own AI (artificial intelligence) research institute, to grooming talent on the AI front. These initiatives will fuel the growth of AI as a key industry in Hong Kong and reinforce Hong Kong's role as an international I&T centre.

      Cyberport has made significant contributions to the local I&T ecosystem. Over the years, Cyberport has developed and sustained a vibrant community that empowers digital pioneers and start-ups to thrive. Its success in attracting around 470 enterprises to land here last year resonates strongly with Hong Kong's vision. 

      Today's forum perfectly aligns with Cyberport's mission to connect visionary entrepreneurs with strategic investors. Beyond merely providing a starting point for start-ups, the $400 million Cyberport Macro Fund leverages private capital at a scale of one to nine, connecting Cyberport digital entrepreneurs with market capital and enabling projects with potential to expand by turning breakthroughs in R&D (research and development) into commercial successes.   

      The forum also showcases the dynamic lineup of high-potential start-ups within the Cyberport community and demonstrates how Hong Kong stands at the forefront of creativity and technology. This is a launch pad for ventures that aspire not just to succeed locally but to make waves internationally.

     ​Under the theme "The Innovation-Venture Nexus: Igniting Transformative Success", I trust that today's forum will enlighten participants on how bold ideas and breakthrough technologies are driving a new wave of transformative growth. May this gathering not only inspire deal flows and collaboration but also reinforce our city's position as a leading I&T hub.

     Before I conclude, I would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone that the Legislative Council General Election will take place on December 7, 2025. It is vital for all eligible voters to exercise their right and cast their votes. Your vote is important for us to build a prosperous and innovative Hong Kong for the years to come.

     Let's continue to embrace growth together, where bold ideas meet smart capital, and where our future is launched. Thank you, and I wish CVCF 2025 every success.

Ends/Thursday, November 6, 2025
Issued at HKT 10:54

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