Following is the speech by the Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, at the Future Technology · Future Scenarios · Future Talent - Youth Scientists and Industry Application Scenario Matching Forum today (October 15):

Sophia (Executive Director of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, Ms Sophia Chong), Paul (Chairman of the Hong Kong Electronic Industries Association, Mr Paul So), Clara (Chief Executive Officer of the Hong Kong Investment Corporation Limited, Ms Clara Chan), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

     Good morning. It gives me great pleasure to join you today at the Young Scientists and Industry Application Scenario Matching Forum.

     Scientific breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, robotics, life and health technology, advanced manufacturing and new materials are opening up new possibilities for economic and social development. Yet, technological advancement alone does not guarantee successful commercialisation. Promising research must be tested, validated and refined to meet actual market needs before it can develop into commercially viable products, services and industries.

     This is where a scenario-driven approach becomes particularly important. Hong Kong itself offers a rich test bed through its advanced public services, infrastructure and international connectivity. Combined with the GBA (Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area)'s extensive manufacturing capabilities and supply chains, we offer enterprises unmatched opportunities for pilot testing and market entry. Furthermore, the Government is supporting the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks in exploring the establishment of the Innovation and Technology Application Scenario Promotion Centre, with a view to matching the practical needs of public and private sectors with innovative technological solutions provided by local I&T (innovation and technology) enterprises. This resonates with the "30 × 30" matching initiative of today's event that aims at connecting technologies with actual industrial demands.

     We are also accelerating the development of Hong Kong's new industrialisation system. The New Industrialisation Funding Scheme has already funded nearly 150 smart production lines so far. Through the HK$10 billion New Industrialisation Acceleration Scheme, we are also supporting enterprises in establishing advanced manufacturing facilities in Hong Kong. Meanwhile, the Microelectronics Research and Development Institute (MRDI) is taking lead in establishing Hong Kong’s first national manufacturing innovation centre. The two pilot lines of the MRDI will start operation this year and focus on the R&D (research and development) and trial production of third‑generation semiconductors.

     Innovation transfer is a people-driven process. This requires not only scientific expertise, but also an understanding of the industry needs, intellectual property management and business development. To this end, our InnoHK research clusters have brought together some 3 000 researchers from institutions that are among the global top echelon to collaborate with local institutions to set up research centres or laboratories in Hong Kong. 

     To provide the fertile soil for local talents to grow, Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks has expanded its Talent Foundry programme to provide training for local university students, researchers, career newcomers and professionals, focusing on AI+ and emerging technologies. We will also introduce a young researcher category under the Innovation and Technology Support Programme, strengthening support for young scientists to explore and pursue a career in new I&T disciplines.

     Ladies and gentlemen, turning scientific discoveries into future industries calls for real application scenarios and capable talents. I trust that today's exchanges will yield tangible collaborations, helping more breakthrough technologies march successfully towards commercialisation and offering broader social impact.

     I wish today's forum every success, and all of you a rewarding exchange. Thank you.

Ends/Thursday, October 15, 2026
Issued at HKT 12:05

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