Hong Kong is positioning itself to attract more artificial intelligence talent as the city looks to strengthen its technology capabilities under its first five-year plan.

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said the city’s international connectivity, access to national and global opportunities, and stability under the “one country, two systems” framework would help draw talent and investment.

The five-year plan calls for closer alignment with national science and technology strategies, including AI, while the 2026 Policy Address proposes expanding the city’s Talent List to cover more AI-related professions. The government is also reviewing demand for AI talent across industries and plans to update the list in the first half of next year.

Alongside attracting talent, Hong Kong plans to expand AI literacy across schools and industries, while supporting small and medium-sized enterprises in adopting AI and cybersecurity solutions.

The government has also proposed HK$300 million to establish a social welfare AI laboratory, using technology to ease frontline workloads and improve services.