HK to boost sci-tech research with major funding: CE Lee

Hong Kong will invest substantial resources to support scientific research and health technology development, with over US$250 million allocated for the InnoHK research clusters to set up in the Hetao tech park, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Asia Summit on Global Health, Lee highlighted Hong Kong’s “unique connectivity” with mainland and the world, pledging to develop the city into a leading hub for scientific innovation, technological advancement, and world-class education.

He indicated that the Hong Kong Park of the Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone is ready for its operational phase later this year, with 29 InnoHK research centers and laboratories focused on health tech and AI set to establish facilities there.

In related developments at the Zone’s Hong Kong Park, the newly operational Greater Bay Area International Clinical Trial Institute has launched a collaboration with two local medical schools last week.

Lee revealed that the Institute is expected to facilitate over 70 clinical trial projects, coordinating cross-boundary trials and fostering connections with GBA institutions in the coming year.

To facilitate data sharing and accelerate new drug approvals, he stated that the SAR government is collaborating with Shenzhen authorities to establish a Real-World Study and Application Centre before year-end.

Besides, the city is injecting US$770 million to subsidize local universities in building health technology research institutes, strengthening academic collaboration in life and health sciences.

Lee emphasized that global healthcare and trade challenges necessitate cooperation over isolation, reiterating Hong Kong’s commitment to fostering meaningful partnerships and innovative collaborations.

(Cheng Wong)