Boosting innovation and technology: A vision for the Northern Metropolis

Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po said that innovation and technology will play a pivotal role in the Northern Metropolis, highlighting the project's significance for the social and economic advancement of the SAR.

Chan said that the Hong Kong section of the Hetao Shenzhen Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone will commence operations this year. 

To accelerate the development of infrastructure and public facilities in the first phase of the Hong Kong park, Chan has allocated HK$3.7 billion. This initiative is projected to contribute $52 billion to the economy annually and create about 52,000 jobs.

Regarding the San Tin Technopole, Chan said that the 20-hectare tech hub will be developed by the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation, with construction slated to begin in 2026-27. 

The corporation expects to finalize plans in the third quarter of this year.

Also, Chan discussed the rezoning of a 10-hectare site at Sandy Ridge in the North District for data centers, with the necessary procedures anticipated to be completed by mid-year.

Tertiary education is another key focus for the Northern Metropolis, with 90 hectares of land designated for a university town, which will include the city’s third medical school.

(Jamie Liu)