Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu on Thursday praised the vast potential and diverse applications of the low-altitude economy. He also affirmed the government's commitment to fostering this sector by creating an ecological environment tailored to Hong Kong's needs, which will spearhead its development and shape its future.
Lee's remarks followed his social media post earlier today, where he described the low-altitude economy as one of the nation's strategically emerging industries and a model for exploring new, high-quality productive forces. He noted the significant benefits this could bring to both the economic and social spheres of Hong Kong.
In his 2024 policy address, Lee proposed a series of initiatives to boost the low-altitude economy, including the creation of a Working Group on Developing the Low-altitude Economy. This group is expected to inject new vitality into Hong Kong's economy and enhance the quality of life of its residents.
Additionally, Lee mentioned that he attended the launch ceremony of the Low-altitude Economy Regulatory Sandbox, which featured 15 exhibition areas demonstrating applications in logistics, public services, and scientific research, among others. He engaged in detailed discussions with the leaders of each exhibition area to gauge the latest advancements in their projects.
A notable highlight was the Fire Services Department's demonstration, where drones equipped with image analysis software significantly reduced the time required to locate individuals during search and rescue operations.
Lee expressed optimism about the pilot projects of the Regulatory Sandbox, noting their direct relevance to improving livelihoods and economic development. He anticipates their broader implementation and widespread application to boost social welfare through technological advancements.
Reiterating the immense potential and wide-ranging application scenarios of the low-altitude economy, Lee stated that it could propel the development of communication technology, artificial intelligence, and the digital industry, thereby serving as a new engine for future economic growth.
The government, he added, will continue to promote the development of this sector by establishing a conducive ecological environment, leading its advancement and paving the way for the future.
Meanwhile, Jacqueline Kang Junjun, chairman of Shanghe Technology, shared insights into the company's role as the first to deploy a low-altitude control service system in Zhuhai City on the mainland.
She announced Shanghe Technology's plans to actively participate in Hong Kong's low-altitude economy development and collaborate with the Regulatory Sandbox project.
This collaboration aims to explore low-altitude application scenarios in Hong Kong, promoting the integrated development of low-altitude spaces across the Greater Bay Area.
