HK opens 5,500 datasets to boost AI and data innovation

The Hong Kong government has made over 5,500 datasets freely available to the public and private sectors through its open-data platform, as part of efforts to drive innovation in artificial intelligence (AI) and data applications.

Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry Sun Dong announced the move at an AI and data forum, urging businesses and researchers to harness these resources to fuel the city’s economic growth.

Responsible AI development

Sun emphasized the importance of safe and responsible AI development, highlighting that the Digital Policy Office had released guidelines in April to promote the ethical use of generative AI.

He mentioned that users must take primary responsibility when developing and applying AI tools. The guidelines are aimed at creating a secure, reliable, and sustainable environment for AI innovation.

AI is a key industry

The government has identified AI as a priority sector for Hong Kong’s economy. To support this, authorities have opened datasets from over 110 government bureaus, departments, and public-private organizations, covering areas like transport, environment, and urban planning. 

Sun said the initiative will enhance data transparency and reliability, fostering better information sharing and business opportunities.

Boosting computing power and funding

To strengthen Hong Kong’s AI capabilities, the government is investing in local computing infrastructure. The Cyberport Artificial Intelligence Supercomputing Centre, launched last year, is already operating at over 90 percent capacity. 

Additionally, a HK$3 billion AI funding scheme has approved 10 projects, including local large-language models and medical AI applications.

Cyberport’s smart data platform

Cyberport chairman Simon Chan Sai-ming revealed plans to establish a Data Services Platform in the upcoming Cyberport 5 development, integrating with the AI Supercomputing Centre to help startups accelerate R&D. 

Chan stressed the importance of cross-sector collaboration to tackle challenges like data security, regulatory compliance, and tech integration.

Greater Bay Area data partnership

During the forum, Cyberport, the Guangzhou Data Exchange, and China Unicom signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to promote data collaboration between Hong Kong and Guangdong. Yan said the agreement will strengthen Hong Kong’s role as an international innovation and data hub.