Hong Kong is fast becoming a global hub for cutting-edge innovation and technology. With its strong focus on AI, life and health technology, robotics, and smart city development, Hong Kong is positioning itself as a leader in these fields. A significant contributor to this momentum is Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP), which has been instrumental in attracting top-tier enterprises and fostering an environment that supports technological growth. Through strategic initiatives and resource-rich ecosystems, HKSTP is helping to drive Hong Kong into an international innovation and technology center.
In recent years, several prominent mainland Chinese companies have established their research and development (R&D) centers in Hong Kong, attracted by its robust infrastructure, favorable policies, and strategic position as a gateway between China and international markets. Among these companies are AMEDAC and Haptron Scientific, two shining examples of how HKSTP is supporting tech enterprises to drive regional innovation.
Founded in 2019, AMEDAC aims to revolutionize Electronic Design Automation (EDA) for Integrated Circuit (IC) manufacturing, with a focus on the technologies that power AI, 5G, and IoT.
When selecting a location for its R&D center, Hong Kong stood out due to its strategic position and access to global markets. As AMEDAC CEO Jacky Ni explained, “Hong Kong’s position as a bridge between mainland China and the world makes it the perfect place for developing our core technologies. The city offers access to top-tier talents, world-class research facilities, and invaluable connections to international enterprises.”
AMEDAC focuses on developing EDA software, covering the entire technological process, with urgent needs in areas such as technological exploration, talent development, research and development investment, and funding. Mr Ni pointed out that HKSTP offers a wide range of advantages and resources. The various departments within the park continuously provide support across multiple aspects, including research and development, talent cultivation, and funding. Notably, the collaboration between the Hong Kong and Shenzhen parks has been pivotal in laying a solid foundation for the company’s strategy of “starting in the domestic market, then expanding internationally.”
Talent is the cornerstone of AMEDAC’s success. With over 74% of its team holding advanced degrees from top universities, the company has benefitted from HKSTP’s I&T ecosystem. International professionals have been drawn to Hong Kong by the park’s tenant accommodation support and InnoCell - the smart living and co-creation space, which eases the relocation process. The proximity to Shenzhen, with its technological strengths, further enhances the company’s ability to attract and retain global talent.
Additionally, HKSTP has played a key role in supporting AMEDAC’s R&D efforts. By providing financial guidance and helping navigate funding applications, HKSTP has helped the company scale its technological capabilities. “The support from HKSTP has allowed us to focus on what we do best—advancing the semiconductor industry,” Ni noted.
Another company thriving within the HKSTP ecosystem is Haptron Scientific, a leader in optical force and tactile sensing technologies. Specializing in robotics and haptic feedback systems, Haptron Scientific chose Hong Kong as its R&D hub due to the city’s unique status as a global technology center. CEO Dr Chen Yu shared, “Our mission is to create groundbreaking solutions in robotics, and Hong Kong provided us with the ideal environment to develop our millimeter-scale six-axis force sensor—a game-changing innovation in robotic hand design.”
Similar to AMEDAC, Haptron Scientific’s decision was strongly influenced by the support from HKSTP, which offers access to top-tier international talent and fosters partnerships with academic institutions. Dr Yu continued, “Setting up our R&D center in Hong Kong allows us to connect with leading global research resources, keeping us ahead of the curve in robotics innovation.”
HKSTP’s ecosystem have been vital in helping Haptron Scientific attract international professionals. Moreover, Hong Kong’s proximity to the Greater Bay Area has allowed the company to combine Hong Kong’s research strengths with the region’s manufacturing capabilities, creating a seamless model for transitioning cutting-edge research into practical, market-ready solutions.
“Being in Hong Kong connects us with world-renowned experts and enables collaborations with leading tech companies,” Dr Yu explained. “These collaborations are key to driving our technological innovations.”
HKSTP’s support goes beyond R&D. The park’s promotional efforts have significantly enhanced Haptron Scientific’s visibility in global markets. Through events, product showcases, and media coverage, Haptron Scientific was able to present its groundbreaking solutions to international audiences. Dr Yu emphasized, “HKSTP’s visibility and brand exposure support was a game-changer for us.”
HKSTP also helped facilitate business connections, allowing Haptron Scientific to form strategic partnerships that have been instrumental in expanding its global network. “With continuous support from HKSTP, our development has entered the fast lane,” Dr Yu concluded.
HKSTP: uniting leading enterprises to support the Mainland’s AI Plus Initiative
HKSTP is not just attracting top enterprises like AMEDAC and Haptron Scientific but also actively supporting the development of start-ups and emerging technologies.
According to Dr Sunny Chai, Chairman of HKSTP, “Our mission is to drive Hong Kong into a leading international innovation hub. By supporting both local and international enterprises, we are creating an ecosystem that fosters technological breakthroughs and enhances the city’s global competitiveness.”
HKSTP’s strategy includes providing world-class infrastructure, R&D funding, and business support services to help companies accelerate the commercialization of their innovations. The park is home to over 2,400 companies from 26 countries and regions, with 13 unicorns and more than 15,000 researchers fostering a dynamic environment for knowledge exchange and collaboration.
A key focus for HKSTP is to nurture sectors like AI, robotics, fintech, and life and health technology. The upcoming San Tin Technopole, which spans 20 hectares, will further cement Hong Kong’s leadership in AI and related technologies. Dr Chai added, “San Tin Technopole will be a critical site for developing AI infrastructure, driving enterprise innovation, and accelerating productivity.”
The future of Hong Kong’s technology sector is bright, thanks to the continued efforts of HKSTP and the Hong Kong government. Dr Chai concluded, “At HKSTP, we are committed to building an innovation-driven future. We will continue to support the growth of high-tech industries and foster collaborations that will propel Hong Kong to the forefront of global innovation.”
