Secretary for Innovation & Technology Alfred Sit today met representatives of chambers to exchange views and gauge their opinions on the innovation and technology (I&T) initiatives outlined in the 2021 Policy Address.

Mr Sit's meetings were with the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce, the Chinese Manufacturers' Association of Hong Kong, the Chinese General Chamber of Commerce and the Hong Kong Chinese Enterprises Association.

Since the delivery of the 2021 Policy Address, the Innovation & Technology Bureau has held more than 10 briefing sessions to engage the research sector, major chambers of commerce and the startup community on the new developments and opportunities under the new blueprint of I&T and to solicit their support.

Mr Sit noted that China has become an important growth engine of the global economy and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area is the best platform for Hong Kong to integrate into the overall development of the country.

The Policy Address proposes to develop the Northern Metropolis with a focus on I&T, to build the San Tin Technopole, and to set up the InnoLife Healthtech Hub in the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation & Technology Park in the Lok Ma Chau Loop.

He said Hong Kong should seize the development opportunities as provided under the National 14th Five-Year Plan and the bay area to create synergy under the concept of Twin Cities, Three Circles and bring the city's unique strengths into full play to better integrate into the overall national development and build a Silicon Valley of the city.

Mr Sit was encouraged by the support and recognition received from the stakeholders during the engagement sessions.

“We will unswervingly drive I&T at full steam through developing infrastructure, supporting research and development, pooling talent, nurturing startups and promoting re-industrialisation.

“This brings massive support to I&T development, injects impetus into Hong Kong's diversified economy, creates more room for our young people and better equips Hong Kong for development into an international I&T hub,” he added.