Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee today outlined the city's latest strategy for artificial intelligence (AI) development, anchoring its core principles on "technology for good" and "safe and controllable" implementation, while launching seven key actions for AI risk governance to address the challenges posed by the technology's rapid proliferation.

Lee noted that as AI transitions from its initial promotional phase into a stage of widespread application, the Hong Kong SAR government's role will shift toward fostering "risk self-management" and standardized oversight. He emphasized that the essence of setting such targets is about "surpassing yesterday's self" rather than merely pursuing external rankings.

Regarding research investment, he stated that the goal is to lift R&D expenditure from 1.63% of GDP to 3%. Policy measures have evolved from relying solely on government grants to leveraging guiding funds and matching funds to stimulate industry and private-sector investment.

He cited a case involving environmental data processing, noting that AI applications can boost work efficiency tenfold and substantially cut costs, while simultaneously introducing new risks and challenges that require vigilance.

Hong Kong's Financial Secretary Paul Chan also stressed that the city will capitalize on the "cross-border data" advantages of the Sha Ling data centre and the Hetao Cooperation Zone. Combined with Hong Kong's status as an international financial hub, this will provide the computing power, data, and funding necessary for the AI industry, all while maintaining a delicate balance between development and security.