With new opportunities brought by the development of artificial intelligence, Beijing municipality and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region should strengthen exchanges and cooperation to build a new highland for national scientific and technological advancement, industrial insiders said at a sideline forum during the just concluded 2026 Zhongguancun Forum.

"Artificial intelligence, as the core engine for the new round of technological revolution and industrial transformation, presents unprecedented opportunities for technological revolution and industrial transformation," said Edmond Lai Shiao-bun, chief digital officer and chief executive officer of mainland business of the Hong Kong Productivity Council.

Lai reflected on his journey to the United States several weeks ago, noting that many technology companies on the Chinese mainland are in no way inferior to their Western counterparts in technological levels and application scenarios.

"Guided by the national 'AI Plus' initiative, the mainland's AI industry has entered a critical stage of large-scale application, with enterprises now facing an important window for going global. The strengths of mainland enterprises in research and development can be integrated with HKSAR's expertise in international regulations, market knowledge, and technical standards, promoting coordinated development," he said.

Lai said cooperation should be comprehensive, encompassing areas such as frontier technology research, commercialization of research outcomes, talent cultivation, enterprise transformation and international expansion. He also highlighted their collaborative project with Tsinghua University in the field of future industries, which he said exemplifies the potential for partnerships that drive innovation and growth.

Joanna Zhang, general manager of mainland business development of the Hong Kong Productivity Council, echoed Lai's views and cited their initiatives in Guangdong province. These efforts contribute to the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area international science and technology innovation center.

These initiatives align with the country's Five-Year Plan (2026-30), which emphasizes the nation's commitment to enhancing self-reliance and strength in science and technology. The plan underscores the strategic importance of leveraging Hong Kong's unique position as a connector between the mainland and the global community, promoting deeper integration of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area to foster collaboration, innovation and economic growth.

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