December 22, 2025
By Our Correspondent
Hong Kong is among the world’s most prepared economies for artificial intelligence (AI) development, according to an assessment by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the Our Hong Kong Foundation (OHKF) said on Friday.
The assessment is part of UNCTAD’s 2025 Technology and Innovation Report: Inclusive Artificial Intelligence for Development, which evaluates AI readiness across more than 100 economies. The report measures preparedness in three key areas: infrastructure, data, and skills. According to OHKF, which participated in the report’s preparation, Hong Kong ranked as a global leader in all three categories.
Lillian Cheong Man-lei, Under Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government, said Hong Kong would continue to act as a bridge between East and West by sharing its expertise, fostering cross-sector collaboration, and supporting advances in artificial intelligence.
The report estimates that the global AI market could reach US$4.8 trillion by 2033. It notes that AI has the potential to enhance other emerging technologies and strengthen human–machine collaboration, particularly when combined with blockchain, big data, and the Internet of Things, driving digital transformation across industries.
Alex Mak, head of Greater Bay Area Development at OHKF, said Hong Kong enjoys unique advantages as a conduit between the Chinese mainland and the international community. He suggested the city explore mutual recognition mechanisms with other economies and consider establishing an internationally recognized AI standards and certification platform.
