AI ‘central plank’ in Hong Kong’s economic development, John Lee says

Hong Kong’s high-quality economic development will be guided by its first five-year blueprint and the coming policy address, with artificial intelligence (AI) as the “central plank”, the city’s leader has said.

Speaking at the South China Morning Post’s China Conference 2026 on Tuesday, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu also said Hong Kong’s “one country, two systems” advantages and commitment to innovation and technology position the city to connect the world with opportunities in an AI-powered future.

“Hong Kong is recognised worldwide for its openness, deep international networks and role as a vital bridge between mainland China and the rest of the world,” he said.

This year’s China Conference, themed “Intelligence at Scale: Hong Kong’s AI-Powered Future”, is primarily sponsored by Manulife.

The government last month launched a two-month public consultation on its first five-year plan, aiming to publish the blueprint in the third quarter.

Lee described the plan as a “historic milestone” and a strategic road map aligning Hong Kong with the national 15th five-year plan, which will guide the country’s development from 2026 to 2030.