Hong Kong to set up firm to speed up San Tin Technopole, boost I&T industry
Innovation chief says project expected to contribute HK$250 billion or more to GDP annually upon full operation and provide over 300,000 full-time jobs
Hong Kong authorities will consider setting up a company to drive the development of a new innovation hub near the border, with the base focusing on prototyping, pilot production and small-scale manufacturing as strategic bets for the future.
Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry Sun Dong said on Thursday that the five-phase development of the San Tin Technopole would take 10 years to complete preliminarily, with the project expected to provide over 300,000 full-time jobs and generate HK$250 billion (US$32 billion) or more for Hong Kong’s economy annually when fully operational.
“Given our unique advantages and determination in developing the I&T industry, the San Tin Technopole will offer land that the city has been lacking. It serves as an ideal condition in luring the leading enterprises for our next step,” Sun said, striking an optimistic tone.
Sun pointed to the positive market response to the development of the Hong Kong park under the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Cooperation Zone in the Lok Ma Chau Loop.
He said 27 proposals had been submitted in the expression of interest for 10 land parcels in the park from developers, users and platform companies.