Group 1 - The core viewpoint emphasizes that innovation and technology (referred to as "创科") have become the core driving force for high-quality development in Hong Kong, marking a significant shift from previous economic focuses [1] - The contribution of innovation and technology to Hong Kong's economic growth is substantial, with related activities such as product design, data and software services, and technical development gaining increasing importance [2] - The value added from "computer programming, data, and industrial internet services" increased from HKD 5 billion to HKD 25.5 billion from 2000 to 2023, representing a growth of over four times [2] Group 2 - The development of innovation and technology is changing the local economic ecosystem and creating a more favorable business environment, particularly benefiting the financial market [3] - In the first half of the year, the total amount raised through IPOs in Hong Kong reached HKD 107.1 billion, a sevenfold increase year-on-year, making it the highest globally [3] - Notable mainland tech companies are using Hong Kong as a strategic base for international expansion, with companies like CATL successfully raising funds for European projects [3][5] Group 3 - The innovation and technology sector is fostering a vibrant employment and entrepreneurial ecosystem in Hong Kong, with record applications for internships and job vacancies in related fields [5] - The number of startups in Hong Kong has surged to approximately 4,700 by the end of last year, indicating a thriving innovation ecosystem that is expected to generate more job opportunities [5] Group 4 - Hong Kong is home to five world-class universities, which rely on excellent research outcomes and talent to maintain their global rankings [6][9] - The presence of top researchers in various fields has led to significant scientific achievements, enhancing Hong Kong's reputation in global research [7] Group 5 - The contribution of innovation and technology extends to enhancing smart city initiatives and improving government governance, with the "Smart Convenience" platform serving nearly 3.6 million users [10] - The government is leveraging technology to improve public services, including collaborations with research institutions to enhance efficiency in various sectors [12] Group 6 - The rapid evolution of generative artificial intelligence is showcasing its potential in social governance and public services, with numerous projects utilizing AI technology [13] - The establishment of the Hong Kong Generative AI Research Center aims to develop local AI models and applications to improve government operations and public service delivery [13] Group 7 - The flourishing innovation and technology sector is enhancing Hong Kong's soft power, with the city hosting various international tech events and awards [14] - Events like the "Hong Kong International Innovation and Technology Expo" and the "Future Science Prize" are elevating Hong Kong's global influence in the innovation sector [14]

Core Viewpoint - Innovation and technology (referred to as "创科") have become the core driving force for high-quality development in Hong Kong, marking a significant shift from traditional industries to a more technology-driven economy [2][3]. Group 1: Economic Contribution of Innovation and Technology - The contribution of innovation and technology to Hong Kong's economic growth has become substantial, with activities related to product design, data and software services, technology development, and professional technical services gaining increasing importance [4]. - From 2000 to 2023, the value added from "computer programming, data, and industrial internet services" increased from 5 billion HKD to 25.5 billion HKD, more than quadrupling; the value added from "R&D, design, testing, and environmental engineering services" rose from 3.3 billion HKD to 13.3 billion HKD, growing approximately threefold [4]. - In 2023, the value added from "manufacturing and new industrial sectors" was 76.8 billion HKD, a 7.6% increase from the previous year, accounting for 2.6% of local GDP [4]. Group 2: Changing Business Environment - The development of innovation and technology is transforming Hong Kong's economic ecosystem, creating a more favorable business environment, particularly in the financial market [6]. - In the first half of the year, the total amount raised through IPOs in Hong Kong reached 107.1 billion HKD, a sevenfold increase year-on-year, making it the largest globally, with tech sector companies playing a significant role [6][7]. - The Hong Kong Stock Exchange has optimized listing rules to facilitate the listing of tech companies, which is expected to attract more innovation-driven enterprises to raise funds in Hong Kong [7]. Group 3: Employment and Talent Development - The innovation and technology sector is fostering a vibrant employment and entrepreneurial ecosystem, with record applications for internship programs at the Hong Kong Science Park [9]. - In the first quarter, there was a 10% increase in full-time job vacancies for local university graduates in electronics, industrial, electrical, and mechanical engineering [9]. - The number of startups in Hong Kong has rapidly increased, reaching approximately 4,700 by the end of last year, supported by the Innovation and Technology Bureau [9]. Group 4: Research and Development - Hong Kong is home to five universities ranked among the world's top 100, which is supported by high-quality research and a strong academic environment [11]. - The city has 1,534 scholars listed among the top 2% of scientists globally, with notable achievements in various fields, including non-invasive prenatal genetic testing and Alzheimer's disease detection [12][14]. Group 5: Smart City and Governance - The contribution of innovation and technology extends to enhancing smart city initiatives and optimizing government governance, with the "Smart Convenience" digital service platform registering nearly 3.6 million users [16]. - The government is leveraging technology to improve public services, including collaborations with research institutions to enhance efficiency in various sectors [16][17]. Group 6: Global Influence and Soft Power - The robust development of innovation and technology in Hong Kong is enhancing its global influence, with the city hosting significant international innovation and technology events [20]. - Events like the "Hong Kong International Innovation and Technology Expo" and the "Future Science Prize" are elevating Hong Kong's status as a global innovation hub [20].