Hong Kong will launch an artificial intelligence research institute in the second half of 2026.

Hong Kong to Launch AI Research Institute in Second Half of 2026

Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee announced on April 14th that the government will launch the Hong Kong AI Research Institute in the second half of 2026. The institute aims to promote AI applications in healthcare, legal services, and finance. Lee made the announcement via a video address at the 2026 International Academician Forum in Hong Kong, organized by the International Academy of Astronautics (IAA) and the Hong Kong Association of Overseas-Returned Scholars (HKAORS).

The Hong Kong government is actively implementing the national "AI+" initiative and will continue to advance generative AI, STEAM education, and clinical trial development. Related plans include building a Greater Bay Area clinical trial cooperation platform and supporting application center—covering Hong Kong, Macau, and nine cities in Guangdong province—to accelerate commercialization of cutting-edge research.

The moves are aimed at strengthening Hong Kong's position as an international innovation and technology hub and attracting top global talent.