Why Hong Kong Could Become the AI Capital Bridging East and West

Why Hong Kong Could Become the AI Capital Bridging East and West

Hong Kong is emerging as a strategic hub for artificial intelligence, connecting the technological strengths of East and West while leveraging its education, financial systems, and business infrastructure to drive AI adoption in enterprises worldwide, according to executives at PwC.

Hong Kong’s Edge in AI Transformation

As companies aim to scale AI beyond pilot projects—using it not just for problem-solving but to unlock new revenue opportunities—Hong Kong is “well-positioned” to capitalize on the technology’s potential, said Joe Atkinson, chief AI officer at PwC Global.

“Hong Kong serves as a powerful connector, bringing together capabilities from around the world to address business challenges in industrial AI and supply chains,” Atkinson told the Post. “Its education system, financial institutions, and business environment all play an important role in driving AI transformation.”

A Hub for Research and Innovation

AI promises not only efficiency and productivity gains but also innovation, creativity, and scientific discovery. According to Vishy Narayanan, digital and AI leader at PwC Asia-Pacific, Hong Kong could become a leading R&D hub that blends the strengths of both Western and Eastern technologies.

Proximity to mainland China allows Hong Kong to tap into a growing AI ecosystem while maintaining international connectivity, making it an attractive location for global AI investment and collaboration.

China’s Role and Hong Kong’s Advantage

China has rapidly advanced alongside the US, EU, and Japan in the global AI race, fueled by breakthroughs such as DeepSeek’s low-cost, highly efficient AI models, as well as strong government backing, according to the Deep Knowledge Group.

Hong Kong benefits from this proximity and strategic support from Beijing, positioning it as a gateway for AI-driven innovation to the global market, said King Au King-lun, executive director of the city’s Financial Services Development Council (FSDC), which contributed to the report.

A Growing AI Ecosystem

With its unique combination of international business infrastructure, academic excellence, and financial strength, Hong Kong is poised to bridge Eastern innovation with Western expertise, potentially shaping the next wave of AI adoption in industries ranging from finance to manufacturing.

As AI continues to expand globally, Hong Kong’s role as a neutral, connected hub could make it a pivotal player in the worldwide AI landscape.