Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry Sun Dong has urged small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to adopt artificial intelligence to boost their competitiveness, as the government pushes to deepen AI integration across industries.

Speaking at the "AI with HKPC" Smart Solutions Showcase Series - an event gathering industry leaders and tech experts - Sun said authorities are keen to strengthen AI infrastructure and application-driven growth.

The three-day event is designed to offer SMEs one-stop support in governance, technology and talent, guiding them from pilot AI projects to full implementation.

"The government has been comprehensively advancing AI development in areas such as research, computing power, data, talent and funding, steadily implementing various policy measures." Sun said.

He highlighted a HK$3 billion AI subsidy scheme launched to help local universities, research institutions and enterprises access the city’s supercomputing centre, with nearly 20 projects having been funded so far.

To further support businesses, the Digital Policy Office will launch a Digital Corporate Identity platform this year, featuring an AI assistant to provide more personalised government services and help lower operational costs.

Sun also confirmed that the Digital Transformation Support Pilot Programme will now include AI and cybersecurity solutions, explicitly encouraging SMEs to use AI to strengthen their market position.

"Artificial intelligence is changing the world at an unprecedented pace," he said.

"Hong Kong possesses unique strengths in its research foundation, international talent and open market environment, making it the ideal ground for promoting AI industrialisation."

He emphasised that AI is a key industry for the city’s transformation into an international innovation and technology hub.

The event, organised by the Hong Kong Productivity Council, features multiple booths showcasing practical AI tools aimed at optimising operations, improving customer experience, automating sales and marketing and strengthening risk management.

Sunny Tan, the council's chairman, said AI is a strategic industry that can help businesses accelerate smart transformation, boost innovation and enhance competitiveness.