Hong Kong Unveils Policy Address Targeting AI Literacy, Autonomous Driving, and Aviation Growth
Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee announced the region's first Five-Year Plan (2026–2030) and 2026 Policy Address, introducing major tech initiatives such as a "Universal AI" scheme offering over 200 courses by Q1 2028. The plan also prioritizes scaling cross-border autonomous driving projects, establishing computing infrastructure at the Shaling Data Park, and helping domestic Chinese aircraft enter international markets. This roadmap underscores Hong Kong's ambition to transition into a high-tech center while integrating more deeply with Mainland China's Greater Bay Area. By focusing on AI education, high-performance computing infrastructure, and green aviation, Hong Kong seeks to maintain its global competitiveness in the digital economy. Specific targets include establishing a national manufacturing innovation center focused on power semiconductors by 2027 and building Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) blending facilities in Hong Kong. The government will also review legal frameworks to better accommodate broad AI and data deployment while continuing to enhance cross-border vehicle mobility initiatives.
## BACKGROUND
Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is an alternative fuel produced from renewable waste that can cut aviation carbon emissions by up to 85%, serving as a critical component in the global push toward net-zero aviation. Meanwhile, infrastructure projects like the Shaling Data Park in Hong Kong's Northern Metropolis aim to supply the massive computing power required to train and run modern AI models.