Embrace AI to boost competitiveness, Paul Chan says at tech festival opening

Humanoid robots, 3D printers and artificial intelligence (AI) hubs were showcased at Hong Kong's annual electronics and technology exhibition. Finance Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po encouraged residents to learn how to use these technologies during the opening of the four-day event. This year's festival, themed "AI Connect: Let's Link the World," will be hosted from August 21 to 24 and features an "AI and digital transformation zone."

Chan emphasized the importance of learning AI as it rapidly advances, raising concerns over jobs, privacy, governance and security. He argued that residents who effectively utilize AI would benefit rather than be left behind, pointing to the rise of AI agents enabling "one-person companies" and "one-person unicorns." The government is applying AI to public services to improve efficiency and service quality.

Blueeyes International, a first-time exhibitor, displayed 10 models of 3D printers from mainland China, priced from HK$2,000 to HK$20,000. My Robot Time, another first-time exhibitor, brought humanoid robots aimed at the K-12 education market. On Talent Technology showcased AI hubs, a platform to help companies build a knowledge base and manage information.

A resident, Bernie Concepcion, expressed excitement about the festival while looking for computer parts.