HK 'can become hub for embodied AI robot development'

Financial Secretary Paul Chan stated on Monday that Hong Kong can assume a unique and significant role in the development of embodied artificial intelligence. He highlighted that the city provides an international application scenario for robots, a flourishing research and development ecosystem, and financial support. At the inauguration of the inaugural group of autonomous retail stores featuring humanoid robots from mainland company Galbot, Chan emphasized that the SAR must allow for new technologies to spur innovation.

"Hong Kong's high population density offers efficient and varied scenarios, along with a high level of internationalization," he explained. "Galbot, one of the leading players in embodied AI, has chosen Hong Kong to showcase its most advanced technologies." This marks a crucial step for the corporation to broaden its international business and disseminate its technology abroad.

Chan expressed the government's full support for the application of embodied AI in Hong Kong. He also noted that Hong Kong has the capability to become a hub for research and development, as well as manufacturing, for next-generation embodied AI robots due to its strong links with the Greater Bay Area (GBA). The SAR is equipped with intellectual property safeguards, international data access, and talent cultivated by prestigious universities, while neighboring GBA cities boast world-leading capabilities in cutting-edge manufacturing.

Clara Chan, CEO of the government-owned Hong Kong Investment Corporation, commented that the company's two-year investment in Galbot has yielded positive outcomes. She expressed hope that the emergence of embodied AI will stimulate Hong Kong's industrial, economic, and social progress.