Hong Kong goes long on AI, plans for deployment in 200 public services by 2027

Hong Kong plans to integrate artificial intelligence into at least 200 public service procedures by the end of 2027, marking one of the city’s most ambitious digital transformation initiatives. Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu announced the sweeping reform as part of his policy address, positioning AI development as both an industry priority and a tool for creating more efficient, tech-driven government services.

The timeline: Hong Kong will deploy AI tools across 100 different government procedures by 2026 alone, before expanding to 200 procedures by 2027.

• The technology will target areas including data analysis, customer service, and expediting approval processes for licenses and permits.
• This represents one of the most significant technological reforms for the administration, which has faced pressure to streamline operations and improve service delivery.

What they’re saying: Lee emphasized that artificial intelligence should be developed comprehensively across sectors, not just as isolated applications.

• “AI is a must. We welcome any technology and company to come in. Hong Kong is a free and open port. We have no control of people-to-people flow, data flow,” Lee said.

Leadership structure: A new high-level AI Efficacy Enhancement Team will be established by the end of this year to guide the citywide digital transformation.

• The team will be led by senior officials and include private sector expertise.
• It will offer advice and solutions to various government departments as they implement AI-driven processes.

Why this matters: The initiative positions Hong Kong as a regional leader in government AI adoption while addressing longstanding bureaucratic inefficiencies that have hindered public service delivery. The move also signals the city’s broader strategy to establish itself as an AI development hub in Asia.