A delegation led by the Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, visited Lisbon, Portugal to strengthen ties between Hong Kong and Portugal’s innovation and technology (I&T) sectors. The visit is part of Hong Kong’s ongoing efforts to expand global cooperation in science, technology, and industrial innovation.

Image credits: The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Press Releases

By engaging with key stakeholders in Portugal’s tech ecosystem, the delegation aimed to explore potential synergies, investment opportunities, and knowledge exchange that could drive economic growth and technological advancements in both regions.

During the visit, Professor Sun and the delegation explored Taguspark, Portugal’s largest science and technology park and incubator. They gained insights into Taguspark’s efforts in attracting technology companies, advancing applied science and technology, and driving economic activities across multiple sectors.

The delegation also met with representatives from the Oeiras Valley Investment Agency to discuss the municipality’s economic development and investment strategies. Both parties exchanged views on fostering collaboration between innovation parks in Hong Kong and Portugal, as well as facilitating enterprise-level exchanges and investments. Discussions also included interactions with several local enterprises.

Professor Sun also met with Mr Zhao Bentang, China’s Ambassador to Portugal, to outline Hong Kong’s latest I&T initiatives, including efforts to promote new industrialisation and high-quality economic growth. They also explored potential areas of cooperation between Hong Kong and Portugal in the I&T sector.

The delegation included representatives from the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTPC), Cyberport, the Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute, and the Hong Kong Microelectronics Research and Development Institute.

Additionally, 24 local I&T enterprises and institutions participated, with HKSTPC and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) coordinating their involvement for a recent global event in Barcelona.

This visit is part of Hong Kong’s broader push to expand its I&T footprint in European markets. As OpenGov Asia reported, at the event in Barcelona, HKSTP and HKTDC showcased the achievements of 24 leading tech companies, marking the largest Hong Kong delegation to date at the world’s largest mobile industry event.

The Hong Kong Tech Pavilion has been making its way through global tech hubs, including its recent stop at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas.

In Europe, Hong Kong’s tech sector is highlighting innovations in Advanced Electronics & Robotics, AI & Data, and Digital Transformation. The showcased solutions – from AI-integrated products to automation services – have received strong interest, reflecting Hong Kong’s commitment to driving global technological progress.

Further solidifying these efforts, two key agreements were signed in Barcelona to enhance Hong Kong’s tech collaboration with Europe. HKSTP formalised a partnership with 22@Network Barcelona, while HKTDC signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Barcelona City Council. Witnessed by Professor Sun, these agreements aim to promote sustainable innovation and technology cooperation between the two cities.

As one of the world’s top emerging startup ecosystems, Hong Kong ranks third globally after Madrid and Barcelona. According to 2024 government data, companies from the EU make up the largest foreign business community in Hong Kong, with 1,640 firms operating in the city. The technology sector plays a crucial role in this figure, underscoring the importance of strengthening I&T collaborations between Hong Kong and Europe.

To build on this momentum, HKSTP will partner with the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in London (London ETO), Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK), and the Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises (OASES) to co-organise a seminar in London. This initiative will provide a platform for potential investors, partners, and high-calibre talent to explore opportunities in Hong Kong’s thriving tech ecosystem, further reinforcing the city’s role as a global leader in innovation and technology.