16th June 2026
By Anjali Kochhar
Five-Year Plan Targets Inclusive Growth, AI-Driven Innovation, and Better Jobs
Hong Kong is preparing to launch its first-ever five-year development plan, a comprehensive blueprint aimed at addressing economic disparities, improving living standards, and creating more high-quality employment opportunities for residents. Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po highlighted the initiative on Sunday, describing it as a major step toward strengthening the city’s long-term economic and social development.
According to Chan, one of the plan’s primary objectives will be to modernize and transform Hong Kong’s economy to meet future challenges and opportunities. The government intends to make greater use of advanced technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), to drive innovation, enhance productivity, and support sustainable economic growth. Beyond economic expansion, the plan will focus on ensuring that the benefits of development are shared more widely across society.
Chan emphasized that the five-year strategy is not solely about increasing economic output. It is also designed to promote more inclusive and equitable growth by improving residents’ quality of life, expanding access to better-paying jobs, and creating opportunities for social advancement. He noted that technology and innovation would play a central role in helping the city achieve these goals.
Northern Metropolis to Anchor Hong Kong’s Future Industries and Innovation Hub
A key component of the blueprint is the development of the Northern Metropolis, a large-scale urban and economic project in northern Hong Kong. Chan described the megaproject as a “spatial carrier” for emerging and future industries, providing the infrastructure and land needed to support innovation-driven sectors and attract investment. The Northern Metropolis is expected to become an important hub for technology, research, and advanced industries in the years ahead.
Chief Executive John Lee Launches Two-Month Public Consultation Process
The initiative is being spearheaded by Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu, who has pledged to complete the blueprint before the end of the year. Lee recently announced that a two-month public consultation period would begin on Monday, allowing residents and stakeholders to contribute ideas and feedback on the plan.Members of the public will be able to submit their views through dedicated government websites, while officials will also organize consultation sessions with lawmakers, industry representatives, and various community groups. The government hopes that broad public participation will help shape a plan that supports both economic competitiveness and social well-being for Hong Kong’s future.
