13th November, 2026
By Shubhii Verma
Hong Kong Plans 2026 Legislation for Digital Asset Service Providers
Hong Kong plans to introduce legislation by the end of 2026 to regulate virtual asset dealing, advisory, management and custody services, advancing its effort to establish a comprehensive digital asset framework.
Joseph Chan, under secretary for financial services and the treasury, announced the timetable during Hong Kong FinTech Week 2026. The bill forms part of the government’s Policy Statement 2.0 on the Development of Digital Assets in Hong Kong. It is expected to define requirements for service providers and give businesses clearer compliance pathways.
Chan said the city follows the principle of “same activity, same risk, same regulation”. A transparent and predictable framework, he added, is important for attracting innovators and giving market participants certainty.
Technology Policy Extends Beyond Crypto
Hong Kong Expands Technology Strategy Beyond Digital Assets
Financial Secretary Christopher Hui highlighted the convergence of data, tokenisation and artificial intelligence. He described data as an enabler, tokenisation as infrastructure and AI as a source of intelligence. Government agencies, regulators and industry participants are working to translate these technologies into practical applications through legislation, regulatory improvements and talent development.
Innovation and technology under secretary Lillian Cheong pointed to AI initiatives, computing infrastructure and cooperation across the Greater Bay Area. She said start-ups need capital, talent, industry partners and markets to turn research into viable businesses.
Green technology is also part of the strategy. Environment and ecology under secretary Diane Wong cited the HK$400 million Green Tech Fund and the Hong Kong Green Technology Innovation Centre. A Green Technology Bridgehead Programme is expected next year, supporting companies seeking international expansion through Hong Kong.
Commerce and economic development secretary Algernon Yau said the city’s global connections and professional services can help technology firms access overseas markets.
Blockwind News ANALYSIS
Regulatory Clarity Will Determine Hong Kong’s Crypto Market Growth
The proposed bill could be a turning point for Hong Kong’s digital asset ambitions. Clear rules for dealing, advice, management and custody would help close regulatory gaps and make it easier for institutions to assess their legal obligations.
However, the year-end target is only a legislative milestone, not evidence that the framework is ready or that market confidence will automatically follow. Licensing thresholds, client asset segregation, custody standards, capital requirements and supervision will determine whether the regime protects users without discouraging legitimate businesses.
Hong Kong is linking digital assets with AI, data and green technology, positioning fintech within a wider economic strategy. Its challenge will be converting policy announcements into useful infrastructure, credible safeguards and sustained international participation.
