Policy Address

Expand the Application of AI

73. The development of AI must be steered by safety and driven by application. The Government attaches great importance to the governance and risk management of AI applications. Information systems of the Government and public organisations must undergo repeated testing, audits and continuous monitoring to ensure security.

74. Meanwhile, the widespread application of AI can create greater value to our society. Under the leadership of the AI Efficacy Enhancement Team, the Government will promote AI applications in government services. The Digital Policy Office will roll out various AI applications in respect of data analysis, customer service and document processing, to promote extensive application in departments, while ensuring security and controllability.

75. Departments will also develop their own AI solutions. Examples include using AI to help the public make non-emergency reports to the police via voice messages and expedite the vetting and approval of transport licences; enhance traffic management by diverting traffic flow according to real-time data; bring convenience to members of the public by providing an AI Assistant for users of the "iAM Smart" and the "Digital Corporate Identity" platforms to answer enquiries and offer personalised services, as well as to recommend suitable funding schemes and public service support for enterprise, especially small and medium enterprises (SMEs); render carer support through an AI chatbot to give carers more convenient access to information; improve the accuracy of histopathological and cytological analysis by introducing digital pathology technology and the application of AI, and enhance patient care efficiency, hospital management and service quality by promoting the application of generative AI in clinical workflows.

76. The Government will also promote AI business applications. The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA), in collaboration with Cyberport, has launched the second cohort of the AI Sandbox initiative to promote AI applications to more financial institutions. In addition, the HKMA is developing an AI model evaluation approach to step up testing on the system security of financial institutions. The DEVB will provide subsidies to encourage the application of AI in private sector construction works. The Department of Justice (DoJ) will also establish an inter-departmental working group to review the legislation needed to support a wider application of AI.