Nearly Three in Four Hong Kong Employers Allow AI Use at Work
A recent report from the Hong Kong Institute of Human Resource Management (HKIHRM) shows that 73% of companies in Hong Kong permit employees to use artificial intelligence (AI) tools at work. This trend reflects a growing acceptance of AI as a part of everyday business operations.
Along with this adoption, AI training has become a more prominent priority for organisations. The report highlights that generative AI training has jumped from the eighth to the fifth spot on the list of learning and development priorities for 2025. Other key focuses include leadership development, closing skills gaps, succession planning, and personalised learning programmes.
Why AI Training Matters
Dr Chester Tsang, Executive Council member of HKIHRM and Co-chair of the Learning and Development Committee, emphasises that AI training is critical for enhancing employee skills, operational efficiency, and adaptability. He points out that AI is shaping the way work is done and is fundamental to future organisational growth.
Investing in AI education equips employees to use new technologies effectively, helping companies stay competitive and agile. For HR professionals, this means integrating AI learning initiatives into broader talent development strategies.
Employee Training Trends in Hong Kong
The report also reveals a steady increase in employee training hours. In 2024, the average annual training time per employee rose to 18.1 hours, up from 17.3 hours in 2023. Nearly half of the companies surveyed offer an average of up to 10 hours of training, while 20% provide an additional 10 hours, and 34% offer more than 20 hours.
- 90% of employers provide online learning resources
- 76% use webinars or virtual classrooms for training
Charles Ho, Co-chair of HKIHRM’s Learning and Development Committee, notes that online learning supports flexibility and efficiency by allowing employees to upgrade skills at their own pace. However, he stresses that in-person training remains key for interactive courses that benefit from immediate feedback and hands-on practice.
Training Budgets Remain Stable
Despite uncertainties in the economic outlook, 59% of companies expect to keep their training budgets at 2024 levels. Only 17% plan to increase investment in training, a slight decrease from 19% last year. This steady commitment shows that employee development continues to be a priority for organisations.
For HR teams, these findings highlight the importance of maintaining a balanced approach to training — combining digital and face-to-face methods while ensuring AI skills are part of the development mix.
To explore practical AI training options that fit your organisation’s needs, consider visiting Complete AI Training, which offers courses tailored for various skill levels and job roles.
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