Hong Kong's AI Supercomputing Center Hits 90% Usage Since Launch
Since opening its AI supercomputing center at Cyberport in December, Hong Kong has utilized 90% of its capacity. This facility benefits from a HK$3 billion (~$380 million) subsidy program aimed at accelerating AI development locally. So far, around 20 applications have been submitted, with 10 projects approved for support.
Among these initiatives is the Hong Kong Generative AI Research and Development Centre, which developed a multilingual transcription system and a ChatGPT-like application now used by over 70% of government departments. Plans are underway to establish a new supercomputing facility in Sandy Ridge, Northern Metropolis, to further support AI startups.
Cyberport currently hosts more than 400 AI companies, including major players like iFlyTek, Inspur Cloud, and Baidu Apollo. Approximately 120 new AI firms joined the cluster last year, reflecting strong growth in the local AI ecosystem.
High Utilization Reflects China’s Broader AI Strategy
The 90% utilization rate highlights strong demand for AI infrastructure in Hong Kong, aligning with China’s national push to become a global AI leader. China ranks second worldwide in AI development, trailing only the United States. Since 2016, the Chinese government has implemented multiple plans focusing on AI infrastructure and funding.
Hong Kong aims to reach 15,000 petaflops of computing power by 2030, with 3,000 petaflops expected from the current supercomputing center by early 2026. This target supports mainland China's AI goals and demonstrates the city’s role in the broader tech strategy.
Amid ongoing tech competition between China and the US, Hong Kong has invested roughly HK$2.83 billion in semiconductor research to develop technologies less affected by US export restrictions. The rapid uptake of the supercomputing center underscores the critical role of computing power in AI advancement.
The HK$3 billion subsidy directly addresses local firms’ need for high-performance computing to develop advanced AI models. Additionally, a HK$1 billion investment supports the AI Research and Development Institute and semiconductor technology, reflecting a coordinated effort to boost computing resources.
Boosting China's Position in the Global Tech Race
The approach in Hong Kong mirrors mainland China’s strategy, where the government has invested over $1 billion in domestic AI projects. Subsidizing up to 70% of computing costs shows governments recognize AI infrastructure as a public good essential for maintaining competitiveness.
Hong Kong serves as a bridge between Chinese AI capabilities and international markets, leveraging its strengths in finance and healthcare sectors. However, talent shortages remain a challenge locally and nationally—for example, China has about 39,000 AI researchers compared with 78,000 in the United States.
By positioning itself as an AI hub, Hong Kong aims to connect China’s technological ambitions with the global community, supporting innovation while addressing workforce constraints.
- Key facts:
- 90% utilization of Cyberport AI supercomputing center since December launch
- HK$3 billion subsidy program supports AI development with 10 approved projects
- New supercomputing facility planned for Sandy Ridge, Northern Metropolis
- Cyberport hosts over 400 AI companies, including iFlyTek and Baidu Apollo
- Goal of 15,000 petaflops computing power by 2030, with 3,000 petaflops by 2026
- HK$2.83 billion invested in semiconductor research to bypass export controls
- Talent shortage remains a challenge compared to US AI workforce
For professionals interested in AI development and infrastructure, staying informed on regional projects like Hong Kong’s supercomputing initiatives offers insight into how government policy and funding drive technology growth. To explore practical AI courses that complement such developments, visit Complete AI Training’s latest offerings.
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