Hong Kong is positioning itself to play a significant role in shaping global artificial intelligence (AI) governance as the technology landscape evolves beyond the dominant rivalry between China and the United States. At the inaugural Hong Kong Global AI Governance Conference, experts highlighted the complex, multipolar nature of the emerging AI ecosystem, where middle powers seek to navigate and influence the direction of AI regulation and development.

Brian Wong, an assistant professor of philosophy at the University of Hong Kong, outlined the city’s unique opportunities and challenges in establishing itself as a hub for responsible AI governance. He emphasized that while much attention focuses on the U.S. and China, a broader array of countries—including those in Southeast Asia, Europe, the Persian Gulf, and South Asia—are actively pursuing strategies to harness AI for economic and social benefit, investing in data centres, semiconductor manufacturing, and specialized AI applications.

Hong Kong’s established legal system based on common law provides a strong foundation for becoming a center for AI dispute mediation and arbitration. The city could also set precedents in consumer rights and legal liability related to AI technologies. This positioning is viewed as vital if Hong Kong is to maintain relevance amid increasing regional competition, particularly from Singapore, which has introduced comprehensive AI governance frameworks and is investing heavily in the intersection of AI, law, and public policy.

Proximity to major technology hubs such as Shenzhen and Hangzhou, coupled with a robust private sector with considerable capital resources, gives Hong Kong a strategic advantage. Wong advocates for extensive consultations involving industry leaders, investors, multinational firms, researchers, and academics throughout Greater China to develop internationally recognized AI regulatory standards.

Beyond regulation, Wong underscores the importance of fostering AI talent and knowledge exchange. He points to Hong Kong’s openness and attractiveness to world-class scholars as a critical asset. Targeted scholarships and fellowships designed especially for students from developing countries could bolster the city’s role as a cradle for AI professionals at a time when visa uncertainties and rising xenophobia are affecting opportunities in other regions.

Hong Kong also has potential to host regional forums and UN-related AI governance bodies, such as the Global Dialogue on AI Governance and the Independent International Scientific Panel on AI. Given its strategic location, connectivity, and relatively unrestricted internet access, the city can facilitate dialogue between diverse stakeholders across Asia and beyond.

The recent conference brought together AI experts and public policy leaders from prominent institutions and countries, reflecting Hong Kong’s convening power. Discussions included how AI might help preserve indigenous languages in underdeveloped economies and foster safety cooperation between China and ASEAN nations—topics often overlooked in broader AI debates.

With an AI roadmap under development, experts argue that Hong Kong must leverage its legal, economic, and intellectual strengths to advance AI governance policies that serve a wide range of interests globally, rather than those of a select few.