At just 18 years old, Hong Kong tech enthusiasts Rexan Wong Chak-chi and Ken Mochizuki are both eager to launch their business ideas, yet their paths diverge significantly. Wong is considering Silicon Valley in the United States for better support, while Mochizuki prefers to remain in Hong Kong to contribute locally.

This contrast underscores Hong Kong’s dual position as it strives to become a global innovation and talent hub under China’s strategic blueprint. Artificial intelligence (AI) and research transformation are key priorities in the city’s upcoming first five-year plan, set to be released by the government later this year.

Hong Kong boasts cutting-edge university research, but critics warn that an increasingly risk-averse culture and a lack of early-stage support may drive young tech talent to seek opportunities overseas. Wong, who developed an interest in AI at 15 after taking a mobile app development class, built an AI-powered app called Text Behind Image in 2024. The app, which allows 500,000 users to design images with text behind featured objects, was developed after Wong connected with leading tech entrepreneurs through X (formerly Twitter).

The city’s challenge remains whether it can retain its young innovators while fostering a supportive environment for start-ups amid global competition.

Sources