Lawmakers visit Hetao technology hub

Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry Sun Dong has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to expediting development of the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone. The minister on Thursday led a delegation of 53 lawmakers on a site visit to the SAR section of the 389-hectare technology hub. Speaking after the visit, Sun noted that the occupancy rate of the two wet laboratory buildings in the area had reached nearly 90 percent, and that the Park Company is fast-tracking construction and securing new investment. “The five buildings currently under development are slated for completion by the end of this year. In the near future, the remaining plots of phase 1 development will be released in an orderly manner to invite market participation,” Sun said. “Hetao is a signature project of Hong Kong’s deep integration into the Greater Bay Area’s tech and innovation ecosystem. It is the key to the future development of the Northern Metropolis.” For her part, Legco president Starry Lee said that having more than 50 legislators participating in the site visit showed the council's emphasis on the development of the Northern Metropolis. She said the visit allowed councillors to speak to enterprises in the zone and get a closer look at the latest development and next stage of work for Hetao. “The site visit is just the beginning; action is key,” Lee said. “I believe every councillor will make good use of the gains from today’s visit and rigorously vet future related appropriations and legislation, while also working together to assist the SAR government in promoting the long-term development of the Hetao Cooperation Zone. “We will also provide more practical and feasible suggestions to the government that would be truly helpful to the enterprises in the area.” It was the second visit to the Northern Metropolis by lawmakers and government officials in a fortnight, following an earlier trip to Tin Shui Wai and the Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen New Development Area. Edited by Thomas McAlinden