- Hong Kong launches new schemes supporting upgrades in smart manufacturing capabilities.
- Manufacturing+ scheme funds automation, digital integration, and advanced production technologies.
- The program reduces barriers for SMEs transitioning toward modern, technology-driven manufacturing.
Hong Kong has launched fresh strategies to enhance its developing smart manufacturing sector, as the Innovation & Technology Commission announced a pilot program and modifications to an existing funding scheme designed to speed up the city’s transition to new industrialisation.
The revisions emphasize motivating businesses to embrace cutting-edge production technologies, upgrade manufacturing methods, and develop internal technical expertise to facilitate sustained transformation.
The recently introduced Pilot Manufacturing & Production Line Upgrade Support Scheme, referred to as Manufacturing+, functions within the New Industrialisation Support Scheme of the Innovation & Technology Fund. It aims to support businesses that conduct production operations in Hong Kong and are looking to upgrade their facilities.
The initiative offers financial support to integrate cutting-edge technologies into existing production lines, facilitating a transition toward increased automation, data-informed decision-making, and digitally improved operations.
Eligible enterprises can obtain as much as HK$250,000 through a 1:2 matching scheme, where the Government covers one-third of the total project expenses. The assistance covers various types of costs related to enhancing manufacturing capabilities, including advisory services for designing and executing intelligent production strategies.
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It also includes the procurement of machinery or systems with advanced technological features and the incorporation of smart components such as sensors, control software, or data analysis tools into current workflows. Funding also facilitates training programs designed to provide staff with the necessary skills to handle or operate the enhanced systems.
By implementing these measures, the initiative seeks to lower obstacles for small and medium-sized enterprises that might encounter resource limitations while shifting from traditional methods to digitally enhanced production. The emphasis is on facilitating beginner smart manufacturing improvements that can boost efficiency, traceability, and operational reliability, while establishing a foundation for the gradual adoption of new industrial technologies in the future.