Hong Kong budget 2026-27: what’s holding back the city’s tech and talent schemes?

South China Morning PostEN 1 min read 100% complete by Natalie WongFebruary 22, 2026 at 02:00 AM

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Hong Kong's upcoming 2026-27 budget, to be delivered by Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po, is expected to address challenges in the city's technology and talent schemes. Observers view the budget as a test of Hong Kong officials' reform mindset following Beijing's 15th five-year plan recommendations, which prioritize technological self-reliance and expanding domestic consumption. The plan outlines support for Hong Kong to become an international innovation and technology center and a global talent hub. While the budget is expected to include measures to help mainland Chinese enterprises expand globally, observers emphasize the need to address bottlenecks in Hong Kong's own tech ecosystem to maintain competitiveness within the Greater Bay Area.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Macau 30% Greater Bay Area 50% John Lee Ka-chiu 60% China 60% Beijing ×270% Paul Chan Mo-po ×270% Hong Kong ×790%

Keywords

hong kong budget 90% technology 80% five-year plan 80% talent attraction 70% innovation 60% greater bay area 50% economic development 50% reform 40% start-up ecosystem 40%