Innovation, technology to support HK's industrial development: chief executive

Innovation and technology could support the industrial development in Hong Kong, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) Leung Chun- ying said on Tuesday.

"Innovation and technology is not only a new industry in Hong Kong, but also can support industrial development in Hong Kong, releasing the industrial productivity, improving the lives of Hong Kong people, and making Hong Kong people's live more safe, comfortable and convenient," said Leung at the opening ceremony of "3D printing experience Gallery."

As Hong Kong's first one-stop shop, the gallery will provide one-stop experience of 3D printing consultancy services for Hong Kong businesses and 3D printing process experience for Hong Kongers.

Leung pointed out that Hong Kong's business environment has changed during the past 20 or 30 years, and Hong Kong businesses were facing new challenges as well as new opportunities. Traditional enterprises, especially ones depending on cheap labor and land costs in industry, may have to face the impact of economic restructuring.

"We must support them to upgrade and enhance the technical standards and the development of high value-added services." he added.

Set up by the Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC), the gallery has 17 entry-level and professional 3D printers and related equipment, which can print metal and produce compatible and food materials with a precision of up to 0.016 mm.

Leung said that in recent years, the rapid development of 3D printing technology has brought new tools to meet these challenges and grasp these opportunities.

"3D printing allows businesses to design concept of the product, 'print' a prototype, or directly produce a product. It significantly reduces development costs and development time," added Leung.

The HKPC is an industrial support institution in Hong Kong. Since its inception in 1967, it has been providing integrated support for Hong Kong businesses. Endi