Hong Kong's 2026 Election Committee (EC) subsector ordinary election will be held on Nov 22, with candidates in the SME subsector highlighting artificial intelligence adoption, cross-boundary market expansion, and business upgrading as key priorities for small and medium-sized enterprises.
Industry representatives have raised questions about how SMEs can seize opportunities tied to Hong Kong's first Five-Year Plan, the national 15th Five-Year Plan framework, and development momentum from the Northern Metropolis project. Candidates said SMEs should align more closely with broader national development goals while deepening their presence in the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area and the mainland market.
Candidates also called for stronger industry coordination to build platforms for resource sharing and business matching, as well as more structured channels for the sector to relay views to the government and advocate policies that support SME survival and growth. They said SMEs should diversify trade and commercial routes, strengthen links to both the Greater Bay Area and overseas markets, and accelerate upgrading and transformation to lift overall competitiveness.
On technology-driven change, candidates argued that SMEs need practical support to promote AI adoption, digitalization, and green transition. Proposals included using innovation and AI to "empower" SMEs, speed up digital and low-carbon transformation, and develop new productivity drivers.
A central recommendation was to organize training programs and experience-sharing sessions to improve operational efficiency and strengthen core competitiveness. Candidates also pointed to additional directions such as integrating AI with ESG transition efforts, supporting local brands, improving the business environment, and deepening Hong Kong's role as a bridge between China and the global market to help companies expand overseas.
The SME subsector is part of the EC's First Sector (Industrial, Commercial, and Financial Sectors). It has 15 elected seats. This year, 17 candidates are contesting the seats.
Comment