IT Park Uzbekistan Delegation Explores Cooperation with Hong Kong's HSITP

On 14 July, as part of the IT Park Uzbekistan delegation's working visit to Hong Kong, IT Park Uzbekistan CEO Azamat Karamatov met with the leadership of the Hong Kong Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park (HSITP), headed by CEO Vincent Ma. The visit included a tour of the Visitor Centre, an introduction to the residential infrastructure designed for innovation and technology professionals, and a presentation showcasing the opportunities IT Park Uzbekistan offers to international technology companies. 

During the meeting, the delegation explored HSITP's innovation infrastructure and presented Uzbekistan's rapidly evolving digital ecosystem, highlighting the country's growing role as a regional hub for technology, innovation, and international business. 

HSITP representatives introduced their vision for developing a world-class innovation ecosystem within the Lok Ma Chau Loop. Established under the "One Country, Two Systems" framework, the project is designed to accommodate more than 100,000 innovation and technology professionals. The park will feature research centres, laboratories, advanced manufacturing facilities, AI infrastructure, office space, and residential accommodation. 

Particular attention was given to HSITP's company selection model. Rather than allocating land based on price, the park prioritises the quality of business proposals and their innovation potential. Applications are evaluated with 70% of the score based on the business plan and technological value of the project, and 30% on the commercial proposal. This approach is intended to accelerate economic transformation by attracting companies specialising in artificial intelligence, robotics, life sciences, microelectronics, and other advanced technologies. 

Startup ecosystem development was another key topic of discussion. HSITP presented its incubation programme, which offers selected technology companies free participation without requiring equity. The programme focuses on commercializing innovations, supporting international expansion, and fostering collaboration with leading industry partners. 

The parties also discussed integrating Uzbek startups into Hong Kong's innovation ecosystem, strengthening links with venture capital funds and investors, and creating new opportunities for Chinese technology companies seeking to expand into Central Asia through Uzbekistan. Priority areas for cooperation include artificial intelligence, robotics, biotechnology, microelectronics, advanced manufacturing, and the commercialisation of research. 

The meeting also highlighted HSITP's strategic role as a cross-border innovation platform connecting Hong Kong with the Greater Bay Area, one of the world's largest technology clusters with a population of approximately 86 million people. This unique model provides international companies with efficient access to Mainland China while maintaining the advantages of Hong Kong's global business environment. 

Following the meeting, both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation through startup exchange programmes, business missions, joint events, expanded investor engagement, specialised workshops, and the participation of HSITP representatives in ICT Week Uzbekistan.