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【Press Release】POD Research Institute Submits Budget Proposal Focusing on AI, Low-Earth Orbit Economy, and Family-Friendly Childcare Policies

【Press Release】

February 9, 2026 

POD Research Institute Submits Budget Proposal
Focusing on AI, Low-Earth Orbit Economy, and Family-Friendly Childcare Policies

 

Representatives from the POD Research Institute (PODRI) met with the Financial Secretary this afternoon to submit their "2026-27 Budget Proposal" and discuss relevant financial issues. The proposal emphasizes "Prudent Fiscal Management, Proactive Investment," advocating for the strategic use of fiscal surpluses to enhance long-term productivity, optimize governance, and strengthen strategic industries, laying a solid foundation for Hong Kong's future development.

 

Mr. Ronny Tong, Head of PODRI, remarked: "With Hong Kong's fiscal health returning to a stable footing, valuable strategic opportunities are within reach. In the face of global changes and technological advances, the government must avoid uncontrolled increases in recurrent expenditures. Instead, it should focus resources on high-return areas to achieve long-term social and economic benefits."

The key policy directions outlined in the proposal include: 

 

  1. Deepening AI Deployment:
  1. Upgrade the Digital Policy Office and establish a cross-departmental AI governance framework. 
  2. The Hong Kong Investment Corporation should create a generative AI strategic fund to focus investments in foundational and application layers of key industries like biotechnology and financial technology.

 

  1. Developing the Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) Economy:
  1. Allocate funding for a talent development and international cooperation program in the LEO economy.
  2. HKIC should lead the establishment of an investment and risk management platform.
  3. Improve the satellite data application ecosystem and regulatory framework.

 

  1. Advancing Public Finance Reform:
  1. Implement pilot programs for Cost-Benefit Analysis and Zero-Based Budgeting.
  2. Enhance analytical standards and establish an independent review mechanism.
  3. Strengthen fiscal discipline and resource efficiency.

 

  1. Creating a Family-Friendly Childcare Environment:
  1. Raise the Child allowance to HK$150,000.
  2. Introduce tax incentives to encourage businesses to support childcare services.
  3. Launch "New Parents Health Support Vouchers" to alleviate family burdens.

 

  1. MPF Support for First-Time Home Buyers:
  1. Allow eligible first-time home buyers to make limited withdrawals from their Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF) for down payments, ensuring a balance between homeownership needs and retirement security.

 

For further details on the recommendations, please refer to: https://podresearch.hk/uploads/file/202602/f9798e2f9223648fc9e10ca0e25ed2a7.pdf

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