HONG KONG, Dec. 19 (Xinhua) -- Hong Kong ranks among the world's leading regions in terms of artificial intelligence (AI) preparedness, according to a report released by the UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD), Our Hong Kong Foundation (OHKF) said on Friday.

The 2025 Technology and Innovation Report: Inclusive Artificial Intelligence for Development evaluates AI preparedness on three dimensions: infrastructure, data and skills. In the assessment of more than 100 economies, Hong Kong was rated a leader in all three aspects, said OHKF, which participated in the compilation of the report.

Lillian Cheong Man-lei, under secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government, stated that Hong Kong will continue to play its role as a bridge connecting the East and the West, contribute its wisdom and experience, and advance progress and cross-sector collaboration in the AI field.

The report estimates that the global AI market is projected to reach a scale of 4.8 trillion U.S. dollars by 2033. It notes that AI can augment other technologies and facilitate human-machine collaboration, particularly synergizing with cutting-edge technologies such as the Internet of Things, big data and blockchain to drive the digital transformation of various industries.

Alex Mak, head of Greater Bay Area Development of OHKF, said Hong Kong boasts unique advantages as a link between the Chinese mainland and the rest of the world. He suggested that the region could explore establishing an internationally recognized AI standards and certification platform, and build mutual recognition mechanisms with other economies. ■