Hong Kong pushes medical innovation at Asia summit on global health

On the agenda

The fifth Asia Summit on Global Health opened earlier this week in Hong Kong, gathering more than 2,800 medical experts, policymakers, and industry leaders from around 40 countries and regions to explore opportunities in healthcare innovation and collaboration.

Jointly organized by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, the summit is being held in a hybrid format and is themed “Fostering Global Collaboration for a Shared Future.”

As cited in a Xinhua report, Chief Executive John Lee said in his opening address that Hong Kong will continue promoting its role as an international hub for health and medical innovation, leveraging its strengths under the ‘One country, two systems’ framework.

Lee emphasized the city’s commitment to supporting scientific research and health technology. He noted that the Greater Bay Area International Clinical Trial Institute has officially launched in the Hong Kong Science Park, in collaboration with two local medical schools, to accelerate clinical trials.

He also announced that Hong Kong is working toward establishing an internationally recognized regulatory system for pharmaceuticals and medical devices, including a “1+” new drug approval mechanism aimed at streamlining processes and attracting global innovators.

Cao Xuetao, deputy head of China’s National Health Commission, praised Hong Kong’s strategic position, advanced infrastructure, and research capacity, calling them key assets in driving regional healthcare development. He said the Greater Bay Area continues to fuel the growth of health industries in Hong Kong and across Asia.

In a video address, World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus called for stronger multilateral cooperation to confront global health challenges, particularly those related to aging populations and chronic diseases. He urged countries to work together to build “a healthier, safer, and fairer world.”

The two-day summit is one of the highlights of the fourth International Healthcare Week and runs alongside the 16th Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair.

The fair features about 300 exhibitors from 13 countries and regions, as well as participation from seven local universities and more than 50 local startups and enterprises. Exhibits showcase the city’s latest innovations in medical technology and healthcare solutions.

Organizers say the event reflects Hong Kong’s growing role in shaping the future of global health through policy, research, and international collaboration.