Hong Kong AI workplace scheme draws 14,000, generates 1,200 policy templates
Hong Kong's Digital Policy Office reported that its workplace AI safety scheme had attracted 14,000 training participants and generated 1,200 AI policy templates by October 2026. The scheme provided 150 free consultancy slots, with about 30 approved, and will expand with new industry guidelines and
The Hong Kong government has disclosed the initial results of its 'Safe AI@Workplace Empowerment Scheme', launched in June 2026 by the Digital Policy Office (DPO) and the Hong Kong Internet Registration Corporation (HKIRC). According to a written reply in the Legislative Council on 11 November 2026, the scheme aims to help small and medium-sized enterprises, schools, non-governmental organisations and public bodies adopt artificial intelligence (AI) safely and responsibly.
The DPO cited a 2026 survey by HKIRC covering 806 organisations of various sizes and sectors, which found that 94 per cent had already adopted AI at work. However, 63 per cent lacked an AI policy, 68 per cent had not arranged AI training, and 49 per cent of employees had used unauthorised AI tools.
As of October 2026, about 14,000 people had taken part in the scheme's free online training courses, which have no cap on participants. The scheme's 'AI Strategy and Policy Generator' had produced around 1,200 customised AI policy templates. In addition, 150 free one-to-one consultancy slots were offered, of which about 30 had been approved. The DPO said it would continue to monitor demand and adjust services as needed.
To further support safe AI use, the DPO has issued an 'AI Ethics Framework' and the 'Hong Kong Generative AI Technology and Application Guidelines'. It also plans to release cross-sector AI agent security guidelines in 2027 with the Hong Kong AI Research Institute. Separately, the government will launch a 'Digital Transformation Support Pilot Scheme 2.0' by the end of 2026 to help SMEs adopt ready-made AI solutions, with all eligible schemes required to meet data processing and cybersecurity standards.
A 'Universal AI' programme was launched in July 2026, run by Cyberport, the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) and the Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC). These bodies offer training, exhibitions, competitions, seminars and forums to raise AI safety awareness across society. HKPC also provides AI governance and security testing services, while Cyberport offers strategic leadership training and industry-focused courses. HKSTP supports responsible AI and cybersecurity events for SMEs.