Hong Kong Productivity Council and HP signed a collaboration agreement (ag agreement) to establish the HKPC- HP 3D Printing Technology Centre (Centre) in Hong Kong for application research development on additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing. The Centre aims to become a pilot transformation base, applying advanced 3D printing technologies to empower various industries, sharpen their competitive edge, and foster the development of high-value strategic industrial chains. It will also accelerate Hong Kong's pioneering effort in micro-factory and new industrialisation development, offering important references and inspiration worldwide in the pursuit of innovative and sustainable development.

The Centre will be located in the HKPC Building, being the first in Asia to be equipped with both HP's research version of "Metal Jet" and "Multi Jet Fusion" industrial 3D printers. HP will bring advanced equipment and talent to support the operations of the Centre, and HKPC will contribute expertise in raw material development, process development, and smartification. Market research data estimate that the value of the 3D printing industry will reach USD 186.4 billion by 2033, a significant increase from USD 27.7 billion in 2023, indicating the immense market potential.

Clean, digitally powered 3D printing generates minimal waste and a minimal carbon footprint. This aligns with global goals of achieving green and sustainable development, while also promoting long-term economic growth through sustainable industries. This best suits Hong Kong's condition, where land resources are limited and labour costs are relatively high.

The establishment of this 3D printing technology centre is undoubtedly a good answer to show how they make use of technology to promote advanced manufacturing and new industrialisation in Hong Kong. I am confident that Hong Kong's manufacturing industry will reach new heights, and 'Made in Hong Kong' will continue to be a reputable and brilliant international brand. I look forward to more representative technology companies from all around the globe, such as HP to team up with I&T quangoes, such as HKPC, bringing talents, technologies and machinery to Hong Kong to redefine Hong Kong's manufacturing industry and drive high-quality economic growth.

As an international innovation and technology centre, Hong Kong can be a paragon of the micro-factory city of the future that provides Hong Kong's answer to develop new productive forces and set a fine example in Asia and across the globe to pursue innovation-driven, sustainable development. Hong Kong's unique conditions make it particularly suitable for the development of micro-factories. The vibrant ecosystem in Hong Kong, combined with the robust supply chains in the Guangdong -Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, will provide an excellent pilot transformation base for the development of micro- factories, with significant implications for economies in Asia and worldwide.

The Centre is planned to open in September, serving as a networking hub to promote closer collaboration among academia, research institutions and industries, empowering diverse sectors to grasp market trends. In addition to application development, the Centre will also provide consultancy and training services, driving advancements and propelling the 3D printing industry, as well as other industries utilising 3D printing technologies, forward.