Taking place in Hong Kong for the 2nd year, the 5th annual Technology for Change Asia organised by the Economist Impact successfully concluded with over 700 in-person attendees, a record-number to that of last year, and recorded more commercial sponsors and partnerships including Hong Kong Science & Technology Parks Corporation.

This year’s edition expanded to include 33 sessions spanning 15 industries, explored key themes including the future of work in the AI era, the quantum revolution, sustainable tech solutions, human-centered innovation, the Greater Bay Area's transformation, China's digital roadmap, smart and green mobility, and ethical AI.

With three-quarters of the speakers being senior-level experts, featuring speakers from leading organisations including the president of Alibaba.com Kuo Zhang, the Chairman of Lan Kwai Fong Group Allan Zeman, Li Auto’s CTO Yan Xie, Regional CEO, Greater China, Prudential plc – Angel Ng, George Hara from DEFTA Partners and more. It fostered diverse and engaging dialogues about shaping the future through innovation.

Hong Kong’s rich cultural blend was celebrated by keynote speaker Prof. Brian Cox, author, television presenter and particle physics professor at The University of Manchester. He remarked, “Hong Kong is a wonderful world city, a genuine crossroads where ideas, people, and cultures converge. This interaction between citizens from diverse backgrounds is necessary for curiosity-led exploration of nature, one of the foundations of a better civilisation.” This fusion of diversity and innovation cemented Hong Kong’s status as a global hub for thought leadership and exchange.”

With over 250 companies participating this year, Asif Chaudhury, Managing Director, Asia, at The Economist, praised Hong Kong’s appeal, “Hong Kong is a phenomenal location for bringing the technology ecosystems together, driving innovation, partnership and change. Its uniqueness and connectivity, coupled with a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, positions the city as a prime location for such initiatives. Additionally, the newly developed event venues are thoughtfully designed, providing organizers with significant opportunities to host increasingly impactful events.”

Highlighting the importance of a host city creating memorable experiences, Chaudhury observed that the iconic Tram Tour gave delegates a remarkable chance to take in Hong Kong’s breathtaking night views, effortlessly combining modernity with tradition. This standout feature further solidified Hong Kong’s position as Asia’s events capital, blending professional excellence with cultural richness.