HONG KONG – In a groundbreaking development that promises to reshape the innovation landscape of the Greater Bay Area (GBA), the Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute (ASTRI) has officially established its presence in Shenzhen.

Aligning with China's 14th Five-Year Plan and the strategic 'Outline Development Plan for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area,' this initiative is set to catalyze unprecedented collaboration among businesses, academic institutions, and research organizations throughout the region.

Creating a World-Class Innovation Ecosystem

The launch of ASTRI Technology Research (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd. marks a critical moment for the institute, which has moved into the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Cooperation Zone.

The official inauguration ceremony was graced by esteemed guests, including Ms. Lillian Cheong, Under Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), and Mr. Zeng Jianpeng, Director-General of the Hetao Development Authority.

These key figures recognized the significance of ASTRI's expansion as a vital driver for technological innovation in both Hong Kong and Shenzhen.

Ms. Cheong expressed the vital role of the Hetao Cooperation Zone in fostering a synergistic relationship between Hong Kong and Mainland China. "Our aim is to craft a world-class innovation ecosystem that nurtures talent and knowledge exchange," she said.

The presence of ASTRI in Hetao is expected to reinforce this ecosystem, enabling effective collaboration that aligns with the national goal of developing "new quality productive forces."

Mr. Zeng echoed these sentiments, assuring support for all research and technology institutes in the cooperation zone emphasizing the importance of promoting cross-border partnerships.

"Facilitating the flow of talent, goods, technology, and information is essential for advancing our innovation and technology development," he noted.

Boosting Competitiveness through Strategic Collaborations

ASTRI’s Chairman, Ir Sunny Lee, highlighted the strategic advantages provided by the Hetao Cooperation Zone.

With resources in place for space, policy, and funding, ASTRI aims to embark on numerous cross-border research and development projects.

"Our goal is to leverage the unique strengths from both Hong Kong and Shenzhen, propelling the Greater Bay Area towards becoming a leading international innovation hub," he said.

At the inauguration, ASTRI (Shenzhen) showcased its commitment to enhancing operational efficiency through partnerships, evidenced by signing agreements with three notable Mainland companies focused on cutting-edge technologies.

These collaborations underline the potential for not just technological advancement but also for attracting new business opportunities.

Focusing on Semiconductors and Smart Mobility Technologies

The newly inaugurated ASTRI (Shenzhen) facility spans over 1,300 square meters and includes offices, an exhibition hall, and advanced laboratories.

It benefits from the strategic location within the "No.1 Channel of Futian Bonded Area," reducing commute times to just 35 minutes from ASTRI’s Hong Kong headquarters—an essential factor in fostering seamless collaboration among researchers.

The institute has already begun several R&D initiatives focusing on next-generation semiconductors and high-tech communication technologies.

Their pioneering projects include advanced platforms for GaN high-end power technology, SiC smart power systems, and intelligent campus simulations.

Furthermore, their recent effort in conducting cross-border C-V2X tests has placed them at the forefront of autonomous driving technology.

Ir Sunny Lee concluded robustly that ASTRI (Shenzhen) is poised to serve as a "super connector" within the innovation ecosystem, facilitating cooperation between various sectors.

"Our efforts are dedicated to transforming collaborative outcomes into tangible industrial advancements, significantly contributing to the nation's vision of advancing 'new quality productive forces,'" he asserted.

With this ambitious expansion into Shenzhen, ASTRI is not only setting the stage for technological breakthroughs but also nurturing a new era of innovation collaboration across the Greater Bay Area.

Stay tuned as we track ASTRI’s transformative initiatives that look set to redefine the future of technology investment and development in the region!