Hong Kong, Shenzhen push secure data corridor to unlock AI and fintech opportunities

Hong Kong and Shenzhen are establishing a white list for data transfers as part of an overarching effort to forge closer cross-border ties, which policymakers and business leaders see as essential to unlocking opportunities in artificial intelligence and fintech in the region.

“If you have a white list to facilitate the movement of sensitive data, biological data and samples between Hong Kong and [mainland] China, it would ensure trust between [parties sending and receiving information] because authorities on both sides would have already approved it,” said Ada Chung Lai-ling, Hong Kong’s privacy commissioner for personal data.

Hong Kong’s Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry Sun Dong announced in December that officials were looking to draw up a white list of companies at the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Cooperation Zone to ensure secure cross-border data transfer.

More than 300,000 Hong Kong residents are expected to seek medical care in Shenzhen this year, says Qu Hongbin, chief economic adviser to the Shenzhen Qianhai Authority, who is seen with Tammy Tam, publisher of the Post. Photo: SCMP

Hong Kong has already enabled the transfer of health data amid a rising number of residents seeking medical services across the border and sharing electronic health records with designated Shenzhen hospitals.

More than 300,000 Hong Kong residents were expected to seek medical care in Shenzhen this year, according to Qu Hongbin, chief economic adviser to the Shenzhen Qianhai Authority.

South China Morning Post