AI development discussed in Hong Kong by Samoa and local officials

At the World Internet Conference 2026 in Hong Kong, a Samoan delegation addressed the role of artificial intelligence in shaping Pacific economies. The delegation highlighted AI's potential to strengthen traditional industries, improve intelligent logistics, and expand access to digital finance. They noted that AI could help Pacific Island nations overcome geographic isolation and assist in climate change responses through enhanced forecasting and disaster preparedness.

In a separate development in Hong Kong, Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po announced the ‘AI for All’ programme. This HK$50 million initiative will partner with major technology firms to provide AI training to the working population starting in November. The programme aims to benefit 50,000 people over two years, helping workers and small to medium-sized enterprises adapt to frontier technology shifts. Estimates suggest that if local SMEs match large corporations in AI adoption by 2035, it could unlock HK$65 billion in economic value for the city.