Key Takeaways
- HKSTP leads its largest delegation of 41 participants to the BIO International Convention 2026 in San Diego.
- The delegation aims to showcase Hong Kong’s advancements in biotechnology, including AI, therapeutics, and diagnostics.
- Collaboration with local universities promotes global connections and enhances Hong Kong’s position as a biotech hub in Asia.
Delegation to BIO International Convention 2026
HKSTP (Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation) is spearheading its largest-ever delegation to the BIO International Convention (BIO) 2026, scheduled for June 22 to 25 in San Diego, USA. Collaborating with five local universities and backed by InvestHK and HKTDC, the initiative focuses on enhancing cooperation and market access for Hong Kong’s biotech ventures.
The Hong Kong Pavilion will host 41 participants from the life sciences and health sectors, including tech companies, research institutes, and university spinoffs, effectively doubling the representation compared to the previous year. Exhibitors will present innovations in artificial intelligence-powered biotech, therapeutics, diagnostics, and pharmaceuticals.
HKSTP’s CEO, Terry Wong Ping-sau, emphasized the mission to illustrate Hong Kong’s robust innovation and technology ecosystem while strengthening ties with international industries. He highlighted the importance of expanding global market access for local companies, fostering continuous growth within the region’s I&T (Innovation and Technology) sector.
This delegation represents a unique partnership between HKSTP and notable universities: The University of Hong Kong, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, City University of Hong Kong, and Hong Kong Polytechnic University, all of which are ranked among the top 100 globally according to QS World University Rankings.
Further contributing to this initiative, university leaders expressed the importance of events like BIO 2026 for advancing Hong Kong’s life sciences and health technology sectors. Leaders from HKU, CUHK, HKUST, and CityU have all noted that this exposure is crucial for fostering connections with global investors and improving the local biotech ecosystem.
The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area’s development efforts have yielded positive results, with the Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Guangzhou cluster recently recognized as the top innovation hub in the World Intellectual Property Organization’s Global Innovation Index.
Despite Hong Kong’s achievements, there remains room for enhanced global recognition. The delegation aims to change that by connecting with international partners, showcasing local innovations, and pursuing strategic partnerships.
Among the startups participating are Immuno Cure, which specializes in DNA medicines and antibody immunotherapies, and GenEditBio, focused on in vivo genome editing therapies. Both companies aim to secure collaborations and further their research and development efforts through connections made at the event.
As part of its strategy, HKSTP will also organize sideline events including networking activities and pitching sessions to facilitate commercialization and foster investment opportunities.
The participation in BIO 2026 is viewed as a critical step for Hong Kong’s biotech sector, reinforcing its ambition to become a leading player in the global market.
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