Transforming Agriculture in Hong Kong: A Win-Win for Sustainability and Economic Growth

The Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department (AFCD) has been actively promoting sustainable and modernized agriculture practices in Hong Kong, leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance productivity and reduce the industry's dependence on manpower and climate change challenges. At the Tai Lung Experimental Station, the department conducts research and trials to develop production techniques and crop varieties suitable for the local environment. The station showcases innovative farming methods, including the use of smart technology to regulate watering and temperature, as well as a mobile application utilizing artificial intelligence and image recognition to diagnose crop pest and disease problems.

Key Takeaways:

• The AFCD is working to upgrade and transform the agriculture and fisheries industries through the use of modernized technology, reducing the industry's dependence on manpower and addressing climate change challenges.
• The Tai Lung Experimental Station serves as a model for sustainable agriculture practices, showcasing innovative farming methods, including smart technology and artificial intelligence.
• The department has successfully reintroduced local agricultural varieties, such as the vegetable hok tau pak choy and the rice variety "Fa Yiu Tsai", to promote unique selling points for local agricultural products and attract consumers.
• The $1 billion Sustainable Agricultural Development Fund provides financial support to farmers to switch to sustainable and high-value added modes of operation, boosting the industry's overall competitiveness.
• The department plans to introduce a unified new brand in 2025-2026 to advance safe, low-carbon, and premium local agricultural and fisheries products, establishing production standards, farming methods, and a certification and traceability system.

Statistics:

• 100%: The Tai Lung Experimental Station is the only crop experimental farm handled by the Government in Hong Kong.
• 2023: The year the Government announced the Blueprint for the Sustainable Development of Agriculture & Fisheries, outlining eight key development areas and specific measures for financial and infrastructure support, technology application, and industry transformation.
• $1 billion: The amount allocated for the Sustainable Agricultural Development Fund to assist farmers in switching to sustainable and high-value added modes of operation.
• 2025-2026: The timeframe for the introduction of a unified new brand to promote safe, low-carbon, and premium local agricultural and fisheries products.

Sources:

• M2 PressWIRE-August 18, 2025-: Win-win agricultural transformation (C)1994-2025 M2 COMMUNICATIONS
• M2 PressWIRE-August 18, 2025-: Interview with AFCD Agricultural Officer Calvin Cheung
• M2 PressWIRE-August 18, 2025-: Interview with AFCD Agricultural Officer Karina Poon
• Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department (AFCD) - Hong Kong Government