CATL International R&D Centre Officially Opens at Hong Kong Science Park 200-Strong R&D Team to Drive New Energy and Green Tech Innovation in the City

(Hong Kong, 15 October 2024) – The Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) today co-hosted the official opening of the CATL International R&D Institute with Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited (CATL), a global leader in new energy technology innovations. The ceremony marks CATL's official establishment within the Hong Kong Science Park, where the company aims to recruit 200 professionals dedicated to scientific research and local talent development in the first phase. The new institute is expected to significantly contribute to the advancement of new energy and green tech in Hong Kong.

As the world's leading lithium-ion battery manufacturer, CATL has been named as one of Forbes China’s top 50 most innovative companies for seven consecutive years. The CATL International R&D Institute spans approximate 9,000 sq. ft., making it the company's sixth R&D facility globally, outside of mainland China and Germany. This reflects Hong Kong's unique advantages of being “backed by the motherland and connected to the world.”

The unveiling ceremony was officiated by distinguished guests, including Professor Sun Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry; Mr. Albert Wong, CEO of HKSTP; Mr. Eric Or, Acting Chief Corporate Development Officer, Head of Ecosystem Development of HKSTP; and Professor Ouyang Chuying, Co-president for Research & Development of CATL. Other notable attendees included Mr. Qu Tao, Director of Corporate Planning Department of CATL, and Mr. Gong Jiadong, Vice President and Chief Technology Officer of the CATL International R&D Institute.

Professor Sun Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, said: "As a global leader in new energy technology, CATL has demonstrated agile leadership and the ability to innovate rapidly. I am extremely pleased to witness, alongside everyone present, the inauguration of the CATL International R&D Centre at the Hong Kong Science Park within less than a year.

Besides CATL, it is particularly delighted to see a growing number of technology companies from both the Mainland and overseas taking root in Hong Kong. Over the past two years, we have successfully attracted over 100 high-potential or representative I&T enterprises to set up or expand their businesses in the city. The HKSAR Government will work closely with these companies to comprehensively cultivate the I&T ecosystem in Hong Kong, aiding in maximising their value creation."

Mr. Albert Wong, CEO of HKSTP, said, "CATL is a global leader in new energy innovation and a company with global vision. We appreciate CATL's efforts in establishing the International R&D Institute, which is a significant milestone. At HKSTP, we believe 'Park companies’ success is our success,' and we eagerly anticipate collaborating with leading companies like CATL to enhance Hong Kong's innovation and technology (I&T) ecosystem as well as our green tech sector."

Professor Ouyang Chuying, Co-president for Research & Development of CATL, said: "As a key global financial, trade, and maritime centre, Hong Kong offers distinct advantages for collaborating with international tertiary institutions, attracting top talent, and building global platforms. The establishment of our International R&D Institute will provide CATL with a solid foundation to thrive in the city, serving as an important platform that connects with the world and harnesses global resources to support the development of new energy industry."

The CATL International R&D institute plans to initiate nearly 100 R&D projects in the first phase. Additionally, CATL is collaborating with local universities to jointly develop R&D projects and create practical applications to grow I&T talent. This partnership aims to enhance collaboration among industry, university and research sectors and accelerate the commercialization of R&D outcomes, ultimately advancing the entire new energy value chain and supporting Hong Kong’s long-term green tech development.

HKSTP has cultivated a vibrant I&T ecosystem and actively promotes local green tech solutions. Currently, over 100 companies at the Park are involved in green tech initiatives, supporting the HKSAR Government's vision of transforming the city into an international center for green tech and green finance.