1. Background

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The alliance traces its origins to the Institute of Big Data Governance, established in 2018, to set standards or self-governance for the Big Data industry and to establish Hong Kong as an International Data Hub. On January 16, 2025, Hong Kong hosted the summit titled "Promoting Data Element Circulation and Fostering New Quality Productive Forces in the Digital Economy", during which the International Data Industry Alliance (IDIA) was officially launched. The alliance aims to consolidate industry efforts, with stronger focus on collaborations, to continue the development of Hong Kong into an international data hub.​

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In his address, Mr. Leung Chun-ying, GBM GBS JP, Vice Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and Chairman of the Greater Bay Area International Society for Information Technology, stated that the establishment of the alliance marks a significant milestone for the industry. He emphasised that Hong Kong's globalised financial system, robust legal environment, and advanced infrastructure provide a solid foundation for facilitating cross-border data flow, technological collaboration, and industrial synergy.

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2. Founding Organizations

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The International Data Industry Alliance was jointly initiated by the Greater Bay Area International Society for Information Technology and the Big Data Governance Association, alongside multiple institutions from mainland China, Hong Kong, and overseas. Key members include the Greater Bay Area Big Data Institute, the Hong Kong Data Centre Association, the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park, and the International Data Spaces Association (IDSA), among other prominent organisations.

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3. Mission and Objectives

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Promoting International Cooperation: Building a global data collaboration platform to facilitate cross-border data circulation and compliant governance, enhancing enterprises' competitiveness in the international market.

Technological Innovation and Application: Integrating resources to support R&D and the adoption of new technologies, driving data-driven industrial transformation.

Establishing Industry Standards: Developing unified governance standards for data security, privacy protection, and data quality to safeguard user rights and ensure long-term industry stability.

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4. Core Functions

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Resource Sharing and Collaborative Development: Creating a cooperative platform for upstream and downstream industries to foster technological synergy and ecosystem co-construction.

Talent Development and Intellectual Property Protection: Providing a talent exchange platform, promoting the commercialisation of technological achievements, and offering intellectual support for sustainable industry growth.

Enhancing Socioeconomic Benefits: Optimizing operational efficiency through data technologies, incubating new business models, and contributing to overall economic and social progress.

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5. Key Projects

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The alliance supports the development of the "International Cross-border Trusted Data Space - Hong Kong Node", a project jointly advanced by the International Data Space Association (IDSA) and the China Next Generation Internet Engineering Center. This initiative aims to refine data circulation standards and global network deployment, establishing Hong Kong as an international data hub.

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6. Strategic Significance

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With its globalized financial system, rule-of-law environment, and geographical advantages, Hong Kong serves as an ideal base for the alliance's growth. The establishment of the alliance is seen as a pivotal step in strengthening Hong Kong's collaboration with mainland China on the global stage, enhancing its influence in the global digital economy.

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