The development and use of artificial intelligence (AI) continues to grow rapidly around the world, and the technology is now being widely applied in Hong Kong.
While the benefits of implementing systems such as the generative AI tool ChatGPT are naturally welcomed, the risks must also be acknowledged, and guidelines and regulations are being urgently developed around the world.
In March, the United Nations General Assembly unanimously passed a resolution outlining a global effort to ensure that AI systems are “safe, secure and trustworthy.” But a lot of work needs to be done to achieve these worthy goals.
Hong Kong aspires to become a hub for innovation and technology and aims to adopt a phased approach to ensure the healthy development of technology.
The Office of the Personal Data Privacy Commissioner has issued guidelines to help companies ensure their use of AI is compliant with the law, which is welcome news.
Research shows that AI usage is higher in urban areas than in other parts of the world, and with small and medium-sized businesses increasingly adopting AI tools, there is a clear need for guidance to ensure data privacy is protected.
The privacy watchdog’s framework, compiled through expert collaboration and stakeholder consultation, provides practical step-by-step measures, including advice on governance, risk assessment, management of AI systems and communication with staff, suppliers, customers and regulators.
The aim is to mitigate risks and ensure both transparency and trust. Among the recommendations is that companies establish authoritative internal AI governance committees. Other recommendations aim to ensure human oversight and provide risk assessments.
The guidelines are voluntary and will only be effective if widely adopted and implemented, and companies must take steps to ensure they have the right technology and sufficient expertise to deploy them responsibly and ethically.
Hong Kong is gradually adapting to the new AI era. Revisions to copyright laws are underway. Other measures are being adopted. The privacy guidelines are a step forward. They are part of the development of the necessary guidelines and regulatory framework to enable Hong Kong to reap the full benefits of AI while limiting the risks.
