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The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) and a global conglomerate headquartered in Hong Kong announced the creation of the HKUST Li & Fung Supply Chain Institute, designed to enhance research and practices in global supply chain management (SCM) innovation.
The Institute combines HKUST’s research capabilities with the firm’s industry expertise to make a significant impact in the Greater Bay Area, Greater China, Asia, and globally. It also aims to contribute to Hong Kong’s development as a multinational supply chain management hub, a key objective outlined in the city’s recent Budget. The Institute plans to achieve these goals through collaborative research, business intelligence development via industry research and policy studies, and talent development through tailored executive education and partnership programs.
The launch ceremony included speeches from several notable guests and the ceremony was themed “Navigating Global Supply Chain Challenges & Innovation,” attended by over 150 officials, lawmakers, business leaders, and members of the HKUST community.
In his address, the Acting Financial Secretary of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) emphasised the urgency for enterprises, especially in Mainland China, to manage risks through supply chain diversification amid rising geopolitical tensions. He highlighted Hong Kong’s unique position in supporting these enterprises and stated that the Institute would enhance Hong Kong’s role as a multinational supply chain management centre. He praised the partnership between HKUST’s academic excellence and the corporation’s global expertise and financial resources, noting that this collaboration positions the Institute to drive significant innovation and change.
The Deputy Chairman of the corporation and Chair of the Institute’s Advisory Board discussed the disruptions in global supply chains caused by geopolitical tensions and rapid technological shifts. He noted that producers are redesigning supply chains for greater resilience and agility, while retailers are navigating increasingly fragmented supply markets to mitigate risks. The Institute aims to provide thought leadership on global supply chain trends, inspire industry professionals and entrepreneurs, and educate future business leaders on mastering supply chains.
The President of HKUST expressed gratitude for the partnership and the support from the corporation’s Foundation. She stressed that the Institute, leveraging HKUST’s academic strengths and the firm’s industry leadership, is well-positioned to create real-world impact by addressing the demands for resilient multinational supply chains in Asia and beyond and enhancing Hong Kong’s status as a supply chain management centre.
The Dean of Business and Management at HKUST highlighted the opportunities in SCM amid rapid technological advancements, geopolitical tensions, and the push for environmental sustainability. He pointed out that by navigating these dynamic forces, leveraging the development of emerging economies, and utilising cutting-edge technologies such as AI, blockchain, automation, and data sciences, organisations can enhance the efficiency and resilience of their supply chains. The Institute is committed to promoting supply chain excellence through collaboration among industry, academia, and the public sector.
The Director of the Institute and Deputy Head of the Department of Information Systems, Business Statistics and Operations Management at HKUST, stated the Institute’s aim to become a leading entity in supply chain management with a global impact and local commitment. By providing valuable data and insights and cultivating talent, the Institute strives to advance this critical economic sector.