Why Hong Kong leads in governance amongst global smart cities

The city also led in developing open data and diversifying data categories.

Hong Kong has been ranked eighth globally in the 2025 Smart City Index compiled by the Polytechnic University’s Smart Cities Research Institute.

The index assessed 73 cities worldwide across six dimensions: citizens, environment, social landscape, economy, infrastructure and governance.

Hong Kong performed especially well in governance, ranking first in smart city policies, e-government initiatives and data transparency. 

The city also led in developing open data and diversifying data categories.

Professor John Shi, Director of the Smart Cities Research Institute, said Hong Kong’s position highlights its strengths in both governance and economy. 

He noted that the city’s robust business environment, advanced technological systems and strong education and research sectors continue to drive innovation and growth.

A key part of the city’s digital development is the “iAM Smart” platform, which provides one-stop personalised access to government services. 

More than 3.8 million residents have registered, with over 180,000 daily interactions. The upgraded iAM Smart+ version includes a digital signature function and new features such as instant bill viewing and online payments via the Faster Payment System.

Digital Policy Office Senior Systems Manager Ray Cheung said iAM Smart is central to Hong Kong’s push toward full digitalisation of government services. The office is also working with bureaus, departments and authorities in Guangdong and Shenzhen to expand cross-boundary public service access.