Trillion-Yuan Target, Nine Key Application Scenarios!Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Data Special Zone

“The Work Plan for Building the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Data Special Zone” was recently issued, setting out plans to develop the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) Data Special Zone, with the efficient, convenient and secure cross-border flow of data as the driving force. The initiative aims to promote data connectivity, stimulate industries and unlock greater value from data, thereby providing stronger support for high-level opening-up and the high-quality development of the digital economy.

According to the Work Plan, the comprehensive advantages of Guangdong's proximity to Hong Kong and Macao and its designation as a national pilot zone for innovation and development of the digital economy will be leveraged to systematically advance the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Data Special Zone across four areas: special institutional rules, dedicated infrastructure, distinctive application scenarios, and a high-quality service ecosystem.

By the end of 2027, 50 key cross-border data application scenarios that can be replicated and promoted will be developed. By the end of 2028, the role of cross-border data in driving industrial development, improving services and enhancing coordinated governance will become increasingly prominent. The cross-border data industry is expected to exceed RMB 200 billion in scale, while driving the value added of manufacturing, services and other industries to reach RMB 1 trillion, helping the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area become one of the world's most digitally advanced bay areas.