Budget 2026 Key Takeaways: Prioritise innovation to drive Hong Kong’s economy

Hong Kong’s Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po delivered the 2026-2027 Budget speech on Wednesday, announcing that the operating account has returned to surplus after three years of deficit. He said Hong Kong should focus on technological innovation and seize related opportunities to boost economic growth.

For the coming fiscal year, total government expenditure will increase by about 6.9% to HK$843.4 billion, while total government revenue is estimated at HK$765.2 billion. Chan expects that there will be a consolidated surplus of HK$22.1 billion for the year, and the fiscal reserves will increase to HK$679.3 billion.

Here are the key takeaways of this year’s budget plan.