In this undated file photo, Chinese cybersecurity company Qi An Xin Group debuted on the nation's technology-focused STAR Market in Shanghai. (PROVIDED TO CHINA DAILY)

Beijing-based cybersecurity firm Qi An Xin Technology announced on Friday it will set up its Hong Kong headquarters and establish a research and development center at the Hong Kong Science Park to tap the city’s emerging network security needs. 

Its Hong Kong office will engage in activities such as conducting research on network security technologies, establishing network security detection and laboratory facilities, providing training for professionals, and organizing network security competitions, Qi Xiangdong, chairman of Qi An Xin Technology, said at a ceremony when the company signed a memorandum of understanding with local authorities.

With the increasing application of technological innovations such as digitization of government services, the government and enterprises have been paying increasing attention to cybersecurity

Sun Dong

Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry

Meanwhile, the R&D center will focus on endpoint security and network security management services as its key areas, Qi said.

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The cybersecurity firm’s presence in Hong Kong will mark another win for a push by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government to develop the city into a global hub for innovation and technology, following a similar move by mainland electric vehicle battery giant Contemporary Amperex Technology. 

As one of the largest network security enterprises in the mainland, Qi An Xin Technology was the official cybersecurity partner of the Beijing 2022 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, providing antivirus software solutions for the global sporting event. 

With the increasing application of technological innovations such as digitization of government services, the government and enterprises have been paying increasing attention to cybersecurity, said Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry Sun Dong. 

“Qi An Xin Technology, with its expertise, facilities and supporting programs, will definitely bring positive impacts to the cybersecurity market in Hong Kong and bring about a clustering effect, which will expand the industry and attract more counterparts to set up their offices in Hong Kong,” Sun said. 

Echoing Sun’s remarks, Albert Wong Hak-keung, CEO of Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation, said there are huge business opportunities for Qi An Xin Technology’s expansion in the city given the over 1,500 companies in the park and massive data infrastructure in Tseung Kwan O Industrial Estate.

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“We will connect partner companies with Qi An Xin Technology to conduct simulated testing and defense for network security. This collaboration not only provides Qi An Xin Technology with a testing platform but also enhances network security protection for companies within the park, creating a win-win situation,” Wong said.