A Chinese artificial intelligence start-up backed by the Chinese Academy of Sciences’ Institute of Automation is looking to expand its services outside the mainland through a strategic partnership with Cherrypicks, the Hong Kong technology firm best known for developing the city’s Covid-19 tracking app.
Beijing-based Zhongke WengAI announced on 16 August that it will collaborate with Cherrypicks, which Hong Kong-listed NetDragon Websoft owns, to jointly develop enterprise AI solutions for industries such as finance and healthcare. The companies said the partnership would combine Zhongke WengAI’s experience in serving government and enterprise clients with Cherrypicks’ expertise in digital transformation and smart city technologies.
Simon Leung Lim-kin, vice-chairman of NetDragon, described the deal as a milestone for both firms and Hong Kong’s role in technological development. “This collaboration exemplifies the convergence of China’s AI ‘go-global’ strategy with Hong Kong’s innovation strengths,” he said, adding that the partnership would help “further cement Hong Kong’s position as an international innovation hub.”
Shares of NetDragon ended the day unchanged at HK$11.61 on 16 August.
Expanding reach beyond the mainland
The move reflects a growing trend among Chinese AI firms to expand internationally while also supporting Hong Kong’s campaign to reposition itself as a global centre for innovation and technology. Zhongke WengAI has already established a strong domestic presence, serving over 1,000 mainland government agencies and enterprise clients. Its customers include the National Development and Reform Commission, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Xinhua News Agency and the People’s Daily.
Waley Wang, founder and chairman of Zhongke WengAI, emphasised the importance of expanding overseas. “China needs to promote its AI technology not only in the domestic market, but also overseas,” he said. Wang also noted that the company would bring both advanced technology and capital to support its venture with Cherrypicks. “We can contribute to the future of AI in Hong Kong,” he added.
Cherrypicks’ innovation expertise
Cherrypicks, established in 1999, has developed a reputation for innovation in areas such as digital payments, location intelligence, fintech and enterprise blockchain. Its enterprise clients include major organisations such as MTR Corporation and HSBC. The company’s track record in building smart city technologies has positioned it as a leading player in Hong Kong’s technology sector.
By working together, Zhongke WengAI and Cherrypicks aim to deliver AI-powered solutions tailored for different industries, with a particular focus on applications in finance and healthcare. The partnership is also expected to bring new momentum to Hong Kong’s broader efforts to strengthen its role as a regional technology hub.
