Hong Kong Hosts International Genomic Medicine Symposium to Foster Innovation

The International Genomic Medicine Symposium opened on November 17, 2025, at the Hong Kong Science Park, attracting nearly 300 industry leaders from over 20 countries. Jointly organized by the Hong Kong Genome Institute (HKGI), Rare Diseases International (RDI), and The Lancet Commission on Rare Diseases (LCRD), the event showcased Hong Kong’s strengths in medical innovation and facilitated global collaboration in genomic medicine.

Participants included medical practitioners, scientists, and researchers from regions including the Chinese Mainland, Europe, North America, South America, and Australia. This diverse assembly underscored the event’s significance in addressing crucial topics such as clinical genetics, rare diseases, artificial intelligence, data sharing, and ethical considerations in genomic medicine.

Keynote Addresses Highlight Potential of Genomic Medicine

At the opening ceremony, Professor Chung-mau Lo, Secretary for Health of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, emphasized the transformative potential of genomic medicine. He stated, “The HKSAR Government fully recognizes the profound potential of genomic medicine in promoting healthcare and innovation.” He outlined the government’s commitment to integrating genomic medicine into clinical practice and enhancing public literacy on the subject.

Similarly, Mr. Philip Tsai, Chairperson of HKGI, noted that the symposium represents a significant step forward in fostering collaborations between Hong Kong and the international community. He expressed gratitude to RDI and LCRD for their support, highlighting the aim to accelerate clinical applications of genomic medicine for improved health outcomes.

Innovative Discussions and Case Studies

The symposium featured five thematic sessions, presenting a lineup of local and international experts. In the first session, Professor Zhang Shuyang, President of the Peking Union Medical College Hospital, provided insights into innovative service models for rare diseases in the Chinese Mainland. Professor Kym Boycott, Co-Chair of LCRD, discussed strategies to enhance patient care for individuals affected by rare conditions.

The following session highlighted case studies demonstrating the potential of genomic medicine. Professor Roberto Giugliani, Co-Chair of LCRD, analyzed cases related to inborn errors of metabolism. Scholars from HKGI, Dr. Derek Lee and Dr. Becky Ma, presented their findings on the application of genomic medicine in treating heart and kidney diseases. Their work illustrated how genome sequencing can identify pathogenic mutations, leading to precise diagnoses and targeted treatments.

During the afternoon sessions, Dr. Brian Chung, Chief Medical and Scientific Officer of HKGI, shared updates on the Hong Kong Genome Project (HKGP). Since its launch in 2021, the project has successfully recruited over 53,000 participants. Dr. Chung elaborated on the implications of pharmacogenomics, a field exploring how genetic variations influence drug efficacy and dosage.

Other notable speakers included Professor Aya El Helali from the Greater Bay Area International Clinical Trial Institute, Professor Dennis Lo from The Chinese University of Hong Kong, and Professor Gareth Baynam from Perth Children’s Hospital, Australia. Their discussions spanned various facets of genomic medicine, including advancements in plasma DNA analysis and the role of artificial intelligence in drug development.

The symposium concluded with a commitment to continue fostering global collaboration in genomic medicine. Dr. Kirsten Johnson, Chair of RDI, expressed optimism for the future, stating, “We are confident that people living with rare conditions—wherever they are—will be seen, heard, and cared for.”

Following the symposium, the LCRD convened its second annual meeting in Hong Kong from November 18 to 19, marking a significant milestone as it was the first time the meeting took place in Asia. This further underscores Hong Kong’s pivotal role in the advancement of international medical innovation.

The International Genomic Medicine Symposium exemplifies the city’s dedication to advancing healthcare through genomic research, fostering partnerships, and enhancing the well-being of communities worldwide.