Hong Kong CBRN Defence Market Size and Forecast by Threat Type, Equipment, End User, and Platform: 2019-2033

Hong Kong CBRN Defence Industry Outlook

The Hong Kong CBRN defence market is undergoing a strategic recalibration driven by a heightened understanding of urban vulnerability, geopolitical complexity, and critical infrastructure interdependencies. Though traditionally perceived as a low-risk city in terms of CBRN events, recent regional tensions and increased chemical material transit through port infrastructure have compelled authorities to strengthen non-conventional threat preparedness.

For instance, Hong Kong’s Security Bureau initiated a classified review of contingency protocols involving potential radiological and biological incidents, with active participation from the Hong Kong Fire Services Department (HKFSD), Department of Health, and Police Tactical Unit (PTU). This review emphasized the need for a new generation of detection, response, and decontamination technologies, particularly for the densely populated MTR subway network and cross-border transit nodes. The evolution of the Hong Kong CBRN defence industry is being shaped by both regional defence imperatives and localized civil protection mandates, with 2025 expected to mark a turning point as major procurement frameworks and joint drills take form under the guidance of both local government and the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) garrison in Hong Kong.

Urban Density and Port Vulnerability Drive Capability Investments

A key driver behind the Hong Kong CBRN defence industry is the city’s inherent vulnerability due to high urban density, critical infrastructure clustering, and its status as a major international shipping hub. As of early 2025, the Hong Kong Port ranks among the top 10 globally in container throughput, handling thousands of shipments involving dual-use chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and radioactive materials. This logistical exposure necessitates robust CBRN protocols—especially since Hong Kong's port also connects to strategic supply chains in the Greater Bay Area.

Additionally, recent disruptions due to suspicious white powder packages in public buildings (notably the 2023 IFC incident) have reignited calls for expanded biological detection infrastructure in high-traffic areas. In response, the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) has ramped up funding for mobile detection systems, and Hong Kong’s Centre for Health Protection has partnered with mainland research institutes to enhance early bio-surveillance. These dynamics highlight how the Hong Kong CBRN defence sector is increasingly defined by a hybrid civil-military risk management framework that integrates environmental, transport, and public health agencies.

Expanding Use Cases: From First Responders to Infrastructure Operators

The end-user base for CBRN tools and technologies in Hong Kong is diversifying, with uptake extending from traditional first responders to transport operators, energy utilities, and public health entities. The Hong Kong CBRN defence sector is seeing active adoption by the Mass Transit Railway Corporation (MTRC), which in 2024 began piloting aerosol and chemical sensors in Kowloon and Central stations as part of its Smart Stations program. Similarly, the Hong Kong Electric Company has commissioned risk assessments for its substation infrastructure located near populous neighbourhoods, integrating CBRN risk mitigation into their critical asset protection frameworks.

Hospitals under the Hospital Authority, such as Queen Mary and Tuen Mun Hospital, are also undergoing CBRN preparedness reviews, with expanded negative pressure wards and protective gear inventories. These trends underscore a broader understanding that the Hong Kong CBRN defence industry must not operate in isolation but must instead interface with civilian operations in real-time to enable an effective, whole-of-society approach to non-conventional threats.

Institutional Frameworks Enhancing Strategic Coordination

An integral component of the Hong Kong CBRN defence sector is the Standing Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Planning Group (SRPG), a specialized multi-agency platform that anchors Hong Kong’s strategic readiness. Established in 2003, the SRPG is chaired by the Hong Kong Police Force and comprises senior representatives from key government departments, including the Fire Services Department, Civil Aid Service, Department of Health, Government Laboratory, Hospital Authority, Hong Kong Observatory, and the Security Bureau. This body plays a critical role in orchestrating long-term CBRN planning, fostering interdepartmental alignment, and facilitating rapid response architecture.

The SRPG meets regularly to advise on policy, refine contingency protocols, and coordinate high-fidelity government-led CBRN exercises, ensuring both consistency and agility in response mechanisms. Its strategic oversight has been instrumental in institutionalizing a culture of preparedness, as seen in multi-agency drills conducted across high-risk zones such as transportation hubs, hospitals, and power infrastructure in 2024. With Hong Kong's vulnerability to chemical and radiological threats through cross-border logistics and high-density urban nodes, the SRPG’s continued leadership significantly bolsters the structural resilience of the Hong Kong CBRN defence market, ensuring that preparedness is deeply embedded within the region’s civil defence fabric.

Strategic Industry Collaboration and Governmental Oversight

The growth of the Hong Kong CBRN defence market is being steered by a mix of international technology partners, mainland Chinese manufacturers, and localized adaptation led by Hong Kong’s disciplined service agencies. Global OEMs like Smiths Detection and 3M Scott Safety continue to supply high-grade detection and respiratory protection equipment, especially through public tenders. Meanwhile, regional suppliers such as Beijing-based CEIEC and Nuctech are collaborating with the Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department on advanced scanning and radiation detection platforms.

Governmental coordination is managed under the Security Bureau’s Emergency Response Co-ordination Centre (ERCC), which sets response hierarchies and orchestrates procurement alignment across bureaus. The Hong Kong Garrison of the PLA—though constitutionally non-interventionist—has reportedly shared resources and expertise via closed-door simulation exercises held in late 2024. This collaborative approach allows the Hong Kong CBRN defence industry to simultaneously maintain global standards and ensure alignment with national security objectives defined under the “One Country, Two Systems” framework.

Author: Surender K (Vertical Head – Aerospace & Defence)

*Research Methodology: This report is based on DataCube’s proprietary 3-stage forecasting model, combining primary research, secondary data triangulation, and expert validation. [Learn more]

Hong Kong CBRN Defence Market Scope