US technology giants Microsoft, Compaq and Intel have recently set up a technology centre serving clients operating on high-powered, large-scale networks, underlining Hong Kong's role as the region's information technology (IT) hub. This is the first such joint venture among the three international companies in the Greater China region.

"With the growing number of banks, insurance and asset management firms in Hong Kong, the SAR is seen as the logical choice for the establishment of the technology centre," said Compaq's director of enterprise solutions Fred Sheu. "As a regional financial hub, Hong Kong companies would need the type of machines and software for large-scale transactions and secure information that the centre can provide."

Comprising system solutions from Compaq, software from Microsoft and processors from Intel, the technology centre allows customers with complex needs to evaluate the Windows 2000 data centre solutions without concern for their own data and machines. "Customers are migrating to the 2000 environment and they want to test it before actual migration. The centre gives customers the opportunity to try before they buy," added Mr Sheu.

IT consultant with Chinadotcom's Ion Global consulting arm Eddie Leung sums up the logic behind the technology centre: "I see Hong Kong as one of the best areas in Asia for technology companies to test their products targeted at the financial industry. The SAR has top quality technology infrastructure, minimal regulations as well as the best marketing force in the region. With factors such as these, it is not surprising that Hong Kong attracts more technology companies each day."