THE five research-based universities have registered only a handful of patents in the past two years, despite funding of more than $800 million for technological research.
Senior scientists and industry representatives warn the territory may be lagging behind as an international research base, held back by its mediocre record in commercial and industrial applications.
In 1995 and 1996, the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology obtained four patents, followed by the Chinese University with three and City University with two. Hong Kong Polytechnic University had none. The University of Hong Kong refused to disclose its record.
The University of Science and Technology's acting vice-president for research and development Joe Mize said the poor track record was worrying, particularly when compared with first-class universities overseas.
'The Massachusetts Institute of Technology alone had close to 50 successful patent applications last year,' he said. 'The problem has to do with the fact that, before the early 1990s, there was a kind of colonial mentality - 'You need something, you buy it overseas' - instead of developing it yourself.
'But it's finally beginning to happen in Hong Kong. Faculties are learning they can do first-class research and still turn out commercial products.' Federation of Hong Kong Industries director-general Vicky Davies said there remained a wide gap between university research and the business sector.
