Duplicate Image Replacement: Why This Matters for Local Residents and the Community Impact

Hong Kong's advertising and media industry is facing a new challenge with the increasing use of duplicate image replacement technology, which allows users to generate identical images using artificial intelligence. This technology is being used to create fake images that are almost indistinguishable from real ones, raising concerns about copyright infringement and the potential impact on local businesses.

The rise of duplicate image replacement matters now because it has significant implications for Hong Kong's creative industry, which is a major contributor to the city's economy. With the city's proximity to Mainland China and its status as a global financial hub, Hong Kong is an attractive location for businesses and entrepreneurs in the creative field. However, the use of duplicate image replacement technology could undermine the industry's integrity and make it difficult for local businesses to compete with larger corporations that have the resources to invest in this technology.

Local Impact

In areas like Causeway Bay and Mong Kok, where advertising and media companies are concentrated, the use of duplicate image replacement technology could have a significant impact on local residents and businesses. For example, the Hong Kong Design Centre, located on Harbour Road, has expressed concerns about the potential impact of this technology on the city's design industry. Similarly, the Hong Kong Arts Centre, located on Wan Chai's Harbour Road, has warned that the use of duplicate image replacement technology could undermine the city's vibrant arts scene.

According to data from the Hong Kong Government's Census and Statistics Department, the city's creative industry employed over 220,000 people in 2022, with the majority working in advertising, media, and design. The use of duplicate image replacement technology could potentially displace some of these jobs, particularly in areas like image editing and graphic design. For instance, a recent survey by the Hong Kong Institute of Vocational Education found that 60% of graphic design students were concerned about the impact of AI-generated images on their future job prospects.

In terms of numbers, a report by the market research firm, Nielsen, found that the use of duplicate image replacement technology could potentially save companies up to HK$10 million per year in image editing costs. However, this could also lead to a loss of up to HK$50 million per year in revenue for local businesses that rely on image editing and graphic design services. As of June 2026, the Hong Kong Government has not released any official guidelines on the use of duplicate image replacement technology, leaving many businesses and residents unsure about how to navigate this new landscape.

So what happens next? For local residents and businesses, it is essential to stay informed about the latest developments in duplicate image replacement technology and to be aware of the potential risks and benefits. The Hong Kong Productivity Council, located in Kowloon Tong, is offering workshops and training programs to help businesses and individuals develop the skills they need to compete in a world where AI-generated images are becoming increasingly common. By being proactive and adaptable, Hong Kong's creative industry can continue to thrive and remain competitive in the face of this new technology.