But Deputy Financial Secretary Michael Wong Wai-lun, who is leading a new task force to launch the effort, said on Saturday that it was currently “unrealistic” to predict the economic contribution that wider use of drones would make.

Wong said his group would hold its first meeting next month and review possible pilot projects, which could be open for applications by the end of this year and implemented in early 2025.

“We will collaborate with industry and partner organizations to advance the pilot projects,” he said, adding that some companies have already expressed interest in participating in this area.

The low-altitude economy generally refers to activities in airspace below 1,000 meters (3,281 feet), including cargo delivered by drones or passenger flights using electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft.

“The first phase of the project is expected to focus mainly on drone delivery, such as takeaway packages and lighter packages, such as letters and medicines,” Wong said.