Success in the knowledge-based economy of the 21st century depends heavily upon the availability of talent and skilled manpower at all levels. Higher-level education and training are provided by the tertiary education institutions. The Vocational Training Council provides technical education and industrial training. It also administers the New Technology Training Scheme which provides financial assistance to employers for training their staff in new technologies and other technologies that are not yet widely applied locally but the application of which will significantly benefit Hong Kong. The Clothing Industry Training Authority runs two training centres for the clothing and footwear industries.

The Government oversees the Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals. The scheme aims to attract talented people and professionals from the Mainland to work in Hong Kong to meet local manpower needs and enhance Hong Kong's competitiveness in the globalised market.