Quantity Surveyors Expand Beyond Cost Control at HKIS Conference
The Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors (HKIS) Quantity Surveying Division hosted its 2025 conference at the CIC-Zero Carbon Park, bringing together approximately 250 participants both in person and online. The event attracted government officials, industry leaders, professionals, academics, and young practitioners, highlighting the broad interest in the evolving role of quantity surveyors during a period of economic restructuring.
This year's conference theme, "Navigating '3Cs Role in QS' in the New Era: Cost Management, Chance and Collaboration," reflects the profession's expanding responsibilities beyond traditional cost estimation. Quantity surveyors are trained construction cost consultants with expertise in costs, values, finance, contracts, and legal matters related to the built environment. In today's rapidly changing market, their roles have become increasingly vital, extending well beyond initial cost calculations.
Mr. David LAM Chi Man, JP, Under Secretary for Development of the HKSAR Government, attended as the Guest of Honour and delivered a keynote speech emphasizing the profession's transformation. He noted that the conference covered issues including construction cost management, opportunities brought by new mega developments and new technologies, as well as the power of collaborative contracting. These discussions underscored the evolving role of quantity surveyors from traditional cost controllers to innovators, facilitators, and collaborators in shaping the industry's future.
The government representative also highlighted that the HKSAR Government is proactively increasing investment in public works projects. Mr. Lam encouraged quantity surveyors to continue upskilling, embracing new tools, and seizing opportunities to lead the industry forward. Through collaboration and technology adoption, quantity surveyors are positioned to act as trusted advisors who safeguard financial viability, enhance efficiency, and unlock value in project delivery across Hong Kong's construction sector.
