Survey Shows Mainland Firms Flock to Hong Kong as Global Expansion Hub
Thestandard · 1 SOURCESabout 3 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
The Hong Kong Trade Development Council released survey findings showing mainland enterprises have strong ambitions to expand globally, with an overwhelming preference for Hong Kong as their professional services hub. The research indicates 83 percent of respondents chose Hong Kong over mainland China and Singapore when navigating the challenges of international business. Key target markets include Belt and Road regions, ASEAN countries, the Middle East, and Latin America, with expansion intentions rising across all regions compared to 2023.
Key Points
- 82 percent of surveyed mainland companies plan to scale up existing foreign operations, while 63 percent seek new markets
- 83 percent selected Hong Kong as their preferred professional service platform, ahead of mainland China and Singapore
- 94 percent intend to develop business in Belt and Road markets, with 91 percent specifically targeting the ASEAN region
- Interest in the Middle East jumped from 33 to 46 percent, while Latin America grew from 17 to 34 percent
- HKTDC Research Director Bruce Pang Ming noted firms are shifting from simple market expansion toward supply chain integration and cross-border investment
Why It Matters
For Hong Kong, this survey validates the city's role as the preferred gateway for mainland businesses going global, signaling sustained demand for local professional services. The September Belt and Road Summit will provide a platform to capitalize on this momentum by facilitating cross-regional partnerships .
For Hong Kong, this survey validates the city's role as the preferred gateway for mainland businesses going global, signaling sustained demand for local professional services. The September Belt and Road Summit will provide a platform to capitalize on this momentum by facilitating cross-regional partnerships .