Hong Kong is solidifying its position as the premier professional services platform for mainland Chinese enterprises seeking to expand overseas, according to new research from the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC). The study, released ahead of the 11th Belt and Road Summit, reveals that a significant majority of mainland companies view Hong Kong as their top choice for support in navigating complex global markets.
The survey indicates that mainland enterprises are adopting more comprehensive global strategies, targeting trade with advanced economies, Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) territories, and emerging markets. Key findings show that 82% of companies plan to expand existing overseas operations, while 63% are focusing on developing new overseas business activities. Additionally, 54% aim to enhance overseas sourcing, 47% plan to expand sales networks, and 36% intend to boost technology cooperation.
Bruce Pang, Director of HKTDC Research, emphasized the growing need for professional services as mainland enterprises extend their overseas strategies to include supply chain integration and cross-border investment. “Hong Kong’s unique connectivity and expertise have ensured it is playing an ever more significant role in helping mainland businesses seize global opportunities,” he said. Pang also highlighted the upcoming Belt and Road Summit as a catalyst for cross-regional cooperation.
The research underscores the importance of BRI markets, with 94% of surveyed companies expressing interest in these territories, up from 73% in 2023. Notably, 91% are prioritizing expansion in ASEAN, particularly in Singapore, Vietnam, Thailand, and Malaysia. Interest in the Middle East has also surged from 33% to 46%, while Latin America interest doubled to 34%.
Despite these opportunities, mainland enterprises face significant challenges, including shifting global trade policies, rising protectionism, and supply chain reconfigurations. The survey identifies major concerns such as intensified competition (61%), geopolitical tensions (55%), rising mainland costs (51%), and tariff barriers (50%). To address these, companies are focusing on improving efficiency (60%), managing risks (57%), and controlling costs (57%).
Wing Chu, Deputy Director of HKTDC Research, noted that most enterprises plan to develop two to three overseas business functions, extending along the global value chain. However, they struggle with market uncertainties, intense competition, and insufficient capital, underscoring the need for professional support.
Hong Kong emerges as the leading services platform, chosen by 83% of surveyed enterprises, followed by the Chinese mainland (78%) and Singapore (31%). The services sought include marketing, legal and accounting advisory, financing, supply chain management, and ESG-related support. This preference is attributed to Hong Kong’s internationalized business environment, robust legal system, and free flow of capital and information.
The National 15th Five-Year Plan explicitly supports Hong Kong’s role in helping mainland enterprises go global, and the HKSAR Government’s GoGlobal Task Force, launched in October 2025, integrates financial and business resources to provide comprehensive support.
The 11th Belt and Road Summit, scheduled for 9-10 September at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, will feature a dedicated “Go Global Chapter” with sessions on overseas expansion and Hong Kong’s professional services. A new “GoGlobal Connect” zone will showcase service offerings, and a business mission to Nansha, Guangzhou, will provide insights into Greater Bay Area developments. The Summit aims to facilitate cross-regional collaboration and help enterprises capture opportunities in Belt and Road and emerging markets.
For more details, the full research report is available at HKTDC Research.
