Hong Kong continues to solidify its status as a premier global business destination, as evidenced by the latest figures from Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK). At a welcome reception on June 25, 2026, more than 380 representatives from 413 newly arrived or expanded overseas and Chinese Mainland companies gathered, marking a significant milestone for the city's economic landscape. InvestHK announced that these enterprises are projected to bring in over HK$53 billion (US$6.8 billion) in foreign direct investment (FDI) and create more than 8,600 new jobs, underscoring Hong Kong's robust appeal to international investors.
Chief Executive John Lee highlighted Hong Kong's competitive advantages, noting its ranking as the world's freest economy by the Fraser Institute and the second most competitive economy according to the latest IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook. "In choosing Hong Kong for your Asian and global business expansion, you share my belief in Hong Kong's flourishing future," Lee remarked. He emphasized that under the "one country, two systems" principle, Hong Kong enjoys strong support from China while maintaining close global connections, offering an open business environment, low taxes, and a common law system that aligns with international financial centers.
The first half of 2026 saw a 9% increase in completed projects compared to the same period in 2025, with anticipated FDI rising by 36% and new jobs up 6% year-on-year. Among the 413 enterprises, the Chinese Mainland accounted for 246, followed by Singapore (26), the United States (21), the United Kingdom (18), France (11), and Italy (11). The top sectors include innovation and technology (93), financial services and fintech (89), tourism and hospitality (55), transport, logistics and industrials (44), and business and professional services (39).
Representatives from several new and expanding companies shared their positive experiences. Michael Zankel, Regional Director East Asia/Oceania for Austria-based transport and logistics firm Gebrüder Weiss, which recently upgraded its Hong Kong office to a regional headquarters, noted: "The business environment is great, you have a lot of talent around here to employ. It has always been the gateway to the Chinese Mainland but for us it is more a gateway to Asia." Merwann Younes, Global Head of Hospitality & Lifestyle Channels for Italian company Moleskine, described Hong Kong as "a very dynamic and creative city, which are also the core values for Moleskine as a brand." Etienne Dubois, Chief Strategy Officer of Unlimitics, which developed an AI-powered school simulation game for neurodivergent children, praised Hong Kong as "a very good melting pot for talent and opportunities and for growth."
Looking ahead, Chief Executive Lee announced that the HKSAR Government is expediting the development of the Northern Metropolis, a new economic engine expected to become an international innovation and technology (I&T) and business hub. "This will unlock abundant opportunities and shape a prosperous future for Hong Kong," Lee said. He also revealed plans for Hong Kong's first Five-Year Plan, a strategic blueprint focusing on long-term economic momentum, advancing technology, and improving livelihoods. The detailed investment promotion results for the first half of 2026 are available at this link.
