Mainland Chinese enterprises are adopting more comprehensive global business strategies, targeting both advanced economies and emerging markets, according to new research from the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC). The survey highlights the growing importance of Hong Kong as a professional services hub to help these companies navigate challenges such as shifting trade policies, protectionism, and supply chain reconfigurations.
The HKTDC survey found that 82% of respondents plan to expand existing overseas operations, while 63% aim to develop new overseas business activities. Additionally, 54% intend to enhance overseas sourcing, 47% plan to expand sales networks, and 36% aim to boost technology cooperation. Bruce Pang, Director of HKTDC Research, noted that as Mainland enterprises extend their strategies to supply chain integration and higher value-added activities, the demand for professional support services has grown. "Hong Kong's unique connectivity and expertise ensure it plays an increasingly significant role in helping Mainland businesses seize global opportunities," he said, adding that the upcoming Belt and Road Summit will bolster cross-regional cooperation.
Interest in Belt and Road markets has surged, with 94% of surveyed companies expressing interest in developing business there, up from 73% in a comparable 2023 survey. ASEAN remains a priority, with 91% focusing on expanding activities, particularly in Singapore (49%), Vietnam (46%), Thailand (44%), and Malaysia (41%). Beyond Asia, 48% target Europe's advanced markets, 47% plan to expand in the US and Canada, and interest in the Middle East jumped from 33% to 46%. Latin America also saw a doubling in interest, from 17% to 34%.
Mainland enterprises face several challenges, including intensified competition (61%), geopolitical tensions (55%), rising domestic costs (51%), and trade barriers (50%). To address these, companies are focusing on improving efficiency (60%), managing overseas risks (57%), and controlling costs (57%). Wing Chu, Deputy Director of HKTDC Research, explained that most enterprises plan to develop two to three overseas business functions, indicating their intent to move along the global value chain. "They face major challenges, including rapidly changing market uncertainties and intense competition, which underline the growing need for professional services," he said.
Hong Kong is the top choice for services, with 83% of enterprises selecting it, followed by the Chinese Mainland (78%) and Singapore (31%). Services sought include marketing, legal and accounting, financing, risk management, supply chain management, R&D, and ESG support. Hong Kong's international business environment, robust legal system, free flow of capital, and talent pool make it the leading platform. The National 15th Five-Year Plan supports this role, and the HKSAR Government's GoGlobal Task Force, launched in October 2025, integrates resources to further support enterprises going global.
The 11th Belt and Road Summit, jointly organized by the HKSAR Government and HKTDC, will take place on 9-10 September at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Under the theme "Advancing High-Quality Development - Embarking on a New Journey," the Summit will feature a "Go Global Chapter" with sessions on overseas expansion and professional services, a "GoGlobal Connect" zone for consultations, and a business mission to Nansha, Guangzhou. The Summit serves as a premier platform for policy dialogue, business networking, and deal-making, helping enterprises tap into opportunities in Belt and Road and other emerging markets.
The HKTDC research, titled "Mainland Enterprises' Global Expansion: Hong Kong - The Premier Service Platform," underscores Hong Kong's pivotal role in supporting Mainland enterprises' global ambitions. As global trade dynamics evolve, Hong Kong's position as a comprehensive services hub is expected to strengthen, offering businesses the tools to navigate complexities and seize new opportunities.
