Hong Kong's position as a leading global business hub was reinforced yesterday as Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) welcomed 413 newly arrived or expanded overseas and Chinese Mainland companies at a reception attended by over 380 representatives. The government's investment promotion agency announced that these enterprises are expected to bring in over HK$53 billion (US$6.8 billion) in foreign direct investment and create more than 8,600 new jobs for the city in the first half of 2026.
Chief Executive John Lee highlighted Hong Kong's business environment, 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," Mr. Lee said. "You have made a wise choice. Hong Kong is one of the world's best economies to do business in and with."
Under the "one country, two systems" principle, Hong Kong benefits from strong support from China while maintaining global connectivity. The city offers an open business environment, a simple and low tax regime, and a common law system that aligns with global financial centers. These advantages continue to attract diverse enterprises across sectors.
Austria-based transport and logistics firm Gebrüder Weiss upgraded its Hong Kong office to a regional headquarters for East Asia and Oceania. Regional Director Michael Zankel cited the city's business environment and talent pool, calling it "a gateway to Asia." Italian company Moleskine's Global Head of Hospitality & Lifestyle Channels, Merwann Younes, described Hong Kong as "a very dynamic and creative city." Etienne Dubois, Chief Strategy Officer of Unlimitics, an AI-powered school simulation game developer for neurodivergent children, praised Hong Kong as "a very good melting pot for talent and opportunities."
InvestHK's first-half results showed a 9% increase in completed projects compared to the same period in 2025, with anticipated direct investment up 36% and new jobs created rising 6% year-on-year. Of the 413 enterprises, 246 came from the Chinese Mainland, followed by Singapore (26), the United States (21), the United Kingdom (18), France (11), and Italy (11). The top sectors were innovation and technology (93), financial services and fintech (89), tourism and hospitality (55), transport, logistics and industrials (44), and business and professional services (39).
Looking ahead, Mr. Lee said the HKSAR Government is expediting development of the Northern Metropolis, an international I&T and business hub. "This will unlock abundant opportunities and shape a prosperous future for Hong Kong," he added. The government is also creating Hong Kong's first Five-Year Plan to focus on long-term economic momentum, advancing technology, and improving livelihoods.
For more details, the full investment promotion results are available at: InvestHK H1 2026 Results.
