Hong Kong celebrated a significant influx of global enterprises on June 25, welcoming 413 newly arrived or expanded overseas and mainland Chinese companies at a reception hosted by Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK). The event, attended by over 380 representatives, underscored the city's robust economic appeal amid global uncertainties.
InvestHK revealed that these enterprises are expected to contribute over HK$53 billion (US$6.8 billion) in foreign direct investment and create more than 8,600 new jobs in the first half of 2026. This marks a 9% increase in completed projects compared to the same period in 2025, with anticipated direct investment up 36% and new jobs rising 6% year-on-year.
Chief Executive John Lee emphasized Hong Kong's advantages under the "one country, two systems" principle, noting its status as the world's freest economy according to the Fraser Institute and the second most competitive economy per the 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 said. He highlighted the city's open business environment, low tax regime, and common law system that seamlessly connects with global financial centers.
Among the expanding enterprises, 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 praised Hong Kong's talent pool and gateway function: "The business environment is great... It has always been the gateway to the Chinese Mainland but for us it is more a gateway to Asia." Italian company Moleskine also expanded its presence, with Global Head Merwann Younes describing Hong Kong as "a very dynamic and creative city." Etienne Dubois, Chief Strategy Officer of Unlimitics, which develops AI-powered simulations for neurodivergent children, noted Hong Kong's appeal for startups: "It is a very good melting pot for talent and opportunities and for growth."
The 413 enterprises originated primarily from the Chinese Mainland (246), followed by Singapore (26), the United States (21), the United Kingdom (18), France (11), and Italy (11). Top sectors included 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, Lee announced that the HKSAR Government is expediting development of the Northern Metropolis, a new economic engine poised to become an international innovation and technology hub. He also revealed plans for Hong Kong's first Five-Year Plan, a strategic blueprint focusing on long-term economic momentum, technology advancement, and livelihood improvement. Detailed investment promotion results for the first half of 2026 are available at this link.
