Hong Kong celebrated a significant milestone in its economic recovery and growth as more than 380 representatives from global enterprises attended a welcome reception yesterday for 413 newly arrived or expanded overseas and Chinese Mainland companies. During the event, Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) announced impressive results for the first half of 2026, revealing that these enterprises are expected to bring in over HK$53 billion (US$6.8 billion) in foreign direct investment and create over 8,600 new jobs for the city.
Chief Executive John Lee highlighted Hong Kong's status as one of the world's best places to do business, 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. He emphasized that the choice of Hong Kong for business expansion reflects confidence in its flourishing future. Under the "one country, two systems" principle, Hong Kong enjoys strong support from China while maintaining close global connections, offering an open business environment, a simple low-tax regime, and a common law system that integrates seamlessly with international financial centers.
Several company representatives shared their positive experiences. 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 the business environment and talent pool, calling Hong Kong a gateway to Asia. Italian company Moleskine's Global Head of Hospitality & Lifestyle Channels, Merwann Younes, described Hong Kong as a dynamic and creative city that aligns with Moleskine's core values. Etienne Dubois, Chief Strategy Officer of Unlimitics, which developed an AI-powered school simulation game for neurodivergent children, noted that Hong Kong is an excellent melting pot for talent, opportunities, and growth for start-ups.
InvestHK's first-half results show 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 originated from the Chinese Mainland, followed by Singapore (26), the United States (21), the United Kingdom (18), France (11), and Italy (11). The top five sectors are 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, Chief Executive Lee announced that the HKSAR Government is expediting development of the Northern Metropolis, a new economic engine expected to become an international I&T and business hub. He also revealed plans for Hong Kong's first Five-Year Plan, a strategic blueprint focusing on long-term economic momentum, technological advancement, and improved livelihoods. The full investment promotion results are available at this link.
