Surge in Overseas Firms Lured by City’s Prospects

By the Editorial Team · Saturday, June 27, 2026

Hong Kong attracted 413 new and expanding companies in the first half of 2026, primarily from mainland China, the US, and Europe, with foreign direct investment rising 36 percent to over HK$53 billion. This growth supports job creation and aligns with the city’s strategic focus on innovation, technology, and sustainable development, reinforcing its role as a major international business hub.

Hong Kong has seen a notable increase in foreign investment and business expansion during the first half of 2026, driven largely by firms from mainland China, the United States, and Europe, according to government data released this week.

A total of 413 companies established local operations or expanded their presence in the city from January to June, marking a 9 percent rise compared with the same period last year, the investment promotion agency InvestHK reported on Thursday. This influx of new and growing enterprises is expected to generate over HK$53 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI) and create more than 8,600 new jobs, figures that represent increases of 36 percent and 8 percent, respectively.

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu highlighted these developments at InvestHK’s annual reception, attributing the growth to Hong Kong’s open and facilitative business environment, including a low and transparent tax regime and a legal system based on common law that aligns closely with major global financial centres.

The agency’s data showed that about 60 percent of the firms setting up shop in Hong Kong during the period were from the mainland, accounting for 246 companies. Singapore contributed 26 firms, the United States 21, and the United Kingdom 18, while France and Italy each saw 11 new enterprises. Industry-wise, the leading sectors included innovation and technology, financial services, transport and logistics, tourism and hospitality, and professional and business services.

InvestHK emphasized a strategic alignment with the national 15th Five-Year Plan and the city’s policy address, focusing on attracting companies in new economy sectors such as artificial intelligence, life and health sciences, and sustainable development. Innovation and technology firms now represent the largest portion of both international and mainland enterprises entering the city.

Industry representatives attending the event underscored Hong Kong’s competitive advantages. Nina Barton, director of sustainability for Asia-Pacific at European logistics firm DSV, noted the city’s role as an aviation hub and its integration with the Greater Bay Area as key factors easing trade and enhancing customer service. DSV currently operates 14 logistics facilities in Hong Kong, including warehouses and cold-chain storage.

Similarly, Liao Jiansheng, vice-president of Zijin Gold International, cited Hong Kong’s drive to become an international gold trading hub as a major incentive for the company to expand its local operations. Zijin plans new facilities for gold refining and warehousing, supported by the city’s professional services and talent pool, which facilitate the establishment of its corporate treasury platform.

Since the inception of the InvestHK scheme, the agency has attracted 2,377 investors and brought in HK$119 billion in total investment, figures that illustrate the territory’s ongoing efforts to solidify its position as a global business and financial centre.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.