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 study, titled "Mainland Enterprises’ Global Expansion: Hong Kong - The Premier Service Platform," underscores Hong Kong's pivotal role in helping these businesses overcome challenges such as shifting global trade policies, rising protectionism, and supply chain disruptions.
The survey found that 82% of Mainland enterprises plan to expand existing overseas operations, while 63% aim to develop new overseas business activities. Additionally, 54% intend to enhance overseas sourcing, 47% to expand sales networks, and 36% to boost technology cooperation. This diversification highlights the need for sophisticated professional support services, a niche Hong Kong is well-positioned to fill.
Bruce Pang, Director of HKTDC Research, emphasized, "With the overseas expansion strategies of Mainland enterprises now extending to supply chain integration, cross-border investment and higher value-added business activities, the need for highly professional support services has continued to grow." He added that Hong Kong's unique connectivity and expertise make it an indispensable partner for Mainland businesses seeking global opportunities.
The research also reveals a surge in interest in Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) markets. 94% of surveyed companies expressed interest in developing business in these territories, up significantly from 73% in 2023. Notably, 91% are prioritizing expansion in ASEAN, with Singapore (49%), Vietnam (46%), Thailand (44%), and Malaysia (41%) as top destinations. Interest in the Middle East rose from 33% to 46%, and Latin America doubled from 17% to 34%. Advanced markets remain attractive, with 48% targeting Europe and 47% focusing on the US and Canada.
Wing Chu, Deputy Director of HKTDC Research, noted that "most enterprises pursuing international expansion plan to develop two to three overseas business functions (61%), indicating their intention to extend along different stages of the global industrial and business value chain." However, they face challenges such as rapid market uncertainties, intense competition, and capital constraints, which underscore the growing need for professional services.
Hong Kong emerges as the leading services platform, chosen by 83% of surveyed enterprises, followed by the Chinese Mainland (78%) and Singapore (31%). The services sought are broad, including marketing, legal, accounting, financing, risk management, supply chain management, R&D, and ESG support. Hong Kong's attractiveness stems from its internationalized business environment, robust legal system, free capital flow, and a strong talent pool.
The National 15th Five-Year Plan explicitly supports Hong Kong's integration into national development, and the HKSAR Government launched the GoGlobal Task Force in October 2025 to provide comprehensive support for enterprises expanding overseas. This aligns with the upcoming Belt and Road Summit, which will take place on 9-10 September at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. The 11th edition, themed "Advancing High-Quality Development - Embarking on a New Journey," will feature a dedicated "Go Global Chapter" with breakout sessions and a "GoGlobal Connect" zone to offer practical support. A GoGlobal Business Mission to Nansha, Guangzhou, will also provide insights into Greater Bay Area developments.
The Belt and Road Summit has long served as a premier platform for policy dialogue, business networking, and deal-making, helping enterprises capture opportunities in emerging markets. With Hong Kong's reinforced role as a go-global services hub, Mainland enterprises are better equipped to navigate the complexities of international expansion, driving economic growth and cross-regional cooperation.
