Mainland Chinese enterprises are expanding globally with more sophisticated strategies, targeting both advanced economies and Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) markets. According to new research from the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), 82% of surveyed firms plan to expand existing overseas operations, while 63% aim to develop new business activities abroad. The survey also found that 54% intend to enhance overseas sourcing, 47% plan to expand sales networks, and 36% look to boost technology cooperation.
The research underscores Hong Kong's critical role in supporting these ambitions. Bruce Pang, Director of HKTDC Research, noted that as mainland enterprises shift toward supply chain integration and higher value-added activities, the demand for professional services grows. “Hong Kong’s unique connectivity and expertise have ensured it is playing an ever more significant role in helping mainland businesses seize global opportunities,” he said. With many opportunities stemming from BRI economies, Pang highlighted the upcoming Belt and Road Summit as a catalyst for cross-regional cooperation.
The survey revealed strong interest in BRI markets, with 94% of respondents expressing interest, up from 73% in 2023. ASEAN remains a priority, with Singapore (49%), Vietnam (46%), Thailand (44%), and Malaysia (41%) leading. Beyond Asia, 48% target Europe, 47% the US and Canada, while interest in the Middle East jumped from 33% to 46%, and Latin America doubled to 34%.
Mainland enterprises face challenges including shifting trade policies, geopolitical tensions, and rising costs. To mitigate these, they focus on improving efficiency (60%), managing overseas risks (57%), and controlling costs (57%). Wing Chu, Deputy Director of HKTDC Research, explained that firms plan to develop two to three overseas functions, extending along the global value chain. “These challenges underline the growing need for professional services support,” he said.
Hong Kong stands out as the preferred services platform, with 83% of enterprises ranking it first, followed by the Chinese mainland (78%) and Singapore (31%). Services sought range from marketing and legal advisory to financing and supply chain management. Hong Kong’s internationalized environment, legal system, and talent pool underpin its appeal. The National 15th Five-Year Plan explicitly supports Hong Kong in helping mainland firms go global, and the HKSAR Government’s GoGlobal Task Force, launched in October 2025, further reinforces this role.
The Belt and Road Summit, jointly organized by the HKSAR Government and HKTDC, will take place on 9-10 September at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. This 11th edition, themed “Advancing High-Quality Development - Embarking on a New Journey,” will feature a dedicated “Go Global Chapter” and a “GoGlobal Connect” zone to support mainland enterprises. A business mission to Nansha will also be organized. For more insights, the full research report is available at HKTDC Research.
