Curated News
By: NewsRamp Editorial Staff
August 18, 2026
HKTDC: Mainland Firms Go Global, Hong Kong Key Partner
TLDR
- Mainland enterprises expanding to Belt and Road markets can gain an edge by leveraging Hong Kong's professional services, as 83% prefer it for global growth.
- HKTDC research shows 82% of Mainland firms plan overseas expansion, with 61% developing two to three business functions, requiring Hong Kong's support in areas like financing and supply chain.
- Hong Kong's GoGlobal Task Force and Belt and Road Summit foster cross-regional cooperation, helping Mainland businesses expand globally and promote sustainable development.
- The Belt and Road Summit introduces a 'GoGlobal Connect' zone and a business mission to Nansha, offering hands-on insights into Greater Bay Area opportunities.
Impact - Why it Matters
This news matters because it underscores Hong Kong's growing importance as a gateway for Mainland Chinese enterprises expanding globally. As these companies face increasing geopolitical tensions and trade barriers, Hong Kong's professional services—ranging from legal and financial to supply chain management—become critical for their success. For global investors and businesses, this trend signals new opportunities for collaboration and investment, particularly in Belt and Road markets. The upcoming Belt and Road Summit will be a pivotal event for networking and deal-making, potentially shaping cross-regional economic partnerships.
Summary
Mainland Chinese enterprises are increasingly adopting comprehensive global expansion strategies, targeting both advanced economies and Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) aligned territories, according to new research from the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC). The survey reveals that 82% of these businesses plan to expand existing overseas operations, while 63% aim to develop new overseas business activities. The research highlights the pivotal role Hong Kong plays in helping these companies overcome challenges such as shifting global trade policies, rising protectionism, and supply chain reconfigurations. Bruce Pang, Director of HKTDC Research, emphasized that as Mainland enterprises extend their strategies to supply chain integration, cross-border investment, and higher value-added activities, the demand for professional support services continues to grow, positioning Hong Kong as the first-choice professional services hub.
Interest in BRI markets has surged, with 94% of surveyed companies confirming their intent to develop business in these territories, up from 73% in 2023. ASEAN remains a priority, with 91% focusing on expanding activities, particularly in Singapore, Vietnam, Thailand, and Malaysia. Interest in the Middle East has risen from 33% to 46%, and Latin America from 17% to 34%, while 48% target Europe and 47% the US and Canada. However, companies face significant challenges, including intensified competition (61%), geopolitical tensions (55%), rising Mainland costs (51%), and tariff barriers (50%). To address these, 83% of enterprises see Hong Kong as their leading services platform, ahead of the Chinese Mainland (78%) and Singapore (31%). The upcoming Belt and Road Summit, scheduled for September 9-10, will feature a dedicated 'Go Global Chapter' and a newly introduced 'GoGlobal Connect' zone to support Mainland enterprises in their global expansion. The summit aims to facilitate cross-regional cooperation and help businesses find ideal partners in Hong Kong. The HKTDC research underscores Hong Kong's unique position as a premier service platform, supported by its robust legal system, free flow of capital, and extensive international networks, reinforcing its role in helping Mainland businesses seize global opportunities.
Source Statement
This curated news summary relied on content distributed by NewMediaWire. Read the original source here, HKTDC: Mainland Firms Go Global, Hong Kong Key Partner
