Mainland Chinese enterprises are broadening their international footprint with more sophisticated strategies, targeting advanced economies, Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) partners, and emerging markets. This shift is detailed in new research from the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), which underscores Hong Kong's pivotal role in helping these companies navigate challenges such as changing global trade policies, rising protectionism, and supply chain realignments.
The HKTDC survey found that 82% of companies plan to expand existing overseas operations, while 63% aim to develop new business activities abroad. Additionally, 54% intend to enhance overseas sourcing, 47% to expand sales networks, and 36% to boost technology cooperation. These priorities highlight the growing demand for high-level professional services, a niche where Hong Kong excels.
Bruce Pang, Director of HKTDC Research, emphasized Hong Kong's unique position: "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 connectivity and expertise make it the first-choice hub for these enterprises. The upcoming Belt and Road Summit is expected to further bolster cross-regional cooperation.
The research highlights the growing importance of BRI markets: 94% of surveyed companies expressed interest in developing business in these territories, up from 73% in 2023. Specifically, 91% plan to expand in ASEAN, with Singapore (49%), Vietnam (46%), Thailand (44%), and Malaysia (41%) as top targets. Beyond Asia, 48% intend to enter Europe's advanced markets, 47% to expand in the US and Canada, interest in the Middle East rose to 46% from 33%, and Latin America's appeal doubled to 34%.
Despite these opportunities, companies face significant hurdles, including intensified competition (61%), geopolitical tensions (55%), rising costs in Mainland China (51%), and trade barriers (50%). To counter these, 60% plan to improve production efficiency, 57% to better manage overseas risks, and 57% to control costs. Wing Chu, Deputy Director of HKTDC Research, noted that most enterprises aim to develop two to three overseas functions, extending along the global value chain. They struggle with market uncertainties, competition, and capital constraints, underscoring the need for robust professional support.
Hong Kong emerges as the leading services platform, chosen by 83% of respondents, ahead of the Chinese Mainland (78%) and Singapore (31%). Services sought include marketing, legal and accounting advisory, financing, risk management, supply chain management, R&D, and ESG support. This preference stems from Hong Kong's internationalized business environment, robust legal system, free capital flow, and deep talent pool.
The National 15th Five-Year Plan explicitly supports Hong Kong in assisting Mainland enterprises' global expansion. In October 2025, the HKSAR Government launched the GoGlobal Task Force to integrate resources and provide comprehensive support. The upcoming Belt and Road Summit, scheduled for 9-10 September at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, will feature a dedicated "Go Global Chapter" with breakout sessions and a "GoGlobal Connect" zone offering consultations. A business mission to Nansha, Guangzhou, will also be organized.
As Mainland enterprises navigate a complex global landscape, Hong Kong's role as a strategic partner and service hub is more critical than ever, facilitating their ambitions and contributing to high-quality international cooperation.
