Mainland Chinese enterprises are adopting increasingly sophisticated global business strategies, targeting both advanced economies and emerging markets, according to new research from the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC). The survey, which highlights the critical role Hong Kong plays in supporting these ambitions, comes ahead of the 11th Belt and Road Summit scheduled for September 9-10 in Hong Kong.
The HKTDC survey found that 82% of Mainland enterprises have plans to expand existing overseas operations, while 63% are focused on developing new overseas business activities. Additionally, 54% aim to enhance overseas sourcing, 47% plan to expand sales networks, and 36% intend to bolster technology cooperation abroad. These expanding strategies are driving demand for high-level professional services, positioning Hong Kong as the preferred hub. Bruce Pang, Director of HKTDC Research, stated, "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. As the first-choice professional services hub for the majority of the surveyed enterprises, Hong Kong's unique connectivity and unrivalled expertise have ensured it is playing an ever more significant role in helping Mainland business seize global opportunities."
The research underscores the growing importance of Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) markets, with 94% of surveyed companies expressing interest in these territories, a significant jump from 73% in 2023. ASEAN is a priority for 91% of respondents, with Singapore, Vietnam, Thailand, and Malaysia leading. Beyond BRI, 48% target Europe's advanced markets, 47% plan to deepen engagement with the US and Canada, and interest in the Middle East rose from 33% to 46%. Interest in Latin America doubled to 34%. This broader global focus reflects a shift in strategic priorities.
Mainland enterprises face several challenges, including shifting global trade policies, rising protectionism, and supply chain reconfigurations. The survey lists intensified competition (61%), geopolitical tensions (55%), rising Mainland costs (51%), and tariff barriers (50%) as top concerns. In response, companies are focusing on improving efficiency (60%), managing overseas risks (57%), and controlling costs (57%). Wing Chu, Deputy Director of HKTDC Research, noted, "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. During this process they face major challenges, including difficulty coping with rapidly changing market uncertainties, intense competition in overseas markets, and insufficient capital to adjust business operations and supply chains. These challenges underline the growing need for professional services support."
Hong Kong's status as the leading global expansion services platform is confirmed by 83% of surveyed enterprises, followed by the Chinese Mainland (78%) and Singapore (31%). The services sought are diverse, including marketing, legal and accounting advisory, financing, supply chain management, R&D, product standards, and ESG support. This preference is attributed to Hong Kong's internationalized business environment, robust legal system, free flow of capital and information, extensive networks, and professional talent.
The National 15th Five-Year Plan explicitly supports Hong Kong's integration into national development and highlights its professional services strengths for helping Mainland enterprises go global. The HKSAR Government's GoGlobal Task Force, launched in October 2025, further reinforces this role. The upcoming Belt and Road Summit, themed "Advancing High-Quality Development - Embarking on a New Journey," will feature a dedicated "Go Global Chapter" with breakout sessions on overseas expansion opportunities and Hong Kong's professional services. A new "GoGlobal Connect" zone will showcase services and provide consultation, while a GoGlobal Business Mission to Nansha, Guangzhou, will offer insights into Greater Bay Area developments.
For more details, see the HKTDC research report: Mainland Enterprises' Global Expansion: Hong Kong - The Premier Service Platform.
