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Mainland firms target Asean expansion through Hong Kong launch pad
A Trade Development Council survey conducted in January to February 2026 polled more than 2,000 mainland companies across sectors, finding 91 percent plan to develop business in Asean markets.
More than 90 percent of mainland Chinese enterprises plan to expand overseas within the next two years, and over 80 percent say they want to use Hong Kong as their launch pad into Southeast Asia, according to a survey published by Hong Kong’s Trade Development Council, as reported by SCMP Economy.
The findings, based on a January to February 2026 survey of more than 2,000 mainland companies across manufacturing and services, show a push to build regional supply chains and move into higher value added activities, with interest in emerging areas such as AI, semiconductors and new energy.
The council said 91 percent of respondents plan to develop business in Asean markets, which it described as a growing priority destination for international growth.
SCMP Economy reports the council also found demand for Hong Kong’s professional services remains strong, with firms citing needs around legal and accounting compliance, marketing and e-commerce as they enter Asean markets.