Hong Kong: Asia’s World City

An international business centre. An exotic, cosmopolitan, world city. These are the two faces of Hong Kong. From its rugged peaks and gleaming skyscrapers surrounding its iconic and bustling harbour, Hong Kong is one of the most exciting and vibrant cities in the world. With its heart and mind dedicated to business, the soul of Hong Kong extends from the trading floor and boardrooms to the bustling shopping malls, street markets and 24-hour nightlife.

It is hard to talk about Hong Kong without stumbling over superlatives: the city is the world’s freest economy (and has been for the last thirteen years); it ranks first for ease of doing business, second in the competitiveness rankings, and its airport, container ports and financial markets consistently top the ratings for quality, service and international coverage.

Put simply Hong Kong is a city that works. It’s tried and tested formula of “small government, big market” allows business, both homegrown and foreign, to flourish. Nearly 3,900 overseas companies have already established their regional offices or headquarters in Hong Kong, making it Asia’s most popular international business city. In the past decade alone, this number has risen more than 50 percent. Hong Kong is unsurprisingly a massive recipient of foreign direct investment, second only in Asia to its massive motherland, Mainland China.

An annual survey of overseas companies cites Hong Kong’s favourable tax system, the ease of doing business, freedom of information and lack of exchange controls as the city’s most appealing features.

All work and no play …

But inward investment decisions are rarely made on economics alone. In Hong Kong, whether it’s entertaining clients, or unwinding after a tough week at work, it’s a city that rarely disappoints. Hong Kong boasts an array of bars, restaurants and entertainment. From the most prestigious dining to a hurried bowl of the freshest noodles, Hong Kong has something to match all tastes and budgets.

Away from the city, mountain tracks await intrepid or recreational hikers. Only 15 minutes from the central business district you’ll find unspoiled views over turquoise seas and picture-perfect islands. Equally, sailing, golf, tennis and much more are easily available creating an unrivalled living environment for executives and their families.

Hong Kong is a city that seamlessly delivers business and pleasure – a heady combination that guarantees its status as Asia’s World City.