The Chamber’s Asian Cities Internationality Index (ACII) offers a rigorous, data-driven assessment of 11 dynamic Asian cities, underscoring Hong Kong’s position as the region’s preeminent international business and financial hub. Importantly, it also provides a nuanced understanding of competitive dynamics across the region.
The independent study was commissioned as a transparent and credible review, emphasizing each city’s competitive strengths and its role in boosting Asia’s expanding influence in the global economy. It also acts as a “health check” for Hong Kong, offering actionable insights to inform strategic policy choices and point to areas of improvement.
Conducted by an independent research partner, the ACII employed a dual quantitative-qualitative approach, overseen by a steering committee of renowned academia. The study surveyed a diverse group of over 1,000 senior executives (including both locals and non-locals) for perspectives through an Asian lens.
The cities were ranked in seven areas: Business & Economy, Quality of Life, Infrastructure & Connectivity, Innovation & Ideas, Human Capital Diversity, Cultural Interaction, and Government & Legal System for Business.
Hong Kong emerged as the top performer overall, ranking among the top three cities in no fewer than five categories, with Singapore a close second, followed by Tokyo and Seoul.
Hong Kong secured first place in “Business & Economy,” reflecting its unparalleled strengths: free, diversified financial markets, robust trading activity and an open, globally integrated economic environment, which is particularly salient amid rising protectionism.
Hong Kong’s second-place rankings in both “Quality of Life” and “Infrastructure & Connectivity” highlight its world-class living standards and top-notch transportation networks, while its third place in “Government & Legal System for Business” reinforces its regulatory excellence and business-friendly environment.
While the city ranked fourth in “Innovation & Ideas” and “Cultural Interaction,” its research ecosystem and unique East-West identity position it well to progress in these areas. From its renowned universities to increasing R&D investment, the city has all the foundations to become an innovation leader.
Shanghai, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Taipei comprise the next tier of cities. Notably, Shanghai topped in “Innovation & Ideas” with its vibrant innovation ecosystem, while the other cities showcased niche strengths in tourism, education and information accessibility. Emerging cities like Jakarta, Ho Chi Minh City and Mumbai formed the final tier, marking resilience in harnessing their advantages.
While Hong Kong’s emergence as Asia’s leading international city is a cause for celebration, complacency is not an option. To that end, the Government is already implementing multifaceted strategies that incorporate short- and long-term innovation and development policies, while also expanding global networks and partnerships.
As the global economic axis shifts toward Asia, the ACII not only reaffirms Hong Kong's status but also establishes a definitive roadmap for the region’s growing influence in an increasingly multipolar world.
Agnes Chan
chairman@chamber.org.hk