Hong Kong is a leading logistics and maritime hub in Asia, serving as a crucial “super-connector” between the Chinese Mainland and the global market. However, sustaining this status presents significant challenges.
Despite having a top-tier aviation sector, the city has seen a steady decline in container throughput due to the rapid rise of competing seaports in the Chinese Mainland. Hong Kong, which was once among the world’s top three container ports, fell out of the top 10 for the first time in history last year, according to data from Alphaliner.
In today’s landscape of shifting trade dynamics, global supply chains are grappling with increasing geopolitical fragmentation and economic divergence. The need for resilient supply chains has never been more critical. Recent events, particularly the fluctuating tariffs from the Trump administration, have highlighted the fragility and complexity of global supply networks. Additionally, supply chain disruptions are becoming more frequent; McKinsey reports that disruptions lasting longer than a month occur every 3.7 years on average, potentially costing businesses up to 45% of annual profits over a decade.
Growing Cold Chain Market
The future of Hong Kong's supply chain leadership hinges on its ability to adapt and integrate. The key is to keep up with the development and staying relevant amid a rapidly evolving trade landscape. Hong Kong must evolve into a sustainable international smart logistics hub, focusing on high-value goods.
The cold chain market has emerged as a crucial segment in the global logistics industry, driven by increasing demand for temperature-sensitive products such as pharmaceuticals, dairy products, frozen foods and fresh produce.
According to Precedence Research, the Asia-Pacific cold chain logistics market size was US$167.20 billion in 2024. It is projected to be worth around US$663.62 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 14.76% from 2025 to 2034.
To capitalize on this growth, Hong Kong has solidified its role as a vital player in cold chain logistics. Recognized as the busiest cargo airport in the world for the 14th consecutive year, Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) has achieved international certifications for perishable logistics and pharmaceutical products and actively collaborates with major pharmaceutical hubs to develop a “cold-chain corridor.” This capability is further enhanced by Hong Kong's efficient seaport, which supports the seamless integration of cold chain operations.
Developing into a Smart Cold Chain Hub
As demand for high-value goods surges, driven by cross-border e-commerce and intra-Asian trade, the regional cold chain logistics market is poised for significant growth, presenting attractive long-term investment opportunities. To seize these prospects, Hong Kong must continue to enhance its hardware, software and professional capabilities in managing cold chain cargo.
In addition to upgrading its cold chain facilities, Hong Kong needs to establish efficient intermodal transport networks. The “rail-sea-land-river” intermodal transport system, which connects to inland provinces in the Chinese Mainland, exemplifies this synergy. The development of a logistics park in Dongguan will further optimize the use of Hong Kong's air cargo services for transporting goods to and from the mainland.
As a free port with a simple and low tax regime, Hong Kong already offers significant trade advantages. The next frontier lies in digitalization, transitioning to a more integrated, paperless system that connects all stakeholders, from customs and shippers to logistics providers and banks. Initiatives aimed at facilitating data sharing and streamlining customs clearance processes will not only expedite the flow of goods but also enhance supply chain transparency and security. Furthermore, developing a “Smart Port” will be crucial for improving efficiency and reducing cargo handling times through the application of digital technology.
Hong Kong's future as a global supply chain leader extends beyond its physical infrastructure. It involves establishing itself as an intelligent, resilient and indispensable hub for high-value-added services, providing comprehensive solutions for cold chain management, from cold storage to delivery and distribution that meet international standards. By embracing intermodal transport, prioritizing digitalization and leveraging its strategic position within the GBA, Hong Kong can maintain its central role in regional and global trade.
Doris Fung
dfung@chamber.org.hk