For Immediate Release
The Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce (HKGCC) unveiled today the “Asian Cities Internationality Index” (Index), which examines 11 key cities in Asia across seven areas.
The Index highlighted that Hong Kong and Singapore are very close regarding their role in the international economy, but overall, the 11 cities’ strengths – including diverse cultures and a mix of advanced and emerging economies – showcased each’s unique comparative advantages.
“We wanted to develop an independent, transparent, and credible framework to assess the prominence of leading Asian cities as international business hubs,” explained HKGCC Chairman Agnes Chan. “By evaluating multiple criteria, using both quantitative and qualitative methods, this Index has resulted in a comprehensive report highlighting each city’s competitive advantages. The findings also provide actionable insights to guide strategic policy decisions and strengthen Asia’s position in the global economy.”
The Index measured 113 indicators in seven areas, namely: Business & Economy, Quality of Life, Infrastructure & Connectivity, Innovation & Ideas, Human Capital Diversity, Cultural Interaction, and Government & Legal System for Business. These included 69 statistical indicators from various national and international sources, and 44 indicators gathered from a survey of 1,107 business executives residing in these cities – both local and expats – to provide a broad spectrum of insights. In addition to the quantitative analysis, qualitative interviews with senior executives were conducted to delve deeper into the strengths and weaknesses of the cities.
Out of a maximum score of 100, Hong Kong ranked first, with a score of 73.7, followed closely by Singapore at 73.5. The Index recognised Hong Kong’s position as an international financial hub, a centre for international events, and an international hub for world-class education, as well as its free, safe, and stable living environment. Singapore was highlighted as a multicultural city that nurtures a diverse talent pool.
Tokyo (70.0) and Seoul (69.4) formed the next tier. Tokyo excelled in quality of life, cultural interaction and international presence, while Seoul demonstrated prowess in advanced transportation and information connectivity, enhancing their global appeal.
It is then followed by Shanghai (65.1), Bangkok (61.3), Kuala Lumpur (60.7), and Taipei (57.9). Shanghai led in innovation with its vibrant innovation ecosystem. Other cities’ unique strengths included tourism appeal, diverse educational resources, and accessibility of information. However, they have not yet fully elevated their international standing.
Jakarta (55.5), Ho Chi Minh City (53.9), and Mumbai (53.1) demonstrated strong self-reliance. Nevertheless, certain cities are capitalising on geopolitical dynamics and maintain a positive outlook about their future international growth.
The study identified the comparative advantages of these cities as key international business hubs in Asia, providing them with valuable insights to make informed and impactful policy decisions. To enhance their international appeal, Asian cities should:
- Strengthen ties with emerging markets to foster collaboration and contribute to global development;
- Enhance digital connectivity to promote borderless intellectual and cultural exchange;
- Cultivate a diverse talent pool to facilitate dialogue and foster innovative ideas and solutions;
- Ensure business regulations align with international standards and best practices; and
- Celebrate and preserve local cultural heritage while welcoming diverse influences.
About the Index
HKGCC commissioned Ipsos to conduct a study aimed at developing an independent, transparent and credible framework to evaluate the internationality of 11 Asian cities – Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Mumbai, Seoul, Shanghai, Singapore, Taipei, and Tokyo.
A total of 1,107 senior executives working in the selected cities – equally split between locals and non-locals – were surveyed in January 2025 to gather their perspectives.
High resolution photo, executive summary and full report can be downloaded here.
Media inquiries: Please contact Mr Jonathan Man at 2823 1229 / jonathan@chamber.org.hk