Hong Kong added a record number of foreign-backed companies and startups in 2025, according to two annual government surveys released on 26 January, signalling continued capital inflows despite global economic uncertainty.
The survey of companies with parent entities outside Hong Kong showed the total rose to 11,070 last year. A separate startup survey recorded 5,221 startups operating in the city. Both totals increased at double-digit rates year on year, reaching historical highs.
The data shows new business formation remained concentrated in finance and technology. Fintech and information and computer technology accounted for the largest share of startups, while frontier sectors, including biotechnology, continued to expand at a steady pace.
Capital markets performance remained a key support. Hong Kong ranked first globally for IPO fundraising in 2025, with four new listings placing among the world’s top 10 by funds raised during the year.
Invest Hong Kong said it assisted 560 overseas and mainland enterprises to establish or expand operations in the city during the year, with most activity again concentrated in finance and technology. The government did not directly attribute the survey growth to these efforts.
The government said the figures demonstrated resilience “against the backdrop of global economic uncertainty”, adding that Hong Kong’s “business vitality and innovation momentum have surged against the headwinds”.
Officials argued that institutional stability remained a differentiator, stating that “the rule of law constitutes the best business environment”, particularly amid geopolitical risk and supply chain disruption.
Hong Kong ranked first globally for business legislation in the World Competitiveness Ranking 2025. The World Bank’s Global Business Environment Report 2025 placed the city in the top three for Business Entry, International Trade and Contract Enforcement.
The International Organisation for Mediation was established in Hong Kong, with 38 signatory states in 2025. Officials described the body as a “risk shock absorber” for cross-border investment.
Authorities also highlighted Hong Kong’s intellectual property regime, citing transparent processes, international standards and relatively short examination cycles.
The government linked future policy direction to the “15th Five-Year Plan (2026–30)” and reaffirmed “one country, two systems” as the governing framework.