Rising transport costs push Hong Kong part-time workers towards flexible roles

Nearly 45% said commuting costs make part-time work financially unsustainable.

Rising transport costs are making part-time employment less viable in Hong Kong, prompting more workers to seek flexible or hybrid arrangements, according to the International Workplace Group (IWG).

IWG’s survey found that 44% of part-time employees said commuting costs make their jobs financially unsustainable.

Almost half (49%) said they would consider leaving employment without flexible options, whilst 55% would resign if required to travel long distances each week.

Government data showed transport costs rose by 2.5% year on year in August, adding to labour cost pressures and reinforcing demand for remote and decentralised work models. IWG said hybrid arrangements that reduce commuting could help employers retain part-time staff and manage wage-driven cost inflation.

“High commuting costs and limited flexibility are key challenges for employers seeking to retain part-time staff,” said Mark Dixon, IWG’s founder and CEO. “Providing hybrid options can reduce turnover and attract experienced workers back into the labour market.”