Asia hiring slowdown fuels job insecurity: survey

The survey responses came from six Asian markets, including Hong Kong.

A significant slowdown in hiring activity has contributed to rising job insecurity across Asia, including Hong Kong, according to new data from Hays.

Only 28% of organisations in Asia reported increasing headcount in 2025, a sharp drop from 46% projected in late 2024.

Meanwhile, organisational restructuring became more widespread, with 39% of employers undergoing workforce changes this year—far higher than the initially forecasted 25%.

The findings are part of Hays’ latest Pulse of Recruitment report, which draws on survey responses from over 2,000 professionals and hiring managers across six Asian markets.

Increased restructuring and more conservative hiring have left many professionals feeling uncertain. In the region, 34% of respondents said they felt insecure in their current roles.

Amongst those who had already left their jobs in 2025, 24% cited a lack of job security as a key driver—just behind career stagnation and ahead of more traditional motivators like better pay or benefits.

Career progression remains a major concern. Of those who changed jobs, 36% said limited advancement opportunities pushed them to move. For those still considering a change, 45% pointed to the lack of future growth prospects at their current organisations.

Despite cost-cutting measures and reduced hiring, skills shortages remain a challenge. Across Asia, 56% of employers reported moderate to severe talent gaps—highlighting the continued need for strategic workforce planning.

The report also pointed to the growing use of artificial intelligence tools in workplaces. As of mid-2025, 63% of professionals report using AI in their daily work, up from 54% at the end of 2024.

Organisational support has also improved: 41% of respondents said their employer provides AI-related training, compared to just 28% last year.