More Hong Kong startups are seeking Southeast Asian talent: report

Cross-border job postings from Hong Kong and the Mainland increased four-fold in 1H23.

Hong Kong startups are increasingly seeking talents from Southeast Asia, a report by talent platform Glints and Monk's Hill Ventures revealed.

Based on “The Southeast Asia Startup Talent Report 2024,” cross-border job postings from Hong Kong and Mainland China rose fourfold in 1H23, compared to the same period in 2022.

The report said Hong Kong firms want Southeast Asian tech talent for their skill sets and cost savings. Roles in Taiwan, for example, offer 30%-40% lower costs compared to Hong Kong for mid-level positions, providing employers with a competitive edge.

“The increase in cross-border hiring by Hong Kong and mainland China-based companies reflects their strategic responses to different market needs,” said Puay-Lim Yeo, managing director of Glints.

He said Hong Kong companies prioritise cross-border hiring for increased profitability and cost reduction to access a broader talent pool.