Over 75% eye expansion despite talent retention and hiring strains

About 13% of employers cited talent retention as their biggest obstacle.

Hong Kong employers plan to expand market share in 2026, with 76% identifying organisational growth as a key strategic priority, according to a report by Hays.

Talent retention remains a constraint, with 13% of employers identifying it as their biggest obstacle, whilst 25% report difficulty hiring junior and entry-level staff, the highest rate in Asia.

Improving competitiveness was cited by 40% of employers as a focus area, whilst 33% aim to expand market share and 18% plan to increase turnover.

The survey found that 87% of professionals use conversational artificial intelligence tools, compared with a regional average of 92%.

Flexible working was ranked as important by 42% of professionals, who linked it to work-life balance at 61% and productivity at 50%.

Medical and life insurance benefits were valued by 56% of professionals, above the regional average of 41%, and 62% of employers said they are strengthening benefits packages in response.