The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) has welcomed the latest World Competitiveness Yearbook (WCY) 2026, published by the International Institute for Management Development, which shows Hong Kong rising to second globally in competitiveness. The city topped the rankings in 'Tax policy' and 'Business legislation,' ranked second in 'Finance,' and third in 'International trade,' 'International investment,' 'Management practices,' and 'Education,' underscoring its institutional strengths and market efficiency, according to the HKTDC.
Prof Frederick Ma, Chairman of the HKTDC, said the WCY 2026 reaffirms Hong Kong’s competitiveness and business advantages. He noted that recent international reports show Hong Kong has become the world’s fifth-largest trading entity, overtaken Switzerland to rank first globally in cross-border wealth management, and remained among the top global destinations for IPO fundraising. These developments highlight Hong Kong’s competitive advantages as the 'Four Centres and One Hub' and demonstrate that the city is the premier two-way springboard connecting the Chinese Mainland and international markets.
Prof Ma added that the HKTDC will continue to actively support the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government, proactively aligning with the national 15th Five-Year Plan and Hong Kong’s Five-Year Plan. Leveraging the city’s unique strengths as a superconnector and super value-adder, the HKTDC aims to help Hong Kong better integrate into and contribute to the nation’s overall development.
The WCY 2026 results come amid a series of positive indicators for Hong Kong, reinforcing its status as a leading global business hub. The HKTDC, celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, continues to promote Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub through international exhibitions, conferences, and business missions, particularly supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in mainland and international markets. The council also provides market insights via research reports and digital news channels.
For more information, visit the HKTDC Media Room.
