Europe to Hong Kong: 10 Reasons to Expand Your Business in the Asian Hub

In today’s evolving global landscape, European businesses are actively exploring new horizons to fuel their growth and expand their operation, especially to Hong Kong. Among the options available, the Greater Bay Area has emerged as a prominent and highly sought-after destination, captivating the attention of companies eager to establish a solid foothold in the Asian market. Hong Kong’s reputation as a business-friendly city is well-established, with a transparent and efficient regulatory framework that facilitates seamless operations and nurtures entrepreneurship. By establishing a presence in Hong Kong, European businesses gain access to a thriving ecosystem of opportunities, from trade and investment to technological innovation and strategic partnerships.

In this article, we will explore the benefits of setting up a company in Hong Kong and the 10 compelling reasons to expand your business to Hong Kong from Europe. From its strategic location and connectivity to its resilient economy, favorable business environment, multicultural society, and extensive support infrastructure, we will delve deep into the key factors that make Hong Kong an unrivaled destination for European companies looking to expand their horizons and embark on a successful journey into the vibrant and lucrative Asian market.

Strategic Location and Connectivity:

Hong Kong’s location at the heart of Asia makes it an ideal gateway to the region’s vast markets. It is also a major financial and trading center, with a well-developed infrastructure and a skilled workforce. This makes it an attractive destination for businesses that want to trade with the rest of the world.

In addition, Hong Kong’s proximity to China is a major advantage for European businesses. China is the world’s second-largest economy, and it is growing rapidly. By setting up a company in Hong Kong, European businesses can gain access to this huge market.

Examples of European companies that have benefited from Hong Kong’s strategic location:

1. The telecommunications company, Ericsson, has its Asia-Pacific regional headquarters in Hong Kong. This gives the company a base from which to operate in the region’s growing telecommunications market.
2. The banking giant HSBC has its Asia-Pacific headquarters in Hong Kong. This gives the company a central location from which to serve its customers in the region.

Strong Legal System:

• Intellectual property protection: Hong Kong has strong intellectual property (IP) laws that protect businesses’ inventions, trademarks, and other IP assets. This is important for businesses that want to protect their innovations and market share.
• Commercial law: Hong Kong has a well-developed commercial law system that governs contracts, sales, and other commercial transactions. This provides businesses with the certainty and predictability they need to conduct business with confidence.
• Corporate law: Hong Kong has a flexible corporate law system that allows businesses to choose the corporate structure that best suits their needs. This gives businesses the flexibility to adapt to changing market conditions.
• Dispute resolution: Hong Kong has a variety of dispute resolution mechanisms, including arbitration, mediation, and litigation. This allows businesses to choose the dispute resolution mechanism that best suits their needs.
• Taxation: Hong Kong has a simple and low-tax regime that makes it an attractive location for businesses to set up shop and do business. This can save businesses money and improve their bottom line.

Low Tax Regime and Financial Advantages:

Hong Kong’s low and simple tax system is a major draw for European companies. With a competitive corporate tax rate and no tax on capital gains, dividends, or interest income, the city offers an attractive fiscal environment. European businesses can take advantage of Hong Kong’s well-developed financial sector, including a flexible banking system, deep capital markets, and a wealth of investment opportunities. Here are some advantages of the Hong Kong tax system compared to Europe:

• Corporate tax rate: Hong Kong has a low corporate tax rate of 16.5%. This is significantly lower than the corporate tax rates in many European countries, such as France (33.33%), Germany (15.825%), and Italy (27%).
• No tax on capital gains, dividends, or interest income: Hong Kong does not tax capital gains, dividends, or interest income. This is a significant advantage for European companies that generate income from these sources.
• Flexible banking system: Hong Kong has a flexible banking system that allows businesses to access capital and secure financing easily. This is important for European companies that are looking to expand their operations in Asia.
• Deep capital markets: Hong Kong has deep capital markets that provide businesses with access to a wide range of investment opportunities. This is important for European companies that are looking to raise capital or invest in other businesses.
• Well-developed financial sector: Hong Kong has a well-developed financial sector that provides businesses with access to a wide range of financial services. This is important for European companies that are looking to manage their financial operations efficiently.

Cultural Diversity and Language Advantage:

Hong Kong’s unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures provides a significant advantage for European companies seeking to enter the Asian market. Being part of the Commonwealth countries, the English language has played a significant role in shaping the education system in Hong Kong. English is widely spoken, serving as a common language for business transactions. Additionally, the city’s proficiency in the Chinese language enhances engagement with local partners and customers.

On top of that, Hong Kong is a cosmopolitan city with a diverse population. This means that European companies can find employees with a wide range of skills and experience, including employees who are familiar with European cultures and business practices.

The multicultural environment facilitates cross-cultural understanding and opens doors to collaboration, making Hong Kong an ideal platform for bridging the gap between Europe and Asia.

Tech and Innovation Hub:

Hong Kong has rapidly evolved into a thriving tech and innovation hub, attracting startups, entrepreneurs, and multinational corporations alike. The government’s commitment to fostering innovation, coupled with significant investment in research and development, has propelled the city’s technology sector forward. European companies can benefit from Hong Kong’s vibrant ecosystem, collaboration opportunities with local tech firms, access to funding and incubation programs, and the presence of leading research institutions.

• Funding for research and development: The Hong Kong government provides funding for research and development in the tech sector. The government’s Innovation and Technology Fund (ITF) provides grants to businesses and research institutions to support research and development projects. The ITF has supported over 1,000 projects since its inception in 2000.
• Tax breaks for startups: The Hong Kong government provides tax breaks for startups. The government’s Startup Incubation Scheme provides tax breaks to startups that are located in designated incubators. The scheme has helped to support over 1,000 startups since its inception in 2014.
• Other incentives: The Hong Kong government also provides other incentives to attract and retain tech talent. These incentives include the Talented Persons Admission Scheme, which provides a fast-track visa for overseas talent in the tech sector, and the Technology Talent Admission Scheme, which provides a fast-track visa for overseas talent in the tech sector who are willing to undertake research and development in Hong Kong.

Skilled Workforce and Talent Pool:

Hong Kong boasts a highly educated and skilled workforce, with expertise in various industries. Its top-notch universities and educational institutions produce a steady stream of graduates, ensuring a talent pool that is adept at meeting the demands of European businesses. The city’s cosmopolitan nature attracts professionals from around the world, offering a diverse pool of talent that can contribute to the success of European companies in Hong Kong:

• Highly educated workforce: The average Hong Kong resident has over 12 years of education. This means that European companies can find employees with a wide range of skills and experience. For example, according to the Census and Statistics Department of Hong Kong, in 2021, the percentage of the population aged 15 and above with tertiary education was 57.7%.
• Affordable labour cost: Hong Kong’s labour costs are affordable for European companies for several reasons. First, the average wage in Hong Kong is significantly lower than in many European countries.

According to the World Bank, the average wage in Hong Kong in 2022 was $4,500 per year, while the average wage in the United Kingdom was $34,000 per year and the average wage in France was $31,000 per year.

This means that European companies can save a significant amount of money on labor costs by operating in Hong Kong.

Supportive Infrastructure:

Hong Kong has a well-developed transportation infrastructure, including a world-class airport and a deep-water port. This makes it easy for businesses to import and export goods, and to connect with customers in other parts of Asia and the world.

Hong Kong’s world-class infrastructure plays a vital role in facilitating business operations. The city’s advanced telecommunications network, high-speed internet connectivity, and reliable transportation infrastructure ensure seamless communication, efficient supply chains, and swift market access. Additionally, Hong Kong’s smart city initiatives and commitment to sustainability create an environment conducive to innovation and efficiency in business operations.

Networking and Collaboration Opportunities:

Hong Kong’s bustling business community provides abundant networking and collaboration opportunities for European companies. The city hosts numerous industry conferences, trade exhibitions, and networking events, fostering connections and knowledge-sharing among professionals. Building a strong network in Hong Kong can lead to valuable partnerships, access to new markets, and exposure to industry trends, opening doors for growth and expansion.

Proximity to Mainland China:

Hong Kong’s close proximity to mainland China offers European businesses a strategic advantage. The Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA) between Hong Kong and mainland China provides preferential market access and trade benefits for European companies operating in the city. Leveraging Hong Kong’s established infrastructure, legal system, and business-friendly environment, European companies can navigate the complexities of the Chinese market more effectively.

Quality of Life:

Hong Kong’s exceptional quality of life adds to its appeal as a destination for European businesses. The city offers a cosmopolitan lifestyle, excellent healthcare facilities, a safe living environment, and a vibrant cultural scene. Its international schools and educational institutions cater to the diverse needs of expatriates, ensuring a high standard of education for employees and their families.

Conclusion:

As European businesses seek growth and expansion opportunities in the dynamic Asian market, expanding your business to Hong Kong stands out as a strategic choice. Its strategic location, stable business environment, favorable tax regime, cultural diversity, tech and innovation ecosystem, skilled workforce, supportive infrastructure, networking opportunities, proximity to mainland China, and quality of life make it an ideal destination for European companies to establish their presence in Asia. By leveraging the advantages offered by Hong Kong, European businesses can unlock a world of opportunities, navigate the complexities of the Asian market, and thrive in one of the most vibrant business hubs in the world.