Editorial | Strong export numbers underscore Hong Kong’s strengths as a trade hub

In an uncertain global economic environment, the strategy of exploring new overseas markets has paid off. But there is no room for complacency

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A container terminal in Kwai Chung on April 9. Photo: Eugene Lee

Published: 7:15am, 2 Feb 2026

Hong Kong’s latest record surge in exports is not just another statistical bright spot. It is a hard-earned achievement amid shifting geopolitics and persistent economic headwinds. It is encouraging that exports rose by 15.4 per cent year on year to a “historical high” last year. The authorities believe that sustained global economic growth, growing ties with new markets and strong demand for artificial intelligence-enabled products will continue supporting the city’s trade.

Compared with 2024, the value of total exports rose to most major destinations, including a 61.6 per cent increase to Malaysia, a 50.5 per cent rise to Vietnam and a 43.6 per cent growth for exports to Taiwan. Exports to the mainland continued to grow, as did those to Southeast Asia. Exports to the United States showed a decent increase, while those to the European Union declined slightly.

The shining figures are the clearest evidence yet of Hong Kong’s resilience and status as an international trading hub, despite the challenges arising from the unsettling global economic environment. The authorities have rightly sought to explore new overseas markets. The strong performance in Southeast Asia and other regions has offset the drop in Europe, underscoring that diversification and de-risking is the right strategy in a more fragmented world.

If the latest remarks by Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po are any guide, we can be cautiously optimistic about the economic outlook. During his recent trip to Davos for the World Economic Forum, he said international trade was undergoing a paradigm shift. Developed countries must be aware that the traditional development model prevalent among developing countries of producing and exporting low-cost goods is evolving. For example, Chan said China was advancing high-level, two-way opening-up and focusing on expanding domestic demand. This would not only inject momentum into China’s high-quality development, but also create opportunities for quality goods and services from across the globe, he said.

The finance chief earlier said strong exports would propel Hong Kong’s economic growth to 3.2 per cent in 2025, an estimate that has been updated to 3.5 per cent. Whether there will be more good news in his annual government budget this month will be closely watched.

There is no room for complacency in any case. The city’s open economy and close connection to the mainland means it is especially susceptible to external influences and tensions. It must continue to navigate the challenging economic and political landscape carefully, making the most of its unique strengths as a superconnector and super value-adder. Hopefully, the strong trading performance can become a sustainable chapter in the good Hong Kong story.

.css-1m2rp1p{color:#34b8b5;}Editorial | Strong export numbers underscore Hong Kong’s strengths as a trade hub

.css-1c6uqr6{color:inherit;font-weight:inherit;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;line-height:inherit;overflow-wrap:break-word;}In an uncertain global economic environment, the strategy of exploring new overseas markets has paid off. But there is no room for complacency

Editorial | Strong export numbers underscore Hong Kong’s strengths as a trade hub

In an uncertain global economic environment, the strategy of exploring new overseas markets has paid off. But there is no room for complacency