A recent study by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) indicates that the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has become a primary target for Chinese companies seeking international growth. These businesses are not only looking to expand their sales networks but are also actively positioning themselves within regional supply chains, investing in higher-value operations, and exploring opportunities in emerging sectors like artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and new energy.

As cross-market operations become increasingly complex, there is a growing demand for Hong Kong's professional services. This trend reinforces Hong Kong's role as a "super-connector" and "super value-adder," helping companies navigate opportunities in ASEAN and other overseas markets. The research highlights that when entering the ASEAN market, mainland enterprises particularly require support in areas such as legal and accounting compliance, marketing, e-commerce, supply chain management, financing, and risk management.

Among companies looking to expand further into ASEAN, 83% indicated they plan to utilize Hong Kong's professional services to support their regional business development. Within the ASEAN bloc, Malaysia has emerged as a particularly attractive destination. The survey reveals that Malaysia is a key market for both manufacturing and service sector companies expanding into the region, especially those involved in semiconductors, industrial materials, AI, and other innovative industries.

On the bilateral investment front, as of the end of 2025, Hong Kong was the second-largest source of foreign direct investment (FDI) in Malaysia, after Singapore, with cumulative FDI reaching US$34.8 billion. In the same year, Hong Kong's net FDI inflow to Malaysia also ranked second, only behind Singapore. To further foster these connections, the HKTDC will host its flagship overseas promotional event, "Opportunities, First Choice Hong Kong," in Kuala Lumpur on August 11. The event will bring together business leaders, investors, innovation and technology representatives, professional service providers, and policymakers from both Malaysia and Hong Kong to exchange ideas, explore investment and business opportunities, and forge new cross-border partnerships.