Hong Kong more attractive to talent amid Middle East tensions, labour chief says

2026.03.18 12:50 The CareerConnect Expo at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai. Photo: Karma Lo Hong Kong’s labour chief has said geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have made the city, with its relative security and stability, “a more attractive place” for global talent, including those from Gulf countries. Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han highlighted the government’s efforts in recent years to attract talent, dismissing concerns that most successful applicants under its schemes were from mainland China. He said that about one fourth of imported workers from various schemes were foreign passport holders, adding the Global Talent Summit Week – which he attended on Wednesday – had drawn participants from Europe, the United States and Southeast Asia. “A significant number of overseas talents choosing Hong Kong as their base for development truly demonstrates the city’s importance and attractiveness as a talent hub,” he said. “We know that, given the geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, Hong Kong – with our secure environment and very stable opportunities – has become a more attractive place for talent from around the world, including those from the region who can use Hong Kong as a base for development.” Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun speaks to media at the Global Talent Summit Week. Photo: Karma Lo Hong Kong Talent Engage, a government office under the Labour and Welfare Bureau, had visited Saudi Arabia last year, Sun noted. He said officials would press ahead with outreach trips to Southeast Asia, Europe and North America this year, noting that authorities would try to visit the Middle East again in the future. Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu had also attended the opening ceremony of the International Talent Forum and CareerConnect Expo under the summit on Wednesday. Speaking at the event, Lee said Hong Kong would tackle the global competition for talent with clarity, commitment and dedication. “We will

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