Hong Kong – Gateway to Asia for UK Exporters

 

Hong Kong SAR is one of the world’s most connected, outward-looking and commercially dynamic economies — a global gateway linking the UK with Mainland China, Southeast Asia and wider Indo-Pacific growth markets. With its internationally recognised legal framework, English-language business environment, free-port status and world-class infrastructure, Hong Kong offers British exporters an exceptionally accessible springboard into Asia.

The city’s strengths in finance, technology, logistics, advanced services and re-exports have shaped a highly sophisticated market where UK quality, innovation and professional standards are in strong demand.

For UK SMEs seeking a strategic, low-barrier route into Asia, Hong Kong is a natural starting point with deep historical trade ties to the UK and a reputation for reliability, transparency and ease of doing business.

Trade Snapshot

Hong Kong is among the UK’s most important non-EU trading partners, with substantial two-way flows in goods, services and investment.

Total UK–Hong Kong trade (year to Q2 2025): £27.2 billion

  • UK exports: £16.8 billion
  • UK imports: £10.5 billion
  • UK trade surplus: approx. £6.3 billion

Top UK goods exports to Hong Kong include:

Machinery, mechanical power generators & industrial equipment; non-ferrous metals; optical, photographic & precision instruments; jewellery, watches & luxury goods; pharmaceuticals and healthcare products

Top UK services exports include:

Financial & professional services; IT, telecoms & digital services; transport & logistics; tourism, education & business travel

Leading Sectors & Demand

Driven by consumer sophistication, high purchasing power and regional connectivity, Hong Kong represents a high-value export market.

  • Financial Services & FinTech – demand for UK banking, insurance, asset management, regtech, cybersecurity and fintech, driven by Hong Kong’s global financial hub and strong innovation ecosystem.

  • ICT & Digital Innovation – growth in AI, cybersecurity, cloud, digital transformation and smart-city tech, supported by Greater Bay Area collaboration.

  • Advanced Manufacturing & Industrial Equipment – strong imports and re-exports of UK machinery, precision instruments and environmental tech, valued for quality and performance.

  • Logistics & Supply Chain – major global logistics hub with opportunities in freight, warehousing, automation, optimisation and green logistics, serving China and Southeast Asia.

  • Tourism, Education & Professional Services – high demand for UK education, CPD, training, consultancy and creative/professional services from an international population.

  • Luxury Retail & Consumer Goods – premium market for British fashion, jewellery, cosmetics, food & drink and lifestyle goods, driven by high purchasing power.

Market Appeal & Opportunities

Hong Kong provides an exceptionally supportive environment for market entry:

  • Open, free-port economy with virtually no tariffs and minimal trade restrictions.

  • Low, simple tax regime and internationally recognised commercial laws.

  • Asia’s leading logistics and re-export hub, ideal for regional distribution.

  • Gateway to Mainland China, enabling exporters to test Asian demand before wider expansion.

  • Strong UK–Hong Kong commercial links, supporting trust, brand recognition and business confidence.

  • English widely used, easing negotiations, documentation and compliance.

For UK SMEs, Hong Kong is an efficient, commercially accessible first step into Asia.

Why is Hong Kong a Key Market for UK Firms? 

  • Robust demand for high-quality British goods and services

  • Strategic positioning for access to China’s Greater Bay Area and wider regional markets

  • Mature economy seeking innovation, technical expertise and premium products

  • Strong consumer affinity for British brands

  • Stable business environment supporting long-term partnerships and investment

Recommendations

  • Target growth sectors such as fintech, professional services, education, industrial machinery, medtech, digital services and premium consumer goods.

  • Explore introductions via British Chamber of Commerce Hong Kong, CBBC and other UK–Asia trade bodies.

  • Work with Hong Kong-based distributors who also cover Mainland China and Southeast Asia.

  • Use Hong Kong’s port, airport and logistics ecosystem as a regional fulfilment base.

  • Monitor developments related to UK–Asia trade agreements to maximise access opportunities.

 

Telephone one of our specialists on 0845 0347200 or email for advice.

Apply online for your Certificates of Origin here.