Hong Kong has climbed to second place globally in the 2026 World Competitiveness Ranking published by the International Institute for Management Development (IMD), marking its highest position since 2019 and the third consecutive year of improvement. The report, released on June 18, highlights Hong Kong's strong performance across all four competitiveness factors: government efficiency, business efficiency, infrastructure, and economic performance.
A spokesperson for the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government welcomed the results, stating that the ranking reaffirms Hong Kong's status as one of the world's most competitive economies. The IMD noted that amidst rising geopolitical tensions, competitive advantage hinges on credible institutions, predictable rules, enforceable commitments, and public trust. Hong Kong's rise reflects its sustained performance, with top rankings in tax policy and business legislation, second in finance, and third in international trade, international investment, management practices, and education.
In the government efficiency factor, Hong Kong ranks second globally, underscoring the HKSAR Government's efforts to promote free and open, stable, predictable, and business-friendly economic policies, as well as international trust in its legal and regulatory environment. The business efficiency factor also ranks third, supported by a robust financial ecosystem and alignment with international best standards.
Under the "one country, two systems" principle, Hong Kong's close connectivity with both the Chinese Mainland and the world, combined with sound institutions, open markets, and sustained investments in innovation, positions it as a "value hub" offering security and growth opportunities. The HKSAR Government is currently formulating its first Five-Year Plan to align with the National 15th Five-Year Plan, aiming to strengthen its role as a "super connector" and "super value-adder."
Other international recognitions include positive assessments from the International Monetary Fund and reaffirmed credit ratings with stable outlooks from major agencies. The spokesperson emphasized that these achievements echo the WCY 2026 results, and the government will work with all sectors to integrate into national development and create new opportunities for global investors and enterprises.
