Tech Dominates Hiring in Hong Kong – Filling the Gaps From Abroad
Mirroring broader APAC and global hiring trends, Hong Kong must tap global talent to fuel demand for tech expertise.
In line with the local government’s ambitions to strengthen its position as a hub for innovation and technology, the city is seeing a significant demand for skilled workers in the tech field.
Deel’s data shows Hong Kong companies actively seeking tech talent beyond borders, with Software Engineer/Developer, Graphic Designer and Customer Support ranking as the most in-demand roles among local firms hiring globally. The high demand for Software Developer/ Engineer roles parallels trends across the APAC region and beyond, making it the most sought-after role globally.
Securing Talents From Malaysia, Philippines, and India
With the increasing demand for specialised tech talent, Hong Kong companies are tapping into global talent pools to fill gaps. Malaysia, the Philippines, and India are the top countries from which Hong Kong companies are securing talent.
Meanwhile, demand for Hong Kong talent is on the rise internationally. Deel’s data reveals a 47 percent year-over-year increase in the number of Hong Kong professionals hired by the United States. The top roles for Hong Kong talent hired internationally include Software Engineer/Developer, Business Development/Consultant, and Marketing.
Career Growth
«Our data reveals a shift where local businesses are now expanding their reach by hiring abroad, while talent from Hong Kong is making a mark on the international stage. This trend indicates that professionals are seeking opportunities based on career growth rather than geographical limitations», Karen Ng, Regional Head of Expansion, Enterprise, North and South Asia, Deel, said.
Tech talent, particularly AI roles, is experiencing a massive surge in demand, according to Deel’s latest data. With Hong Kong looking to turn AI into a «core industry» in Hong Kong, global hiring will continue to be a crucial driver in building a resilient, future-ready workforce to advance the city’s AI innovation.
Unprecedented Increase
According to Deel’s global data, AI-driven roles are experiencing an unprecedented increase in demand. From 2023 to 2024, Deel recorded a 585 percent growth in contracts for roles with «AI» in their title. Moreover, hiring for AI Engineers increased by 340 percent, while senior AI positions such as Director and Head of AI also tripled.
The median salary for AI-related roles stands at $73,000, significantly higher than the median salary of $33,000 for all other roles — a 120 percent difference.
