Nearly half of expatriates might seek an exit, according to a recent survey by the American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong, citing the national security law as a major push factor.
42 percent of expats surveyed said they might leave Hong Kong, according to AmCham’s survey of 325 members.
Singapore was cited as the most popular potential alternative with Tokyo, Taipei and Thailand also named.
National Security Law
The national security law (NSL) was the top reason for exit with 62 percent of respondents citing Beijing’s controversial legislation as a reason to leave.
One respondent cited the «rise of illiberal values» from closer integration with China as a major concern while another said that the law was «destroying Hong Kong’s international appeal».
36 percent of respondents also cited worries about the NSL’s impact on education.
Pandemic Management
Politics aside, 49 percent of respondents considering an exit cited Hong Kong’s quarantine policies and its effect on the ease of traveling.
«Based on the survey results, AmCham strongly suggests that the government pay close heed to the sentiment of expatriates in Hong Kong and work towards allaying major concerns through stronger understanding of Hong Kong’s international talent, lest the city lose competitiveness versus other business hubs,» the U.S. business group said.
