Exploring Boundless Horizons: A Journey to Paris Illuminates the Limitless Capabilities in Hong Kong
In a testament to the strong ties between France and Hong Kong, the city has become a strategic base for major French businesses seeking to tap into the vast Chinese and Asian markets. A significant number of French luxury brands, banks, technology firms, green energy companies, and engineering enterprises have established their presence in Hong Kong, with many deriving close to 30% of their revenue from the Chinese market[1].
Hong Kong's role as a springboard for French companies looking to expand in Asia is well-established, reflecting its importance not only locally but regionally in relation to China and the Asian economy[1]. The city's legal, financial, and commercial infrastructure makes it a critical hub for French business, providing a stable and conducive environment for growth.
Recent business confidence data shows a slight improvement in Hong Kong, with the business confidence index rising from -9 to -8 points in Q3 2025, and expectations of further recovery projected for 2026 and 2027[2]. Additionally, the Hong Kong stock exchange regained its position as a leading IPO market in 2025, adding to its attractiveness for international businesses[5].
The Department of Justice, led by Secretary for Justice Paul Lam SC, recently hosted a seminar titled "Hong Kong Legal Services - Gateway to China and Beyond" in Paris. The event, which attracted various legal professionals and business leaders, including French lawyers living and working in Hong Kong, focused on Hong Kong's legal services as a gateway to China and beyond[3]. French business leaders who have invested and managed part of their Asian operations from Hong Kong were also speakers at the seminar.
The seminar was not specified to be a one-time event, implying it may have been part of a series or annual event. The presence of a substantial French community in Hong Kong, as well as a reputable French school producing excellent results in the French Baccalaureat examinations, further highlights the depth of French engagement in the territory[1].
As Hong Kong continues to strengthen its position as a gateway to China and the wider Asian market, French businesses are expected to maintain and even expand their presence in the city, leveraging its unique advantages to access a major consumer market and regional business opportunities.
Technology firms from France, recognizing Hong Kong's role as a gateway to the vast Asian market and its conducive business environment, have established their presence in the city, leading to an increased revenue contribution from the region. Leveraging Hong Kong's strategic position, these technology businesses aim to tap into the burgeoning Asian market, fostering a continuation and possible expansion of French technological influence in the territory.
