Hong Kong narrowly beats Singapore to become Asia’s most international city

The Asian Cities Internationality Index, published last week by the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce, awarded Hong Kong a score of 73.7 out of 100, placing it ahead of Singapore by just 0.2 points.

The index evaluated 11 cities in the region using 113 indicators in seven categories: business and economy, quality of life, infrastructure and connectivity, innovation and ideas, human capital diversity, cultural interaction, and government and legal system for business.

In addition to statistical data, the study incorporated responses from a survey of 1,107 senior business executives based in the evaluated cities.

Hong Kong was recognized for its role as a global financial hub, its reputation for hosting international events, and its free, safe, and stable living environment, according to the chamber's press release.

Singapore, meanwhile, stood out for its multicultural environment and ability to attract and develop diverse talent.

The chamber attributed Hong Kong’s overall win largely to its strong performance in the business and economy category. However, it lagged behind in innovation and ideas, ranking fourth behind Shanghai, Singapore, and Seoul in that area.

Commenting on the shortfall, Patrick Yeung Wai-tim, the chamber’s CEO, noted that Hong Kong has yet to reach a stage where its scientific research can be widely commercialized.

"Hong Kong’s own enterprises still invest a relatively low proportion of their operational costs in scientific research and development," he said, as quoted by the South China Morning Post.

Tokyo secured third place in the rankings, with Seoul, Shanghai, and Bangkok rounding out the top six. Kuala Lumpur, Taipei, Jakarta, Ho Chi Minh City, and Mumbai followed in that order, the Macao News reported.