Not long ago, the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce (HKGCC) launched the “Asian Cities Internationality Index”. The index examined 11 key cities in Asia across seven areas to evaluate their international presence. For its inaugural edition, Hong Kong has ranked first as the most international city in Asia for 2025, followed closely by Singapore.
It should come as no surprise that Hong Kong is considered an international city. One need only step outside and see all the global brands, companies, and, of course, people who have made the city their home. Beyond that, Hong Kong also regularly welcomes international visitors, whether it’s for tourism, concerts, or more. The report by the HKGCC only confirms it as Hong Kong places first in the list over cities like Singapore, Tokyo, Seoul, and more.
Hong Kong tops list as most international city in Asia for 2025
The index examined seven key areas in each city: Business & Economy, Quality of Life, Infrastructure & Connectivity, Innovation & Ideas, Human Capital Diversity, Cultural Interaction, and Government & Legal System for Business. These results are gathered from 113 indicators, covering quantitative and qualitative data from both national and international sources. The eleven cities are then given a score out of 100 to determine where they place on the list.
Hong Kong ranks first as the most international city in Asia at 73.7 points. The full report reinforces the city’s strengths as an international financial hub, a global destination for international events, and an international hub for education. It leads in the “Business & Economy” area. However, the city lags behind in fourth place for “Innovation & Ideas”. To improve its standings next year, the HKGCC called for the government to support scientific research and development.
Singapore follows closely behind with 73.5 points for second place overall. It leads in the “Human Capital Diversity” section, emphasising its diverse talent pool. However, it falls behind in “Cultural Interaction” in sixth place.
Placing third and fourth are Tokyo at 70.0 points and Seoul at 69.4 points. The results highlight the quality of life, cultural interaction, and international presence in Tokyo. Meanwhile, Seoul secured its spot with its advanced transportation and information connectivity. Shanghai takes fifth overall with 65.1 points thanks to its lead in “Innovation & Ideas”.
The full results of the Asian Cities Internationality Index for 2025
- Hong Kong (73.7 points)
- Singapore (73.5 points)
- Tokyo (70.0 points)
- Seoul (69.4 points)
- Shanghai (65.1 points)
- Bangkok (61.3 points)
- Kuala Lumpur (60.7 points)
- Taipei (57.9 points)
- Jakarta (55.5 points)
- Ho Chi Minh City (53.9 points)
- Mumbai (53.1 points)
(Feature Image Credit: Manson Yim/Unsplash)
This story first appeared here
Related: Siu Mai, Sampans, And Skylines: Your Ultimate Hong Kong Itinerary
Note:
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
Written By
Johanna Muliani
An Indonesian enamoured with the sights of Hong Kong, Jo is a curious spirit who loves telling stories ..Read More
