Hong Kong has narrowly surpassed Singapore to claim the top spot in a new index ranking Asia’s most international cities. The Asian Cities Internationality Index, released last week by the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce, awarded Hong Kong a score of 73.7 out of 100, edging past Singapore by just 0.2 points.
The index assessed 11 major cities in the region using 113 indicators across seven categories: business and economy, quality of life, infrastructure and connectivity, innovation and ideas, human capital diversity, cultural interaction, and the government and legal system for business. In addition to official data, the study gathered insights from 1,107 senior business executives working in these cities.
Hong Kong was praised for its status as a global financial hub, its ability to host major international events, and its safe, free, and stable living environment. Singapore, while close behind, was recognized for its multicultural society and success in attracting and nurturing diverse talent.
According to the chamber, Hong Kong’s overall victory was largely driven by its strength in business and economic factors. However, the city fell short in innovation and ideas, ranking fourth behind Shanghai, Singapore, and Seoul in that category. The chamber’s CEO, Patrick Yeung Wai-tim, noted that Hong Kong’s scientific research still has limited commercialization and that local businesses invest relatively little in research and development.
The index placed Tokyo in third position, followed by Seoul, Shanghai, and Bangkok rounding out the top six. Kuala Lumpur, Taipei, Jakarta, Ho Chi Minh City, and Mumbai completed the list.
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Source: Vietnam Insider