[Hong Kong] Survey results reveal impending expat exodus

Hong Kong is facing an exodus. The American Chamber of Commerce released the results of a survey among its members last week. The poll showed 42 per cent of the 325 respondents are considering or planning to leave, The Korea Times reports.

Hong Kong’s political environment and COVID-19 restrictions were the most frequently cited reasons. More than 62 per cent of those considering a departure said the national security law, passed in 2020, made them feel uncomfortable. More than a third were worried about the quality of education after the law’s passage. Nearly half considering leaving cited the effect of quarantine restrictions on maintaining visits to family overseas.

Notable comments made by respondents included concerns that the societal fabric of Hong Kong is rapidly changing and the culture at work appearing less international. Most worrying was feedback citing anti-Western sentiment and an erosion of the tolerance traditionally shown to expatriates.

China's foreign ministry had a more positive take on the results, highlighting that 58 per cent of those who responded intended to stay. Among those who intend to remain, the quality of life, excellent business environment and belief that the city offers a promising future, were the reasons most frequently given.

However, the survey echoes anecdotal evidence that expats are planning to leave in significant numbers, including many who have lived in the city for years. South China Morning Post columnist Cliff Buddle says he seems to speak to someone putting an exit strategy in place, daily. 

Hong Kong is facing an exodus. The American Chamber of Commerce released the results of a survey among its members last week. The poll showed 42 per cent of the 325 respondents are considering or planning to leave, The Korea Times reports.

Hong Kong’s political environment and COVID-19 restrictions were the most frequently cited reasons. More than 62 per cent of those considering a departure said the national security law, passed in 2020, made them feel uncomfortable. More than a third were worried about the quality of education after the law’s passage. Nearly half considering leaving cited the effect of quarantine restrictions on maintaining visits to family overseas.

Notable comments made by respondents included concerns that the societal fabric of Hong Kong is rapidly changing and the culture at work appearing less international. Most worrying was feedback citing anti-Western sentiment and an erosion of the tolerance traditionally shown to expatriates.

China's foreign ministry had a more positive take on the results, highlighting that 58 per cent of those who responded intended to stay. Among those who intend to remain, the quality of life, excellent business environment and belief that the city offers a promising future, were the reasons most frequently given.

However, the survey echoes anecdotal evidence that expats are planning to leave in significant numbers, including many who have lived in the city for years. South China Morning Post columnist Cliff Buddle says he seems to speak to someone putting an exit strategy in place, daily.