Hong Kong to face 130k manpower shortage in 2028 – 50k less than previously projected

Hong Kong is projected to face a significant manpower shortage of around 130,000 workers by 2028, according to new government figures. This projection, which is lower than previous estimates, has been reduced from the 180,000 workers short in 2028 that was previously projected in 2023. The Labour and Welfare Bureau, led by Secretary Chris Sun, attributed the drop to new government policies aimed at attracting top talent and developing artificial intelligence skills.

Without these initiatives, the city would be facing a much larger shortage of 300,000 workers in 2028. Sun further revealed that visa holders under the Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS) will see further relaxations, making it easier for them to stay in the city. Additionally, the government is launching a 30,000 Youth Employment and Internship Programme, which aims to create around 10,000 new jobs for young people over the next two years.

This programme is specifically targeted at Hong Kong permanent residents under the age of 29, with no educational requirements. The government is also working with major chambers of commerce to encourage companies to create jobs, with a target of 5,000 additional positions in 2027 and another 5,000 in 2028. The government will cover one-third of the salaries for these roles, which must have a minimum employment term of six months.