The Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce (HKGCC) and Ipsos have launched the second edition of the Asian Cities Internationality Index (ACII), evaluating 11 major hubs across seven core dimensions. The index assesses cities on Business and Economy, Quality of Life, Infrastructure and Connectivity, Innovation and Ideas, Human Capital Diversity, Cultural Interaction, and Government and Legal System for Business. This comprehensive evaluation equips policymakers and business leaders with actionable strategies to elevate Asia's standing in the global economy.
Hong Kong has retained its position as Asia's top international city and the region's premier gateway for regional and global operations. With a score of 74.6 out of 100, Hong Kong ranked first, followed by Singapore and Seoul. The city's top ranking demonstrates its fundamental resilience and its continued appeal to global businesses as a bridge between East and West.
The ACII 2026 report highlights the distinct strengths of various cities in the region. Tokyo adjusted to fourth, while Shanghai retained fifth, leading the region in innovation. Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Taipei each demonstrated their unique strengths, as Mumbai rose to ninth place, representing its growing emergence as a globally oriented business hub.
Jakarta and Ho Chi Minh City rounded out the list at 10 and 11 respectively. The ACII provides a vital, data-driven tool to understand the shifting competitive landscape in Asia, according to HKGCC Chairman Jacob Kam. The index offers strategic insights necessary for Asian cities to collaborate and complement one another's strengths, fostering a formidable regional economic cluster.
The HKGCC has been the voice of business in Hong Kong for 165 years, promoting, representing, and safeguarding the interests of the business community. The chamber provides support, networks, training, and business services to help the business community grow. The ACII 2026 report is available for download at www.chamber.org.hk.
The Asian Cities Internationality Index is a valuable resource for policymakers and business leaders seeking to understand the competitive landscape in Asia. By assessing cities across multiple dimensions, the index provides a comprehensive evaluation of their internationality. This information can inform urban policy, guide business strategy, and encourage regional exchange.
The launch of the ACII 2026 demonstrates the HKGCC's commitment to providing data-driven insights to support the growth of Asian cities. The index will continue to serve as a benchmark for cities in the region, helping them to identify areas for improvement and develop strategies to enhance their international competitiveness.
Key points
- Hong Kong retains top spot in Asian Cities Internationality Index with a score of 74.6 out of 100.
- The index evaluates 11 major cities across seven core dimensions, including Business and Economy, Quality of Life, and Innovation and Ideas.
- The ACII 2026 report provides strategic insights for Asian cities to collaborate and complement one another's strengths, fostering a regional economic cluster.
