HKTDC ESG Index Rises to 67.3 in 2026, Over 90% of Surveyed Companies Incorporate ESG into Business Decisions

The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) has released its latest "2026 HKTDC ESG Index," which rose from 64.2 last year to 67.3, reflecting growing global recognition of Hong Kong's role as an efficient ESG business hub. Notably, all three ESG sub-indices recorded increases, demonstrating the increasingly comprehensive nature of Hong Kong's ESG ecosystem. Survey results show that the banking and financial services sector is the most active enabler of ESG solutions, with 64% of respondents in the sector directly engaged in ESG solution procurement or supply activities. The professional services sector ranked second, with 52% of respondents involved in ESG business, helping to consolidate Hong Kong's status as an international business centre where companies committed to sustainable development can receive vital support. A series of technological innovations developed by Hong Kong's high-end talent have enabled companies to realise many of their ESG aspirations, with these advantages particularly prominent in the following two areas. In terms of digital and ESG platforms, approximately 45% of respondents highly recognised Hong Kong's sustainable supply chain platforms as helpful in enhancing ESG outcomes, followed by AI analytical tools (37%) and cloud platforms for data reporting (30%). In supply chain management, Hong Kong's ESG certification services (50%) were highly rated by half of the respondents, followed by tools for enhancing transparency and traceability (41%), and ESG audit and risk analysis solutions (36%). The survey also shows that 93% of surveyed companies have incorporated ESG into their business decisions, while the proportion actually procuring or selling ESG products and services rose significantly from 29% to 46%, indicating a clear acceleration in market demand. The 2026 survey results also reflect the growing business value of sustainable development. Exhibitors engaged in ESG business reported higher profits, with half indicating additional profits of 10% or more, which is noteworthy. On the other hand, buyers are willing to pay a green premium for ESG-compliant products or services, with 42% stating they are willing to pay a premium of 10% or more.