Hong Kong labor shortage projected to hit 130,000 by 2028

The Hong Kong Labour and Welfare Bureau has released its latest “Mid-term Update of Manpower Projections,” forecasting that the city’s total labor shortage will narrow to approximately 130,000 by 2028, down from a previous estimate of 180,000. This reduction is attributed to various talent attraction and labor import measures implemented by the government over the past three years.

Despite the overall reduction, significant shortages persist in critical sectors. The construction industry faces the largest gap, with a deficit of 30,000 to 40,000 workers, followed by urban operations, healthcare, and innovation and technology. Conversely, the rise of artificial intelligence is expected to create a surplus of approximately 25,000 to 30,000 clerical support roles by 2028.

Public sentiment remains cautious as citizens report a disconnect between positive economic data and the lived reality of employment difficulties. Issues include rising unemployment in the catering sector, challenges for university graduates in professional fields like nursing, and concerns regarding the impact of foreign labor and AI on local job security. The government has pledged to enhance retraining mechanisms and support workers in transitioning to an AI-driven era.