The Zhitong Finance App learned that on November 2, DBS Hong Kong announced the results of a survey of Hong Kong SMEs, covering the priorities and support needed for enterprises to drive business growth. According to the survey, nearly two-thirds of respondents (63%) said that business performance in 2026 met or exceeded expectations. Looking ahead to the next 12 to 18 months, 85% of respondents were neutral to optimistic about the business prospects of Hong Kong companies.
Despite the resilience of small and medium-sized enterprises, 59% of respondents still viewed rising costs such as rent, labor, water and electricity as the primary operational challenge, followed by fierce market competition (53%) and weak market demand or consumer desire (44%). Notably, SMEs also pointed out that in order to maintain continued growth and stable operations, the external support required includes financial support plans (53%), market development support (42%), and business matchmaking and business network expansion opportunities (32%).
Wang Yue, managing director of DBS Hong Kong and SME Banking Director, said that the survey results showed that Hong Kong SMEs are focusing on innovation and improving efficiency while seeking financial support and opportunities to explore new markets. To put these priorities into action, businesses need solutions that match their needs and stage of development. DBS combines financing solutions, digital expertise and regional connections to help SMEs strengthen operations and seize business growth opportunities.
Looking ahead to the next three to five years, SMEs prioritize product and service innovation (58%), followed by cost optimization and efficiency improvement (47%), customer experience improvement (37%), and entering new markets or expanding market share outside Hong Kong (30%). The survey also reflected the interest of SMEs in the application of technology. Currently, 38% of SMEs have fully or partially integrated artificial intelligence and digital technology into their business operations, while another 38% are actively exploring or planning to apply related technologies.
Among SMEs that have adopted or are considering adopting relevant technology, the main goals are improving the quality of products or services (52%), as well as streamlining operations and reducing costs (50%). Respondents also wanted to automate routine tasks to free up time for employees to focus on strategic work (35%) and enhance customer interactions and provide a more personal experience (31%).
However, SME transformation is still hampered by a number of factors, including lack of technical talent or expertise (41%) and high implementation and maintenance costs (38%). Additionally, 35% of respondents also mentioned concerns about data security, system integration, and uncertainty about return on investment.