Opinion | Southeast Asia is ripe for Hong Kong start-up expansion

In the high-stakes world of start-ups, perception can overshadow reality. Hong Kong and Singapore are frequently seen as rivals, but this view misses a vital opportunity for collaboration. Southeast Asia, including Singapore, presents a fertile ground for Hong Kong start-ups to flourish, transcending perceived rivalry and unlocking unprecedented growth.

Southeast Asia’s diverse and rapidly growing economies offer a unique opportunity for Hong Kong start-ups. The region is home to more than 650 million people and a youthful demographic eager to embrace new technologies. With its internet economy projected to pass US$300 billion by 2025, Southeast Asia is a vast market ripe for disruption and growth.

Hong Kong start-ups bring a unique blend of innovation and global perspective which can benefit Southeast Asia. The city’s robust financial infrastructure and strategic location as a gateway between East and West provide a solid foundation for start-ups to thrive.

Hong Kong’s start-ups excel in fintech, e-commerce and logistics, sectors that are in high demand in Southeast Asia. The region’s large unbanked population and fragmented logistics networks present significant opportunities for fintech and logistics solutions. Hong Kong’s expertise in these areas can address these challenges, driving financial inclusion and streamlining supply chains.

Multiple tech companies from Hong Kong have successfully expanded into Southeast Asia, including fintech platform WeLab, logistics firm Lalamove and AI company Fano Labs. Travel platform Klook is an example of a business-to-consumer success, while fintech start-up KPay excels in business-to-business services.