Global firms pivot to Asia, with Chinese mainland emerging as top focus

Senior executives and institutional investors are increasingly turning their focus to Asia, particularly the Chinese mainland, as they reposition for growth, according to a recent HSBC survey of 3,000 international businesses and institutional investors across 10 markets.

The Chinese mainland was identified as the market expected to gain the most importance in respondents' economic relationships over the next five years, cited by 41 percent of decision-makers — more than any other region globally. This growing emphasis on Asia reflects a broader reshaping of global trade dynamics.

The survey suggests that globalization is becoming more regionally structured, with 93 percent of organizations planning to expand cross-border trade or investment over the next five years, and 91 percent expecting those flows to become increasingly concentrated within regional networks.

Tang Zhenyi, head of banking, corporate and institutional banking, at HSBC China, said the findings highlight the rising importance of Asian markets, especially the Chinese mainland, as trade and investment flows shift and technological advancements reshape capital allocation.

Emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence and new energy are expected to continue driving China's economic transformation, creating new opportunities for global businesses and investors, Tang said.

Confidence among respondents in the Chinese mainland remains strong. Nearly all see strong opportunities for international growth, while 97 percent say they are more willing to take calculated risks than they were five years ago.

Even amid ongoing market uncertainty, businesses and investors are leaning into growth opportunities. The survey shows that 96 percent of respondents in the Chinese mainland are actively increasing capital allocation to high-growth markets, underscoring strong conviction in long-term returns despite near-term volatility.

Technology is emerging as a central factor in global investment decisions. Access to artificial intelligence, critical technologies and infrastructure is expected to be the most influential factor shaping international strategies for respondents in the Chinese mainland over the next three years, cited by 49 percent, followed by supply chain resilience and continuity at 45 percent.

When selecting markets for increased exposure, respondents place the greatest importance on strong AI and data infrastructure and competitive energy costs, followed by a favorable trade and investment environment.

Looking ahead, mainland respondents believe the most significant benefits of AI over the next three years will be improved productivity and workforce efficiency, cited by 57 percent. Increased innovation and enhanced competitive advantage were each highlighted by 45 percent. Notably, 37 percent expect AI to take on a more strategic role, fundamentally reshaping their core business models within that timeframe.