How Do We Analyse Manpower Dynamics ?
VTC assesses the manpower demand for 24 major industry sectors covering more than 80% of the Hong Kong working population. The manpower dynamics of each of the 24 industries in Hong Kong is analysed through manpower survey and manpower update in a 4-year cycle. The manpower survey is a quantitative survey conducted with relevant companies once every 4 years to collect information of employees count, income, education, and so on. The manpower update is conducted twice in the 4-year cycle through focus group meeting with industry representatives and data analytics of major recruitment platforms. The information obtained from both manpower survey and manpower update aims to facilitating the Government and different stakeholders of industries for formulation of manpower and training plan.
Manpower Survey Tooltips
Companies
Enumerator
4-Year Cycle
Manpower Update Tooltips
Latest Report
- Innovation and Technology
- 2024 Manpower Update Report
Embracing Technological Advancements: A Key to Remaining Competitive in the Innovation and Technology Sector
In the contemporary landscape marked by rapid technological evolution, technological advancements are reshaping industries at an unprecedented pace. The significance of national strategies and government initiatives is paramount in nurturing talent and ensuring competitiveness within the global technology arena. As the digital realm continues to evolve, industries must proactively embrace emerging technologies to remain pertinent and resilient in an ever-changing environment. There exists a surging demand for tech-savvy professionals in fields such as artificial intelligence, cloud infrastructure, data analytics, and cybersecurity, resulting in heightened competition for talent acquisition. To navigate this competitive landscape, companies must implement effective strategies to attract and retain skilled employees capable of leveraging emerging technologies. By investing in reskilling and upskilling training programmes, and by fostering a culture of lifelong learning, companies can maintain their position at the forefront of innovation and continue to excel in a competitive global market. Furthermore, leveraging Hong Kong’s distinctive advantages—including its competitive educational institutions and strategic geographical location—can bolster the region’s innovation ecosystem. This proactive approach not only addresses current manpower challenges but also prepares the workforce for forthcoming technological shifts.
- Security and Disciplined Services
- 2025 Manpower Update Report
Security Services Evolve Amid Cost Pressures and Technological Change
Security services companies have been increasingly impacted by shifting market dynamics and client cost-cutting measures. Many high-end clients, including financial institutions and data centres, have reduced their security staffing, with some sites transitioning from eight-hour to 12-hour shifts to manage expenses. In the property sector, owners’ corporations have re-evaluating the need for full-time, 24-hour security, often opting instead for shorter shifts or enhancing their systems with CCTV and access control technologies. As manpower shortages persist, the industry has been turning to technology,such as AI-powered surveillance tools and integrated monitoring systems,to maintain security standards and improve efficiency. However, challenges remain, including limited digital skills among frontline staff and budget constraints that hinder the adoption of advanced technologies.
- Advanced Manufacturing
- 2025 Manpower Update Report
Technological Transformation and Challenges of Advanced Manufacturing Industry in Hong Kong
The Advanced Manufacturing Industry in Hong Kong is experiencing a significant transformation, driven by the evolving technologies including additive manufacturing, robotics, the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and sustainable practices. These technologies not only enhance operational efficiency but also strengthen the implementation of environmental responsibility of the industry, laying a solid foundation for Hong Kong's future growth and global competitiveness.
However, the industry is confronted with challenges related to a shortage of skilled workforce, particularly in critical areas such as AI, data analytics, and sustainability. This manpower shortage has become increasingly severe with the ageing workforce. To address these challenges, collaborative initiatives involving government, academic institutions, and industry stakeholders are vital to establish Hong Kong as a hub for innovation and technology in the manufacturing landscape.
- Transport and Logistics
- 2025 Manpower Update Report
Navigating Changes: Addressing Manpower Challenges and Advancing Toward New Frontiers in Technology
The transport and logistics industry in Hong Kong is undergoing significant transformation amid rapid technological advancements and shifting market dynamics. The industry faces challenges in attracting young talent and addressing labour shortages, particularly with an aging workforce and high demand for frontline roles. Expertise in digital tools, automation, data analytics, and cybersecurity is increasingly important, alongside traditional operational skills. Economic uncertainties, growth of e-commerce, infrastructure developments, the Greater Bay Area integration, etc. are reshaping job roles and training needs. This report offers comprehensive recommendations focusing on talent upskilling initiatives, strategies to improve industry appeal, requirements for technological adaptation, and approaches to modernise education and training to meet evolving demands in a rapidly digitalising and interconnected transport and logistics landscape.
- Jewellery and Timepiece
- 2024 Manpower Survey Report
Proactively Attract New Talent and Captionalise on Opportunities
The Jewellery, Timepiece and Optical Industries are encountering a range of challenges. In recent years, there has been a decline in manpower, but these industries are also grappling with the aging workforce and a shortage of younger employees. To sustain the long-term development of the industries, there is still a need for a stable influx of new talent. The industries should also put in efforts to explore and seize new opportunities. The government should cultivate young people’s artistic literacy, promote craftsmanship culture and vocational and professional education and training to attract talents. The industries should utilise government resources to develop new markets, seize ESG opportunities, and undergo green transformation. Educational institutions should also enhance students’ practical training, cultivate their global vision and digital marketing knowledge.
- Beauty Care and Hairdressing
- 2024 Manpower Survey Report
Challenges and Opportunities in the Beauty Care and Hairdressing Industries
After suffering from the pandemic for a few years, the beauty care and hairdressing industries have maintained a relatively stable workforce. Yet, the industries still face various challenges and opportunities. On the challenges front, measures aimed at facilitating the movement of Hong Kong residents to the Mainland cities have resulted in a shift in consumers’ behaviour. As the industries strive for a rapid recovery, there has been a significant increase in demand for beauty practitioners, causing intensified manpower competition. The emergence of “co-working spaces” not only changes the operating model in the industries but also attracts more practitioners, as freelancers or part-timers, bringing new opportunities to the industries. This concept aligns well with the preferences of the younger generation in career choices. In recent years, some consumers place great emphasis on product ingredients and formulations and focus on environmentally friendly and sustainable products. The industries need to adjust their strategies to meet market demands. (English report will be uploaded later)
- Retail Trade
- 2024 Manpower Survey Report
The New Retail Era
The retail industry is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by economic challenges and evolving consumer behaviors in the post pandemic era. This shift has accelerated the transition to e-commerce and underscored the need for effective omnichannel retail strategies. The industry faces a skilled labour shortage, which poses a substantial barrier to growth. To address these challenges, retailers and training institutions must collaborate closely to develop relevant training programmes that equip the workforce with essential skills for the future. Employers and employees are encouraged to leverage various government schemes for talent development and skills enhancement. Embracing advanced retail technologies and mastering omnichannel strategies will be crucial for the industry's long-term success and sustainability.
- Banking and Finance
- 2024 Manpower Update Report
The Banking and Finance Industry: Navigating Through Change and Challenges
Hong Kong's banking and finance industry stands at a critical juncture of transformation. While the industry maintains its position as one of the leading international financial centres, it faces some challenges in adapting to rapid changes in the global financial landscape. Major influences shaping the industry include economic cycles, persistent talent shortages, evolving government policies, and accelerating technological advancement. The industry particularly struggles to meet growing demands for specialised talents in emerging areas such as fintech, ESG, analytics, wealth management, and risk management. Beyond immediate talent needs, the industry must address fundamental challenges in digital capabilities development, cross-functional compliance integration, and Greater Bay Area expertise. This report examines these challenges and presents strategic recommendations to facilitate digital and sustainable transition, strengthen employer branding for youth attraction, and develop future-ready banking and finance education programmes.
- Accountancy
- 2024 Manpower Update Report
The Accountancy Sector Transforms for a Digital Future
The accountancy sector faces significant workforce transformation amidst rapid technological advancement and evolving market dynamics. The sector confronts challenges in attracting young talent and maintaining a skilled workforce as market demands evolve. The profession increasingly demands expertise in artificial intelligence, data analytics, cloud computing and automation tools, alongside traditional accounting competencies. Moreover, changing regulatory frameworks, sustainability reporting requirements and advisory service demands are reshaping job roles and skill requirements. This report presents comprehensive recommendations addressing talent development initiatives, strategies for sector image revitalisation, requirements for technological adaptation and professional growth, and approaches to modernise education and training to meet evolving industry demands in an increasingly digitalised business landscape.
- Real Estate Services
- 2024 Manpower Update Report
Navigating the Future of Real Estate: Addressing Demographic Changes, Technological Innovations, and Sustainability in Workforce Development
The real estate services sector is undergoing significant transformation driven by demographic changes, technological advancements, and sustainability trends. In Hong Kong, the anticipated increase in the aging population presents opportunities for the development of age-appropriate housing and necessitates targeted workforce training in senior care. Concurrently, property technology (PropTech) is enhancing operational efficiency and tenant satisfaction, while also underscoring the importance of human interaction in fostering relationships. Furthermore, the growing adoption of environmentally sustainable practices, such as energy-efficient systems and green building certifications, is generating new job opportunities in the sustainability sector. To conclude, striking a balance between technology, human collaboration, and eco-friendly initiatives is essential for creating a responsive real estate landscape.
- Innovation and Technology
- 2024 Manpower Update Report
Embracing Technological Advancements: A Key to Remaining Competitive in the Innovation and Technology Sector
In the contemporary landscape marked by rapid technological evolution, technological advancements are reshaping industries at an unprecedented pace. The significance of national strategies and government initiatives is paramount in nurturing talent and ensuring competitiveness within the global technology arena. As the digital realm continues to evolve, industries must proactively embrace emerging technologies to remain pertinent and resilient in an ever-changing environment. There exists a surging demand for tech-savvy professionals in fields such as artificial intelligence, cloud infrastructure, data analytics, and cybersecurity, resulting in heightened competition for talent acquisition. To navigate this competitive landscape, companies must implement effective strategies to attract and retain skilled employees capable of leveraging emerging technologies. By investing in reskilling and upskilling training programmes, and by fostering a culture of lifelong learning, companies can maintain their position at the forefront of innovation and continue to excel in a competitive global market. Furthermore, leveraging Hong Kong’s distinctive advantages—including its competitive educational institutions and strategic geographical location—can bolster the region’s innovation ecosystem. This proactive approach not only addresses current manpower challenges but also prepares the workforce for forthcoming technological shifts.
- Security and Disciplined Services
- 2025 Manpower Update Report
Security Services Evolve Amid Cost Pressures and Technological Change
Security services companies have been increasingly impacted by shifting market dynamics and client cost-cutting measures. Many high-end clients, including financial institutions and data centres, have reduced their security staffing, with some sites transitioning from eight-hour to 12-hour shifts to manage expenses. In the property sector, owners’ corporations have re-evaluating the need for full-time, 24-hour security, often opting instead for shorter shifts or enhancing their systems with CCTV and access control technologies. As manpower shortages persist, the industry has been turning to technology,such as AI-powered surveillance tools and integrated monitoring systems,to maintain security standards and improve efficiency. However, challenges remain, including limited digital skills among frontline staff and budget constraints that hinder the adoption of advanced technologies.
