Industry | VTC Manpower Survey

Electrical and Mechanical Services Industry - 2025 Manpower Update Report Image

Electrical and Mechanical Services
2025 Manpower Update Report

Government mega-projects have long been critical drivers for the E&M services and construction industries. The industry is experiencing a shifting manpower landscape due to the completion of many large-scale projects. E&M professionals who previously specialised in on-site installations for large construction projects have transited towards E&M maintenance work. The railway sector is expanding its operations and upgrading its existing network by integrating advanced technologies, while the aircraft maintenance sector has seen substantial advancements, particularly with the launch of the three-runway system at Hong Kong International Airport. These have led to increased demand for manpower in E&M engineering services. The Multi-trade Integrated Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MiMEP) technology is gaining widespread adoption in new construction projects. Workers only need to install the complete unit, rather than assembling each system individually. This streamlined process reduces construction time and boosts overall efficiency, demonstrating great promise in improving construction performance.

Security Services Industry and Disciplined Services Sector - 2025 Manpower Update Report Image

Security and Disciplined Services
2025 Manpower Update Report

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 Industry - 2025 Manpower Update Report Image

Advanced Manufacturing
2025 Manpower Update Report

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 Industry - 2025 Manpower Update Report Image

Transport and Logistics
2025 Manpower Update Report

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, Timepiece and Optical Industries - 2024 Manpower Survey Report Image

Jewellery and Timepiece
2024 Manpower Survey Report

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 Industry - 2024 Manpower Survey Report (English version will be uploaded later) Image

Beauty Care and Hairdressing
2024 Manpower Survey Report

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 Image

Retail Trade
2024 Manpower Survey Report

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 Industry - 2024 Manpower Update Report Image

Banking and Finance
2024 Manpower Update Report

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 Sector - 2024 Manpower Update Report Image

Accountancy
2024 Manpower Update Report

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 Industry - 2024 Manpower Update Report Image

Real Estate Services
2024 Manpower Update Report

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.