New research from Workday reveals that while Hong Kong organisations are increasingly embracing AI agents, significant trust concerns remain, presenting a challenge for operations and HR leaders.
The study, titled "AI Agents Are Here – But Don’t Call Them Boss," indicates that 81% of Hong Kong employees are comfortable working alongside AI, but only 24% are willing to be managed by it. This highlights the need for a balanced approach to AI integration, prioritising human empowerment and transparency.
The research underscores a widespread optimism driving AI agent adoption, with 85% of Hong Kong businesses expanding their use. However, employees are drawing clear boundaries on how they are willing to collaborate with AI.
"We’re entering a new era of work where AI can be an incredible partner, and a complement to human judgement, leadership, and empathy. Building trust means being intentional in how AI is used and keeping people at the center of every decision." Kathy Pham, vice president of AI at Workday
Key findings from the report include:
- AI as co-pilot: A significant majority (81%) are comfortable with AI agents as collaborators, recommending new skills, but only a fraction (24%) are comfortable with AI management.
- Exposure builds trust: Trust in AI agents increases with direct experience. Globally, trust jumps from 36% among those exploring AI to 95% among those actively using it.
- Productivity paradox: While 97% believe AI will boost productivity and 86% see it driving innovation, concerns exist around declining critical thinking (60%), increased pressure (46%), and reduced human interaction (46%).
- Distinct roles: Most workers (70%) see AI agents as important teammates, but only 37% view them as full workforce members. Trust varies by task, being highest for IT support and skills development and lowest for finance and legal matters.
- Finance potential: In finance, 78% believe AI agents can help close the CPA shortage, with top uses including forecasting (43%), tax preparation (30%), and audit support (30%).
- Ethical risks: Ethical risks (42%) and security/privacy issues (36%) are the leading barriers to AI adoption, outweighing technical limitations or cost.
Daniel Cham, general manager for Workday Greater China, stresses the need for transparency and responsible oversight.
"As AI agents evolve from tools into strategic digital partners, they are poised to fundamentally reshape the way we work... it’s essential that businesses prioritise transparency and responsible oversight—ensuring trust, ethical use, and data security remain at the core of every deployment." Daniel Cham
To successfully integrate AI agents, Hong Kong organisations must focus on building trust through transparency, ethical guidelines, and prioritising human empowerment. This approach will enable a more productive and fulfilling work experience, ensuring AI enhances rather than replaces human capabilities.
