PwC’s latest Hong Kong Workforce Hopes and Fears Survey 2025 reveals that the city’s workforce is progressively adapting to significant technological changes, particularly in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI). The survey indicates that 61% of workers in Hong Kong are leveraging AI tools at work, surpassing the global average of 54% and closely aligning with the Asia Pacific average of 64%.
As digital transformation continues to reshape industries, AI has emerged as a critical element in business operations. The survey findings show that 77% of Hong Kong employees who use AI have experienced increased productivity, while 75% report enhanced work quality. However, despite these improvements, only 24% of respondents feel more secure in their jobs, and a mere 19% associate salary increases with AI.
Generational perspectives on AI and job security
The report also highlights varying sentiments towards AI. Optimism prevails, with 25% of respondents feeling excited and 36% expressing curiosity about AI's potential. Meanwhile, concerns about job security and the clarity of AI's role persist, particularly among younger workers.
Michael Cheng, workforce lead partner at PwC Hong Kong, emphasised the importance of structured upskilling and proactive change management to unlock AI's potential. “Technology is revolutionising work and, while AI integration is growing in Hong Kong, its potential is underutilised as the workforce is still catching up on Gen AI and Agentic AI usage,” said Cheng.
A call for stability and resilience
The survey signifies a shift in workforce dynamics, with job security becoming a predominant concern. Just 16% of participants plan to change employers within the next year, reflecting a stabilisation in job expectations. Moreover, while employees express enthusiasm for their work (32%) and a sense of pride (34%), less than half are satisfied (40%).
Amidst these challenges, Hong Kong workers anticipate changes in consumer preferences, technological advancements, and competitive pressures to significantly influence their roles in the coming years.
PwC Hong Kong's Consulting Financial Services Leader, Albert Lo, stated that "to harness AI’s transformative power, Hong Kong workplaces should encourage frequent use through a strategic top-down approach."
He suggested that aligning performance reviews with digital skills and implementing incentive programmes for AI proficiency could build workforce confidence in a technology-driven future.
