Navigate Hong Kong’s Evolving Job Market with the 2026 Hays Asia Salary Guide

 

The Hays Asia Salary is your definitive resource for all things career and recruitment

Each year, the world of work transforms; but 2026 is different. Across Asia, salaries are shifting, skills shortages are widening, and AI adoption is accelerating faster than organisations can respond. Professionals are rethinking what matters most, while employers are recalibrating strategies to stay competitive in an increasingly complex market. 
 
The 2026 Hays Asia Salary Guide brings clarity to this change. Drawing on survey data from thousands of professionals and insights from our recruitment experts across five markets, this guide delivers a comprehensive view of salary benchmarks, hiring trends, and the capabilities organisations across Asia need to succeed. 
 
Whether you’re planning your talent strategy or considering your next career move, this is the essential resource to help you navigate 2026 with confidence. 

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A snapshot of findings from the 2026 Hays Asia Salary Guide

 

44%

of professionals are dissatisfied with their current salary.

43%

of professionals grew their salary over 10% last year by changing employers.

21%

of professionals feel insecure in their current job.

50%

of professionals plan on a career change this year.

 

Hays Asia Salary Guide FAQs

What is the Hays Asia Salary Guide? 

The Hays Asia Salary Guide is an annual report that outlines typical salary ranges, hiring trends, and workforce insights across five major Asian markets: China, Hong Kong SAR, Japan, Malaysia, and Singapore. It helps employers benchmark pay, understand market shifts, and plan their hiring strategies, while supporting professionals in assessing whether their compensation aligns with peers in similar roles.  

What’s included in the 2026 Hays Asia Salary Guide? 

The 2026 edition includes: 

  • Salary ranges across 15 industries and hundreds of roles 
  • Market commentary from Hays consultants across five Asian markets 
  • Insights into hiring confidence, job‑seeker behaviour, and salary expectations 
  • Analysis of AI adoption, EVP priorities, and talent mobility trends 
  • Employer and candidate sentiment on job security, benefits, flexibility, and future skills 

How comprehensive is the Hays Asia Salary Guide?

The guide draws from over 13,000 survey responses across Asia, capturing insights from professionals at all seniority levels, from entry‑level to C‑suite. Close to half of respondents are involved in hiring, offering a balanced view of both employer and candidate priorities. Data reflects a wide range of industries, age groups, and organisation sizes across multiple markets, making it one of Asia’s most robust salary benchmarking tools.

 
How many industries does the Hays Asia Salary Guide cover?

This guide covers 15 key industries across Asia, including Technology, Finance, Human Resources, Marketing & Digital, Engineering, Life Sciences, Legal, Supply Chain, Insurance, Sales, Construction, Property, and more. Salary ranges are tailored to each market and role family.

 
Does the Hays Asia Salary Guide include total compensation?

Yes. Salaries are presented in local currencies and reflect total annual package values, shown in ’000 for all markets except Japan, where figures are listed in millions.

 
How much should my salary increase each year in Hong Kong? 

Salary growth varies widely by market, industry, and role seniority. The guide provides up‑to‑date benchmarks so you can see how current trends compare to your own situation — whether you’re negotiating a raise, considering a new job, or benchmarking your position against peers.  
 

Who should download the Hays Asia Salary Guide? 

The guide is designed for: 
 
  • Employers looking to benchmark salaries, understand hiring competition, and refine workforce strategies 
  • Hiring managers navigating skill shortages and seeking data‑backed recruitment insights 
  • Professionals assessing their market value or planning their next career move 
  • Job‑seekers wanting clarity on what roles pay across Hong Kong and Asia’s major markets

Where can I download the 2026 Hays Asia Salary Guide? 

You can download the guide directly by completing the form on this page. Once submitted, you’ll receive immediate access to salary data, market commentary, and trend forecasts across Hong Kong and Asia’s key sectors and locations.