Experts warn that relying too heavily on mainland China talent could lead to Hong Kong's status as an international hub being downgraded. Industry veterans call for a shift towards Middle East and Asean talent due to geopolitical tensions.

Hong Kong’s heavy reliance on hiring workers from mainland China could lead to a “downgrade” of its status as an international hub, experts said, after data showed that 94.5 per cent of successful top talent scheme applicants came from across the border. Industry veterans and a lawmaker on Thursday called for a strategic shift towards Middle East and Asean talent amid geopolitical tensions, though others cautioned that Hong Kong still struggled with Muslim-friendly workplaces and job...