Hong Kong's population policies on immigration: Challenges and feasibility

Abstract

Purpose – The aging crisis in Hong Kong is unique in that it was caused by several waves of immigration and emigration, coupled with inadequate investment in tertiary education (Wong, 2013b). The purpose of this paper is to study the causes and outcomes of the Hong Kong aging crisis and, where appropriate, advise on mitigation strategies.

Design/methodology/approach – The paper analyzes the current demographic predicament and makes recommendations.

Findings – A viable method for alleviating this demographic problem is to introduce various immigration schemes; however, these have been rendered futile because of a lack of infrastructure necessary for attracting immigrants and mitigating the protectionism that occurs among local workers and in trade unions in Hong Kong. A purely open and proactive immigration policy should involve prioritizing the admission of professionals and laborers across pillar industries and areas where technical skills are in short supply, as well as setting a daily immigration quota of 50 to recruit professionals with university degrees from abroad (Wong, 2013a). A comprehensive immigration policy should also be complemented by encouraging Hong Kong residents who work overseas to return (Wong, 2013a).

Originality/value – The paper analyzes the demographic predicament of labor shrinkage in Hong Kong and summarizes the recommendations for attracting talent and professionals from abroad.