AI-Exposed Jobs See Modest Growth in Hong Kong

In a surprising twist, Hong Kong is experiencing only a 6% growth in jobs directly influenced by artificial intelligence (AI) from 2021 to 2024. This figure stands in stark contrast to the impressive 38% surge in roles less affected by AI, as revealed by a recent report from PwC, the 2025 Global AI Jobs Barometer.

Demand for AI Skills is Skyrocketing!

Despite the slow growth of AI-specific roles, the demand for AI skills among employers is on the rise. In fact, the share of job postings that require AI-related skills climbed from 1.6% in 2023 to 1.9% in 2024, signaling a strong appetite for AI capabilities even in a lackluster labor market.

Sector Spotlight: Information and Communication Leads the Pack

The Information and Communication sector is at the forefront, making up 7.2% of AI-related job postings in 2024, up from 6.4% in 2021. Meanwhile, other industries like education, healthcare, and manufacturing have shown little to no growth in demand for AI skills, raising questions about their readiness for the AI revolution.

Navigating the Future: Automation vs. Augmentation

The report makes a crucial distinction between jobs likely to be automated by AI and those that are enhanced through AI tools. Roles augmented by AI, such as those in public administration and energy sectors, saw a healthy average growth of 6%. In stark contrast, jobs at high risk of automation have experienced a troubling decline of 7%.

What's Next for Hong Kong's Workforce?

As AI continues to redefine job functions and skill requirements—changing at a rate 66% faster than other roles globally—Hong Kong's workforce faces a pivotal moment. Will employers adapt to harness the potential of AI, or will the job market lag behind in the wake of technological advancements? The answer could reshape the careers of thousands.