Late Payments Affect 93% of Hong Kong Businesses Despite Economic Recovery

Hong Kong late payments remain widespread despite improving economic conditions, with 93% of businesses reporting delayed payments during the past year, according to credit insurer Coface.

Its APAC Payment Survey 2026 found that half of Hong Kong respondents expect payment conditions to deteriorate over the next 12 months.

Companies reported an average period of 144 days between delivering goods and collecting payment, while overdue periods in the energy, transportation and metals sectors averaged approximately 80 days.

The findings contrast with Hong Kong’s improving economic performance. Gross domestic product expanded 5.1% during the first half of 2026, the fastest half-year growth in almost five years.

However, Coface said the recovery remained concentrated in financial services and electronics re-exports.

Only 35% of Hong Kong respondents relied heavily on financial information when assessing payment risks, compared with 43% across Asia-Pacific.

The findings highlight persistent working-capital and credit risks for businesses and investors.