In the bustling metropolis of Hong Kong, a fascinating dichotomy has emerged in the job market. While positions heavily influenced by artificial intelligence (AI) have experienced only modest growth—increasing by just 6% from 2021 to 2024—a striking rise in employer demand for AI skills has been observed. This trend is highlighted in PwC’s 2025 Global AI Jobs Barometer, which analyzed nearly a billion global job postings. The report reveals that skill requirements in AI-related roles evolve significantly faster than in other sectors, marking a transformative shift in the labor landscape.

Despite an underwhelming overall job creation rate in Hong Kong during 2024, there has been a notable uptick in the proportion of job listings requiring AI expertise. These figures climbed from 1.6% in 2023 to 1.9% in 2024. According to researchers at PwC, this increase signifies growing interest in AI capabilities, even as broader employment opportunities stagnate. Among various industries, the Information and Communication sector stands out as the most AI-intensive, with its share of AI-related job postings rising from 6.4% in 2021 to 7.2% in 2024.

Other sectors, such as education, healthcare, and manufacturing, have not shown similar enthusiasm for AI skills. The report further distinguishes between jobs at risk of automation due to AI and those enhanced by it. Roles augmented by AI, including those in public administration and energy, witnessed a 6% growth on average. Conversely, positions more susceptible to automation saw a decline of 7%, suggesting a nuanced impact of AI on the workforce.

PwC interprets these findings as evidence that AI is reshaping opportunities rather than merely replacing human workers. It emphasizes the importance of collaboration between humans and machines, fostering an environment where technology enhances rather than eliminates job prospects.

As AI continues to redefine professional landscapes, the evolving dynamics in Hong Kong underscore the need for adaptability and innovation. The data suggests that while job growth in AI-exposed roles may be slower, the demand for specialized AI skills is undeniably on the rise. This shift highlights the necessity for organizations and individuals alike to embrace technological advancements, ensuring they remain competitive in an ever-changing global economy.