A growing appetite for flexible work schedules is sweeping Asia. A new LinkedIn poll by global recruitment firm Hays revealed that nearly 70% of professionals in Hong Kong SAR believe a four-day workweek would increase their productivity.
The survey, conducted across five major Asian markets, found that 69% of Hong Kong workers support a four-day workweek, just behind China (73%), but ahead of Malaysia (65%), Japan (54%), and Singapore (49%). This reflects a clear shift, as more professionals prioritize efficiency and work-life balance over the traditional five-day schedule.
Efficiency gains without added stress
The findings show that much of Hong Kong’s workforce recognizes that traditional schedules might no longer fit modern needs. None of the respondents expressed concern that a four-day workweek would create unmanageable workloads.
Only 3% believed it would have little impact because they already had flexible hours, while 28% said the effect would depend on the nature of their roles.
Sue Wei, managing director at Hays Greater China, emphasized the importance of rethinking productivity. “The idea of a four-day workweek is resonating with professionals seeking greater efficiency and focus in their work,” she said. This is particularly significant in Hong Kong, where 31% of professionals are unhappy with their work-life balance.
International data backs the global appeal of shorter workweeks. A UK pilot study found that companies implementing reduced workweeks saw fewer absences and lower employee turnover, strongly linked to improved employee well-being.
Challenging norms while supporting business goals
Although the traditional five-day workweek still dominates in most industries, attitudes are beginning to shift.
“Professionals in Hong Kong are increasingly pushing back against the ‘996 work culture,’” Wei said, referring to the intense standard work schedules in some Asian economies. “Trials in China and Singapore are providing useful insights for business leaders in Hong Kong.”
Shorter workweeks might offer advantages beyond employee morale. Closing one extra day each week can help companies reduce operating costs while supporting sustainability through lower energy use and fewer carbon emissions. These environmental, social, and governance (ESG) gains increasingly appeal to employers looking to show greater corporate responsibility.
As younger generations prioritize well-being, flexibility, and balance, the four-day workweek is becoming more than a trend—it’s a strategic shift. For HK organizations, the real challenge lies in convincing employees and developing a roadmap to implement the change effectively while staying competitive in a fast-evolving talent market.
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Once, L. (2025, June 6). Hong Kong professionals back four-day workweek push: Hays survey. Outsource Accelerator. Retrieved June 10, 2025, from https://news.outsourceaccelerator.com/hong-kong-professionals-four-day-workweek/
Vige, W. (2025, March 4). Four-Day Workweek: The Good, The Bad & The Reality. Asana. Retrieved June 10, 2025, from https://asana.com/resources/4-day-work-week
