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2026: On-the-Spot Media Handling Guide in Hong Kong

A Guide by Eight Public Relations

April 8, 2026

Welcome to our 2026 Hong Kong media handling guide.

Hong Kong has one of the most dynamic media landscapes in Asia, reflecting its position as the world’s third-ranked global financial centre and the leading hub in Asia Pacific. The city consistently ranks highly for fintech, business environment, infrastructure and reputation.

As a result, Hong Kong attracts not only a robust local media ecosystem, but also major international business and financial outlets including AP, AFP, Bloomberg, Financial Times, Reuters, CNBC and the BBC, as well as organisations such as S&P Global and Moody’s.

Locally, there is a diverse mix of Chinese- and English-language media across print, digital, television and radio, alongside influencers and online platforms. Key Chinese-language publications include Ming Pao Daily News, Oriental Daily News, Sing Tao Daily, Hong Kong Economic Times, Hong Kong Economic Journal, HK01, Wen Wei Po, RTHK and TVB. Tech-focused titles include ezone, IT Pro, PC Market, Unwire.Pro and Wepro180. On the English side, the South China Morning Post, Bloomberg, CNBC, Hong Kong Business, FutureCIO, FutureIoT and FutureCFO are essential media targets.

Cantonese is the primary spoken language for 88.2% of the population, with Putonghua and English also widely used. In practice, most journalists are bilingual or trilingual (Cantonese, Putonghua and English). Chinese-language coverage carries particular weight as it reaches audiences in both Hong Kong and southern China.

This guide is designed to help spokespersons navigate media interactions in Hong Kong confidently and effectively in 2026.

In Brief: Hong Kong Media Guidelines for 2026

  • Sales questions: Local B2B media will ask about Hong Kong sales performance. Provide directional growth guidance (e.g. high single-digit, low double-digit) and express confidence in pipeline and product strategy.
  • Tech media expectations: Gadget and tech media prioritise video content and executive interviews for differentiated insights.
  • 1:1 interviews: Frequently requested to add depth and competitive context.
  • Tight schedules: Media may arrive late or leave early due to multiple daily events.
  • Reporter seniority: Senior editors are prioritised, but junior reporters may attend.
  • Recording: Many journalists record full briefings and interviews for accuracy.
  • Languages: Most journalists operate in multiple languages.
  • Product photos: Expect requests for boxed, unboxed and multi-angle shots.

Timing and Scheduling

Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday are generally the strongest days for media engagement. Schedule interviews, briefings and press events between 11am and 3pm.

Format

Group media interviews typically involve two to five Chinese-language publications together. English-language media generally prefer one-on-one interviews. Press briefings are best suited to eight to twelve journalists; press conferences are reserved for larger announcements.

Face-to-face interviews are preferred, as they allow tailored questioning and relationship building.

  • Follow the language of the question
    If a journalist asks in English, respond in English. If in Cantonese or Putonghua, respond accordingly. This is may be because the publication represented is in the spoken language and reduces the risk of information being lost in translation
  • Only disclose approved information
    Be clear on embargoes, approved messaging and off-limit topics.
  • Expect to be recorded
  • Anticipate late arrivals or early departures

Materials and Press Kits

Press materials should be translated to maximise Chinese-language pickup. At a minimum, provide the press release in Chinese (hard and soft copy). Presentations may remain in English. Include high-resolution images and logos in all press kits or online folders.

Photo Opportunities

Photographing spokespeople with the company logo visible is standard practice. Simple props, such as a foam board logo, help create media-ready images. For tech clients, ensure product display units are accessible. The media will want boxed and unboxed shots from multiple angles.

Hong Kong’s media landscape requires preparation and an understanding of how local and international media operate. At Eight PR, we work closely with our clients and spokespersons to ensure every media interaction delivers impact.

About Eight Public Relations

Eight PR is an innovative PR agency in Hong Kong, trusted by global brands such as Palo Alto Networks, Hong Kong Trade Development Council, Jabra, NETGEAR, Dachser, K3 Legal, Charles Russell Speechlys, Skipton International, Callsign, Elliptic, The Refinery, and SteelSeries. We deliver impactful strategies that combine local insights with global reach, helping businesses connect with their audiences and amplify their presence.

Eight PR is a member of the Enterie network of 80+ independent public relations firms.

Email us at eight@eightpr.com to learn more

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