In this new survey of nearly 550 executives across key business sectors, all interviewed during March 2011, 69 percent plan to increase hiring in Q2 of 2011, up from 66 percent the previous quarter, said Hudson.

This is a new record, meaning that hiring expectations in Hong Kong remain at their highest level since The Hudson Report was launched in Q4 1998, the firm noted. "Even after a long period of growth, hiring expectations are still rising in Hong Kong and this quarter sets another record. Strong demand for talented candidates means that many employers see finding and retaining the right staff as critical challenges," said James Carss, executive general manager, Hong Kong, Hudson.