Guide to Ethnic Minorities in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is often seen as a predominantly Chinese city, but it is also home to a significant and diverse ethnic minority population. From long-established communities to newer arrivals, ethnic minorities contribute to the city’s culture, economy, and social fabric. This guide provides an overview of the ethnic minority groups in Hong Kong, their history, challenges, and contributions.

1. Who Are Hong Kong’s Ethnic Minorities?

Ethnic minorities make up around 8% of Hong Kong’s population (excluding foreign domestic workers). They include:

Long-Established Communities

✔ South Asians (Indians, Pakistanis, Nepalese, Bangladeshis) – Many arrived during British rule as traders, civil servants, or soldiers.
✔ Eurasians – A mix of European and Chinese ancestry, historically linked to Hong Kong’s colonial past.

Newer Ethnic Groups

✔ Filipinos and Indonesians – Primarily domestic workers, but also professionals and business owners.
✔ Africans – A small but growing community, including traders, students, and professionals.
✔ Western Expats (Europeans, Americans, Australians, etc.) – Many work in finance, business, or teaching.
✔ Japanese and Koreans – Business professionals and families with strong cultural communities.

2. History of Ethnic Minorities in Hong Kong

• British Colonial Era (1841–1997): South Asians played key roles in the police, military, and business sectors. European traders and officials also settled in Hong Kong.

• Post-WWII: More South Asians and Southeast Asians migrated for work, while Western expats increased due to Hong Kong’s economic boom.

• 1997 and Beyond: The city’s international status continued attracting diverse ethnic groups for work, study, and business.

3. Cultural Contributions

Hong Kong’s ethnic minorities have influenced various aspects of the city:

Food

✔ Indian and Pakistani cuisine – Curry houses, tandoori restaurants, and halal food stalls.
✔ Filipino & Indonesian food – Popular in areas like Central (Li Yuen Street East & West) and Wan Chai.
✔ Western cafes and restaurants – Found in areas with a large expat presence, such as SoHo, Kennedy Town, and Sai Kung.

Religious Diversity

✔ Mosques – The Kowloon Mosque (Tsim Sha Tsui) and Jamia Mosque (Mid-Levels) serve the Muslim community.
✔ Hindu Temples – The Hindu Temple in Happy Valley is a key spiritual center.
✔ Christian Churches – Many ethnic minorities are active in churches across the city.
✔ Sikh Gurdwara – The Khalsa Diwan Sikh Temple in Wan Chai is an important place of worship.

Festivals & Events

✔ Diwali and Eid celebrations – Marked by religious services and community gatherings.
✔ The Hong Kong Rugby Sevens – A major social event attracting expats and international fans.
✔ Indonesian & Filipino cultural events – Often held on Sundays, especially in Central and Causeway Bay.

4. Where Do Ethnic Minorities Live in Hong Kong?

✔ Tsim Sha Tsui & Yau Ma Tei – South Asian and Middle Eastern communities, with many halal restaurants and cultural centers.
✔ Wan Chai & Mid-Levels – A mix of Western expats and South Asian residents.
✔ Sai Kung & Discovery Bay – Popular with Western expat families due to international schools.
✔ Yuen Long & Tuen Mun – Home to some South Asian and African communities.

5. Challenges Faced by Ethnic Minorities

✔ Language Barrier – Many government services and job opportunities favor Cantonese speakers.
✔ Education Access – Ethnic minority students sometimes struggle due to limited Chinese language support in schools.
✔ Employment Discrimination – Some job sectors favor Cantonese-speaking applicants, limiting career options.
✔ Social Integration – Ethnic minorities can face cultural misunderstandings and occasional discrimination.

6. Support & Advocacy Groups

✔ Hong Kong Unison – Supports ethnic minority rights, education, and social inclusion.
✔ Christian Action – Provides training and support for migrant workers.
✔ The Zubin Foundation – Focuses on improving education and employment opportunities for ethnic minorities.
✔ HELP for Domestic Workers – Assists domestic workers with legal and employment issues.

7. How to Experience Ethnic Minority Cultures in Hong Kong

✔ Explore Chungking Mansions (Tsim Sha Tsui) – A hub for South Asian and African businesses and restaurants.
✔ Visit the Kowloon Mosque – The largest mosque in Hong Kong.
✔ Attend cultural festivals – Many communities hold public events during Diwali, Eid, and other celebrations.
✔ Try authentic ethnic food – Visit areas like Jordan, Central, and Wan Chai for diverse cuisines.

Final Thoughts

Hong Kong’s ethnic minorities are an essential part of the city’s multicultural identity. While challenges remain, these communities contribute to the economy, culture, and social fabric, making Hong Kong a truly global city. Whether you're a visitor or a resident, embracing this diversity will enrich your experience of Hong Kong.