Hays Asia Contracting Report

How China is rethinking contract talent

Our Contracting Report is your guide to a changing workforce model

Across Asia, organisations are rethinking how they access talent. Skill shortages persist, transformation demands are accelerating, and traditional hiring models are struggling to keep pace. In response, contracting is gaining ground as a flexible and strategic solution.
 
The Evolving Role of Contracting in Asia report brings clarity to this shift. Drawing on insights from contractors and hiring managers across the region, this report explores how contracting is evolving, what contractors value, and how organisations are using contract talent to secure critical skills and deliver business outcomes.
 
Whether you are a leader shaping workforce strategy or a contractor looking to understand this growing market segment, this report provides the perspective you need to make informed decisions. 
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A snapshot of findings from the contracting report

 

Contracting is becoming more strategic

A growing share of organisations are actively exploring contractors to access specialist skills, manage costs and support transformation.

 

Contractors are experienced and intentional

Today’s contractors are typically seasoned professionals who prioritise meaningful work, flexibility and career sustainability alongside financial reward.

 

Demand for specialist skills is outpacing supply

Organisations face increasing challenges in securing experienced contractors, particularly for niche and high-impact roles.

 

Hiring processes are slowing down agility

Many organisations still rely on permanent hiring frameworks, limiting their ability to secure contract talent quickly.

The Contracting Report FAQs


What is The Evolving Role of Contracting in Asia report?


The Evolving Role of Contracting in Asia is a research report by Hays that explores how contracting is evolving across Asia. It covers hiring trends, contractor profiles, workforce priorities and the challenges organisations face when engaging contract talent. 


What insights does this report include?


The report includes:

  • Contractor demographics and motivations
  • Hiring trends and demand drivers
  • Benefits, flexibility and EVP preferences
  • Challenges in hiring and engaging contractors
  • The role of contracting in supporting transformation 

How comprehensive is this contracting report?


The report draws from approximately 2,000 survey responses across five major Asian markets: China, Hong Kong SAR, Japan, Malaysia, and Singapore. It includes insights from contractors and hiring managers and is supplemented with additional data from the 2026 Hays Salary Guide, providing a balanced view on contractor sentiment and market conditions. 

Who should download this contracting report?


This report is designed for:

  • Organisational leaders shaping workforce strategy and transformation plans
  • Hiring managers seeking access to specialist skills
  • HR and talent leaders exploring alternative workforce models
  • Contractors looking to understand evolving market expectations and opportunities
  • Professionals considering contracting as a long-term career path


How can this contracting report support hiring decisions?


This report provides practical insights into where contracting adds value, what contractors expect and how organisations can improve hiring speed and success in competitive markets. 


How do I download this contracting report?


Complete the form on this page to access the report and explore our insights.