The Census and Statistic Department of Hong Kong recently released its figures for the year 2004. In it, a very interesting trend has been highlighted. There were more than 240,000 Hong Kong professionals entering China's booming job market.

These professionals reportedly tend to be in middle management and higher. For many, its the thrill of working in CHina's booming economy that attracted them over. Although remuneration is likely to be huge factor as well, for it appears that these professionals get paid more attractively in China.

Another factor that cannot be overlooked is the vastness of China's economy, where many cities have a larger market than Hong Kong itself. Hence entering China is increasing their exposure.

This trend of recruitment/HR movement is a direct reverse of the situation a decade ago, where people were vying and trying all possible means to leave China.

THe strength of a state very much depends on the talents that exists in it. Hence America has been experiencing a booming economy last century. Attracting a huge influx of immigrants and spare from devastion of 2 world wars, America's rise to become the world's largest economy was no coincidence.

Hong Kong it seems, is the first city to experience the effects of China's growth. The brain drain on the city could prove to be costly in the near future. It remains to be seen how other countries, especially America respond to this rising power.