Best Chinese bank for the Greater Bay Area 2025: Bank of China (Hong Kong)

Bank of China (Hong Kong) (BOCHK) has been recognised as the best Chinese bank for the Greater Bay Area (GBA), reflecting its strong performance in cross-border financial integration, digital innovation and regional connectivity in this dynamic region. 

In the past year, BOCHK reported a significant increase in its RMB clearing volumes, which grew by 49% year-on-year to reach RMB713 trillion, solidifying Hong Kong’s position as a leading offshore RMB hub. 

BOCHK enhanced its Greater Bay Area Loan service by introducing direct remittance options in HKD, RMB and other currencies for property purchases in mainland China. 

It also became the first bank to pilot cross-border corporate credit checks in the GBA, supporting transparency and risk management for enterprises. Under the Cross-Boundary Wealth Management Connect 2.0 scheme, BOCHK expanded its product offerings to more than 330 qualified investment products, facilitating southbound investment flows. 

The bank recorded notable growth in cross-border personal customers, with BoC Pay usage in mainland China reaching a new high. It also maintained its leadership in RMB-related services, including ranking first in RMB insurance standard new premiums for the 12th consecutive year and more than doubling its RMB fund sales year-on-year. 

BOCHK’s digital transformation efforts have supported its GBA strategy.  It was the first bank in Hong Kong to offer e-CNY services via local tools and to support automated cross-border remittances through the mBridge platform. The bank also participated in the Hong Kong Monetary Authority’s (HKMA) Interbank Account Data Sharing (IADS) initiative, enhancing data-driven services. 

BOCHK’s profit before taxation rose 14.3% year-on-year and customer deposits increased by 8.8%

In terms of infrastructure and policy alignment, BOCHK signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the HKSAR Government to support the Northern Metropolis development, a key GBA initiative. 

BOCHK has also prioritised sustainability, with a 28.8% increase in green and sustainability-related loans and a notable rise in the distribution of ESG funds. This commitment to environmental stewardship is further exemplified by the bank’s efforts towards carbon neutrality. 

These achievements are underpinned by strong financial performance. BOCHK’s profit before taxation rose 14.3% year-on-year to HK$46.75 billion and customer deposits increased by 8.8% to HK$2.72 trillion, and the bank maintained its top position in syndicated loans and residential mortgage lending in Hong Kong. 

Overall, BOCHK’s comprehensive approach to banking – characterised by its strong market performance, innovative digital offerings and dedication to sustainability – positions the bank as a pivotal driver of financial connectivity across the GBA.