TRENDS Research & Advisory made its first appearance at the 36th Hong Kong International Book Fair where it launched the publication Labor Markets in the Age of AI and signed a distribution agreement to expand its reach across Asian markets. The think tank presented the book at booth 1C-A16 on July 16 with researchers on hand to discuss its multidisciplinary examination of AI-driven transformations in employment according to a statement from the organisation. The fair which opened on July 15 runs through July 21 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre and coincides with related expos on sports leisure and snacks.
The book analyses fundamental changes in labour markets as artificial intelligence technologies advance rapidly highlighting both opportunities for new roles and challenges such as potential displacements a TRENDS statement said. It challenges dominant narratives by incorporating perspectives from economics technology policy and social sciences to provide a comprehensive view of the evolving workplace. TRENDS researchers used the platform to engage attendees on proactive strategies needed to navigate these shifts in global labour dynamics.
Hong Kong Trade Development Council figures show the book fair attracted more than 770 exhibitors from nearly 30 countries and regions under the theme Cultural Legacy | Joyful Journeys. The event serves as one of Asia’s largest cultural gatherings combining literature seminars and exhibitions to promote reading and cross-cultural exchange according to HKTDC assessments. TRENDS participation through its virtual China office underscores the organisation’s commitment to disseminating research on international stages.
A World Bank policy research working paper from 2025 found that generative AI led to an average 12 percent decline in substitution vulnerability scores across 285 million job postings analysed. This data aligns closely with themes in the TRENDS publication which explores how such technological disruptions require updated workforce policies and skills development. The bank’s report further emphasised variations in impact across sectors with certain postings showing increased demand for AI-complementary skills.
Deloitte’s 2026 Global Human Capital Trends survey placed adaptability and human-AI collaboration at the centre of competitive strategies for organisations worldwide. The consultancy’s assessment found that entities focusing on speed in decision-making and talent reconfiguration stood to gain most amid ongoing technological change. TRENDS new book adds regional insights from the Middle East to this global conversation on preparing labour forces for an AI-integrated future.
TRENDS Research & Advisory operates as an independent think tank based in Abu Dhabi specialising in geopolitical economic and social research that supports informed policymaking. Its publications including the latest on AI and labour have gained attention for addressing strategic issues with data-driven analysis according to the group’s own descriptions. The distribution agreement signed at the fair is expected to make such titles more accessible to readers throughout East Asia and beyond.
