Billionaire Profile
Y
Global Rank
#2573

Image: Yao, Guibin; Duan, Tianchen; Chi, Enyi; Guo, Pengran; Li, Yiguo; Wang, Zongbao | CC BY 4.0 | via Wikimedia Commons

Yao Hsiao Tung

CEO, Manufacturing
SINGAPORE
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.44B
Estimated based on Manufacturing stock value as of March 6, 2026
0% (24h)
Age
86
Source
Manufacturing
Industry
Manufacturing
Citizenship
SINGAPORE

Biography

Yao Hsiao Tung, a Singaporean citizen, is a highly successful entrepreneur and business leader. Born in 1940, he is the Executive Chairman and CEO of Hi-P International, a leading contract manufacturer. His estimated net worth is $1.4 billion, primarily sourced from his ventures in the manufacturing industry. Yao's career began in the 1980s when he invested in a struggling mold maker, which he transformed into a global enterprise serving major tech companies like Apple and Dyson. His dedication to his employees and his vision for Hi-P's future, including ambitions in AI, have solidified his position as a prominent figure in Singapore's business landscape.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 3/6/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Yao Hsiao Tung was born in Yunnan, China, in 1940. At the age of six, his family moved to Taiwan. He experienced a challenging childhood, which instilled in him a strong work ethic and a desire to succeed. He witnessed his parents' hardships, which further fueled his ambition to achieve financial stability.

Rise to Success

Yao's professional journey began after graduating with a degree in mechanical engineering. He later pursued a Master's degree in business administration from the University of Chicago. In 1983, he left his position at DuPont to take over Hi-P International, a struggling mold-making company. He transformed it into a global contract manufacturer of tech components. His strategic vision and business acumen enabled him to expand Hi-P's operations and secure major clients such as Apple and Dyson. In 2021, he delisted the company from the Singapore Stock Exchange to gain greater management flexibility.

Key Business Strategies

Yao's key business strategies include a focus on innovation, customer satisfaction, and employee empowerment. He emphasized the importance of adapting to the changing technological landscape and has set his sights on the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI). His commitment to his employees and his belief in giving back to society are also important aspects of his business philosophy.

Philanthropy

While the exact details of Yao Hsiao Tung's philanthropic activities are not readily available, his emphasis on contributing to society indicates a commitment to giving back. He has established corporate social responsibility initiatives, primarily focused on his employees and the communities where Hi-P operates.

Career Milestones

1979

Moved to Singapore

Moved to Singapore to set up a factory for DuPont.

1983

Joined Hi-P International

Left DuPont and took over Hi-P International as a small tool maker.

1989

Acquired Hi-P International

Orchestrated the acquisition of Hi-P International.

2009

Honorary Doctorate

Conferred an honorary doctorate by National Kaohsiung University of Applied Sciences.

2021

Delisting of Hi-P International

Delisted the company from the Singapore Stock Exchange.

2023

Businessman of the Year

Awarded the Businessman of the Year at the 38th Singapore Business Awards.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Community Support

HYP's CSR initiatives

Not available

Hi-P International has CSR initiatives.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"I believe that I should contribute to society, and the people closest to me in society are my employees, so I should give them the rewards they deserve."

"Sorry, but Hi-P is not for sale."

Leadership Principles

Sincerity

Emphasizes honesty and integrity in business dealings.

Discipline

Focuses on self-control and a structured approach to work.

Innovation

Encourages new ideas and creative approaches to business challenges.

Hard Work

Values dedication, perseverance, and consistent effort.