Eddy
CX needs foreign pilots as there is no local aviation of any significance. Experience does matter. With all due respect to those who pass through the cadet scheme, become SOs, then Relief FOs and then Captains, they don't bring any experience to the operation. And time as a SO or Relief doesn't add a great deal. The insurers won't let CX dilute the aircrew with too many locals.
I have been told by some Hong Kongers that they fly CX because of the foreign pilots.