HK unemployment rate rises to 3.5pc

Hong Kong's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate rose 0.1 percentage points to 3.5 percent between March and May from the February-April period as the city's industries are adapting to consumption patterns changes, official data shows.

According to the Census and Statistics Department, the underemployment rate also increased to 1.4 percent in the March-May period from 1.3 percent in February-April period.

The unemployment rate (not seasonally adjusted) increased across most major economic sectors, with more distinct increases observed in the construction sector, retail sector and real estate sector. Increases of the underemployment rate were mainly seen in the construction sector and transportation sector.

Total employment fell by around 12,400 to 3,664,700, while the labor force declined by about 6,000 to 3,800,500.

The number of unemployed grew by 6,400 while the underemployed number rose by 6,000.

Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han said under outside uncertainties, the newly added jobs will be impacted by industries adaptation to consumption patterns of both local residents and tourists. 

The whole employment situation will be further influenced by a new batch of graduates in the next few months, he added.

STAFF REPORTER