HK exports, imports surpass projections in May

Hong Kong’s exports and imports both beat expectations in May, with shipments to mainland China and many other Asian markets growing visibly further, according to the Census and Statistics Department.

The value of Hong Kong’s total exports of goods rose 15.5 percent year-on-year in May to HK$434.1 billion, following a 14.7 percent increase in April, exceeding an estimated growth of 12.5 percent for last month.

Imports climbed 18.9 percent from a year earlier to HK$461.4 billion, surpassing a projected gain of 13 percent, after rising 15.8 percent in the previous month.

A visible trade deficit of HK$27.3 billion, equivalent to 5.9 percent of the value of imports of goods, was recorded in May.

For the first five months of 2025 as a whole, shipment value jumped by 12.6 percent from 2024, while imports advanced by 12.9 percent.

In May, the city’s exports to the European Union turned to moderate growth, while those to the United States fell.

Looking ahead, the sustained steady growth in the mainland economy and Hong Kong’s enhanced economic and trade ties with different markets should render support to trade performance, a government spokesman said.

STAFF REPORTER