Hong Kong Census and Statistics Department: The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in Hong Kong from February to April was 3.4%, and the underemployment rate rose to 1.3%.

On May 20th, according to the latest labor force statistics released by the Census and Statistics Department of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government (i.e. preliminary figures for February to April 2025), the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased from 3.2% in January to March 2025 to 3.4% in February to April 2025. The underemployment rate also rose from 1.1% to 1.3% during the same period. Compared to January to March 2025, many major economic sectors in Hong Kong experienced an increase in unemployment rate (not seasonally adjusted) in February to April 2025, with noticeable increases in the construction industry, accommodation services, food and beverage service activities, and the finance industry. In contrast, the information and communication industry, insurance industry, as well as arts, entertainment, and recreation activities saw a decrease in unemployment rates. The rise in underemployment rate was mainly observed in the construction industry and cleaning and similar services. The total number of employed persons decreased from 3,692,700 in January to March 2025 to 3,677,100 in February to April 2025, a reduction of approximately 15,600 individuals. Similarly, the total labor force decreased from 3,815,500 to 3,806,500 during the same period, a decrease of around 9,000 people. The number of unemployed persons (not seasonally adjusted) increased from 122,800 in January to March 2025 to 129,400 in February to April 2025, an increase of about 6,600 people. The underemployed persons also increased from 42,700 to 47,600 during the same period, an increase of approximately 4,900 individuals. When commenting on the latest unemployment figures, the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, So Yock-han, stated that the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate rose from a low level of 3.2% in January to March 2025 to 3.4% in February to April 2025. The underemployment rate increased to 1.3%. Compared to the previous three months, the labor force and total employment further decreased to 3,806,500 and 3,677,100 individuals, respectively. Looking ahead, So Yock-han mentioned that different industries in Hong Kong are undergoing a period of transition, with varying trends in unemployment rates. However, recent easing of trade tensions, continued growth in the mainland economy, coupled with measures undertaken by the Hong Kong SAR Government to boost economic momentum and the overall positive economic outlook, will support the labor market. So Yock-han continued by noting that although there have been shop closures recently, many new businesses are also opening. As of the end of last year, the number of registered companies in Hong Kong reached a historical high of 1.46 million, indicating emerging demands and consumer trends are gradually taking shape. Furthermore, with the successful hosting of various events in the Hong Kong SAR recently and concerted efforts by the government and industries including tourism, food and beverage, hotels, and retail, the number of visitors to Hong Kong has significantly increased, providing more opportunities for the labor market.