Hong Kong: The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate fell to 3.8% from August to October 2025, while the underemployment rate remained unchanged at 1.6%.

According to the latest labor force statistics released by the Hong Kong Government Census and Statistics Department today (November 18) (temporary figures from August to October 2025), the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased from 3.9% in July to September 2025 to 3.8% in August to October 2025. The underemployment rate remained unchanged at 1.6% during both periods. Comparing August to October 2025 with July to September 2025, the unemployment rates (not seasonally adjusted) in many major economic sectors saw a decline, including retail, accommodation and catering services, professional and business services (excluding cleaning and similar activities), foundation and superstructure construction, and finance. The underemployment rates in each industry varied, but generally did not change significantly. The total number of employed persons decreased from 3,674,500 in July to September 2025 to 3,672,700 in August to October 2025, a decrease of about 1,800 persons. The total labor force also decreased from 3,830,100 to 3,822,300, a decrease of about 7,800 persons during the same period. The number of unemployed persons (not seasonally adjusted) decreased from 155,600 in July to September 2025 to 149,600 in August to October 2025, a decrease of about 6,000 persons. Meanwhile, the number of underemployed persons increased from 60,000 to 60,800, an increase of about 800 persons during the same period. When commenting on the latest unemployment figures, Hong Kong's Secretary for Labor and Welfare, Sophia Sun, said: "The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for August to October 2025 decreased by 0.1 percentage points to 3.8% compared to the previous three months. The underemployment rate remained unchanged at 1.6%. The labor force and total employment numbers slightly decreased during the same period, while the number of unemployed persons also decreased." Looking ahead, Sophia Sun said: "With the steady expansion of the Hong Kong economy, as well as the gradual improvement in the business environment and consumer confidence, it should provide support for the labor market. However, some industries will continue to face challenges due to the economic transformation."