The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in Hong Kong from March to May was 3.7%.

The census and statistics department of the Hong Kong government released the labor force statistics for the period of March to May 2026 today. The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for this period was 3.7%, unchanged from the previous period of February to April 2026. The underemployment rate also remained stable at 1.5% during these two periods. Comparing the period of March to May 2026 with February to April 2026, the unemployment rates across different industries (not seasonally adjusted) varied, with decreases mainly observed in the cleaning and similar activities industry, while increases were mainly seen in the social work activities and accommodation services industry. The underemployment rates across industries also varied, but with generally small changes. The total employment decreased from 3.648 million in February to April 2026 to 3.6393 million in March to May 2026, a decrease of about 8,700 people. The total labor force also decreased from 3.872 million to 3.7803 million during the same period, a decrease of about 6,900 people. The number of unemployed individuals (not seasonally adjusted) increased from 139,200 in February to April 2026 to 141,100 in March to May 2026, an increase of about 1,900 people. Meanwhile, the number of underemployed individuals decreased from 58,100 to 56,800, a decrease of about 1,300 people. In response to the latest unemployment figures, the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, So Yuk-han, commented that the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate remained at 3.7% for the period of March to May 2026, the same as the previous three months. The underemployment rate also remained unchanged at 1.5%. She noted a slight decrease in both the labor force and total employment during this period. Looking ahead, So Yuk-han stated that the continuous growth of the Hong Kong economy should continue to provide support to the overall labor market. The government will continue to closely monitor the evolving uncertainties in the external environment and their potential impacts on the Hong Kong economy.