Hong Kong 4-June unemployment rose to 5.4% in line with market expectations

The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate rose from 3 to 5.3% in May to 5.4% in 4 to June, according to the Census and Statistics department today, in line with the prevailing market expectations.　　The underemployment rate remained unchanged, with both periods being 2.3%. Without a seasonal adjustment, the rise in the unemployment rate in Hong Kong is mainly seen in the arts, entertainment and leisure services, social work activities and the wholesale sector.　　The decrease in the underemployment rate was mainly seen in the warehousing and transport support services sector, which offset the rise in the decoration and maintenance industries. Total employment in the period from March-May to 3.5149 million, fell to 4-June 3.5062 million people, about 8700 reduction. During the same period, the total labour force decreased by 5500 to 3.7092 million people. The number of unemployed persons increased by 3300 to 203,000. During the same period, the number of underemployed persons decreased by 300.