HK jobless rate flat at 3.3% from September to November

    Hong Kong's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate stood at 3.3% in September - November, same as that in August - October. The underemployment rate increased from 1.5% in August - October to 1.6% in September - November, according to the Census and Statistics Department.
  Comparing September - November with August - October, increases in the unemployment rate (not seasonally adjusted) were observed in the retail sector and the foundation and superstructure works of the construction sector, while a decrease was seen in the food and beverage service activities sector. As to the underemployment rate, increases were observed in the decoration, repair and maintenance for buildings, and food and beverage service activities sectors.
  On the short-term outlook, the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Matthew Cheung Kin-chung, said while the unemployment situation in those sectors more affected by the 'Occupy Movement' has remained largely stable, some signs of worsening in the underemployment situation were observed. Although labour demand in the near team is likely to remain buoyant in the run-up to the festive season around Christmas and the New Year, the potential lagging impacts of the 'Occupy Movement' on the domestic economy will still need to be watched.