HK jobless rate unchanged at 3.4% from April to June

    Hong Kong's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate stood at 3.4% in April - June, same as that in March - May. The underemployment rate also remained unchanged at 1.4% in the two periods, according to the Census and Statistics Department.
  Comparing April - June with March - May, movements in the unemployment rate (not seasonally adjusted) in different industry sectors varied. Increases were mainly seen in the real estate sector and education sector while decreases were mainly seen in the construction sector and professional and business services (excluding cleaning and similar activities) sector. As to the underemployment rate, an increase was mainly seen in the repair, laundry, domestic and other personal service activities sector while a decrease was seen in foundation and superstructure works of the construction sector.
  On the short-term outlook, the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Matthew Cheung Kin-chung, said, "The employment outlook remains overshadowed by the increased external headwinds and the concurrent slowdown in inbound tourism and local consumption market. With the entry of fresh graduates and school leavers into the labour force during the summer season, the labour supply is likely to be boosted in the coming months. We will stay vigilant and monitor developments closely."