The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate stood at 3.3% in July-September, unchanged from June-August, the Census & Statistics Department announced today.
Underemployment rose from 1.4% to 1.5%.
Non-seasonally adjusted increases in unemployment were seen in the decoration, and repair and maintenance for buildings sectors, while decreases were seen in the cleaning, and warehousing and support activities for transportation sectors.
Total employment fell by 4,300 to 3,785,700 in July-September. The labour force also fell by 7,800 to 3,918,600. There were 132,900 unemployed people and 57,000 underemployed people.
Secretary for Labour & Welfare Matthew Cheung said the labour market remained tight in July-September, but the figures had not yet reflected the disruptions to economic activities caused by the Occupy Central protests on industries such as retail, catering and inbound tourism.
Mr Cheung noted that if protracted, the movement would inevitably dampen the local consumption market in the fourth quarter which will have a potential knock-on impact on the employment market.
He said the Government will monitor developments closely.
