The value of Hong Kong’s total exports in October decreased 1.8% year-on-year while the value of imports rose 0.5%, the Census & Statistics Department announced today.
The value of total goods exports decreased 1.8% to $313.7 billion from a year earlier, after a year-on-year increase of 3.6% in September.
Within this total, the value of re-exports decreased 1.9% to $310.1 billion, while the value of domestic exports increased 1.1% to $3.6 billion.
The value of goods imports rose 0.5% to $350.9 billion after a year-on-year increase of 4.1% in September. A visible trade deficit of $37.2 billion, equivalent to 10.6% of the value of imports of goods, was recorded in October.
Comparing the three months ending October with the preceding three months on a seasonally adjusted basis, the value of total goods exports increased 1.9%. Within this total, the value of re-exports increased 1.8% while that of domestic exports went up 8%. The value of goods imports increased 3%.
The department noted merchandise value reverted to a slight decline in October over a year earlier, after registering growth in the preceding two months. Performance across major markets is mixed.
Looking ahead, it said the external trading environment is still subject to uncertainties, including those associated with the US policy direction after the general election and the unfolding Brexit event.
The Government will monitor the situation, it added.
