The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate stood at 3.3% in the November-January quarter, unchanged from October-December, the Census & Statistics Department announced today.
The underemployment rate also remained unchanged at 1.6%.
A non-seasonally adjusted increase in the unemployment rate was seen in the wholesale, accommodation services, and food and beverage service activities sectors, while a decrease was seen in the foundation and superstructure works of the construction sector, the transportation sector and the repair, laundry, domestic and other personal service activities sector.
Total employment increased by about 4,600 to 3,801,800 during the period, and the labour force expanded by about 2,800 to 3,922,200.
There were 120,500 unemployed people and 62,200 underemployed people.
Secretary for Labour & Welfare Matthew Cheung said the labour market remained largely stable during the period, and the usually more buoyant business activity in the run-up to the Lunar New Year will support labour demand.
The near-term employment outlook hinges on the overall economic situation, particularly on how the domestic sector fares.
The Government will stay vigilant and monitor developments in the labour market closely, Mr Cheung added.
