Comprehensive Social Security Assistance Scheme expenditure has risen drastically in the last decade.

The Monthly Digest of Statistics' July issue shows that in 2003-04, CSSA expenditure was $17.3 billion, more than five times that of 1994-95. Its share among total government recurrent expenditure rose from 3.2% to 8.7%. The average growth in cases per annum during 1994 and 2003 was 12%.

The issue also contains up-to-date analysis of the structural and operating characteristics of the information technology and telecommunications sector.

The sector featured 9,600 establishments and 72,900 people in 2002. The value added for the sector rose from $40.9 billion in 1998 to $49.7 billion in 2002. Its contribution to GDP ranged from 3% to 4.1%.

The publication contains two other notable features - Development of Trade in Services of Hong Kong, and Hong Kong Population Projections 2004-2033.

Get it now!

It is now available online at the Statistical Bookstore where purchasers can enjoy a special 25% discount until July 31.

Hardcopies can be bought through mail order by returning a completed order form downloadable from the department's website.

Purchases can also be made in person at the department's Publications Unit at 19/F, Wan Chai Tower, 12 Harbour Road, Wan Chai. Enquiries, call 2582 3025.