Kowloon will experience faster population growth than both the New Territories and Hong Kong Island in the coming decade, the Planning Department says.

According to the Projections of Population Distribution 2003-2012 report released today, Kowloon's population will increase 17% to 2.37 million, taking up about 31% of the total population in 2012, compared to 30% last year.

In the New Territories, the population of new towns will increase 12% to reach 3.49 million in 2012, accounting for 46% of the total population.

The population in other areas of the New Territories will grow much faster, by 21%, although it will represent just 6% of the total population. Hong Kong Island's share of the population will drop from 19% in 2002, to 17% in 2012.

Kwun Tong to overtake Sha Tin, Eastern

Among the District Council districts, Kwun Tong will overtake Sha Tin and Eastern to become the most populous from 2009. Its population is projected to reach 694,400 in 2012.

Islands District will, on the other hand, experience the fastest and the greatest population growth, with an additional 130,400 people over the next 10 years.

The proportion of people 14 and under is projected to drop rapidly in new towns from 17.9% in 2002 to 13.8% in 2012, though it will still be higher than the rest of Hong Kong. 

In contrast, Kowloon will continue to have the highest proportion of people aged 65 or above.

In 2012, Islands District will have the youngest population among all District Council districts, with a projected median age of 36.9, whereas Wan Chai's population will be the oldest, with a projected median age of 44.

The distribution projections were made with respect to the projected total local population of Hong Kong as prepared and released by the Census & Statistics Department in May last year.

Where to find the report

The report is available for inspection at the Planning Department's Planning Enquiry Counter on the 17th Floor of the North Point Government Offices.

Summary projection results are also available on the Planning Department's website.

The report can be purchased online at the Government Bookstore or by returning a completed order which can be downloaded from the Information Services Department's website.

People can also purchase it by calling 2537 1910 or by placing an order by e-mail at puborder@isd.gov.hk.