Underemployment rate slightly dips to 1.4% in June-August

But the unemployment rate is unchanged.

Hong Kong’s unemployment rate remained unchanged at 3.3% for June-August 2014.

According to a research note from Barclays, meanwhile, comparing June-August 2014 to May-July 2014, an increase in unemployment (not seasonally adjusted) was noted in the education sector.

On the other hand, a decrease was seen in the foundation and superstructure works of the construction sector.

As for the underemployment rate, it decreased from 1.5% in May-July 2014 to 1.4% in June-August 2014

Total employment increased by around 18,900 to 3,790,000 while the labour force increased by 22,000 to 3,926,400.

Commenting on the latest unemployment figures, the Secretary for Labour and Welfare said Hong Kong’s near-term economic outlook remains clouded by uncertainties on both the domestic and external fronts.

Further, the trend in unemployment rate would hinge on the overall economic situation including the tourism and consumption related sector.