Unemployment rate in Hong Kong rose to 3.9% in July-September 2025

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Unemployment increased across several major economic sectors, with more distinct increases observed in social work activities and construction.

Hong Kong’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate climbed to 3.9% for the period of July to September 2025, while the underemployment rate remained unchanged at 1.6%, according to the latest labour force statistics released by the Census and Statistics Department (C&SD).

The data revealed that the unemployment rate increased in many major economic sectors, with more distinct increases observed in the social work activities and construction sector.

Meanwhile, the unemployment rate for the food and beverage service activities sector remained unchanged, while declines were seen in the financing and human health activities sector.

Key labour force figures in July-September 2025:

Commenting on the figures, Chris Sun, Secretary for Labour and Welfare, noted that Hong Kong is undergoing a phase of economic restructuring, which may lead to sector-specific increases in unemployment. In addition, the increasing external uncertainties could weigh on corporate hiring sentiment.

Nevertheless, Sun stated that the continued expansion of the Hong Kong economy is expected to support job growth.

“The Government will continue to closely monitor the labour market situation and facilitate job-seeking through enhancing dissemination of employment information," he added.