The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate – taking three months’ data into account – decreased from 4.7 percent in April-June to 4.3 percent in May-July.

The underemployment rate declined from 3.0 percent to 2.2 percent when comparing the two three-month periods.

The unemployment rate decreased across almost all the major economic sectors, with more distinct decreases observed in the decoration, repair and maintenance of buildings sector; retail, accommodation and food services sector; transportation sector; and arts, entertainment and recreation sector.

As to the underemployment rate, decreases were mainly seen in the decoration, repair and maintenance of buildings sector.

Total employment showed a faster increase of 21,500 to 3,593,100. The number of unemployed persons fell further by 10,400 to 168,200.”

The unemployment rate of the consumption- and tourism-related sectors – namely retail, accommodation, and food services sectors combined – fell visibly by 0.9 percentage points to 6.5 percent in May-July.

The unemployment rate for food and beverage service activities fell by 1.6 percent points to 7.0 percent, and that of the retail sector declined by 0.3 percent to 6.3 percent. The unemployment rates of most other sectors also declined.

Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han said, “The labor market improved further in May - July 2022 as domestic economic activities continued to revive. The 2022 Employment Support Scheme has also helped.”

“Provided that the local epidemic situation remains under control, with the support from Phase II of the Consumption Voucher Scheme, domestic economic activities are expected to revive further in the coming months,” Sun continued.

On another note, the Labour Department will organize the Job Fair for Middle-aged and Elderly Employment at the MacPherson Stadium on September 22 and 23. Over 50 employers will participate, offering lots of vacancies from various industries.