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According to the latest labour force statistics released today (August 18) by the Census and Statistics Department (C&SD), the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate stood at 5.4% (provisional figure) in May – July 2009, same as that in April – June 2009. Meanwhile, the underemployment rate increased slightly from 2.3% to 2.4% (provisional figure) over the same period.
Comparing May – July 2009 with April – June 2009, decreases in the unemployment rate (not seasonally adjusted) were mainly observed in the decoration and maintenance, financing, and arts, entertainment and recreation sectors, while increases were more apparent in the education, insurance, and repair, laundry, domestic and miscellaneous personal services sectors. As to the underemployment rate, increases were mainly seen in the food services, and warehousing and support activities for transportation sectors.
Total employment decreased by around 900, from 3 506 200 in April – June 2009 to 3 505 300 (provisional figure) in May – July 2009. Over the same period, the labour force increased by around 9 800, from 3 709 200 to an all-time high of 3 719 000 (provisional figure).
The number of unemployed persons (not seasonally adjusted) increased by around 10 800, from 203 000 in April – June 2009 to 213 800 (provisional figure) in May – July 2009. Over the same period, the number of underemployed persons increased by around 3 700, from 84 900 to 88 600 (provisional figure).
Commentary
With the rebound in economic activities, the labour market has displayed much resilience in recent period.
The Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Matthew Cheung Kin-chung, said, "Although the labour market showed signs of stabilisation in the second quarter in tandem with the improvements on both domestic and external fronts, the unemployment rate will continue to face upward pressure as business sentiments remain cautious and employers are generally conservative in hiring new hands.
"As the entry of fresh graduates and school leavers into the labour market usually peaks in August, the pressure on employment is expected to be fully reflected in the next two months."
Mr Cheung stressed that the Government was very concerned about the employment situation of youngsters. "To strengthen employment support for youth, we have earmarked $326 million for enhancing and integrating the Youth Pre-employment Training Programme and Youth Work Experience and Training Scheme -the Labour Department's flagship youth employment programmes - to provide youngsters with more flexible and comprehensive employment services. The integrated programme is now open for enrolment throughout the year.
"Also, some 4 400 university graduates have registered so far under the Internship Programme for University Graduates since its implementation on August 1.
"I encourage our young people to grasp these opportunities and join the programmes that they find suitable so as to enhance their competitiveness and equip themselves," he said.
Mr Cheung added that the Government would continue to closely monitor the job creation and employment situation, and canvass suitable vacancies from the market to assist job-seekers.
In July 2009, the Labour Department netted 45 433 vacancies from the private sector, down 29% over the same period last year and also slightly down 1.2% over the 45 983 vacancies netted in June this year. On average, the Department received about 2 100 vacancies per working day.
Further Information
The unemployment and underemployment statistics were compiled from the findings of the continuous General Household Survey.
The survey for May – July 2009 covered a sample of some 24 000 households or 74 000 persons, selected in accordance with a scientifically designed sampling scheme to represent the population of Hong Kong.
Data on labour force characteristics were obtained from the survey by interviewing each member aged 15 or over in the sampled households.
In the survey, the definitions used in measuring unemployment and underemployment follow closely those recommended by the International Labour Organisation.
Detailed analysis of labour force characteristics is given in the "Quarterly Report on General Household Survey" which is published four times a year. The current issue of the report covering the quarter January – March 2009 is now available and the next issue covering the quarter April – June 2009 will be available by end August 2009. Users can download this publication free of charge at the website of the Census and Statistics Department (C&SD) (www.censtatd.gov.hk/products_and_services/products/publications/statistical_report/labour/index.jsp).
Print version of the current issue of this publication is available for sale at HK$66 per issue. Purchase can be done in person at the Publications Unit of the C&SD (Address : 19/F Wanchai Tower, 12 Harbour Road, Wan Chai; Tel. : 2582 3025) or through mail order by returning a completed order form which can be downloaded from the C&SD's website (www.censtatd.gov.hk/products_and_services/other_services/provision_of_stat/mail_
ordering_of_publications/index.jsp). Print version of this publication is also available for sale online at the Government Bookstore of the Information Services Department (www.bookstore.gov.hk).
Enquiries for more detailed labour force statistics for April – June 2009 can be directed to the General Household Survey Section (2), Census and Statistics Department (Tel.: 2887 5508; Fax: 2508 1501; E-mail: ghs@censtatd.gov.hk).
Ends/Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Issued at HKT 16:30
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