Key facts
- Hong Kong's August retail sales value rose 5.6% year-on-year to HK$32.1 billion.
- This marks the 16th consecutive month of retail sales gains.
- Growth was observed across many retail categories, with a notable increase in online sales.
- Visitor arrivals in August increased 5.9% year-on-year to 5.46 million.
- Sales of jewellery, watches, clocks and valuable gifts rose 11.9% in August.
- Sales of motor vehicles and parts decreased 22% in August.
Hong Kong's retail sales value increased by 5.6% year-on-year in August, reaching HK$32.1 billion. This marks the 16th consecutive month of gains for the sector, indicating a continued pickup in consumer spending. Growth was observed across many types of retail outlets, with online retail sales value showing a notable increase, reflecting a shift towards digital channels.
For the first eight months of the year, total retail sales value increased by 8.5% compared to the same period in 2025. A government spokesperson expressed optimism for the future, stating that sustained economic expansion and rising labor earnings should support local consumption sentiment and spending, with growth in visitor arrivals further injecting vibrancy into the sector.
Visitor arrivals in August rose 5.9% year-on-year to 5.46 million, with mainland Chinese visitors increasing 8.2% to 4.57 million. Sales of jewellery, watches, clocks, and valuable gifts saw a significant rise of 11.9% in August, following a revised 19.9% growth in July. Conversely, sales of motor vehicles and parts decreased by 22% in August, and sales of clothing, footwear, and allied products slipped 0.3%.