Hong Kong's merchandise exports surged by 40.8% year-on-year to HK$611.2 billion in May, propelled by strong global demand for electronics tied to artificial intelligence (AI) adoption, according to data released today by the Census and Statistics Department. The growth extends a robust trend, with total exports for the first five months of 2026 reaching HK$2,776.6 billion, up 36.2% from the same period last year.
Bruce Pang, Director of Research at the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), attributed the performance to "robust electronics demand, fueled by the ongoing surge in artificial intelligence (AI) adoption worldwide." He noted that market sentiment improved following the Xi-Trump meeting in Beijing in mid-May, although concerns over the Middle East conflict persisted. Looking ahead, Pang highlighted that the tentative easing of tensions after the US–Iran Memorandum of Understanding signed in mid-June, along with softer oil prices, is expected to positively impact business prospects, despite potential volatility.
"Overall, Hong Kong’s trade outlook will continue to hinge on several factors, including the technology upcycle, geopolitical developments, energy prices and global end-market demand," Pang added. The HKTDC is set to unveil its latest export forecast at a press conference on Monday, 29 June, offering further insights into the trajectory of Hong Kong's trade sector.
The data underscores Hong Kong's role as a key hub for electronics and technology trade, with AI-driven demand acting as a significant catalyst. The HKTDC's analysis suggests that while geopolitical uncertainties remain, the technology upcycle and easing energy prices could sustain export momentum. For more details, the HKTDC Media Room at https://mediaroom.hktdc.com/en provides additional resources.
