In March, Hong Kong’s retail sector saw a 12.8% increase in sales compared to the same month in the previous year. This marks the 11th consecutive month of growth, according to recent government data. Sales touched HK$33.9 billion (US$4.33 billion), demonstrating a healthy economy. In February, the year-on-year rise was recorded at 19.3%.
Motor vehicle sales exhibited notable progress, with a surge in purchases just before the first registration tax concessions for electric private cars expired at the end of March.
When it comes to sales volume, a 9.8% increase was observed in March compared to the same period last year. This is slightly less than February’s 17.5% rise.
For the initial quarter of 2026, the total value of retail sales rose by 12.1% year-on-year, while the volume of retail sales witnessed a 9.8% increase.
A government representative attributed the positive trajectory of retail sales to the recovery of local demand, steady growth in tourist arrivals, and a favourable macro-financial environment.
The Hong Kong Tourism Board reported a 14% year-on-year increase in visitor arrivals in March, reaching 4.35 million. Chinese mainland visitors, who account for a significant portion of these arrivals, increased by 15.9% year-on-year to 3.19 million.
Specific sectors such as jewellery, watches, clocks, and valuable gifts experienced a robust growth of 27.2% year-on-year in March, following a 24.2% rise in February.
The motor vehicles and parts sector saw an impressive 80.8% year-on-year jump in March, substantial growth from the 37.3% rise seen in February.
Meanwhile, the clothing, footwear, and related products sector saw a modest increase of 5.9% year-on-year in March, a decrease from the 14.1% rise recorded in February.
What was the percentage increase in Hong Kong’s retail sales in March?
Retail sales in Hong Kong saw a 12.8% rise in March compared to the same month in the previous year.
Which sectors saw significant growth in March?
The motor vehicles and parts sector, as well as the jewellery, watches, clocks, and valuable gifts sector, experienced substantial growth in March.
What factors contributed to the positive outlook for retail sales?
The recovery of local demand, steady growth in inbound tourism, and a favourable macro-financial environment have all played a role in the optimistic outlook for retail sales.
