Hong Kong’s merchandise exports surged 53.4% year on year to HK$641.1 billion in June 2026, according to data released by the Census and Statistics Department. For the first half of 2026, total exports reached HK$3,416.0 billion, a 39.1% increase over the same period last year. The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) attributed the robust growth to strong demand for electronics amid the global adoption of artificial intelligence.
Bruce Pang, Director of Research at HKTDC, noted that export growth to Asia, the Chinese Mainland, and the United States all accelerated in June compared to May. However, new US tariffs effective July 24 impose 12.5% duties on imports from Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland, replacing previous temporary tariffs. Despite this, exemptions for many electronic products—which constitute the majority of Hong Kong’s exports to the US—are expected to limit the impact. Pang added that anticipated talks between Chinese and US leaders in September could foster a more favorable trade environment.
Looking forward, HKTDC cautioned that global business prospects depend on developments in the Middle East, where renewed conflicts have pushed oil prices higher and prompted some central banks to tighten monetary policy. If tensions persist and more central banks adopt tighter policies, global economic growth and end-market demand could slow. Pang stated, “Hong Kong’s merchandise exports could see moderating growth momentum in the coming months, amid a likely gradual steadying of the technology upcycle, an easing global economy, as well as the high-base effect from last year.” HKTDC maintains its forecast that full-year exports in 2026 will grow over 20%.
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