Hong Kong Exports Surge 40.8% in May on AI Boom

Hong Kong’s merchandise exports surged by 40.8% year-on-year to HK$611.2 billion in May, according to data released by the Census and Statistics Department. For the first five months of 2026, total exports reached HK$2,776.6 billion, a robust 36.2% increase over the same period last year. The strong performance is underpinned by soaring demand for electronics, fueled by the global adoption of artificial intelligence (AI), as noted by Bruce Pang, Director of Research at the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC). Market sentiment improved after the Xi-Trump meeting in Beijing in mid-May, but concerns over the Middle East conflict persisted. However, the tentative easing of tensions following the US–Iran MoU signed in mid-June, combined with softer oil prices, is expected to positively impact business prospects.

Looking ahead, HKTDC Research will unveil its latest export forecast at a press conference on June 29. Pang emphasized that Hong Kong's trade outlook will continue to depend on several factors, including the technology upcycle, geopolitical developments, energy prices, and global end-market demand. The HKTDC, which celebrates its 60th anniversary this year, is a statutory body established to promote and develop Hong Kong's trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in the Chinese Mainland, the HKTDC organizes international exhibitions, conferences, and business missions to create opportunities for SMEs. It also provides market insights via research reports and digital news channels.

This release was originally distributed by NEWMEDIAWIRE. For further details, visit the HKTDC Media Room at https://mediaroom.hktdc.com/en. The HKTDC continues to play a pivotal role in supporting Hong Kong's trade growth, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), by offering up-to-date market intelligence and facilitating global business connections.