Hong Kong's merchandise exports surged 53.4% year-on-year to HK$641.1 billion in June 2026, driven by robust global demand for electronics amid accelerated adoption of artificial intelligence, according to data released by the Census and Statistics Department. For the first half of 2026, total exports reached HK$3,416.0 billion, up 39.1% from the same period last year.
Bruce Pang, Director of Research at the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), noted that the year-on-year growth rates of total exports to Asia, the Chinese Mainland, and the USA all accelerated in June compared with May 2026. The strong performance underscores Hong Kong's role as a key hub for electronics trade, particularly in AI-related components.
On July 24, the United States imposed new tariffs of 10% or 12.5% on imports from 60 trading partners, including the Chinese Mainland and Hong Kong, which face a 12.5% tariff. These replace the previous temporary 10% universal tariffs. However, the HKTDC expects limited impact on Hong Kong's exports, as exemptions remain for certain electronic products that account for the majority of Hong Kong's exports to the U.S. The anticipated meeting between Chinese and U.S. leaders in September, along with continued bilateral dialogue, could further ease trade tensions.
Looking ahead, global business prospects hinge 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, the global economy and end-market demand could slow. Despite these risks, Pang stated, "On the whole, 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. We continue to uphold our forecast that Hong Kong's full year exports in 2026 will register growth of over 20%."
For more details, the HKTDC's research can be accessed via its Media Room. The original release is available on NewMediaWire.
