3rd November 2026 – (Hong Kong) The Census and Statistics Department released advance estimates showing that real gross domestic product grew by 5.2 per cent year on year in the third quarter of 2026, accelerating from 4.2 per cent in the second quarter. On a seasonally adjusted quarter‑to‑quarter basis, output rose by 1.9 per cent. Taken together, the first three quarters of 2026 recorded real growth of 5.1 per cent compared with a year earlier, the quickest pace for the period in five years.
Private consumption expenditure increased by 2.8 per cent in real terms from a year earlier, broadly in line with the 2.9 per cent rise in the preceding quarter. Government consumption expenditure, measured on national‑accounts terms, was up 1.7 per cent after being virtually unchanged in the second quarter. Gross domestic fixed capital formation strengthened notably, advancing 7.3 per cent versus 3.7 per cent previously.
External trade provided a strong lift. Total exports of goods, on a national‑accounts basis, rose 30.4 per cent year on year in real terms in the third quarter after a 28.9 per cent increase in the second quarter, while imports of goods grew 29.9 per cent following a 29.3 per cent gain. Exports of services expanded by 4.3 per cent, outpacing the 3.2 per cent rise in the prior quarter, and imports of services grew 5.6 per cent compared with 3.1 per cent earlier.
A Government spokesman said the economy expanded robustly in the third quarter, supported by faster export growth and solid domestic demand. The outlook was described as positive, with ongoing global investment in artificial intelligence expected to underpin merchandise exports and inbound tourism, cross‑boundary traffic and active financial markets set to support services. Domestically, steady expansion, rising employment earnings and a constructive business climate should continue to aid consumption and investment.
The spokesman cautioned, however, that uncertainties in the external environment warrant close monitoring, citing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and tighter monetary policies among major central banks. Revised figures and more detailed statistics for the third quarter of 2026, together with an updated GDP forecast for the year, are scheduled for release on 13th November 2026.