Hong Kong stocks opened sharply lower on Friday morning, extending a global sell-off after the European Central Bank painted a dim outlook for the region's economy, while traders are awaiting a key reading on US consumer prices.

The Hang Seng Index fell 1.58 percent, or 346.55 points, to 21,522.50.

The Shanghai Composite Index shed 0.76 percent, or 24.77 points, to 3,214.18, while the Shenzhen Composite Index slipped 0.61 percent, or 12.53 points, to 2,033.16. (AFP)