Hong Kong stocks closed in negative territory again on Thursday following mainland inflation data suggesting the recovery in the world's number two economy remained fragile, while a further slowdown in US prices was unable to boost sentiment.

The Hang Seng Index shed 0.1 percent, or 18 points, to 19,743.

The Shanghai Composite Index dropped 0.3 percent, or 9 points, to 3,309, while the Shenzhen Composite Index edged up 0.2 percent, or 3 points, to 2,032. (AFP)