The Hang Seng Index fell 104.82 points, or 0.62 percent, to open at 16,773.04 on Thursday.

Investors have been worried about a possible US recession and weaker-than-expected forecasts from US companies.

Markets are also awaiting more commentary on monetary policy from US central bank officials next week, in the run-up to the Jackson Hole, Wyoming, event where Fed Chair Jerome Powell is scheduled to speak. (with additional reporting from Xinhua and Reuters)