Hong Kong's jobless rate increased by 0.2 percentage points to 3.4 percent in the three-month period ending in April.

Official data released by the Census and Statistics Department also showed that the underemployment rate also edged up by 0.2 percentage points, to 1.3 percent.

The number of unemployed people increased by around 6,600, to 129,400.

Notable job losses were seen in the construction, accommodation services, food and beverage service activities, and financing sectors.

However, the unemployment situation improved in the information and communication, insurance, arts, entertainment and recreation sectors.

Total employment, meanwhile, declined by about 15,600 to around 3.67 million, compared with about 3.69 million over the first three months of the year.

Commenting on the figures, labour chief Chris Sun said the changes come as various industries in Hong Kong are in a transitional period.

"Although we see some recent closures of shops, there have also been openings of many new shops. As at end-2024, the number of companies registered in Hong Kong reached a record high of 1.46 million, likely against the emergence of new demands and new consumption trends," he said.

"The recent successful organisation of a series of mega events in Hong Kong, coupled with the concerted efforts of the government in tandem with different industries including tourism, catering, hospitality and retail, has led to a significant increase in the number of inbound visitors, which will bring about more opportunities to the labour market."

Sun said a recent easing in trade tensions, continued growth in the mainland economy, as well as the SAR government's measures to boost economic growth will also help support the local job market.