World number one Italy swept past China in dominant fashion to win the Hong Kong leg of the FIVB Volleyball Women's Nations League (VNL) at Kai Tak Sports Park on Sunday.

In front of 10,000 fans inside Kai Tak Arena, the reigning Olympic champions shut down the national team in straight sets, winning 25-21, 32-30 and 25-11.

Italy were led by Paola Egonu, who led everyone with 19 attack points.

Despite defeat there were plenty of positives for China, as their young core showed promise on the court.

Nineteen-year-old outside hitter Dong Yuhan tallied 19 points, including one ace and one block, to lead China in the absence of Wu Mengjie.

Italy maintain their perfect 8-0 record in VNL after the win.

With 22 points, they top the standings in the 18-nation preliminary round, one ahead of second-placed Poland.

China, meanwhile, are in sixth on 15 points. Only the top eight teams advance to the final round scheduled in Poland next month.