Hong Kong's exports grew at their fastest pace in more than five years in April, with the government attributing it to strong demand for AI-related electronics products.

Data released by the Census and Statistics Department on Thursday showed exports surged 42.9 percent year on year to HK$620.9 billion.

That's up from the 35.8 percent increase in March, and marked the 26th straight month of growth.

April's growth rate was the highest since January 2021 when exports posted a 44 percent increase.

Imports, meanwhile, rose for the 16th consecutive month, jumping 44.4 percent year on year to HK$650.4 billion, which followed a 41.2 percent increase in March.

The latest data left the city with a trade deficit of HK$29.5 billion.

In addition to robust global demand for AI-related electronics goods, a government spokesman highlighted strong export growth to regional markets, such as the mainland and the Asean bloc, as well as notable gains in shipments to the United States and the European Union.

"Looking ahead, resilient global demand for AI-related electronic products should provide continued support to Hong Kong's merchandise trade performance," he said.

"Yet, heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East could pose a salient risk in the near term through disrupting supply chains, driving up transport costs and undermining global demand."

He said the government will continue to monitor the situation closely.



Edited by Edmond Fong