Hong Kong Posts 40.8% Export Surge Driven by AI

Hong Kong's merchandise exports surged 40.8% year-on-year to HK$611.2 billion in May, driven by global AI adoption, according to the Census and Statistics Department. The trade deficit widened to HK$44.2 billion, while the Hong Kong Trade Development Council plans to release a new export forecast on June 29.

Editorial analysis: For AI/DS/ML practitioners, a sustained jump in demand for AI-related electronics affects component availability, procurement timing, and regional manufacturing priorities. Hong Kong's merchandise exports rose by 40.8% year-on-year to HK$611.2 billion in May, according to data released by the Census and Statistics Department and reported by ACN Newswire/ANTARA source: ACN Newswire, ANTARA, Yahoo Finance . For the first five months of 2026, total exports reached HK$2,776.6 billion , up 36.2% year-on-year ACN Newswire . Bruce Pang , Director of Research at the Hong Kong Trade Development Council HKTDC , is quoted saying electronics demand has been "fueled by the ongoing surge in artificial intelligence AI adoption worldwide" ACN Newswire . Independent reporting notes May's trade deficit widened to HK$44.2 billion Finimize . HKTDC said it will unveil a new export forecast at a press briefing on 29 June ACN Newswire .