Hong Kong SME business sentiment index edges up in October
Hong Kong's SME business revenue index rose slightly to 43.8 in October from 43.7 in September, with the outlook for November at 46.8. The government said the business climate was broadly stable, though external uncertainties may affect short-term sentiment.
The government released the results of its monthly survey on small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) business conditions for October on 10 November. The current business revenue sentiment index edged up to 43.8 from 43.7 in September, staying within the contraction zone below 50. The forward-looking index for November stood at 46.8.
By sector, the import and export trade industry saw the largest improvement, with its current revenue index rising from 43.3 in September to 44.9 in October. The new orders index for that sector also increased, from 44.3 to 44.6, while the new orders outlook for November was 47.4.
A government spokesperson described the SME business climate in October as largely stable. The current revenue index rose slightly month-on-month, although the outlook index moderated from recent highs. Overall employment index improved for the second consecutive month.
The spokesperson added that Hong Kong's economy has performed strongly this year and is expected to maintain steady growth, providing continued support for business confidence. However, persistent external uncertainties may still affect short-term sentiment. The government said it would continue to monitor the situation closely.
The survey covers SMEs with fewer than 50 employees, drawing on a fixed sample of about 600 firms. Index readings above 50 indicate generally positive business conditions, while readings below 50 indicate the opposite. The data collection mostly took place in the last week of the reference month.