Hong Kong’s merchandise exports surged 42.9% year-on-year to HK$620.9 billion in April 2026, according to data released by the Census and Statistics Department. For the first four months of 2026, total exports reached HK$2,166.4 billion, a 35% increase over the same period last year, underscoring robust external demand amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainties.
Bruce Pang, Director of Research at the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), attributed the strong performance to the global AI-led application upcycle and strong demand for Information and Communications Technology (ICT) equipment. “The recent surge in Hong Kong’s exports has been driven primarily by the global AI-led application upcycle and strong demand for ICT equipment, reinforced by supply chain reconfiguration in Asia and, to some extent, higher unit prices amid rising costs,” Pang said. He added that Hong Kong’s export sales are expected to remain solid in the near term, supported by sustained demand for technology-related products.
As a key re-export hub for electronic components and intermediate goods, Hong Kong is well positioned to benefit from the ongoing AI-driven technology upcycle. Robust demand for chips, AI-enabled products, and ICT equipment across major markets—including the Chinese Mainland, ASEAN production bases, and mature markets such as the US—continues to underpin regional trade flows. For further details on the electronics sector, refer to HKTDC Research.
Elevated oil prices amid geopolitical tensions, along with rising semiconductor costs, have also contributed to higher trade values. While this largely reflects price effects rather than volume expansion, it is likely to continue supporting headline trade figures in the near term. The improved trade environment following the China-US leaders’ meeting in May is expected to reduce uncertainties and boost business sentiment.
Hong Kong’s export performance is likely to maintain solid growth momentum for the rest of the year, underpinned by its role as a critical node in regional and global supply chains. However, trade prospects remain subject to geopolitical developments, particularly in the Middle East, as well as energy price trajectories, which could affect trade flows and end-market demand.
For business leaders, the data signals continued opportunities in technology-related exports, but also underscores the need to monitor geopolitical risks and cost pressures. The sustained demand for AI and ICT products highlights the strategic importance of Hong Kong as a hub for electronics and intermediate goods in global supply chains.
