HK exports improve for fifth consecutive month
Hong Kong’s export figures have improved for the fifth consecutive month, rising 13.1 percent to HK$390.4 billion in July, when compared to the same month last year. Official figures released on Tuesday showed imports rose 9.9 percent year-on-year to HK$412.3 billion, which left the city with a trade deficit of HK$21.8 billion.  Exports to the mainland, the United States and the European Union continued to rise, while sales to other major Asian markets had a mixed performance.  Combining the figures for the first seven months of the year, exports jumped 12.4 percent year-on-year, while imports rose 8 percent. A government spokesperson said Hong Kong's exports should remain positive as long as external demand holds up.  But the spokesperson added that there are still risks associated with geopolitical tensions and trade conflicts.