Unemployment rate remains at 4.6% in March to May

According to the latest labour force statistics released by the Census and Statistics Department, the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 4.6% (provisional) in March - May 2001, same as that in February - April 2001. Yet the underemployment rate in March - May 2001, at 2.4% (provisional), was slightly higher that of 2.3% in February - April 2001.

Comparing March - May 2001 with February - April 2001, decreases in unemployment rate were observed in the foundation and superstructure construction and business services sectors, while increases were seen in the import/export trades, hotels and communications sectors. As to the underemployment rate, the increase was concentrated in the decoration and maintenance sector.

A Government Secretariat spokesman commented that while the labour market situation held generally stable in recent months, the possible effect of moderation in external trade and in overall economic growth on employment opportunities would require monitoring.

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