香港零售管理协会：七成会员预期11月生意持平或有个位数至中双位数增长

Core Viewpoint - Hong Kong's retail sales value is estimated to have increased by 6.9% year-on-year to HKD 35.2 billion in October, driven by a rise in visitors, the Mid-Autumn Festival gifting effect, and major events [1] Retail Performance Summary - The increase in retail sales is notable despite a high base from last year, attributed to October being a peak retail season and a more than 10% increase in visitors to Hong Kong [1] - Categories with significant sales growth include electronics, tobacco, and confectionery, linked to holiday-related spending, while jewelry sales were boosted by rising gold prices and wedding season [1] - Local consumption categories showed weaker performance, with automotive sales declining significantly due to repairs related to returning to mainland China, and both fruits and furniture recorded low single-digit declines [1] November Outlook - A survey by the Hong Kong Retail Management Association indicates that 70% of members expect business in November to remain flat or see single to double-digit growth [1] - The absence of public holidays in November is expected to positively impact retail, as residents are likely to spend locally [1] - The upcoming National Games, hosted in collaboration with Guangdong and Macau, is anticipated to attract 180,000 visitors, further benefiting Hong Kong's retail market [1] December Sales Considerations - The retail outlook for December is uncertain due to severe disaster conditions in Tai Po, with ongoing efforts to assist affected residents, necessitating a reassessment of sales estimates [1]