Economic Overview - The manufacturing PMI for February 2026 is reported at 49%, a decrease of 0.3 percentage points from the previous month, indicating ongoing economic pressure[5] - The non-manufacturing business activity index slightly increased to 49.5, reflecting seasonal effects from the Spring Festival, but still indicates contraction[8] Inflation and Prices - The CPI for February 2026 rose to 1.3% year-on-year, driven by seasonal factors and a low base from the previous year[18] - The PPI decreased by 0.9% year-on-year, with the decline narrowing by 0.5 percentage points, indicating some stabilization in production prices[20] Trade and Exports - In February 2026, total imports and exports amounted to $508.78 billion, with exports increasing by 39.6% and imports by 13.8% year-on-year[24] - The export growth is attributed to seasonal factors and strong foreign demand, despite a projected slowdown in export growth for the year[26] Sector Performance - The construction sector is experiencing significant weakness, with new orders at a historic low, primarily due to the Spring Festival and ongoing real estate downturn[41] - Consumer services, particularly in hospitality and entertainment, showed strong performance due to increased demand during the Spring Festival, marking a significant recovery in this sector[44] Monetary Policy and Credit - M1 growth rate increased to 4.9%, while M2 grew by 9%, indicating a slight recovery in liquidity despite seasonal pressures on credit demand[51] - The government is expected to increase public investment to stimulate demand and support economic recovery[5]

Core Viewpoint - The Hong Kong government aims to expand gold storage capacity to over 2000 tons within three years, with a target of increasing the Airport Authority's storage to 1500 tons and involving financial institutions in the process [1] Group 1: Gold Storage Expansion - The Hong Kong government plans to enhance gold storage capabilities, targeting a total of over 2000 tons, which includes contributions from both the Airport Authority and financial institutions [1] - Financial institutions will determine suitable locations for gold storage based on their specific needs, and the government will assist private market entities interested in participating [1] Group 2: Payment in Renminbi - The government is exploring the possibility of using Renminbi for government expenditures in appropriate scenarios, reflecting Hong Kong's increasing role in the national economy [1] - Current usage of Renminbi for government payments is limited, with some transactions, such as purchasing services in mainland China, already conducted in Renminbi [1]