Hong Kong's Population Climbs To Over 7.5 Million In 2023, Up By 0.4%

Hong Kong's population saw a modest increase by the end of 2023, marking a 0.4 percent rise from the previous year, as reported by the Census and Statistics Department. This uptick in numbers, bringing the population to 7,503,100, is primarily due to a net inflow of 51,700 residents. The government attributes this growth to the return of Hong Kong residents and the admission of individuals from mainland China and overseas through various schemes.

The detailed breakdown reveals that 40,800 of the incoming residents were one-way permit holders, with the remaining 10,800 being other Hong Kong residents returning to the city. Despite a natural population decrease, with 33,200 births against 54,400 deaths resulting in a deficit of 21,200, the overall population managed to register growth for the second consecutive year since the resumption of normalcy post-epidemic.

A government spokesperson highlighted the significant return of Hong Kong residents who had stayed abroad during the epidemic throughout 2023. This returnee wave, particularly noticeable in the second half of the year, alongside the continued inflow of permanent residents and individuals admitted through various schemes, contributed to the year-end population surpassing that of the previous year.

The composition of Hong Kong's population at year-end included 7,228,600 usual residents—comprising permanent residents who have stayed in the city for at least three months during the six months before or after the reference time-point—and 274,500 mobile residents. This demographic snapshot underscores a dynamic population landscape shaped by migration patterns and natural population changes.

The government's statement reflects an ongoing effort to monitor and manage population dynamics in Hong Kong's special administrative region. As these trends continue to evolve, they will likely influence future policy decisions and development strategies within the city.

With inputs from WAM