HK population reaches 7.518mn with persistently declining births

The latest population of Hong Kong in mid-2026 stands at about 7.518 million. That marks an increase of almost 20,000 year-on-year.

While the birth rate continues to decline, the overall population saw a boost, thanks to measures to woo talent and import labour.

The latest government statistics -- for the first half of the year -- show Hong Kong's population stands at 7.518 million, marking a hike of 19,400 or 0.3% year-on-year.

From mid-2025 to mid-2026, the city saw a net inflow of 39,800 Hong Kong residents. More than half have moved to Hong Kong via one-way permits.

The rest hailed from various talent and labour import schemes.

Kenny Shui, Vice President of Our Hong Kong Foundation and Executive Director of Public Policy Institute, says the government should work to retain the talent as well.

They include measures to help them adapt to Hong Kong's culture and language as well as education support to their children.

The city also logged about 29,700 births -- the year-on-year decline widened with the tally of new births now 5,500 fewer year-on-year.

Death counts, meanwhile, stood at 50,100.

Shui says the government should roll out more incentives including longer maternity leave, more flexible working hours and other child-rearing support, especially to working parents.