60% of HK workers oppose foreign labour importation

This is due to fewer employment prospects for local workers.

Six out of 10 workers in Hong Kong have expressed their disagreement on the importation of foreign workers to supplement the labour force, according to the Hong Kong Federation of Trade Unions (HKFTU) survey.

The 3,288 union members surveyed expressed concern regarding the employment of opportunities for local workers and further pay cuts. 

Almost half (48%) of the respondents raised concerns about employment and talent prospects. 

Instead, union members believed that improving remuneration packages, improving industry working conditions, and implementing family-friendly measures would promote employment.

Citing the survey, the union's rights committee urged the SAR government to promptly review and adjust the policy regarding the importation of foreign workers and talent plans to ensure that local workers are given priority in employment.

The catering, retail, and construction industries recorded higher unemployment rates of 5%, 4.3%, and 4.3%, respectively, compared to 3% on average, according to the latest quarterly employment statistics survey in August. 

Chau Sze-kit, vice chairman of FTU and chairman of the Hong Kong Construction Industry Employees General Union, said that the volume of private projects has dropped significantly since last year. 

This has affected the workload of architectural firms and engineering consultancies. 

The union also said there was less work available for local workers hired on a daily basis as foreign workers were guaranteed 24 days of work per month with a monthly salary.