Lingnan University Study: 40% of HK Job Vacancies in Traditional Services, Gig Employment Rises

A new study by Lingnan University (Lingnan University) highlights a significant trend in Hong Kong's labor market, with 40% of job vacancies concentrated in traditional service sectors such as import/export, wholesale, and retail. These industries are particularly vulnerable to external economic shocks, including the ongoing trade war.

The research, which employed AI and large language models for data mining, also identified a notable rise in gig employment, characterized by temporary and flexible work arrangements. Within the retail sector, gig jobs constitute approximately one-fifth of all vacancies. Concurrently, the demand for advanced technological skills, such as AI and big data, remains minimal, with less than 2% of job openings requiring such expertise.

Professor Pan Yi of Lingnan University's Department of Cultural Studies, who led the research, emphasized that Hong Kong's economic structure, with its heavy reliance on specific service industries, renders it susceptible. He noted that the growth of the gig economy is not adequately matched by legislative protections, leaving many workers in precarious positions. Furthermore, a lack of transparency regarding working hours and salaries complicates the monitoring of working conditions and the assurance of fairness.

The study recommends government interventions, including targeted vocational retraining and transition support for employees in traditional service sectors. Proposals are also made to enhance protections for gig workers through legislative reforms and to increase transparency in job advertisements. The aim is to bolster the resilience and sustainability of the labor market amid a changing economic landscape.