1904-1919
HONG KONG, 1913.
275
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during the year was, as anticipated in our last report, to curtail sales, although the demand was on the whole satisfactory throughout the year.
Cement.-The demand in the Far East kept up during the year. The local Green Island Cement Co. unfortunately was not able to keep the different markets well supplied, on account of the embargo placed on the export of limestone from the Kwangtung Province still being in force, the result being the reappearance of various European and Japanese brands, and a large importation of the Haiphong Company's product. The trouble was nearing a settlement at the end of the year, and it is hoped that stone will be procurable from the old sources of supply before much longer. Outward freights from Europe and England were somewhat lower, and prices declined towards the end of the year.
(ii.)-Under Chinese Management.
Rattan and Fibre Furnitures.-Manufacturers and exporters alike report a greatly increased business, the demand for hemp string and sea grass being particularly good.
Native Tobacco.-Contrary to expectations this industry has revived; many Chinese who formerly used cigarettes of European manufacture are now favouring the native weed. The output has increased 30 per cent. on the previous year and business has been profitably carried on.
Tinned Goods.-The volume of exports increased and local factories report a very good year.
Samshu.-The Superintendent of Imports and Exports reports that the trade has been steady during the year, an increase being shewn in samshu (a) distilled locally, (b) imported, (c) exported and (d) consumed locally. New distilleries have been opened in Hong Kong and the New Territories.
Vinegar. The output shows a slight falling off as compared with the previous year and business generally has not been profitable
Knitted Vests and Socks.-Notwithstanding the keen competition of the Japanese, who imported largely in the early part of the year, business cannot be said to have been bad, and prospects for the coming year are good.
Leather and Hides.-Local tanneries have almost died out, but the export of raw hides to Penang has greatly increased and the re-import of fine leather from that port steadily grows to meet the extraordinary demand in China for foreign style ladies' boots and shoes, and for military equipment.
Ginger and Preserves.-Business increased 20 per cent. during the year, profits being considered good all round.
Soy.-Exporters again report a dull market, and a continual drop in export to Singapore and the south.
Paper. The year shows a further decrease in this trade and stocks on hand are heavy.