XN000022-1995-08-08 — Page 8

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The import volume of raw materials and semi-manufactures increased by 26% in May 1995 compared with May 1994.

Significant increases in import volume were noted of base metal other than iron and steel; and chemical elements and compounds. However, the import volume of silk fabrics; and raw cotton declined.

1994.

Imports of fuels decreased by 39% in volume in May 1995 compared with May

As regards capital goods, the import volume increased by 32% in May 1995 over May 1994.

Notable increases were recorded in the import volume of office machines; and scientific, medical, optical, measuring, and controlling instruments and apparatus. The import volume of textile machinery however declined.

Comparing May 1995 with May 1994, the import prices of all end-use categories increased: raw materials and semi-manufactures (+10%), capital goods (+5.9%), consumer goods (+4.5%), fuels (+4.3%), and foodstuffs (+3.8%).

Details of the above statistics are published in the May 1995 issue of the "Hong Kong Trade Index Numbers".

The report will be available on sale around August 10 at HK$14 per copy at either (i) the Government Publications Centre on the ground floor, Low Block, Queensway Government Offices, 66 Queensway; or (ii) the Publications Section of the Census and Statistics Department on the 19th Floor, Wanchai Tower, 12 Harbour Road, Wan Chai.

Enquiries regarding regular subscription to this report may be directed to the Publications (Sales) Office of the Information Services Department at 28th floor, Siu On Centre, 188 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong (Tel 2598 8194), and enquiries on trade indices to the Census and Statistics Department (Tel 2582 4918).