Sales of jewellery and other luxury items in Hong Kong rose nearly 10 per cent in October, benefitting from an overall recovery in consumer sentiment.

Latest government data showed sales of jewellery, watches and clocks, and valuable gifts were up 9.5 per cent to around HK$5 billion (approximately US$643 million) while January to October figures showed a 0.3 per cent uptick to HK$42.36 billion (about US$5.44 billion). 

Overall sales, which include all retail segments, were up 6.9 per cent in October but dipped 0.2 per cent from January to October. 

"The recovery in retail sales gathered strength in October, picking up further from the increase in the preceding month. Sales of most broad retail outlet types continued to grow," the government said. 

Ongoing improvements in local consumption sentiment and sustained growth in visitor arrivals should continue to support retail businesses, according to the government. 

Holidays are a traditionally strong season for the retail sector but this remains to be seen as consumption patterns in Hong Kong are changing. Government data showed jewellery sales dipped 5.4 per cent and 13.8 per cent in November and December last year, with increased overseas travels of resident consumers dampening local holiday sales.