HONG Kong's seasonally adjusted jobless rate from March to May fell to 3.4 percent from 3.5 percent in the three months ended April, the city's statistics department said yesterday.

Unemployment was mainly seen in transport, arts, entertainment and recreation.

Total employment rose by around 17,200 from 3.72 million in February to April 2013 to 3.74 million in March to May. Over the same period, the labor force also increased by around 18,000 from 3.85 million to 3.87 million.

The Secretary for Labor and Welfare Matthew Cheung said the labor supply will continue to be boosted in the short term by the entry of fresh graduates and school leavers, and by some job-seekers induced by the recent rise in the statutory minimum wage rate.