The number of people in work in Hong Kong rose over the quarter to February 2010, official data show.

Figures published by the Hong Kong Census and Statistics Department (C&SD) reveal the special administrative region saw a fall in unemployment rates from 3.9 per cent the previous quarter to 3.6 per cent.

Those seeking accounting jobs in Hong Kong may be interested to note employment rates grew to over 3.51 million during the three months to February 28th, with an estimated 7,900 new jobs created.

Matthew Cheung Kin-chung, Hong Kong’s secretary for labor and welfare, explained improving economic conditions helped to push up the number of people in employment.

He stated there is evidence “the labor market is continuing to revive and that many employers are in a stronger recruiting mood”.

According to the Dow Jones Newswires, the fall in unemployment outstripped the median prediction made by analysts it surveyed and the jobless total is likely to decline further as the economy recovers.ADNFCR-1275-ID-19689271-ADNFCR

A plot of land in one of Hong Kong‘s most sought-after areas sold for a record 1.82 billion Hong Kong dollars ($233 million USD) at auction Tuesday.

The 4,956-square-metre plot fetched 17 per cent more than the reserve price.

The winning bid was made by Henderson Land Development Company vice-chairman Martin Lee.

The price was above market expectations and a record high for a Hong Kong auction of luxury residential land, according to auctioneers Jones Lang LaSalle.

“The super-luxury market isn’t affected by sentiment in the mass segment.” Jones Lang’s Tsang told reporters after the auction.

“At the least it shows that for true luxury locations people are willing to pay a premium price, particularly for areas where supply is limited,: he said.

The Peak is considered one of the most prestigious addresses in Hong Kong. It lies in the centre of Hong Kong island, commanding views of Victoria Harbour while being just a short car ride to the Central and financial districts.