Hong Kong S.A.R. of China: general information about country, happiness index 2024

World Happiness Report for Hong Kong S.A.R. of China 2024

  • Overall Happiness Rank Hong Kong S.A.R. of China: 86
  • Happiness Score Hong Kong S.A.R. of China:5.316

Happiness is a subjective concept that has long been debated by philosophers, psychologists, and economists alike. However, in recent years, there has been a growing interest in quantifying happiness and using it as a measure of a nation’s overall well-being. This is where the concept of the Happiness Index comes into play.

What is the Happiness Index?

The Happiness Index is a measure that attempts to quantify the overall happiness and life satisfaction of a country’s population. It is based on the idea that traditional economic indicators, such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP), do not fully capture the overall well-being of a society. The Happiness Index takes into account various factors that contribute to an individual’s sense of happiness and life satisfaction, including social support, freedom to make life choices, healthy life expectancy, and perceptions of corruption.

How is the Happiness Index Calculated?

The Happiness Index is calculated through a combination of subjective and objective data. The primary source of data is the Gallup World Poll, which is a survey conducted in over 160 countries. The survey asks respondents to rate their overall life satisfaction on a scale of 0 to 10, with 0 being the worst possible life and 10 being the best possible life.

In addition to the life satisfaction score, the Happiness Index also takes into account the following factors:

  1. GDP per capita: This is a measure of a country’s economic output and standard of living.
  2. Social support: This factor measures the extent to which individuals have supportive relationships and love in their lives.
  3. Healthy life expectancy: This is a measure of the number of years an individual is expected to live in good health.
  4. Freedom to make life choices: This factor measures the extent to which individuals are able to make decisions about their lives without external constraints.
  5. Generosity: This factor measures the extent to which individuals engage in charitable activities and donate to others.
  6. Perceptions of corruption: This factor measures the extent to which individuals perceive their society to be free from corruption.

These factors are weighted and combined to produce an overall Happiness Index score for each country.

What Does the Happiness Index Affect?

The Happiness Index has significant implications for policymaking and societal well-being. Countries with higher Happiness Index scores are generally considered to have better overall quality of life and well-being for their citizens. This can have positive impacts on various aspects of society, including:

  1. Economic productivity: Happier individuals tend to be more productive and engaged in their work, which can contribute to a country’s economic growth.
  2. Public health: Higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction are associated with better physical and mental health outcomes, which can reduce healthcare costs and improve overall well-being.
  3. Social cohesion: Societies with higher levels of happiness tend to have stronger social bonds and lower levels of conflict and crime.
  4. Environmental sustainability: Happier individuals may be more likely to engage in environmentally-friendly behaviors and support policies that promote sustainability.

By focusing on the factors that contribute to happiness and well-being, policymakers can develop strategies to improve the overall quality of life for their citizens. The Happiness Index provides a valuable tool for measuring progress and identifying areas where improvements can be made.

Short information

  • Abbreviation of Hong Kong S.A.R. of China. HK.

    Hong Kong S.A.R. of China is

  • Special Administrative Region of China with a high degree of autonomy.
  • Notable for its vibrant cultural scene, with a mix of Chinese and Western influences.
  • Significant economic hub with a strong financial and trade sector.
  • Hong Kong S.A.R. of China – A Comprehensive Overview

    Brief History

    Early History: Hong Kong was first settled by coastal inhabitants around the 4th millennium BC. The region later became part of the Chinese empire during the Qin dynasty (221–206 BC).

    Kingdoms and Empires: Hong Kong remained under the control of various Chinese dynasties, including the Han, Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing, until the 19th century.

    Colonial Period: In 1842, after the First Opium War, Hong Kong Island was ceded to Britain under the Treaty of Nanking. The Kowloon Peninsula and the New Territories were later added, establishing Hong Kong as a British colony.

    Independence and Modern Era: Hong Kong remained a British colony until 1997 when it was returned to China as a Special Administrative Region under the “one country, two systems” principle.

    Current Political Situation

    Hong Kong is a special administrative region of the People’s Republic of China, with a high degree of autonomy under the “one country, two systems” principle. The chief executive is the head of government, selected by an election committee. The Legislative Council is the unicameral legislature, with some members directly elected and others appointed.

    International Relations

    As a special administrative region of China, Hong Kong’s international relations are handled by the central government in Beijing. However, Hong Kong maintains separate membership in various international organizations and has the ability to negotiate and sign certain international agreements.

    Human Development and Economy

    Hong Kong has a highly developed free-market economy, with a focus on international trade, finance, and services. It is a regional hub for business and finance, with a high GDP per capita and a high Human Development Index ranking. Major industries include financial services, tourism, trading, and logistics.

    Cultural Highlights

    Hong Kong is a multicultural city with a blend of Chinese and Western influences. Cantonese is the dominant language, but English is also widely spoken. Hong Kong is known for its vibrant food scene, blending Cantonese cuisine with international flavors. It is also renowned for its iconic skyline, festivals, and cultural events.

    Challenges and Opportunities

    Hong Kong faces challenges related to housing affordability, income inequality, and maintaining its autonomy under the “one country, two systems” principle. Opportunities lie in further developing its role as a global financial and business hub, promoting innovation and technology, and addressing environmental and sustainability concerns.

Main facts

Location

Hong Kong is a special administrative region located on the eastern side of the Pearl River Estuary in southern China. It is situated along the coast of the South China Sea, bordering the Guangdong Province of mainland China to the north and west. Hong Kong’s strategic location has made it a major international hub for trade and finance.

Map References

Hong Kong is located in East Asia, on the southern coast of China.

Area – Comparative

With a total land area of approximately 1,108 square kilometers (428 square miles), Hong Kong is slightly smaller than the state of Rhode Island in the United States.

Land Boundaries and Border Countries

Hong Kong shares a land boundary with mainland China, with a total border length of 30 kilometers (19 miles).

Coastline

Hong Kong has a coastline of approximately 733 kilometers (456 miles), featuring numerous islands, bays, and inlets.

Maritime Claims

Hong Kong has claimed territorial sea and exclusive economic zone rights as a special administrative region of China.

Climate

Hong Kong has a subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and cool, dry winters. The region is influenced by the East Asian monsoon system, with seasonal variations in temperature and rainfall.

Terrain

Hong Kong’s terrain is diverse, with rugged hills and mountains, as well as coastal lowlands and islands. The highest point is Tai Mo Shan, which rises to 958 meters (3,144 feet) above sea level.

Elevation Extremes

The highest elevation in Hong Kong is Tai Mo Shan at 958 meters (3,144 feet), while the lowest point is the South China Sea at 0 meters (0 feet).

Natural Resources

Hong Kong has limited natural resources, with the main resources being outstanding deepwater harbors and arable land.

Major Bodies of Water

The Pearl River Estuary, Victoria Harbour, and the South China Sea are the major bodies of water surrounding Hong Kong.

Natural Hazards

Hong Kong is susceptible to typhoons and occasional strong winds and storms during the monsoon season.

Geography – Notes

Hong Kong’s unique geography, with its deep-water harbors and strategic location, has played a vital role in its development as a major international hub for trade and finance. The region’s limited land area and high population density have also influenced its urban planning and infrastructure development.

  • Forest Area (% of land area): . This is the percentage of a country’s total land area that is covered by natural or planted forests.
  • Co2 Emissions: . CO2 emissions refer to the release of carbon dioxide gas into the atmosphere, primarily from the burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) for energy production, transportation, and industrial processes.
  • Agricultural Land( %). 3.8%. Agricultural land refers to the share of land area that is arable and used for cultivating crops or raising livestock.
  • Geographic Coordinates:  .
  • Capital: The capital of Hong Kong S.A.R. of China is  
  • Major Cities: Hong Kong S.A.R. of China is a special administrative region and does not have conventional cities. Instead, it is divided into districts and areas. The most populated areas in Hong Kong S.A.R. of China include:

    1. Kowloon – Population: 2,108,419
    2. Central and Western District – Population: 243,266
    3. Eastern District – Population: 588,094
    4. Southern District – Population: 275,527
    5. Wan Chai District – Population: 180,123

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    1. Kowloon – Population: 2,108,419
    2. Central and Western District – Population: 243,266
    3. Eastern District – Population: 588,094
    4. Southern District – Population: 275,527
    5. Wan Chai District – Population: 180,123
  • Population: 7,496,309
  • Area(Km2): 1108
  • Population Density( P/Km²):7553. This is the number of people living per square kilometer of land area in a given region or country.
  • Calling Code:
  • Official Language(s):Primarily spoken in Cantonese, and the percentage is 88.9%.
  • Currency:

Main Economic Indicators

Hong Kong is a highly developed, free-market economy with a GDP of around $346 billion. It has a diversified economy with a focus on services, particularly finance, trading, and logistics. However, it faces challenges like income inequality, an aging population, and its close economic ties with Mainland China. The government pursues free trade policies and low tax rates to attract businesses.

Inflation Rate (Consumer Prices)

Inflation rate (consumer prices): 1.7% (2021 est.), 0.3% (2020 est.)

Source: CIA World Factbook

Credit Ratings

Moody’s: Aa3 (stable)
Fitch: AA- (stable)
Standard & Poor’s: AA+ (stable)

GDP – Composition by Sector of Origin

Agriculture: 0.1%
Industry: 7.6%
Services: 92.3% (2017 est.)

Key Agricultural and Industrial Products

Agricultural products: vegetables, poultry, pork, sugar cane, fresh fish

Industries: trading and logistics, financial services, professional services, tourism, cultural products, clothing and footwear, electronics, shipbuilding, plastics

Labor Force

Total labor force: 3.989 million (2021 est.)

Note: Hong Kong’s labor force ranks among the highest in the world by participation rate.

Current Account Balance

Current account balance: $24.84 billion (2021 est.)

Note: Hong Kong has consistently maintained a current account surplus due to its position as a major trading and services hub.

Exports and Imports

Exports: $567.5 billion (2021 est.)
Key partners: China 56%, United States 6% (2019)
Main exports: electrical machinery and appliances, telecommunications equipment, machines, plastics

Imports: $593.5 billion (2021 est.)
Key partners: China 44%, Taiwan 8%, Singapore 7%, Japan 6%, United States 5% (2019)
Main imports: raw materials and semi-manufactured goods, consumer goods, capital goods, foodstuffs, fuel

Reserves of Foreign Exchange and Gold

Foreign exchange reserves: $487.8 billion (31 December 2021 est.)
Gold reserves: 3.62 tonnes (September 2023 est.)

  • GDP (Current US$):. It represents a country’s gross domestic product measured in current US dollars. Higher values indicate a larger economy and economic output.
  • Tax Revenue (% of GDP): . It refers to the amount of tax revenue collected by the government, expressed as a percentage of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). Higher values indicate a higher tax burden relative to the size of the economy.
  • Total Tax Rate (% of commercial profits): . This is the sum of all taxes payable by businesses, expressed as a percentage of their commercial profits. Higher values indicate a higher tax burden on businesses.
  • Gasoline Price. . It refers to the cost of one liter or gallon of gasoline/petrol. Higher values indicate more expensive gasoline prices for consumers and businesses.
  • Minimum wage. . It refers to the lowest legally mandated hourly wage that employers must pay their workers. Higher values indicate a higher minimum level of pay for low-wage workers.
  • Unemployment Rate (%): . It represents the percentage of the labor force that is unemployed and actively seeking employment. Higher values indicate more joblessness in the economy.

Social Indicators

National Identity

Noun: Hong Konger(s)
Adjective: Hong Kong

Ethnic Groups

Chinese 92%, Filipino 2.5%, Indonesian 2.1%, Other 3.4%

Religions

Buddhism 15.5%, Protestant 9.6%, Catholic 3.8%, Other Christian 2.9%, Islam 3.5%, Hindu 2.8%, Other 1.2%, None 60.7%

Age Structure

0-14 years: 11.6%
15-64 years: 72.6%
65 years and over: 15.8%

Dependency Ratios

Total dependency ratio: 39.3
Youth dependency ratio: 16
Elderly dependency ratio: 23.3

Median Age

Total: 44.9 years
Male: 44.2 years
Female: 45.6 years

Lifestyle Indicators

Obesity rate: 9.6%
Alcohol consumption: 2.6 liters of pure alcohol per capita per year
Tobacco use: 10.2% of adults
Life expectancy at birth: 84.7 years

  • Life Expectancy at Birth: . Life Expectancy at Birth refers to the estimated average number of years a newborn is expected to live based on current mortality rates. Higher values indicate better health outcomes and living conditions in a country or region.
  • Literacy Rate (% of adults): 94.6%. It refers to the percentage of the population aged 15 and above who can read and write with understanding of a short simple statement about their everyday life. Higher literacy rates indicate better educational attainment within a population.
  • Birth Rate:. Birth Rate is the total number of live births per 1,000 population in a given year. Higher birth rates indicate a larger share of the population being born each year.
  • Death Rate:7. Death Rate is the number of deaths per 1,000 population in a given year. Higher death rates indicate more people dying annually within a population.
  • Fertility Rate: 0.8. Fertility Rate is the average number of children a woman would have over her reproductive years based on current birth rates. Higher fertility rates indicate larger family sizes and population growth.
  • Internet Users (% of population): 93%. Internet Users (% of population) refers to the percentage of the total population in a country or region that has access to and uses the internet. Higher values indicate greater internet penetration and connectivity among the population.
  • Urban Population: . Urban Population refers to the percentage or number of people living in urban areas or cities within a country or region. Higher urban population values indicate greater urbanization and concentration of people in cities compared to rural areas.
  • Out of Pocket Health Expenditure (% of total health expenditure):. Out of Pocket Health Expenditure (% of total health expenditure) represents the portion of total health care costs that individuals pay directly out of their own pockets, rather than being covered by insurance or government programs. Higher values indicate greater personal financial burden for health care expenses.

Infrastructure and Services

Military and Security Forces

Hong Kong has limited military forces, with the Hong Kong Auxiliary Police Force and the Hong Kong Auxiliary Medical Service serving as auxiliary forces for law enforcement and medical support. The region relies on mainland China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) for defense.

The PLA maintains a garrison of approximately 5,000 to 6,000 troops in Hong Kong, which is responsible for the region’s defense. The Hong Kong Police Force, comprising around 30,000 personnel, is responsible for maintaining internal security and law enforcement.

Military Expenditures

Hong Kong does not have a separate defense budget. Its security expenses are covered under the regular government budget.

Personnel Strengths

Hong Kong does not have its own standing military forces. The PLA garrison in Hong Kong has around 5,000 to 6,000 active-duty personnel.

The Hong Kong Police Force has approximately 30,000 personnel, and the Hong Kong Auxiliary Police Force has around 4,000 members.

Military Equipment Inventories and Acquisitions

Hong Kong does not have its own military equipment inventories or acquisition programs. Its defense relies on the military capabilities of mainland China.

Military Service Age and Obligation

Hong Kong does not have mandatory military service. The region relies on the PLA garrison for defense.

Military Deployments

Hong Kong does not have any overseas military deployments. The PLA garrison is stationed in Hong Kong for the region’s defense.

Strategic Military Notes

Hong Kong’s defense and security are the responsibility of mainland China, as per the “one country, two systems” principle. The PLA garrison stationed in Hong Kong is responsible for the region’s defense, while the Hong Kong Police Force maintains internal security.

Hong Kong has limited military capabilities and relies on China’s military power for its defense. The region’s strategic importance lies in its role as a global financial and trade hub.

  • Armed Forces Size: . Armed Forces Size refers to the total number of active personnel serving in a country’s military forces, including the army, navy, air force, and other branches. Higher values indicate a larger military presence and personnel.
  • Physicians per Thousand: Number of doctors per 1,000 people is 1.3
  • Population: Labor Force Participation (%): . This is the percentage of the total population aged 15 and older that is economically active, meaning they are either employed or actively seeking employment. Higher values indicate a greater proportion of the working-age population engaged in the labor force.

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