Hong Kong retail sales growth gained close to 2 percent in February, boosted by a steady return of tourists and overall consumption during the month.

Sales in February rose 1.9 percent to HKD 33.8 billion (USD 4.32 billion), the Hong Kong government said. February was the 15 consecutive month of retail sales growth for the financial hub city, following 0.9 percent growth in January, a 7.8 percent rise in December, and a 15.9 percent surge in November.

By category, sales of jewellery, watches, clocks and valuable gifts fell 3.6 percent in February on year after 22.8 percent growth in January, data showed. Sales of clothing, footwear and accessories grew 12.3 percent in February after an increase of 2.7 percent in January.

(source)