The value of Hong Kong's total exports and imports of goods recorded an 18.5% and 16.6% respective rise in March from a year prior, data released by the Census and Statistics Department Monday showed.

The value of exports stood at HK$455.5 billion in the month, while that of imports reached HK$500.9 billion.

Export and import value had risen 15.4% and 11.8%, respectively, in February.

A visible trade deficit of HK$45.4 billion, equivalent to 9.1% of the value of imports of goods, was recorded in March.

In the first quarter, goods export and import values rose 10.9% and 9.8%, respectively, with a visible trade deficit of HK$80.7 billion.

Comparing the first quarter with the preceding quarter on a seasonally adjusted basis, the value of total goods exports and imports rose by a respective 12.7% and 9.9%.