Japanese business sentiment in Hong Kong sinks over 'political stability'

HONG KONG -- Japanese companies in Hong Kong see a business environment marred by deteriorating "political stability," a new survey shows, just as local authorities prepare to impose more comprehensive national security legislation.

The overall business climate in the city has either "worsened" or "worsened significantly" from a year ago, according to 32.4% of respondents to the biannual survey conducted by three Japanese organizations -- the Japan External Trade Organization, the local Japanese business chamber and the consulate general. The ratio increased by more than 20 points compared with the previous survey published at the end of last July.