On the rise: The Hong Kong population swelled to 6,994,500 at mid-2006, up 0.8% compared with the same period last year.

The Hong Kong population swelled to 6,994,500 at mid-2006, according to the Census & Statistics Department's provisional figures. This represents a 0.8% increase - or 58,600 more people than in mid-2005.

The overall population increase is due to a natural increase of 23,300 and a net movement - that is the number of people moving in less the number moving out - of 35,300 residents. 

Both births and the influx of one-way permit holders were important constituents of the overall increase.

From mid-2005 to mid-2006, there were 59,800 babies born here to Hong Kong residents and non-Hong Kong residents.

There were 36,500 deaths that offset part of the increase.

Not counting the arrival of one-way permit holders, there was a net outflow of 24,300 people.