Meanwhile, with the diversification of Hong Kong's economy, the share of manufacturing in Hong Kong's GDP began to drop gradually, although total output value kept increasing.  In 1970, the total output value of the manufacturing industry was HK$5,913 million, accounting for 30.9% of Hong Kong's total gross domestic product.  But the share had been hovering between 22% and 24% in the 1980's.

Generally speaking, Hong Kong's manufacturing sector kept growing at a tremendous rate during this period.  The number of registered establishments in Hong Kong increased from 16,507 in 1970 to 42,199 in 1979 and the amount of capital investment increased from HK$12,347 million in 1970 to HK$55,912 million in 1979.

The Tai Po Industrial Estate attracted new industry which, because of its complex nature, would meet with difficulty if sited elsewhere.

Textile printing at a dyeing factory in Tsuen Wan.

Instant noodles went all over the world from this food factory, which also developed exports of frozen Chinese snacks.