Hong Kong - The number of people living below Hong Kong's poverty line has reached a record number, a study published Monday claimed.

Around 1.23 million - or 17.9 per cent - of the population of the city of 7 million are considered poor, with the elderly and teenagers being the worst hit.

The study, by the Hong Kong Council of Social Services, found that in the first six months of this year there were 20,000 more people living in poverty compared to the same period last year.

The study defined poverty as earning half or less than half of the average monthly income.

For a single person the average monthly income is 3,300 Hong Kong dollars (425 US dollars); 6,750 dollars for a two-person family and 12,650 dollars for a family of four or more members.

The study, which analysed government statistics, found 32 per cent of those aged over 65 fell below the poverty line.

Young people also fared badly with the number of poor rising to 20 per cent compared to 10 per cent a decade ago.

The study also highlighted a widening gulf between the rich and the poor in the city which is home to some of Asia's wealthiest families.

It showed the income of high-earners had risen 34.7 per cent in the last 20 years, while earnings of the low-income groups had fallen by 3.3 per cent.

Christine Fang, head of the Council of Social Services, said the study, published in the South China Morning Post, showed the need for a minimum wage.

"Many people think that Hong Kong's economy is reviving ... but the number of people living under the poverty line reflects that the grass roots have not benefited from the so-called economic revival, in fact poverty is getting worse," she told the South China Morning Post.

The council is calling on the government to dedicate more resources to youth training and to job creation for young people. (dpa)