Gold imports into the mainland from Hong Kong surged 94 percent to an all-time high last year as rising incomes in the world's second-largest economy underpinned increased demand and helped the metal to post a 12th annual gain.

The mainland imported 834,502 kilograms, including scrap and coins, compared with around 431,215 kg in 2011, according to Bloomberg calculations based on data from Hong Kong's Census and Statistics Department.

Imports in December rose to a monthly record of 114,405 kg, according to data from the department on Tuesday.