Hong Kong's benchmark Hang Seng Index .HSI was steady at 13,531.61 by 0211 GMT.

The China Enterprise Index HSCE of top locally mainland Chinese companies fell 0.7 percent to 6,975.37.

Chinese airlines rallied on reports they may receive cash injections from the state. China Southern Airlines soared 16 percent and China Eastern Airlines gained 13 percent. The state parents of the two mainland carriers may get government cash injections of $440 million each to cope with high costs and weak demand, an official newspaper said on Monday.

Air China surged 10 percent. The nation's flag carrier is seeking a cash injection from the government.