Hong Kong Enterprises Anticipate Surge in Commerce from new southbound travel scheme

A recently launched initiative permitting private vehicles from Guangdong Province to access Hong Kong's metropolitan zones has generated commercial prospects for various entities, including individuals on a prominent digital forum vending instructional programs on urban navigation or comprehensive assistance packages for drivers from the Chinese mainland.

Regional enterprises are extending incentives to participants in this program, encompassing reduced parking fees and bundled lodging options.

Pursuant to the "Southbound Mobility for Guangdong Automobiles (Urban Access)" program, sanctioned vehicles from the adjacent province may proceed directly into the territory through the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge. Commencing on Tuesday, the arrangement accommodates up to 100 motorists daily for entry into the city.

Transport and Logistics Secretary Mable Chan reported that approximately 100 vehicles from the mainland crossed into Hong Kong during the inaugural day. Authorities noted that the initial group of automobiles traversed the expansive bridge at 12:50 a.m.

This program has expanded travel alternatives for visitors while simultaneously fostering novel entrepreneurial avenues.

On the social networking site advertised specialized "transboundary driving acclimatization sessions" tailored for Guangdong-based operators traveling southward.

These sessions cater to mainland vehicle proprietors who have secured approval under the cross-border initiative and seek to operate independently yet lack familiarity with local roadway dynamics, according to the listing.

It specified that instructors holding Hong Kong credentials would deliver dual-language support in Mandarin and Cantonese, escorting participants for the duration and imparting skills to navigate distinctive urban features such as inclined thoroughfares, confined lanes, and dedicated bus corridors.

Per the initiative's guidelines, submissions occur digitally to Guangdong officials. Candidates must schedule vehicular assessments, procure Hong Kong driving permits for nominated operators, and fulfill domestic registration obligations.Nominated operators are further mandated to secure third-party liability coverage in alignment with Hong Kong regulations.

The prior week, the Transport Department disclosed that 700 mainland operators from a pool of 1,700 lottery recipients had submitted requests for urban entry under the program.Authorized Guangdong private automobiles are eligible to ingress Hong Kong during reserved intervals via the monumental bridge.