Guangdong Cars in Hong Kong: Phased Access Explained

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HONG KONG, June 30, 2025

Guangdong Cars to Access Hong Kong Urban Areas

Easing travel with mainland China.

• Scheme to allow Guangdong vehicles into Hong Kong.
• Initial phase: parking at Hong kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge.
• Phased access to Hong Kong’s urban areas planned.
• Risk management and compliance with Hong Kong laws required.

Cars drive in Hong Kong in June, 2025.

Imagine a seamless drive from Guangdong to Hong Kong. Authorities are preparing to allow vehicles from mainland China into Hong Kong’s urban areas in phases, aiming to simplify travel arrangements. Transport chief Mable Chan said Monday that application procedures are being drafted.

The “Southbound Travel for Guangdong Vehicles” scheme aims to launch by the end of this year, Mable Chan said in an interview with Wen Wei Po newspaper. What is the “Southbound Travel for Guangdong Vehicles” scheme? It is a governmental initiative designed to ease travel restrictions and facilitate smoother transit between Guangdong and hong Kong for vehicle owners.

Did you know?-The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge is one of the longest sea crossings in the world, spanning approximately 55 kilometers (34 miles). It connects Hong Kong, Macau, and Zhuhai, three major cities on the Pearl River Delta.

Initial Phase: Bridge Parking

Initially, vehicles from Guangdong will be restricted to parking at the Hong Kong end of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge, Chan said. Drivers can then use the nearby Hong Kong International airport or public transport to reach other areas.

Expansion to Urban Areas

The government plans to gradually allow Guangdong vehicles into hong Kong’s urban areas, according to Chan. However, she did not specify a timeline or define “urban areas.”

Authorities are discussing vehicle quotas, border crossing logistics, and support facilities. risk management will be strengthened, requiring drivers to adhere to Hong Kong laws, ensure vehicle safety, and acquire appropriate insurance.

Reader question:-How do you think this new scheme will affect traffic congestion in Hong Kong’s already crowded urban areas? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Commissioner for Transport Mable Chan.

Chan traveled to Guangdong on Monday for further discussions about the plan, considering the difference in driving orientation were Mainland China drives on the right, and Hong Kong on the left.

A Prolonged Scheme

Hong Kong launched the “Northbound Travel for hong Kong Vehicles” on July 1, 2023, allowing local cars to drive into Guangdong province.

Four months later, Lam Sai-hung, then-transport and logistics chief, announced that the government would introduce the southbound scheme by 2024.

Lam said Guangdong drivers would initially be restricted to parking at the Hong Kong Port at the bridge’s end, citing Hong Kong’s limited space as a reason for delaying urban access.

hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge.

In May, former Chief executive Leung Chun-ying questioned the scheme’s delay in a Facebook post.

“To do something, you only need one reason; not to do something, you will have a hundred reasons. The scheme of Guangdong vehicles for southbound travel has been prolonged due to a hundred reasons,” Leung wrote in Cantonese.

Challenges and Considerations for teh “Southbound Travel” Scheme

While the “Southbound Travel for Guangdong Vehicles” scheme promises easier travel, several challenges and considerations remain. Smooth implementation will be key to its success.The government must address numerous factors to ensure a safe and efficient transition.

One major hurdle is managing the already bustling traffic in Hong Kong. The city is densely populated, and its roads are often congested. The influx of more vehicles could exacerbate existing problems. Authorities are aware of this and are actively working on solutions to mitigate potential issues.

The scheme needs to balance the benefits of easier travel with the potential for increased congestion. Discussions about vehicle quotas, border crossing logistics, and support facilities highlight the complexities involved.Risk management, ensuring compliance with Hong Kong laws, and vehicle safety are also top priorities.

Another challenge involves the different driving orientations in mainland China and Hong Kong. Mainland China drives on the right, whereas Hong Kong follows the left-hand traffic rule. This difference requires careful planning and consideration. Authorities must ensure drivers are aware of the shift and that roads are properly equipped.

Key considerations for the scheme include:

• Traffic Management: How to address potential congestion.
• Border Crossing: Streamlining the process at the border.
• Infrastructure: Providing adequate parking and support.
• Driver Education: Ensuring drivers are familiar with Hong Kong’s traffic rules.
• Safety regulations: Enforcing vehicle safety standards and insurance requirements.

Impact on Local Residents and Businesses

The “Southbound Travel” scheme will likely have diverse effects on Hong Kong residents and businesses. For many, the ease of travel could be a meaningful advantage. It could boost tourism, especially for those looking to explore the Greater Bay Area.The increased flow of visitors could also benefit local businesses, such as restaurants, hotels, and retail shops.

However, some residents may experience negative impacts. Increased traffic congestion could disrupt daily commutes. Furthermore, additional vehicles may increase air pollution.Proper planning and management are essential to prevent these adverse outcomes.

The government is working on measures to handle both the positive and negative outcomes of the scheme. These include traffic management strategies and plans to monitor environmental impact. The overall success of the program depends on how well these measures are implemented.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about the “Southbound Travel” scheme:

When is the “Southbound Travel for Guangdong Vehicles” scheme expected to launch?

The scheme is anticipated to launch by the end of 2025, according to Transport Chief Mable Chan.

Will all vehicles from Guangdong be allowed access to Hong Kong?

No, the scheme will be implemented in phases. Initially, vehicles will be restricted to parking at the Hong Kong end of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge.

What about the difference in driving orientation?

Authorities are considering the contrast between driving on the right (Mainland China) and driving on the left (Hong Kong). Proper signage and driver education will be essential.

How will this affect traffic congestion?

The government recognizes traffic congestion as a major concern and is preparing measures to manage it. Detailed plans for vehicle quotas and border crossing logistics are under growth to handle increased traffic.

Are there any safety checks?

Yes, risk management will be a priority. Drivers must follow Hong Kong laws, ensure vehicle safety, and have appropriate insurance.