Updated at 6.09pm: Domestic sewerage charges might almost double after the government completes the second phase of its harbour area treatment scheme, officials said on Thursday.
They told a Legislative Council environmental affairs panel meeting that the monthly sewerage charge might rise from $11 to $21 in the next 10 years, local radio reported.
But the government said the new charge would be far lower than charges imposed in other developed countries.
Principal assistant Secretary of Environment, Transport and Works Bureau Raistlin Lau Chun said 500 tonnes of sewerage would be reduced daily after the increase of household sewerage charges.
He said the policy would help improve marine ecology and the quality of the water in Victoria Harbour. The territory could then re-organise swimming competitions at Victoria Harbour, he added.
Mr Lau also stressed that the figure of $21 was for reference and was not necessarily final, local radio reported.