https://www.scmp.com/rss/522035/feed Mable Chan was appointed Secretary for Transport and Logistics in December 2024, overseeing Hong Kong’s transport and logistics policies. A seasoned civil servant since 1989, she previously served as Commissioner for Transport and Permanent Secretary for Transport and Logistics. Her role involves developing Hong Kong as an international shipping and aviation hub, advancing major railway projects, and implementing cross-border travel schemes. Known for her leadership and proactive approach, she... en https://assets.i-scmp.com/static/img/icons/scmp-meta-1200x630.png https://www.scmp.com Matthew Cheng Matthew Cheng Hong Kong authorities have approved 820 additional flights and fast-tracked 4,100 adjustment applications to help airlines respond to sudden surges in passenger and cargo demand amid the Middle East war. “We are actively engaging airlines to encourage them to deploy extra cargo capacity to connect Hong Kong International Airport with destinations currently experiencing service shortfalls due to the Middle East situation,” Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan told the Legislative... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3354192/hong-kong-adds-820-extra-flights-ease-disruption-middle-east-conflict?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3354192/hong-kong-adds-820-extra-flights-ease-disruption-middle-east-conflict?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 20 May 2026 06:01:35 +0000 Leopold Chen Leopold Chen Issuing “several thousand” licences to ride-hailing vehicles under a proposed regulatory framework will be insufficient to meet demand, a Hong Kong government transport advisory body has said, calling for a quota that will not compromise existing services. Speaking after meeting government officials on Monday, Professor Wong Sze-chun, chairman of the Transport Advisory Committee, said members did not suggest specific numbers for ride-hailing platforms, vehicles or driver licences. “[A level of]... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3354001/several-thousand-ride-hailing-licences-wont-cover-demand-advisory-panel-says?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3354001/several-thousand-ride-hailing-licences-wont-cover-demand-advisory-panel-says?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 18 May 2026 12:26:51 +0000 Denise Tsang Denise Tsang Hong Kong is counting down to the “milestone” launch of the reconfigured second terminal at the airport on May 27, which will feature technology-led services to ease bottlenecks, the city’s transport minister has said. Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan said on Saturday that Terminal 2 was ready to serve travellers, highlighting new technologies that would streamline departures. The managing Airport Authority expects the revamped terminal to handle about 8 million passenger trips... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3353804/tech-features-hong-kongs-terminal-2-enable-efficient-departures-transport-chief?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3353804/tech-features-hong-kongs-terminal-2-enable-efficient-departures-transport-chief?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 16 May 2026 06:52:38 +0000 Oscar Liu Oscar Liu Hong Kong is set to ban electric vehicles (EVs) equipped solely with electronic door handles, as authorities seek to align with mainland China’s decision to mandate physical manual releases on all new cars from 2027 to mitigate safety hazards. Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan said on Wednesday that the government was closely monitoring the latest technical breakthroughs and regulatory shifts on the mainland and abroad to ensure local road users were protected by up-to-date... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3352631/hong-kong-ban-new-evs-only-electronic-door-handles?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3352631/hong-kong-ban-new-evs-only-electronic-door-handles?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 06 May 2026 10:08:12 +0000 Eric Jiang Eric Jiang Fewer than 5 per cent of Hong Kong flights for May and June combined have been cancelled, and about 1 per cent for the peak July travel period, aviation authorities have said, despite a global fuel crisis triggered by war in the Middle East. The figures were shared in Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan’s response to a lawmaker’s question, with the minister also revealing the Airport Authority planned to review charges to ease the financial burden on the aviation industry. The Civil... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3352602/airport-authority-reports-less-5-cancellations-despite-middle-east-war?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3352602/airport-authority-reports-less-5-cancellations-despite-middle-east-war?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 06 May 2026 08:37:08 +0000 Matthew Cheng,Emily Hung Matthew Cheng,Emily Hung Hong Kong will introduce a two-month subsidy for liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) used by taxis, minibuses and school buses starting in May amid soaring fuel prices, while previously announced support on diesel costs for other transport operators begins on Thursday. Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po said on Wednesday that the interdepartmental task force monitoring fuel price movements had proposed a 50 HK cents per litre subsidy for two months, starting in May, to alleviate operational pressure... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3351819/hong-kong-launch-liquefied-petroleum-gas-subsidy-support-transport-sector?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3351819/hong-kong-launch-liquefied-petroleum-gas-subsidy-support-transport-sector?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 29 Apr 2026 07:11:54 +0000 Oscar Liu Oscar Liu Hong Kong plans to table a bill by year-end to standardise regulation of future mass transit projects, including Kai Tak and East Kowloon, the transport chief has said, as lawmakers raise concerns over fares and long-term service quality. Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan told lawmakers on Monday that the government was pursuing policy innovation by adopting open tenders for future projects, with the aim of enhancing service quality and identifying the most effective operators for... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3351598/hong-kong-proposes-bill-unified-regulation-new-mass-transit-projects?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3351598/hong-kong-proposes-bill-unified-regulation-new-mass-transit-projects?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 27 Apr 2026 12:28:59 +0000 Ng Kang-chung Ng Kang-chung Beijing’s top official overseeing Hong Kong affairs has concluded his second visit to the Greater Bay Area in three weeks, a trip that analysts view as a push from the central government to speed up the city’s integration with national development. Xia Baolong, director of the State Council’s Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office, was in Guangdong province earlier this week, visiting Shenzhen, Dongguan and Huizhou. State-run media said his four-day “research tour” focused on supporting Hong Kong... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/politics/article/3349755/beijings-point-man-hong-kong-affairs-wraps-second-bay-area-visit-3-weeks?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/politics/article/3349755/beijings-point-man-hong-kong-affairs-wraps-second-bay-area-visit-3-weeks?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 11 Apr 2026 12:12:08 +0000 Ng Kang-chung Ng Kang-chung Hong Kong authorities have received more than 100 applications for innovative drone usage to pioneer the city’s “low-altitude economy”, with some pilot projects set to launch as early as in three months, the transport minister has said. Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan also pledged to push more advanced transport technologies to transition from trials to everyday use in 2026. In a blog post on the Transport and Logistics Bureau’s website on Saturday, Chan said “the industry... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3347425/flying-start-low-altitude-economy-goals-100-drone-projects-proposed?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3347425/flying-start-low-altitude-economy-goals-100-drone-projects-proposed?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 21 Mar 2026 09:32:48 +0000 Lam Ka-sing,Harvey Kong Lam Ka-sing,Harvey Kong Hong Kong authorities are coordinating with airlines to increase direct flight and transfer capacity, turning the challenges posed by the US-Israel war on Iran into opportunities, the transport minister has said. Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan also said on Saturday that the ongoing Middle East turmoil had deeply disrupted global trade and aviation networks, underscoring the need for Hong Kong to reduce its reliance on traditional oil by expanding supply sources. “We can... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3346588/hong-kong-boost-direct-flights-transfer-capacity-amid-middle-east-turmoil?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3346588/hong-kong-boost-direct-flights-transfer-capacity-amid-middle-east-turmoil?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 14 Mar 2026 07:51:32 +0000 Ambrose Li Ambrose Li The average number of aspiring Hong Kong taxi drivers taking a crucial industry test each month has increased by nearly 30 per cent following the launch of a simplified version of the assessment last year, the transport minister has said. Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan also said on Saturday that the government was increasing the number of dedicated meeting spaces for the city’s five premium taxi fleets at cultural and business landmarks. “We streamlined the written test... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3344976/aspiring-taxi-drivers-taking-tests-each-month-30-after-simplified-assessment?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3344976/aspiring-taxi-drivers-taking-tests-each-month-30-after-simplified-assessment?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 28 Feb 2026 10:06:20 +0000 Oscar Liu,Ambrose Li Oscar Liu,Ambrose Li Hong Kong has for the first time introduced its own railway standards to support the use of cutting-edge construction technologies, and established a dedicated inspection unit to accelerate new projects – moves that analysts have said could lay the foundation for the city’s next decade of transport development. The Highways Department on Monday released a 336-page document outlining a unified and comprehensive set of technical references and guidelines for railway design, construction,... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3344360/hong-kong-launches-own-rail-standards-enhance-safety-and-sustainability?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3344360/hong-kong-launches-own-rail-standards-enhance-safety-and-sustainability?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 23 Feb 2026 11:17:29 +0000 SCMP Editorial SCMP Editorial A date has been set for a new era of Hong Kong aviation history to take off. On May 27, the airport’s HK$141.5 billion (US$18.1 billion) three-runway expansion will wrap up with the full opening of its redeveloped second terminal. Completion of the decade-long project sends a powerful message to the world that the air transport hub has turned a page after years struggling with economic woes deepened by civil unrest and the pandemic. Hong Kong International Airport is back – and bigger, smarter... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3344110/hong-kong-airports-second-terminal-will-help-city-reach-new-heights?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3344110/hong-kong-airports-second-terminal-will-help-city-reach-new-heights?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 22 Feb 2026 22:45:16 +0000 Harvey Kong Harvey Kong About 600 motorists from Guangdong province have driven their vehicles into Hong Kong’s urban areas during the Lunar New Year holiday under a new scheme that has so far attracted 3,000 applications, according to the transport minister. Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan said on Saturday that the number of weekend drivers was, on average, nearly at capacity while weekday slots were also “pretty well” filled, depending on whether any major events were taking place in Hong... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3344198/600-guangdong-drivers-enter-hong-kong-thousands-apply-new-scheme?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3344198/600-guangdong-drivers-enter-hong-kong-thousands-apply-new-scheme?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 21 Feb 2026 05:12:36 +0000 Ambrose Li Ambrose Li Hong Kong airport’s second terminal will fully open on May 27, authorities have announced, with the redeveloped facility set to serve as the base for 15 airlines. The terminal, which will mostly handle regional flights, is part of the airport’s HK$141.5 billion (US$18.1 billion) expansion project launched in 2016 that also included a third runway. Its coach hall opened in September. Fred Lam Tin-fuk, chairman of the Airport Authority, said on Tuesday that the first terminal, used mainly for... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3343786/hong-kong-airports-second-terminal-fully-open-serve-15-airlines-may-27?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3343786/hong-kong-airports-second-terminal-fully-open-serve-15-airlines-may-27?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 17 Feb 2026 03:31:30 +0000 Wynna Wong Wynna Wong Hong Kong’s transport chief has pledged to fully review the ill-fated mandatory seat belt rule for bus passengers, including improving strap designs and examining possible exemptions, before relaunching the policy. Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan said on Sunday the government would adopt a four-pronged approach to address public concerns over the requirement, starting by working with franchised bus operators to improve the installation, design and maintenance of seat belts to... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3343610/hong-kong-fully-review-plans-bus-seat-belt-rules-relaunch-mable-chan?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3343610/hong-kong-fully-review-plans-bus-seat-belt-rules-relaunch-mable-chan?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 15 Feb 2026 04:43:29 +0000 Oscar Liu,Natalie Wong,Edith Lin Oscar Liu,Natalie Wong,Edith Lin Hong Kong’s rail operator has apologised after items from a maintenance vehicle and damage to track equipment caused a 1½-hour partial suspension of the MTR Island line, throwing Wednesday’s morning rush hour into chaos. Train services between Sheung Wan and Quarry Bay stations were suspended as soon as the Island line began operating at 6.07am. The disruption lasted until 7.30am, triggering complaints from passengers about poor contingency arrangements after they were left waiting in long... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/3343123/hong-kong-mtr-island-line-services-resume-after-track-obstruction-causes-major-delays?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/3343123/hong-kong-mtr-island-line-services-resume-after-track-obstruction-causes-major-delays?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 11 Feb 2026 00:11:19 +0000 Jeffie Lam,Natalie Wong Jeffie Lam,Natalie Wong Hong Kong’s U-turn on its seat belt rule for buses is a sobering reminder to lawmakers that they must meet higher standards even under the “executive-led” governance model recently underlined by Beijing, according to several policy experts. They said some lawmakers had been complacent, prioritising speed over efficacy in policymaking in a “patriots-only” legislature with no opposition presence, and would have to share the responsibility for administrative missteps. Xia Baolong, director of the... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/3342829/are-hong-kongs-lawmakers-also-blame-over-seat-belt-law-blunder?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/3342829/are-hong-kongs-lawmakers-also-blame-over-seat-belt-law-blunder?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 08 Feb 2026 09:55:44 +0000 Cliff Buddle Cliff Buddle A new law requiring passengers to wear seat belts on Hong Kong buses was supposed to mark the start of a long journey ensuring greater safety. But the trip turned out to be surprisingly short. The rule only lasted 13 days. The long-anticipated legal step should not have been revolutionary. It is common knowledge – and common sense – that the wearing of a belt can save life and limb in an accident. But the practical implications were not thought through. A public backlash highlighted a catalogue... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/article/3342782/bus-seat-belt-law-not-end-road-despite-fiasco-first-attempt?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/article/3342782/bus-seat-belt-law-not-end-road-despite-fiasco-first-attempt?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 07 Feb 2026 14:15:09 +0000 Matthew Cheng,Harvey Kong Matthew Cheng,Harvey Kong Hong Kong authorities have repealed a law requiring bus passengers to wear seat belts after finding that it only applies to vehicles registered since late January, with officials saying they will review the legislation again and conduct a public consultation. The government gazetted the Road Traffic (Safety Equipment) (Amendment) Regulation 2026 on Friday, which repeals Section 8D requiring passengers to wear seat belts. “The bureau will fully review the arrangements for passengers wearing seat... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3342643/hong-kong-authorities-repeal-flawed-bus-seat-belt-law?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3342643/hong-kong-authorities-repeal-flawed-bus-seat-belt-law?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 06 Feb 2026 07:47:57 +0000 Ambrose Li Ambrose Li Hong Kong’s first licensed ride-hailing platforms are expected to commence operations by the fourth quarter this year, while authorities have also proposed measures to improve taxi services as part of a transport blueprint. The Transport Department on Friday unveiled its 124-page strategy blueprint, covering areas including the low-altitude economy, autonomous vehicles, and a smart and green mass transit system. In the long run, with the complementary strengths of taxi and ride-hailing... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3342630/hong-kong-launch-licensed-ride-hailing-services-fourth-quarter-2026?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3342630/hong-kong-launch-licensed-ride-hailing-services-fourth-quarter-2026?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 06 Feb 2026 07:07:25 +0000 Oscar Liu Oscar Liu Hong Kong police intensified their crackdown on the illegal use of electric bicycles and scooters in 2025, leading to a 17 per cent increase in arrests to 760, according to transport authorities. Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan on Wednesday also pledged to roll out a certification mechanism later this year for electric mobility devices, as such vehicles are known. Addressing the Legislative Council, she said the surge in arrests – up from 647 cases in 2024 – underscored the... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3342366/arrests-illegal-use-e-bikes-scooters-hong-kong-17-760-2025?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3342366/arrests-illegal-use-e-bikes-scooters-hong-kong-17-760-2025?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 04 Feb 2026 08:29:33 +0000 SCMP Editorial SCMP Editorial It says something about Hong Kong governance when a simple and well-intentioned requirement for bus passengers to buckle up has become yet another embarrassing policy setback involving the executive branch and the revamped Legislative Council. The abrupt U-turn over the new law on seat belts, less than a week after it took effect, might have been one solution to a problematic law. But the blunder is a blow to the image of the government and of Legco, amid mounting public expectations for better... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3342073/valuable-lessons-be-learnt-u-turn-seat-belt-law-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3342073/valuable-lessons-be-learnt-u-turn-seat-belt-law-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 02 Feb 2026 23:15:11 +0000 Harvey Kong Harvey Kong The number of suspected scams involving unusually high and belated compensation claims for minor or non-existent traffic accidents in Hong Kong has doubled to more than 70 in less than a week, according to the security minister. Secretary for Security Chris Tang Ping-keung told a radio programme on Sunday that the increase was recorded after publicity efforts by the force. Authorities on Tuesday said they had recently received reports of drivers facing sudden massive civil claims, long after... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3341990/hong-kong-road-accident-scam-reports-double-over-70-week-chris-tang?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3341990/hong-kong-road-accident-scam-reports-double-over-70-week-chris-tang?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 01 Feb 2026 08:36:43 +0000 Ng Kang-chung,Matthew Cheng Ng Kang-chung,Matthew Cheng Hong Kong authorities’ swift U-turn on a law requiring bus passengers to wear seat belts came about because of a lack of public consultation during policymaking and a less than thorough crafting process for the regulatory fine print, political observers have said. Failures on both fronts should serve as a wake-up call for officials and lawmakers to do much better and put themselves in the public’s shoes when formulating policies, they said. In an embarrassing about-face, authorities announced on... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/politics/article/3341962/failures-2-fronts-led-hong-kongs-seat-belt-u-turn-experts-say?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/politics/article/3341962/failures-2-fronts-led-hong-kongs-seat-belt-u-turn-experts-say?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 31 Jan 2026 14:21:40 +0000 Jeffie Lam,Matthew Cheng Jeffie Lam,Matthew Cheng Hong Kong transport authorities will repeal a law that took effect on Sunday requiring bus passengers to wear seat belts, following strong public criticism and the revelation that the rule only covered new vehicles registered from late January. Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan announced the U-turn on Friday, conceding that the legislation had “deficiencies” as it failed to reflect the policy’s intent of requiring all passengers on public or private buses – including franchised... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3341828/hong-kong-suspend-bus-seat-belt-rules-over-law-deficiencies?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3341828/hong-kong-suspend-bus-seat-belt-rules-over-law-deficiencies?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 30 Jan 2026 08:39:28 +0000 Matthew Cheng,Fiona Chow Matthew Cheng,Fiona Chow Hong Kong’s transport minister has pledged to refine a policy requiring passengers to wear seat belts on buses by ensuring the devices become more user-friendly, while acknowledging lawmakers’ calls for a review of the recent law. Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan made the promise on Wednesday, less than a week after the new rules took effect. The regulations require all passengers travelling on public or private buses, including franchised and school services, to wear seat belts... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3341583/transport-chief-responds-backlash-over-hong-kong-law-public-bus-seat-belts?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3341583/transport-chief-responds-backlash-over-hong-kong-law-public-bus-seat-belts?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 28 Jan 2026 13:54:36 +0000 Natalie Wong,Jeffie Lam,Matthew Cheng Natalie Wong,Jeffie Lam,Matthew Cheng Erick Tsang Kwok-wai has resigned as Hong Kong’s constitutional and mainland affairs chief, saying that he has elevated prostate cancer markers in his blood and cannot cope with the heavy workload. State news agency Xinhua first reported the State Council’s decision to remove Tsang from his post on Tuesday morning, ending days of speculation over the 62-year-old’s departure from the cabinet. Meeting the press later with Tsang, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said he had decided to recommend the... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/3341321/hong-kongs-constitutional-and-mainland-affairs-minister-erick-tsang-resigns?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/3341321/hong-kongs-constitutional-and-mainland-affairs-minister-erick-tsang-resigns?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 27 Jan 2026 01:24:52 +0000 Oscar Liu Oscar Liu Hong Kong’s high-speed rail network is launching a limited-time “buy one, get one free” offer for tickets to Shenzhen’s Futian from Tuesday in celebration of its service expanding to 110 destinations in mainland China. The limited-time offer coincides with the launch of 16 new mainland destinations, including stops at major eastern hubs such as Nanjing, Wuxi and Hefei, on Monday. Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan, who spoke at an opening ceremony for the expanded service, hailed... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3341260/mtr-corp-offers-sweeteners-get-all-aboard-expanded-mainland-china-service?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3341260/mtr-corp-offers-sweeteners-get-all-aboard-expanded-mainland-china-service?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 26 Jan 2026 09:15:45 +0000 Fiona Chow Fiona Chow Hong Kong transport authorities have received more than 2,500 applications in the first month of a scheme allowing Guangdong drivers to enter the city’s urban areas, with a hotel industry leader saying he hopes that the policy’s daily quota can be expanded. Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan said on Friday that she looked forward to welcoming more mainland Chinese car owners, adding they could enjoy a series of Lunar New Year promotions set to be held next month in collaboration... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3341033/hong-kongs-southbound-travel-scheme-1-month-old-are-people-signing?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3341033/hong-kongs-southbound-travel-scheme-1-month-old-are-people-signing?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 23 Jan 2026 11:02:25 +0000 Edith Lin,Olga Wong Edith Lin,Olga Wong Any potential Hong Kong cabinet reshuffle will take place only after the investigation into the deadly Tai Po blaze wraps up, sources have told the Post, following a media report suggesting two ministers were set to step down. A government spokesman on Thursday did not deny the report suggesting that Secretary for Housing Winnie Ho Wing-yin and Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Erick Tsang Kwok-wai would step down “in the near future”, adding only that the administration would... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/politics/article/3340886/no-hong-kong-cabinet-reshuffle-until-tai-po-blaze-probe-wraps-sources?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/politics/article/3340886/no-hong-kong-cabinet-reshuffle-until-tai-po-blaze-probe-wraps-sources?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 22 Jan 2026 13:36:20 +0000 Ambrose Li Ambrose Li Hong Kong’s transport minister has outlined plans to develop a blueprint for the nascent low-altitude sector, with local industry players partnering mainland Chinese firms for their first joint overseas trip to explore belt and road markets. Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan said on Monday that the blueprint would cover cross-border electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOL) that ferry goods and passengers. Speaking at the Second Low-Altitude Summit at the University... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3340460/hong-kong-develop-low-altitude-sector-blueprint-firms-eye-overseas-expansion?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3340460/hong-kong-develop-low-altitude-sector-blueprint-firms-eye-overseas-expansion?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 19 Jan 2026 12:48:42 +0000 Fiona Sun Fiona Sun Hong Kong is building a logistics hub for high-value goods, e-commerce and low-altitude economy in the Northern Metropolis mega development project, with authorities set to gauge industry interest in the first site of the cluster this year. The Transport and Logistics Bureau said on Friday that authorities aimed to attract leading logistics firms with tailored incentives, such as land grant arrangements and premium concessions, to a planned industrial cluster covering more than 30 hectares in... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3340213/hong-kong-plans-build-northern-metropolis-logistics-hub-smart-green-growth?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3340213/hong-kong-plans-build-northern-metropolis-logistics-hub-smart-green-growth?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 16 Jan 2026 12:53:38 +0000 Theodora Yu Theodora Yu The Hong Kong government has launched a digital logistics platform offering real-time cargo tracking, with some 2,300 companies registered on the system. Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan said on Friday the new Port Community System would streamline transport data and improve transparency for users. The system integrates sea, land and air data and uses artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technology to provide instantaneous cargo tracking services, which Chan said was... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/3340133/hong-kong-governments-cargo-tracking-digital-platform-launched-2300-firms?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/3340133/hong-kong-governments-cargo-tracking-digital-platform-launched-2300-firms?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 16 Jan 2026 07:18:31 +0000 Oscar Liu Oscar Liu More than 1,000 people applied for test-free driving licences at one point on Monday, with the 300 daily slots filled in about half an hour, after Hong Kong authorities moved the process online to tackle long queues and scalping. A Post reporter tried to secure a spot at 7am when the Transport Department’s online queuing system opened for direct driving licence applications, but hit a digital bottleneck, with all available slots snapped up in just over 30 minutes. Upon joining the queue at 7am,... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3339528/over-1000-apply-online-slots-test-free-hong-kong-driving-licence-snapped?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3339528/over-1000-apply-online-slots-test-free-hong-kong-driving-licence-snapped?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 12 Jan 2026 02:00:45 +0000 Alice Wu Alice Wu If Hong Kong’s Transport Department couldn’t see that road signs needed to be at eye level when it opened the Yau Ma Tei section of the Central Kowloon Bypass, it makes sense that it couldn’t anticipate the increased demand for test-free driving licences with the launch of the southbound travel scheme. Under the scheme, drivers of Guangdong vehicles can enter via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge to either park at a designated car park – transferring to the airport for a flight or to local... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3339383/hong-kongs-driving-licence-bottlenecks-undermine-its-car-travel-scheme?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3339383/hong-kongs-driving-licence-bottlenecks-undermine-its-car-travel-scheme?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 12 Jan 2026 01:30:09 +0000 SCMP Editorial SCMP Editorial It was embarrassing in a modern city like Hong Kong to see queues winding outside Transport Department offices, with people camping out for hours to get tickets for test-free driving licence applications. Authorities have done the right thing by shifting the queuing process online starting January 12. The new procedures must be monitored to ensure fairness and it is important that lessons are learned to avoid similar problems in future. Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan told the... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3339323/hong-kong-must-stay-its-toes-keep-queues-public-services-fair?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3339323/hong-kong-must-stay-its-toes-keep-queues-public-services-fair?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 11 Jan 2026 22:45:14 +0000 Harvey Kong,Themis Chen Harvey Kong,Themis Chen Hong Kong transport authorities will fully move ticketing for test-free driving licence applications online from Monday, after the highly sought-after service attracted long queues and scalpers. The Transport Department said on Wednesday that the policy change, resulting in walk-in applications being cancelled, aimed to distribute tickets in a fair and orderly manner. Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan had told the department on Tuesday to find prompt solutions. Hong Kong currently... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3339025/hong-kong-transport-chief-calls-urgent-fix-driving-licence-application-backlog?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3339025/hong-kong-transport-chief-calls-urgent-fix-driving-licence-application-backlog?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 07 Jan 2026 08:05:18 +0000 Lo Hoi-ying Lo Hoi-ying A new route connecting Hong Kong’s Yau Ma Tei and Tseung Kwan O will fully open this year, the city’s transport chief has said. Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan also said on Saturday that the route, on which construction began in 2017, would be fully connected by the end of the year following the completion of a Kowloon Bay tunnel section linking to the Tseung Kwan O-Lam Tin Tunnel. “We are striving to open the entire Route 6 within this year, which will slash travel time between... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3338623/hong-kongs-route-6-set-fully-open-2026-transport-chief-mable-chan-says?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3338623/hong-kongs-route-6-set-fully-open-2026-transport-chief-mable-chan-says?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 03 Jan 2026 12:09:35 +0000 SCMP Editorial SCMP Editorial The drive across Hong Kong’s Kowloon peninsula is no longer the frustrating journey it once was. It has been more than a week since the Yau Ma Tei section of the Central Kowloon Bypass opened, slashing the half-hour travel time between West and East Kowloon to just five minutes at peak hours. Transport Secretary Mable Chan said there was a “marked improvement” and “remarkably smooth” conditions at the notoriously congested Gascoigne Road Flyover on the first business day of operations. Handling... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3338023/hong-kong-working-stay-fast-lane-better-connectivity?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3338023/hong-kong-working-stay-fast-lane-better-connectivity?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 29 Dec 2025 22:45:07 +0000 Alice Wu Alice Wu The Yau Ma Tei section of the Central Kowloon Bypass has finally opened. That is no doubt welcome news to commuters heading west to east across Kowloon, with travel time cut from 30 minutes to just five. That is definitely something to celebrate. We still need to wait for the Kowloon Bay section to open in 2026 to complete the bypass, but Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan hailed the project as a testament to the “Hong Kong spirit”, given the complex construction process. While the... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3337804/hong-kongs-lack-direction-goes-beyond-road-signs?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3337804/hong-kongs-lack-direction-goes-beyond-road-signs?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 29 Dec 2025 01:30:07 +0000 Willa Wu Willa Wu A new scheme that allows private cars from Guangdong province to enter Hong Kong’s urban areas has brought business opportunities for some, with users of a popular online platform selling courses on how to drive in the city or one-stop application services for mainland Chinese motorists. Local businesses are also offering perks to drivers using the scheme, ranging from parking discounts to accommodation packages. Under the “Southbound Travel for Guangdong Vehicles (Entry into Urban Area)”... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3337548/hong-kong-firms-hoping-new-southbound-travel-scheme-will-drive-more-business?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3337548/hong-kong-firms-hoping-new-southbound-travel-scheme-will-drive-more-business?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 24 Dec 2025 00:30:12 +0000 Ambrose Li Ambrose Li Hong Kong’s transport chief has urged caution from drivers after the Yau Ma Tei section of the Central Kowloon Bypass recorded its first accident on Tuesday, just three days after opening. Police said a medium-sized truck crashed into a car at 9.16am while both vehicles were heading west towards Kwai Chung, after the truck changed lanes. No one was injured. Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan said on Tuesday that the Transport Department had promptly responded to road users’... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3337541/hong-kongs-new-central-kowloon-bypass-records-first-crash-3-days-after-opening?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3337541/hong-kongs-new-central-kowloon-bypass-records-first-crash-3-days-after-opening?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 23 Dec 2025 14:34:21 +0000 Ambrose Li Ambrose Li More chargers compatible with mainland Chinese electric vehicles will be made available in Hong Kong as demand grows, the transport chief has said, after the first batch of drivers from Guangdong province entering the city’s urban areas under a new scheme nearly exhausted the daily quota for cars. Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan said on Tuesday that nearly 100 mainland cars entered Hong Kong on the first day of the “Southbound Travel for Guangdong Vehicles (Entry into Urban... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3337419/hong-kong-add-more-compatible-chargers-chinese-evs-guangdong-cars-hit-roads?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3337419/hong-kong-add-more-compatible-chargers-chinese-evs-guangdong-cars-hit-roads?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 23 Dec 2025 03:28:23 +0000 Ambrose Li,Denise Tsang Ambrose Li,Denise Tsang The Central Kowloon Bypass’s new Yau Ma Tei section got off to a bumpy start on the first weekday of operations, with police being asked to take action against drivers making U-turns at a tunnel entrance and heading off in the opposite direction. The Transport Department on Monday also made improvements after motorists complained about poor signage. During an inspection in the morning, Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan said that 50,000 vehicles had already used the new bypass... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3337279/more-signs-being-installed-new-section-hong-kongs-central-kowloon-bypass?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3337279/more-signs-being-installed-new-section-hong-kongs-central-kowloon-bypass?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 22 Dec 2025 05:42:26 +0000 Oscar Liu Oscar Liu The long-awaited Yau Ma Tei section of Hong Kong’s Central Kowloon Bypass opened on Sunday, with eight bus routes – including three new ones – to begin operating on Monday, cutting peak-hour travel time between West and East Kowloon from 30 minutes to just five. The new 4.7km transport corridor includes a 3.9km, three-lane, two-way tunnel linking the Kai Tak Development Area and Kowloon Bay with Yau Ma Tei. Traffic began to build at about 10am as Shing Kai Road in Kai Tak connected to the new... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3337212/new-section-hong-kongs-central-kowloon-bypass-slash-travel-time-80?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3337212/new-section-hong-kongs-central-kowloon-bypass-slash-travel-time-80?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 21 Dec 2025 04:03:03 +0000 Connor Mycroft Connor Mycroft Hong Kong’s rail giant has been asked to plan an extension to the South Island line, with construction expected to be completed by 2034, after the city’s key decision-making body gave the green light to proceed with an updated design on Saturday. The Transport and Logistics Bureau said the Executive Council had given the government approval to invite the MTR Corporation to proceed with the line’s western extension project, which was first proposed more than a decade ago. The 7.5km (4.7-mile)... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3337189/hong-kongs-mtr-corp-gets-green-light-plan-75km-south-island-line-extension?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3337189/hong-kongs-mtr-corp-gets-green-light-plan-75km-south-island-line-extension?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 20 Dec 2025 12:15:38 +0000 SCMP Editorial SCMP Editorial Hong Kong’s HK$141.5 billion (US$18.1 billion) investment in the expansion of its airport with a third runway is all about exploiting the city’s position as an international air cargo and passenger hub, and its connectivity with the mainland, amid rising air and sea competition. The pay-offs come in passenger and traffic volume and a network of destinations that circles the world. The latter has just received a big boost from the signing of aviation agreements with seven countries – mostly in... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3336456/hong-kong-stepping-its-competitiveness-aviation?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3336456/hong-kong-stepping-its-competitiveness-aviation?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 15 Dec 2025 22:45:08 +0000 Oscar Liu Oscar Liu A seamless airspace is essential for developing Hong Kong’s low-altitude economy and will depend on a collaborative ecosystem, the transport chief has said, citing the city’s strengths in high-value-added services and regulatory expertise, alongside the Greater Bay Area’s industrial and research capabilities. Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan said on Tuesday that a comprehensive action plan for developing the new industry was under way to integrate manned and unmanned aviation.... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3335732/hong-kong-leverages-greater-bay-area-ties-help-low-altitude-economy-take?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3335732/hong-kong-leverages-greater-bay-area-ties-help-low-altitude-economy-take?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 09 Dec 2025 07:33:47 +0000 Harvey Kong Harvey Kong Hong Kong has signed aviation agreements with seven countries – mostly in Latin America – to expand its global reach and make better use of the airport’s three-runway system, according to a senior official. Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan on Tuesday revealed that the government had signed deals with the Latin American countries of Chile, Argentina, Ecuador, Peru and Cuba, along with Poland in Europe and Togo in West Africa, over the past two months. The new deals add to... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3335729/hong-kong-signs-aviation-deals-7-countries-expand-global-network?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3335729/hong-kong-signs-aviation-deals-7-countries-expand-global-network?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 09 Dec 2025 07:30:57 +0000