Huanggang Port bill cleared, takes effect 31 July

The legal framework enables joint testing and drills ahead of the facility's launch.

Hong Kong’s Legislative Council has passed a bill providing the legal basis for the co-location arrangement between Hong Kong and Shenzhen at the redeveloped Huanggang Port, allowing the cities to launch preparations for the facility's opening.

The Huanggang Port Hong Kong Port Area Ordinance will be published on the Government Gazette on 20 July and take effect on 31 July.

The official establishment of the port area will allow Hong Kong and Shenzhen to conduct joint system tests, trials, and drills to ensure that facilities and operational plans are ready.

The governments of Guangdong and Hong Kong will finalise and announce the opening date once both sides confirm that the port is ready for safe operation.

Secretary for Security Tang Ping-keung said the redevelopment will facilitate cross-boundary travel and the two-way flow of people between Hong Kong and Shenzhen.

"Getting the port ready for a smooth opening at an early date is the expectation of the general public and the common goal of the governments of Hong Kong and Shenzhen to facilitate cross-boundary travel and the two-way flow of people between the two places," he said.

The bill's passage marks a major milestone in implementing the central authorities' authorisation and provides a legal basis for the co-location arrangement at the redeveloped port.

Tang said the redevelopment is a key project for the Hong Kong SAR Government's efforts to align with the country's 15th Five-Year Plan and improve infrastructure connectivity in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.