STARTING today, a daily quota of up to 100 pre-approved private cars from Guangdong Province will be permitted to travel via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge (HZMB) directly into Hong Kong’s urban areas, where they may stay for a maximum of three days.

This is the latest step in the “Southbound Travel for Guangdong Vehicles” program, a mirror of the “Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles” program. Launched in July 2023, the northbound program allows eligible private cars from Hong Kong to enter Guangdong via the same bridge.

Under the new arrangement, eligible vehicles are restricted to Category A private cars (with nine seats or fewer) and must use the HZMB as their sole route for both entry and exit.

Hong Kong authorities began preparations in July 2025 by opening a dedicated car park at the HZMB port. An online lottery for travel quotas was conducted Dec. 9.

According to Hong Kong’s Transport Department, more than 700 of the 1,700 applicants selected earlier this month have already submitted all required documents. These include vehicle inspection reports, third-party insurance coverage, and verified electronic contact details.

Once approved, vehicle owners must complete safety inspections at one of 13 designated centers in Guangzhou, Jiangmen, Zhongshan, or Zhuhai. Additionally, vehicles must obtain a Hong Kong license plate, purchase appropriate insurance, and set up an HKeToll account— Hong Kong’s free-flow electronic toll system. Remote-controlled parking and smart driving systems are prohibited due to differences in traffic regulations.

Drivers must carry their electronic travel permits and approval letters, either in digital or printed form, when crossing the HZMB checkpoint.

Authorities remind mainland drivers that Hong Kong follows left-hand traffic, with distinct road designs, rules, and signage. Extra caution is advised when overtaking, making right turns, navigating roundabouts, merging onto highways, and approaching signs such as “Pedestrian crossing ahead,” “Give way,” and “Stop.”

Instructional videos are available at inspection centers and on official social media channels. Non-compliance with local traffic laws may lead to fines or, upon conviction, imprisonment.

Business groups have welcomed the move, highlighting its role in deepening integration within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

The direct link is expected to save hours in door-to-door travel for executives, small and medium-sized enterprises, and high-value logistics operators moving between Hong Kong and manufacturing hubs such as Guangzhou, Zhongshan, and Jiangmen.

(Li Jing)