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SCMP Editorial
Editorial
SCMP Editorial

Upgraded border crossing will boost Hong Kong-Shenzhen connectivity

Hong Kong’s jurisdiction over part of Huanggang Port, poised to cut passenger clearance times, is a historic milestone in integration with the mainland

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A view of the main structure of the Joint Inspection Building at Huanggang Port, in Shenzhen, Guangdong province, on April 22. Photo: Edmond So
SCMP Editorial
Editorials represent the views of the South China Morning Post on the issues of the day.
Ease of travel has long been a key factor behind Hong Kong’s success, but travelling to nearby mainland China has sometimes been less convenient than connecting with international destinations. The city is set to take a welcome step towards smooth access. Authorities gazetted fresh legislation last Tuesday to regulate an upgraded border crossing between Hong Kong and Shenzhen. It introduces a novel “joint inspection” clearance model to cut clearance times from 30 minutes to five.
Expeditiously passed by the Legislative Council in a special meeting last Friday, the Huanggang Port Hong Kong Port Area Bill provides the legal grounds for the city to implement a co-location arrangement at the border crossing. The official opening of the upgraded port is being finalised with mainland officials, but the joint clearance model is a historic milestone and welcome enhancement of the city’s integration into the Greater Bay Area.

The National People’s Congress Standing Committee, China’s top legislative body, passed a bill on June 26 to authorise the city’s jurisdiction over part of the port area. The State Council, China’s cabinet, confirmed the specific boundaries on July 8 and approved the commissioning of the Hong Kong port area at midnight on July 31, with the city exercising jurisdiction. The new arrangement for travellers to undergo departure and arrival clearance at a single checkpoint was scrutinised by the legislature during a special House Committee meeting last Thursday. Travellers will only need to show travel documents required for their destination at one checkpoint instead of passing through separate counters.

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