Hong Kong mandates dash cams & e-payments in all taxis by 2026

The government will gazette a law amendment today (Fri) mandating all taxis to install dashboard cameras and accept electronic payments.

The amendment will undergo negative vetting in the Legislative Council next Wednesday.

The cashless payment mandate takes effect April 1, 2026, while taxi operators have until the end of 2026 to install recording systems.

Officials specified that recording systems must capture audio and video inside the cabin while clearly documenting front and rear exterior views.

The GPS-enabled devices will store encrypted location data in sealed units to deter misconduct and enhance safety.

The Transport Department will notify the industry about the new requirements starting this fall and begin certifying authorized equipment suppliers in the fourth quarter.

Installation is expected to commence next year, with all recorded data linking to a central government system.

The government will coordinate with payment platforms to conduct workshops helping drivers transition to digital transactions.