Waste-charging scheme to commence on April 1 next year at the earliest: source

Hong Kong’s long-awaited waste-charging scheme is expected to come into force on April 1 next year at the earliest, according to sources.

The scheme was originally set to kick off in the second half of this year, but it is understood that the plan was further delayed due to the unsuccessful tendering for a manufacturing contract for the rubbish bags to be used under the scheme.

Sources said on Thursday that the new kick-off date has been set for April 1 next year, followed by a 6-month preparation period.

Free bags will be handed out to residents living in public housing and three-nil buildings in the initial stages.

The municipal solid waste charging bill was approved by the Legislative Council in August 2021. The bill requires residents to pay for bags in which to dump their waste. There are nine bag sizes, from the smallest three liters to the largest 100 liters. The charge is 11 cents a liter, meaning the price of a 10-liter bag will be HK$1.10.