Crisp new banknotes available for red packets from Feb

In preparation for the upcoming Lunar New Year, citizens can get hands on new or good-as-new banknotes for lai see red packets from February 3 to 16.

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) announced on Tuesday three note-issuing banks—HSBC, Standard Chartered, and Bank of China (Hong Kong)—are set for banknote exchange service during this period. 

For the first three days of the service, participating branches will open earlier at 8am exclusively for banknote exchange. 
To streamline the process, online reservations for specific time slots will open on January 27.

Additionally, crowd management measures will also be implemented,  including the issuance of tickets if necessary.

The HKMA reminded the public that there is no need to rush in the first few days, assuring that a sufficient supply of banknotes will be maintained throughout the entire period.

Citizens are also advised to check if they have any unused notes from previous years before visiting a bank.

In line with digital trends, the authority encouraged the use of electronic payment methods, such as the Faster Payment System (FPS) or e-wallets service to give out e-laisees.