Huanggang Port set to be fastest border checkpoint

Marcus Lum

The new Huanggang Port is poised to become the fastest border checkpoint, allowing cross-border travelers to undergo both mainland and Hong Kong border clearance with a single queue, according to Deputy Director of Immigration Tai Chi-yuen.

E-channels will be established at the boundary between Shenzhen and Hong Kong, enabling travelers to complete their immigration procedures seamlessly.

Tai said that both cities are progressing on the construction of the new Huanggang Port building, which is expected to be completed by the end of next year.

The Immigration Department is also considering a "collaborative inspection and joint clearance" model for the new port, similar to systems currently in place at several border checkpoints in Zhuhai and Macau.

"Hong Kong and Shenzhen will implement self-service channels and counters at both borders, significantly reducing waiting times, as travelers will only need to queue once for all immigration procedures," he said.

This new model could position Huanggang Port as the quickest checkpoint for those crossing between the cities.

Tai added that careful planning is necessary before the port's construction, and authorities will continue to prepare for all related work to facilitate movement between the two regions and promote economic growth.

Also, the department is exploring an "innovative clearance mode" to address the rising vehicle traffic between Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macau.

Tai said implementing facial recognition technology at the borders would allow private car passengers to be identified through cameras while remaining in their vehicles, enhancing the travel experience.

The department has already signed a memorandum of understanding with the Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute to further explore this innovative clearance approach.

Tai also reported a surge in applications for positions within the department. This year, around 7,700 people applied for the role of Immigration Officer, a 20 percent increase from last year.

As of October 31, about 8,700 applications had been submitted for the position of Immigration Assistant, reflecting a 10 percent rise compared to the same period last year.