Hongkongers can use either ID or home return permit at revamped Huanggang Port

Hongkongers can now utilize either their identity card or home return permit when traveling through the upgraded Huanggang border checkpoint, according to a recent announcement by the Security Minister, Chris Tang. This change is part of a new agreement with mainland Chinese authorities, allowing for greater flexibility when entering or returning to Hong Kong.

During a recent drill involving over 20,000 civil servants, Tang revealed that both Hong Kong residents and non-residents with valid mainland travel permits can choose their preferred document for the process. Despite the flexibility, Tang emphasized that a valid mainland permit must still be carried at all times, even if it isn't used at the checkpoint.

The revamped checkpoint, capable of handling 200,000 passenger trips daily, is the first to implement a "joint clearance" model. This system allows passengers to undergo both departure and arrival clearance through a single checkpoint, presenting only one travel document at either automatic or manual counters. The drill, which featured 300 vehicles and 20,000 civil servants, showcased smooth operations and an average wait time of under 15 minutes.

However, the security minister acknowledged that Wi-fi connectivity issues were still present in the building, particularly in crowded areas, which were not an issue during the previous drill with fewer participants.