Tang says easier Huanggang crossings on the card

The Hong Kong government has announced that travellers using e-Channels at the renovated Huanggang Port will be able to enter the mainland or return to Hong Kong using either their Hong Kong ID card or a home-return permit. This move, announced by Secretary for Security Chris Tang, is part of a fourth and final stress test conducted at the port facility on Saturday.

The test involved 20,000 civil servants and aimed to ensure the seamless operation of the new joint clearance system, where travellers only need to queue once for document and identity verification. Tang expressed optimism that the new setup would enhance cross-border travel convenience, stating that he hopes the new system will make travel easier for those moving between the two regions.

Although some travellers may utilize facial recognition contactless systems, Tang emphasized that the Hong Kong ID card and the home-return permit must still be brought along. The stress test also included the evaluation of 202 immigration counters and e-Channels, with all systems functioning smoothly. Additionally, about 300 vehicles participated in a separate test of the joint one-stop lanes, an automated vehicle clearance system, which demonstrated efficient processing with waiting times expected to remain under 10 minutes per vehicle, even during peak hours.

Customs officers showcased the deployment of X-ray machines and sniffer dogs for vehicle inspection, while the first and third mezzanine floors of the building were opened for the first time to test departure and arrival clearances for vehicle passengers. Tang acknowledged that Wi-Fi connectivity could be improved, noting that some participants had reported slow speeds.

Overall, Tang described the drill as smooth and successful, with clearance times staying under 15 minutes for each traveller. He indicated that authorities would conduct an internal review before determining the need for further drills.