Lawmaker floats cash lottery for newborns as baby bonus scheme extension set to cost HK$2.3bn

The Hong Kong government plans to extend its baby bonus scheme for another three years, aiming to increase fertility rates and support young families amid a record-low birth rate. This extension will cost approximately HK$2.3 billion, according to official estimates. The current scheme, which began in 2023, provides families with HK$20,000 per newborn, while second and subsequent children receive HK$30,000 each.

The government will seek approval for an additional HK$1.6 billion from the Finance Committee for the second round of the scheme, set to conclude on October 24, 2029. The fertility rate in Hong Kong stands at 0.73 as of 2025, with fewer than 30,000 babies born between July 2025 and June 2026, the lowest number on record. The extended scheme will include tax breaks, priority access to public rental housing, and a potential cash lottery for new parents, as suggested by Legislator Joe Chan.

However, Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration Warner Cheuk stated that the funds available from the government or the Hong Kong Jockey Club would be limited, emphasizing the significant financial commitment required for such a lottery.