Photo: Nanfang Plus

Hong Kong International Airport will open two automated car parks, located in the restricted area of the Hong Kong Port of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge (HZMB) starting in November, in support of the "Southbound Travel for Guangdong Vehicles" scheme.

The transfer parking lot will be launched first, offering around 1,800 fully automated parking spaces. Drivers of eligible Guangdong-registered vehicles will be able to enter Hong Kong via the HZMB with prior reservation and leave their cars at the designated drop-off point. Shuttle buses will then transport them directly into the airport's restricted area for check-in and boarding, without requiring them to clear Hong Kong immigration.

A visitor parking lot is scheduled to open in the first half of next year. It will serve inbound travelers who wish to visit attractions such as AsiaWorld-Expo and the upcoming SKYTOPIA leisure and entertainment complex.

Airport authorities expect the system to handle at least 500 vehicles daily and are currently conducting system tests and finalizing booking and usage arrangements.

The Hong Kong SAR government has recently accelerated the launch of the "Southbound Travel for Guangdong Vehicles" scheme to November. Initially, a daily quota of 100 Guangdong-registered private cars will be allowed to enter Hong Kong, where they can park at the artificial island's new facilities.

Longer-term plans include allowing Guangdong vehicles to access Hong Kong's urban areas. This will require vehicle inspections in Guangdong Province and adherence to Hong Kong traffic regulations. Drivers must hold valid Chinese mainland licenses and pass checks.

Hong Kong's Transport and Logistics Bureau is working closely with Guangdong authorities to finalize implementation details, including stay durations and enforcement measures. The current plan allows these vehicles to remain in Hong Kong for three or more days per trip.

The move comes two years after the launch of the reciprocal "Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles" policy, signaling closer integration between the two regions and improved cross-border connectivity.