On July 2, the Hong Kong Transport and Logistics Bureau announced that, after extensive consultations with Guangdong authorities, the highly anticipated “Yue Car Southbound” scheme is on track to launch in November 2025. This initiative will allow private cars registered in Guangdong Province to drive directly into Hong Kong, opening a new chapter in cross-border mobility.
During the pilot phase, a daily quota of 100 vehicles will be set. Eligible cars can either park at the automated facilities near the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge (HZMB) or enter the city area directly. Guangdong authorities confirmed that detailed arrangements are being finalized and will be announced later this year.
The scheme complements the “Hong Kong Car Northbound” policy, which since its debut in July 2023 has seen over 100,000 Hong Kong vehicles cross into Guangdong via the HZMB. The bridge’s usage has surged, with May 2025 traffic reaching 450,000 vehicle trips—an increase of about 170% compared to before the policy.
Hong Kong’s Transport and Logistics Secretary Lam Sai Hung emphasized that “Yue Car Southbound” is a reciprocal arrangement. Once operations stabilize, quotas may be expanded and permitted stays for Guangdong vehicles extended. Vehicles entering Hong Kong must comply with local regulations, including inspections and insurance. Drivers will need valid Hong Kong driving licenses, and any traffic violations or accidents will be handled under Hong Kong law.
Two large automated parking facilities near the Hong Kong border will be among the first to open. One will serve travelers connecting to flights, while the other is designed for visitors heading into the city. Combined, the carparks will offer 1,800 spaces. For transit passengers, the experience will be seamless: after parking, travelers can board Hong Kong Airport Authority shuttle buses directly into the airport restricted area without going through Hong Kong immigration. Visitors using the city parking facility can complete entry formalities in the terminal before continuing their journey.
This policy marks another major step toward integration in the Greater Bay Area. As travel between Guangdong and Hong Kong becomes easier, cities like Dongguan stand to gain significant economic and social benefits. The region has already launched over 1,000 cross-border administrative services, opened dedicated health centers for Hong Kong residents, and established partnerships with universities such as City University of Hong Kong (Dongguan Campus) and Greater Bay Area University.
Ultimately, the combination of “Yue Car Southbound” and “Hong Kong Car Northbound” will help create a true “one-hour living circle,” making life, work, and tourism across Guangdong and Hong Kong more connected than ever.
