Greater Bay Area ports implement new border crossing facilitation measures

Authorities in the Greater Bay Area are implementing new measures to streamline border crossings between mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau. Starting August 18, 2026, the Zhuhai Border Inspection Station will optimize the “cooperative inspection, one-time release” model at the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, Hengqin, and Qingmao ports. These updates allow Hong Kong and Macau residents greater flexibility in using identification documents, including the ability to use both resident identity cards and home return permits for dual-way travel.

The expansion also includes broadening the scope of personnel eligible for expedited channels. Foreigners and Taiwan residents who have completed necessary filings can now use the “one-stop” vehicle lanes at the Hengqin port. This system has significantly reduced processing times, with some vehicle inspections completed in as little as 50 seconds.

In Shenzhen, the upcoming opening of the New Huanggang Port is expected to trigger a “port economy.” By implementing similar “one-stop” inspection models, transit times are projected to drop from 30 minutes to approximately 5 minutes. Industry experts anticipate daily passenger flows of up to 500,000 people, driving demand for point-to-point cross-border bus services and boosting retail and catering sectors within the port's integrated commercial facilities.