Hong Kong Government Covers Two-Thirds of HK$90 Million Fare Scheme Revamp Cost
A Legislative Council Finance Committee paper revealed that the Hong Kong government bore two-thirds of the HK$90 million cost associated with revamping the HK$2 transport fare concession scheme for the elderly and disabled. The restructuring, aimed at ensuring long-term financial sustainability and curbing abuse, introduced real-name registration in August 2024. Data from the first year showed significant usage patterns, with approximately 220 beneficiaries averaging over 240 trips monthly, and one individual recording up to 20 trips daily. In response, the government adjusted the scheme on April 3, 2026, requiring beneficiaries to pay 20 percent of fares exceeding HK$10, replacing the previous flat rate. A monthly cap of 240 trips is scheduled to take effect a year later. The budget for the scheme has risen sharply to HK$5.17 billion for the 2026-27 financial year, compared to HK$1.2 billion in 2019-20. These measures reflect efforts to balance social welfare support with fiscal responsibility amidst increasing expenditure and identified instances of potential system exploitation.
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Hong Kong Government Covers Two-Thirds of HK$90 Million Fare Scheme Revamp Cost
A Legislative Council Finance Committee paper revealed that the Hong Kong government bore two-thirds of the HK$90 million cost associated with revamping the HK$2 transport fare concession scheme for the elderly and disabled. The restructuring, aimed at ensuring long-term financial sustainability and curbing abuse, introduced real-name registration in August 2024. Data from the first year showed significant usage patterns, with approximately 220 beneficiaries averaging over 240 trips monthly, and one individual recording up to 20 trips daily. In response, the government adjusted the scheme on April 3, 2026, requiring beneficiaries to pay 20 percent of fares exceeding HK$10, replacing the previous flat rate. A monthly cap of 240 trips is scheduled to take effect a year later. The budget for the scheme has risen sharply to HK$5.17 billion for the 2026-27 financial year, compared to HK$1.2 billion in 2019-20. These measures reflect efforts to balance social welfare support with fiscal responsibility amidst increasing expenditure and identified instances of potential system exploitation.
News - South China Morning Post