Huanggang Port redevelopment moves forward with new HK–Shenzhen pacts

Hong Kong secured leasing rights through 2047 as Shenzhen funds the redevelopment.

The Hong Kong SAR Government and the Shenzhen government signed two agreements on 30 July, establishing the legal and operational framework for the redeveloped Huanggang Port ahead of its opening.

The Co-operation Arrangement between the Shenzhen Municipal People's Government (SZMG) and the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region on the Implementation of Colocation Arrangement at the Huanggang Port establishes cooperation to implement a co-location arrangement at the port.

Meanwhile, the Agreement on the Right to Use the Huanggang Port Hong Kong Port Area and Related Extended Areas grants Hong Kong the right to lease and use the Hong Kong Port Area and related extended areas.

The SZMG will fund the design and construction of the Huanggang Port Redevelopment Project, whilst the Hong Kong SAR Government will pay a nominal annual rent of about HK$1,163 (RMB1,000).

The lease will commence when the areas are commissioned and expire on 30 June 2047, and may be renewed subject to a decision by the National People's Congress.

Secretary for Security Tang Ping-keung said the government would continue working with Shenzhen on system testing, operational preparations, and emergency drills before the port opens.

The governments of Guangdong and Hong Kong will finalise and announce an official opening date once the port is ready for operation.

The agreements were signed by Tang and Shenzhen Vice Mayor Luo Huanghao, as well as officials from the Hong Kong Security Bureau and Shenzhen's Office of Port of Entry & Exit.

(HK$1 = RMB0.86)