Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan said on Saturday that there would be no cap on the number of ride-hailing licences issued to companies.

Her remarks came a day after the Transport Department invited applications for the licence.

Speaking on Commercial Radio, Chan said applicants would be selected based on their meeting the government’s requirements and being financially sound.

“We are requiring their paid-up capital to be no less than HK$50 million," she said.

"According to our initial estimates, this will enable the companies to operate for at least half a year.

Chan also said more than 9,000 drivers had signed up for a new combined written test for taxis and ride-hailing vehicles.

The department would arrange for the tests to begin in mid-September, she added.

On transport support for the new Huanggang Port, Chan said shuttle buses could be arranged for locals and visitors arriving at the crossing during public holiday peak hours.

“We hope there can be short-haul shuttle bus routes to take inbound travellers from Huanggang Port to nearby areas such as Tuen Mun, Tai Po and other places, as we hope to disperse the crowds as quickly as possible,” she said.

“After multiple drills, we, as well as bus operators, hope to keep improving in this area.”

Chan added that a drill held today would involve 20,000 people, further scaling up the stress tests.



Edited by Robert Kemp