The annual passenger throughput at Zhuhai Hengqin Port has surpassed 10 million this year, reaching the milestone 29 days earlier than last year—the fastest since the port opened.

The surge in passenger flow is driven by streamlined clearance policies and upgraded infrastructure. The launch of 64 facial-recognition express lanes and the introduction of “contactless clearance” for cross-border student buses have significantly boosted frequent travel by mainland residents working or studying in Macao, as well as by Hong Kong and Macao residents, who account for over 60% of the total.

Vehicle clearance is also highly efficient. The port’s joint one-stop lanes have processed over 1.17 million vehicle crossings, with Macao single-plate vehicles making up 66%. Clearance time per vehicle has been reduced to under 100 seconds.

Construction of an additional passenger inspection hall began in March, with all new lanes equipped with facial-recognition smart clearance. Upon completion, the port’s daily processing capacity is expected to double, and annual passenger throughput is expected to reach a new high.