Hong Kong's section of the upgraded Huanggang Port has entered trial operation, marking a major step towards the full launch of a new cross-boundary clearance system designed to speed up travel between Hong Kong and Shenzhen.

The 24-hour port adopts a one-stop clearance model that combines co-located border inspection with joint inspection procedures, allowing travellers to complete immigration checks for both cities in a single process. Clearance times are expected to fall from around 30 minutes to about five minutes through the use of self-service channels supporting facial recognition and document scanning.

Designed to handle 200,000 passenger trips daily, with capacity rising to 300,000 following the completion of the MTR Northern Link branch line, the port is also equipped with integrated inspection lanes for cross-boundary vehicles.

Authorities have conducted more than 100 tests and drills ahead of full commissioning. The upgraded port is expected to strengthen Shenzhen-Hong Kong connectivity, support Greater Bay Area integration and contribute to national development goals.