In a significant move to combat misinformation, the Hong Kong government has addressed and refuted a series of false online claims concerning vehicle travel arrangements between Hong Kong and Guangdong. These unsubstantiated reports, which have been circulating on various social media platforms, posed a risk of misguiding transport and logistics professionals regarding future cross-boundary travel regulations. The authorities have reiterated their commitment to providing accurate information through official channels and have escalated the matter for police investigation.
Hong Kong Transport Department Takes Action Against Misleading Vehicle Scheme Information
On October 13, 2025, Hong Kong's Transport Department publicly repudiated inaccurate online narratives suggesting an expansion of the Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles (NBT) program to include additional border checkpoints. Concurrently, they dismissed reports that comprehensive specifics for the forthcoming Southbound Travel for Guangdong Vehicles (SBT) scheme had been disclosed. This incident prompted the department to refer the case to the Police for a thorough investigation.
Officials clarified that the NBT scheme's scope currently remains restricted to the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge. This initiative facilitates travel for private vehicles without the need for prior reservations on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, excluding designated public holidays. It operates distinctly from the Shenzhen Bay Ad Hoc Quotas for Cross-Boundary Private Cars, which necessitates individual application for each journey.
Furthermore, the government has scheduled a briefing for the Legislative Council Panel on Transport on October 17, 2025, to provide an update on the progress of the SBT scheme. Emphasizing transparency and reliability, the authorities affirmed that all verified information regarding these schemes will be exclusively released via official government communication platforms, ensuring the public receives precise and trustworthy updates. Both the NBT and SBT schemes are strategically designed to enhance the efficiency of cross-border vehicle movement and bolster logistical integration within the broader Greater Bay Area transportation network.
The proactive stance taken by the Hong Kong Transport Department highlights the critical importance of combating disinformation in the digital age. In an era where information spreads rapidly, both accurate and inaccurate, it is crucial for government bodies to maintain clear and direct lines of communication with the public. This incident serves as a reminder to individuals and businesses alike to seek out official sources for critical information, particularly concerning cross-border regulations that impact their operations. The commitment to prosecuting those who disseminate false information also underscores the gravity with which authorities view such misleading activities, emphasizing the need for responsible online conduct.