Executive Council gives consent to increase tramway fares
The Chief Executive in Council today (April 8) gave consent to Hong Kong Tramways Limited (HKT) to alter its fares, in accordance with section 51 of the Tramway Ordinance (Cap. 107). The revised rates of fares (see table below) will come into force one month after publication in the Gazette (i.e. May 12, 2025).
Existing fares Revised fares
(Change)
Persons aged 12 or above $3.0 $3.3
(+$0.3)
Children (aged 3 to 11) $1.5 $1.6
(+$0.1)
In addition, the fare for the elderly (aged 65 or above) will increase from $1.3 to $1.5. The monthly ticket fare, currently at $260, will remain unchanged.
A Government spokesman said that the Government should ensure that HKT will have sound financial capability in providing economical, efficient and quality tram services at reasonable fares. In this connection, when assessing HKT's fare increase application, the Government has duly exercised its gatekeeping role to carefully and stringently scrutinise the application in accordance with the established policy and mechanism, taking into account various factors, including the quality and quantity of service provided and the planned improvement projects of HKT; the changes in operating costs and revenue since HKT's last fare adjustment; HKT's forecast of future costs, revenue, profit and return; and the likely public acceptability. Under the current fare adjustment, the fare of the monthly ticket will remain unchanged, alleviating the impact on passengers who travel by tram for daily commuting.
Since its last fare adjustment in July 2022, HKT has been facing competition from other modes of public transport. Patronage has not recovered to the pre-pandemic level, while the potential to further increase non-fare box revenue, currently accounting for about 50 per cent of HKT's total revenue, is rather limited. At the same time, the operating costs and staff costs of HKT have been rising continuously. HKT will also continue to invest in improvement projects, including the renewal of tram track and upgrading tram cars in the fleet to provide passengers with more stable rides, safer and more comfortable journeys. In addition, HKT is expected to launch a new mobile application in the second quarter of this year to provide service information, such as real-time estimated times of arrival for passengers, thus improving their ride experience.
"HKT has been providing emission-free and affordable services over the years, which are well-received by the local community and tourists. The Government will continue to encourage and assist HKT to explore different revenue sources, especially to tie in with the concept of 'tourism is everywhere' to capitalise on new opportunities arising from the latest developments in the tourism landscape, while preserving its historical value. Having considered all relevant factors, including HKT's latest financial situation and forecast, the Government considered the fare increase necessary for maintaining HKT's stable operation, and that the proposed increase level by HKT is acceptable. After the fare increase, the tramway remains the most economical means of transportation serving the northern shore of Hong Kong Island," the Government spokesman said.
