Data Explorer | Annual passenger traffic at Hengqin Port surpasses 20 million for the first time

According to data from the Hengqin Border Inspection Station, as of 4 a.m. on November 21, the total number of passengers crossing Hengqin Port this year has exceeded 20 million, marking a year-on-year increase of 38.2%. and a milestone that the number has surpassed 20 million for the first time since its opening in August 2020.

Among these, Macao residents accounted for over 4.35 million trips, representing 22% of the total.

Statistics reveal that 13.33 million trips, or nearly 70% of the total annual traffic, were made by regular cross-border travellers, a key driver of this growth with a year-on-year increase of 38.8%. Hengqin Port has become an essential hub for the Hengqin-Macao "dual-city lifestyle" of residents from both sides.

Additionally, the “Hengqin-Macao Group Tour” policy, which became effective in May and allows Chinese mainland tourists participating in organized tour groups to travel between Hengqin and Macao multiple times within seven days through the Hengqin Port, has significantly boosted traffic. Coupled with the port's 24-hour operations, streamlined clearance processes, and well-developed surrounding facilities, Hengqin-Macao tourism has become increasingly popular among Chinese mainland residents. Data shows that 5.42 million mainland visitors crossed the port this year, up 31.4% year-on-year, accounting for 27% of the total traffic. During major holidays, mainland visitors travelling to Macao pushed single-day passenger records to new highs on five occasions, with a peak of 103,500 passengers recorded on October 3.

Furthermore, China has streamlined travel processes for foreign nationals, including simplifying visa policies and expanding visa-exempt entry options. This has strengthened Hengqin's role as a hub for international exchanges. In October, the port expanded its fast-track access for eligible foreign travellers, further facilitating cross-border exchanges.

According to data from the Hengqin Border Inspection Station, approximately 210,000 foreign travellers have used Hengqin Port this year for business, tourism, family visits, study, and cultural exchanges, representing a 97% year-on-year increase.