Hong Kong’s Mass Transit Railway (MTR) implemented a 3.09% fare increase on Sunday, affecting millions of daily commuters. The hike, which impacts over 80% of trips by 40 Hong Kong cents or less, comes as the city grapples with rising operational costs.
Under the new pricing structure, passengers traveling from Tsuen Wan to Central will now pay HK$15.70, up from HK$15.30. Those journeying from Sheung Shui to Admiralty face a 60-cent increase, with fares rising to HK$22.10.
To soften the blow of the fare adjustment, MTR has introduced a promotional offer. Adult passengers who make ten trips between July 1 and July 28 will receive a complimentary ride. However, this offer is exclusive to those who have linked their Octopus cards to the MTR Mobile app and does not apply to Airport Express or Light Rail services.
The fare hike follows a 5.2% year-on-year increase in the transport nominal wage index, as reported by the Census and Statistics Department in December last year. Despite this, MTR’s fare increase was capped at 3.09% to ensure public affordability, aligning with changes in median monthly household income.
The remaining 0.11% adjustment will be phased in over the next two years, with 0.06% scheduled for 2025-26 and 0.05% for 2026-27.
This fare adjustment highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing operational costs with public affordability in Hong Kong’s vital transportation network.
