January 31, 2023
The Executive Council today (Jan 31) approved Star Ferry's application for fare increases. The Mon-Fri fare of "Central-Tsim Sha Tsui" route would be increased from $3.2 to $5, an increase of 56%; the Sat, Sun & Public holiday fare would be increased from $4.2 to $6.5, an increase of about 55%. DAB LegCo member Ben Chan said that Star Ferry’s original application for fare increase almost doubled the original price, but that application was not approved. He believed this decision has taken into account of different opinions in the society.
Ben Chan stated that the Star Ferry was an important icon of local tourism, and also a globally acclaimed tourist sightseeing activity. The government should not only approve the fare increase to relieve the company's financial pressure, but also actively support it to increase its revenue from sources other than fare. For example, the government could subsidize the refurbishment of the pier, upgrade the power facilities of the pier, introduce more restaurants and shops, to establish the pier as a tourist attraction for tourists and local residents to enjoy the sight of the Victoria Harbour, in order to enhance Star Ferry’s business substantiality.
Media enquiry:
DAB LegCo member Ben Chan (9274 7035)