(December 18, 2024 – Hong Kong) With effect from January 1, 2025, AlipayHK will be incorporated into the Public Transport Fare Subsidy Scheme (PTFSS). By using the “EasyGo” QR Code in AlipayHK to pay for single journey fares of designated public transport such as buses and the MTR, and activating the “Automatic Collection” feature, users can have their subsidies automatically credited to their AlipayHK account balance on the 16th of each month. This seamless process eliminates the hassle of queuing for manual top-ups and mitigates the risk of expired subsidies.
AlipayHK provides a transparent and user-friendly experience by displaying monthly transport expenses directly within the app, enabling users to easily calculate their eligible subsidy. Additionally, linking A. Point Card to pay for public transport allows users to earn 20 times A. Point, which can be redeemed as cash rebate or vouchers. This combination of benefits underscores AlipayHK’s leadership in promoting a smarter, more stylish approach to digital mobility.
Having been selected for three consecutive years as a partner in the government’s consumption voucher scheme, this latest integration highlights the government’s trust in AlipayHK and marks another step forward in Hong Kong’s development as a smart city.
The monthly subsidy is capped at HKD 400. When commuters pay for transport expenses with AlipayHK’s “EasyGo” QR Code, the government will calculate subsidies based on the eligible public transport expenses recorded in their AlipayHK account. If monthly transport expenses exceed HKD 400, the government will subsidize one-third of the amount exceeding HKD 400, up to a maximum of HKD 400. This calculation method is the same as that for another payment means under the PTFSS.
AlipayHK has introduced the “Automatic Collection” feature, offering a more user-friendly alternative to traditional subsidy collection methods. Once activated, the subsidy will automatically deposit into the user’s AlipayHK account balance on the 16th of each month. Additionally, users can check bus and minibus arrival times through AlipayHK’s “ETA” function, enabling better trip planning. Monthly transport expenses and eligible subsidy amounts can also be viewed instantly, offering a practical and efficient user experience.
The subsidy collection period remains at three months, consistent with current arrangements. To prevent missed subsidies, AlipayHK will send timely reminders before the expiry date. Users can search for “Transport Subsidy” in the AlipayHK App for detailed information.
Venetia Lee, CEO of AlipayHK, remarked: “We are honored by the government’s recognition, making AlipayHK the first e-wallet to be integrated into the Public Transport Fare Subsidy Scheme. This inclusion allows over 4.2 million active AlipayHK users to not only travel with a single app but also easily benefit from government subsidies. As a multidimensional digital service platform, AlipayHK has consistently advanced local and cross-border digital payments, smart transportation, and lifestyle services, furthering Hong Kong’s vision of becoming a smart city. The digitization of transport subsidies enhances the city’s image as a technology-forward hub while offering commuters a modern, practical, and convenient digital mobility solution.”
AlipayHK is already widely accepted across Hong Kong’s major public transport services, including the MTR heavy rail network (except Airport Express stations), Citybus, KMB, Long Win Bus, New Lantao Bus, Hong Kong Tramways, selected green minibuses, and ferries such Hong Kong and Kowloon Ferry, Star Ferry, Discovery Bay Ferry and Sun Ferry. In Chinese mainland, the e-wallet supports metro and bus systems in major cities such as Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Foshan, and Shanghai, as well as intercity buses, high-speed trains, and cross-border bus services.
With the introduction of mainland ride-hailing platforms like AMap and Didi to Hong Kong, users can also book local and cross-border rides through the AlipayHK app, simplifying travel between Hong Kong and Chinese mainland. By continually evolving with the times, AlipayHK is fostering the adoption of mobile payments among Hong Kong residents, laying a strong foundation for smart travel solutions.
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