Several ride-hailing companies have expressed interest in applying for licences under Hong Kong’s newly introduced regulatory framework, officials confirmed a day after the government opened the application process.

Mable Chan, Secretary for Transport and Logistics, said in a radio interview that between two and three platform operators had already indicated their intention to offer ride-hailing services. The government plans to hold a briefing session in mid-September to engage directly with prospective applicants, with the expectation that the first round of licence approvals will be granted by early December.

The Transport and Logistics Bureau released a set of nine requirements on Friday for companies seeking to operate ride-hailing platforms legally in Hong Kong. Applications will be accepted until October 30.

Key criteria include demonstrating a proven record of lawful service provision in cities with populations exceeding 7.5 million people, and managing at least 100,000 daily ride orders in two or more locations. Applicants must also submit audited financial statements from the past three years. Financial stability is a critical factor, with minimum capital set at HK$50 million, bank deposits of at least HK$30 million, and a credit line of no less than HK$30 million.

Chan emphasized that the government has not imposed a fixed quota on licences and will select candidates solely on their ability to meet the stipulated requirements. “As long as the platform operators meet the requirements, then it will be OK for us,” she said.

The requirement for a substantial operational scale is reflective of Hong Kong’s status as an international metropolis with a significant tourist population, which the government said demands a robust and reliable ride-hailing service. The daily demand for such platforms was estimated at approximately 110,000 trips, a benchmark that officials described as a basic threshold.

The government also welcomed operators with local or overseas experience to apply, including joint ventures between companies. Chan acknowledged that no particular operator is favored, highlighting an open and competitive application process.

Regarding drivers, the response to the newly introduced combined test for taxi and ride-hailing licences has been strong, with more than 9,000 applicants registered. The written examination is scheduled to take place next month, marking a key step toward expanding the pool of licensed ride-hailing drivers in the city.