Xie Zhanhuan: Over the past three years, the rental adjustments of various street markets under the jurisdiction of Hong Kong's Food and Environmental Hygiene Department have ranged from 1.7% to 2.6%.

On February 4th, the Secretary for the Environment of Hong Kong, Wong Kam-sing, responded to questions from lawmakers, stating that the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) in Hong Kong adjusts rents for market stalls based on the average year-on-year change in the consumer price index for category A goods. The rent adjustments are made when stall leases are renewed or on the rent adjustment date specified in the lease to reflect the inflation level. Over the past three years (from 2023 to 2025), rent adjustments for various markets under FEHD ranged from 1.7% to 2.6%. As for rent adjustments for markets under the Housing Authority in Hong Kong, when fixed-term leases expire, the Housing Authority will refer to rental data for other units within the Housing Authority and the private property market, considering various factors (including the operating environment of different industry units, location, size, foot traffic, etc.) to assess the renewal rent for each individual case based on market value. Amidst the current economic challenges faced by certain industries, when evaluating rent for these units, the Housing Authority will consider lowering rents based on their actual operating environment to help alleviate business pressures. They will continue to monitor economic conditions and government measures, providing appropriate assistance to merchants as needed. Rent adjustment rates for different types of units vary due to these factors, so it cannot be generalized. In recent years, the Hong Kong government has implemented measures to support businesses, including rent waivers for tenants at public markets under FEHD and market stalls under the Housing Authority. Most recently, in July 2023, tenants received a 50% rent reduction for six months, benefiting over 12,000 stall tenants. The Hong Kong government will continue to closely monitor economic conditions and assess the need for further support measures. FEHD has been actively communicating with stakeholders (including tenants, local residents, hawker associations, and logistics service providers) to explore ways to better utilize market stalls and spaces to meet the needs of both the public and operators. For example, FEHD has rented out some public spaces at Aberdeen Market and Kowloon City Market to logistics service providers to set up self-service pick-up lockers, making it convenient for residents and increasing foot traffic in the markets. Last year, FEHD arranged for operators interested in providing express delivery services at markets to conduct site visits to find suitable locations for service stations/business points. Additionally, if online companies selling fresh or frozen food products intend to provide self-pickup services, their food packaging, transportation, and storage operations must comply with food safety regulations, licensing requirements, and market operation requirements. FEHD will continue to consider suggestions that are in line with social needs and improve the operation of public markets with an open mind. The Hong Kong government welcomes young people to start businesses at markets or hawker stalls. FEHD is collaborating with non-profit organizations to allow young people to operate around 20 vacant stalls at Yau Man Market in Kwun Tong, selling handicrafts, daily necessities, and groceries. FEHD also plans to launch a similar program at Aberdeen Market and is currently looking for suitable partners. The department will assess the progress of the Aberdeen Market project to explore how to further utilize vacant stalls to support youth entrepreneurship.