The Hong Kong Government plans to discuss 10-year public bus franchises with New Lantau Bus (1973) Company and Kowloon Motor Bus (1933) Company, as their current franchises approach expiry. The proposed arrangements have not yet been approved, but will affect passengers using the two operators’ services.
New Lantau Bus’s existing franchise is due to expire on 1 March 2027, followed by KMB’s on 1 July 2027.
Both operators have told the Government that they intend to apply for new 10-year franchises. The Government has not confirmed whether either application will be approved or what the final franchise terms will be.
The Government has invited the public to comment on the two franchises. Submissions can be made to the Transport Department by post, fax or email by 28 September 2026, according to the consultation information.
Under the Public Bus Services Ordinance, the Chief Executive in Council may grant a public bus service franchise for a term of no more than 10 years. The law also requires a franchised bus company to maintain an appropriate and efficient public bus service to the satisfaction of the Commissioner for Transport throughout its franchise period.
The Government said franchised buses are an important part of Hong Kong’s transport system. It aims to maintain stable services, respond to future development and passenger needs, encourage operators to improve service and safety standards, and ensure that both companies remain operationally and financially sound and sustainable.
The Legislative Council Panel on Transport discussed the operators’ services and the new franchise arrangements in March 2026. Relevant documents are available on the Transport and Logistics Bureau or Transport Department websites.
The final franchise decisions, detailed service, safety, operational and financial requirements, and any changes resulting from public feedback remain to be determined. The immediate deadline for public submissions is 28 September 2026.