Octopus for mainland travel aids integration

Cross-border integration has taken a big step forward following the introduction of a new all-in-one travel card. In what has been touted as a game changer, the new Octopus card allows users to top up in Hong Kong dollars here and tap for rides in public transport across 336 mainland cities. This is good news for many who find themselves struggling with the mobile payment system across the border.

Unlike previous cross-border Octopus cards that required a separate yuan account for top-up, the new Octopus-China T-Union Card holds up to HK$3,000 in stored value and fares will be deducted in yuan, with the market foreign exchange rate effective upon top-up at kiosks or via a conversion on the app through money in the e-wallet. The rate is valid for a maximum of 90 days, and those who hold cards on the mainland may add value through the Octopus app. Those in Shenzhen can also top up at UnionPay EPS kiosks.

The new card enables users to travel on 38,000 mainland public bus routes and 285 rail or ferry services. While it retains all the original Octopus functions and may be used in Hong Kong with multiple top-up options, it cannot be used for retail or other transactions across the border. Also, some mainland card readers may not accurately display balances that exceed HK$1,000 owing to varying limits in cities or differences in display settings.

First developed as a multiple public transport payment system in 1997, the contactless Octopus card later expanded to cover retail transactions, building access and school-related functions.

The technology also was exported to some countries. However, it took much longer for the pioneer cashless payment system to reach across the border. Its limitations and dominance of the Hong Kong market have also proved to be hurdles for the city in its moves toward a cashless economy, such as that on the mainland.

The recent trend of Hongkongers going north for shopping, dining and entertainment may be boosted by the convenience of the new card. It is hoped that more mainlanders also will take advantage and explore our city more often.

Hopefully, the card will bring further benefits and increase cross-border integration.