Hong Kong Port Community System Launched: New Digital Track for SMEs in International Logistics and Response Strategies

More than 2,300 logistics companies have registered on Hong Kong's new digital platform. Behind the one-click real-time cargo tracking system lies a profound transformation in the international trade and logistics landscape.

The Port Community System (PCS) is now officially operational, providing one-stop, round-the-clock real-time cargo tracking and connecting sea, land, and air transport networks. As a key digital infrastructure project developed with a government investment exceeding 200 million Hong Kong dollars, the system has already attracted over 2,300 companies to register.

This system not only marks a significant milestone in Hong Kong's port logistics development towards digitalization but also opens up a new development track for small and medium-sized international logistics enterprises.

01 System Launch

The Hong Kong Port Community System officially commenced operations on January 16, 2026. Having undergone rigorous testing and optimization, the system provides one-stop, round-the-clock real-time cargo tracking functionality and has successfully interconnected sea, land, and air transport networks.

Developed under the leadership of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, with assistance from the Logistics and Supply Chain MultiTech R&D Centre (LSCM) in its development and management, the system began phased testing in early 2023 and was completed by the end of 2025.

A core design objective of the system is to break down information fragmentation barriers, creating favorable conditions for Hong Kong to interface with port systems worldwide.

02 Functional Features

The system offers several innovative functions, with the most notable being the "Single Submission for Multiple Declarations" electronic service. This service allows logistics companies to simplify customs declaration processes, significantly enhancing operational efficiency.

Through a mobile application, truck drivers and warehouse operators can also easily use the platform to update cargo status in real-time. Hong Kong's Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Ms. Chan Mei-bo, indicated that the system will initially focus on digitizing segments such as cargo inspection and detention notifications.

Notably, the system design specifically considered interfacing with Mainland systems. The Hong Kong SAR Government has signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with the Guangdong Electronic Port Management Co., Ltd. to explore providing pre-filled and pre-declared shipping manifest functions for vessels entering Mainland China.

03 Opportunities for Enterprises

For small and medium-sized international logistics enterprises, this system presents multifaceted development opportunities. The real-time cargo tracking function enables companies to provide more transparent and reliable services, strengthening customer trust.

The standardized data flow provided by the system makes it easier for small and medium-sized logistics enterprises to gain trust from financial institutions. During the system launch ceremony, the Transport and Logistics Bureau, the LSCM, and the local logistics startup FUNDel signed a tripartite Memorandum of Cooperation to research utilizing the multi-party trusted cargo flow data on the system to assist financial institutions in reviewing trade financing applications from logistics SMEs.

As the international trade landscape evolves, logistics enterprises require more efficient data processing capabilities. This system meets that need, helping SMEs gain a competitive edge in the fiercely competitive international logistics industry.

04 Addressing Challenges

With the launch of the new system, small and medium-sized international logistics enterprises also need to address a series of challenges. Digital transformation requires companies to adjust existing workflows, train staff to adapt to the new system, potentially increasing operational costs in the initial phase.

The logistics industry is facing international development trends related to Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards. The Hong Kong SAR Government has launched an ESG data collection toolkit to assist logistics SMEs in collecting and recording relevant data according to international standards. Companies need to learn how to utilize this toolkit to enhance their own ESG performance.

Within the current international trade landscape, logistics enterprises must continuously elevate their service standards. While the Port Community System provides advanced tools, companies still need to cultivate a digital mindset to truly reap its benefits.

05 Ecosystem Outlook

The launch of the Port Community System is just the first step in building Hong Kong's smart logistics ecosystem. The SAR Government has announced the planning study results for developing a modern logistics cluster in the Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen New Development Area, planning to create a modern logistics circle covering approximately 32 hectares.

The planned logistics circle will be divided into five zones, including a High-Value Goods Logistics Zone, an E-commerce Logistics Zone, and a Freight Forwarding & Low-Altitude Economy Zone. These areas will provide specialized services catering to different types of logistics needs.

The Transport and Logistics Bureau plans to invite industry submissions of development interest for the first plot of land in the logistics circle within this year. This will provide more development space and opportunities for small and medium-sized logistics enterprises, particularly in emerging fields like cross-border e-commerce.

Meanwhile, logistics companies in regions like Shanghai are closely observing Hong Kong's innovative practices, contemplating how to draw lessons from similar experiences in their local markets.

Confronted with transformation in the international logistics industry, Hong Kong has chosen the Port Community System as an entry point, gradually constructing an intelligent logistics network connecting the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and radiating globally. The design philosophy of integrating global data standards behind the system, particularly its interface with GS1 global standards, gives it a natural advantage for international alignment.