The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, the world's longest sea-crossing infrastructure project, has welcomed over 90 million passenger trips since its 2018 opening, according to official data released this week. The landmark structure continues to reshape connectivity in China's Greater Bay Area, with 2024 traffic volumes hitting record highs.
Accelerating Regional Integration
Zhuhai Port statistics reveal 18.68 million vehicle crossings and 27 million passengers in 2024 alone, with 2025 figures already showing a 19% year-on-year increase. The bridge has reduced travel time between Hong Kong and Zhuhai from three hours to 30 minutes, fueling cross-border tourism and business exchanges.
Mainland Travel Surge
Individual travel from the Chinese mainland has been pivotal to growth, with 9.01 million mainland residents using the bridge in early 2025. Hong Kong and Macao residents' crossings skyrocketed from 4.5 million in 2019 to 16.2 million in 2024, projected to exceed 18 million by year-end.
Economic and Cultural Impacts
Analysts highlight the bridge's role in strengthening economic collaboration and cultural exchanges across the Pearl River Delta. Its success underscores the growing integration of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, home to over 86 million residents and contributing 12% of China's GDP.
