Starting from May 7, Hengqin Port in the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin will officially implement a smart clearance upgrade with facial recognition across its joint one-stop vehicle channels. 

With this launch, both pedestrian and vehicle channels at the port will now support seamless face-scanning technology, injecting fresh momentum into the high-quality connectivity between Macao SAR and the Chinese mainland.

The initiative aims to elevate the integration of Macao and Hengqin by leveraging technology to streamline cross-border movement. By implementing facial recognition for drivers, the system significantly reduces the need to present physical documents during the clearance process manually. 

This smart clearance transformation will improve vehicle throughput efficiency by approximately 10% compared to previous methods. To utilize the new system, eligible drivers must complete a one-time registration at the joint one-stop channel by presenting valid travel documents, providing fingerprints and a facial image, and agreeing to the official registration statement. 

Once this process is complete, subsequent crossings can be performed via facial recognition. Despite this digital shift, the traditional card-swipe function will be retained to accommodate various user needs, though authorities advise all motorists to carry their physical travel documents at all times for potential manual verification.

This convenient service is specifically designed for four categories of pre-registered drivers who meet the current joint one-stop criteria. These include mainland residents holding valid permits for Hong Kong and Macao with specific multi-entry endorsements who have authorized the sharing of fingerprint data, as well as Macao and Hong Kong residents, including non-Chinese nationals,and Taiwan residents holding valid Mainland Travel Permits. 

It is important to note that even those who have registered for smart clearance at the pedestrian hall or other ports must still complete a separate registration at the Hengqin vehicle channels to activate the driving service.

To ensure a smooth rollout, border inspection agencies from both Macao and the mainland will deploy additional personnel during the initial phase to provide on-site guidance and monitor system stability.