Now that autumn is in full swing, here at the Chamber we are busy organizing a packed programme of events for our members. We are also gearing up for one of our biggest annual occasions – Free Ride Day. On 29 November, all day, everyone in Hong Kong will be able to enjoy free travel on the trams and on the two cross-harbour Star Ferry routes.

Hong Kong's fantastic public transport system is the envy of cities around the world. And the trams and ferries are a key part of this, offering a means of travel that is not only regular and reliable, but that also provides a charming taste of Hong Kong's history and heritage. These iconic ferries and trams also give travellers superb views of our city's stunning skyline and a vivid perspective on daily life on Hong Kong's bustling streets.  

As the longest established business organization in Hong Kong, we like to think that the Chamber shares some of the characteristics of the trams and ferries – longevity, efficiency and success. So Free Ride Day is a natural focus for cooperation.

Every year on Free Ride Day I get the opportunity to meet and talk to people on the trams and ferries who are enjoying the free service. Many of them are very familiar with this annual event, while visiting tourists find it comes as a pleasant surprise that the ride is not costing them a penny. Every year, around 300,000 people benefit from free trips.

This is made possible thanks to the support of our members, who provide sponsorship for the event. Participating member companies tell us that it is a great way to raise awareness of their businesses while also giving something back to the community. 

This community work is a key part of what HKGCC stands for. We focus on helping Hong Kong businesses to prosper, which ultimately helps the whole of society through providing jobs and a healthy economy. But it is also highly rewarding and effective to take actions that have an immediate impact on people's lives.

The advertising programme this year runs for four weeks, from 10 November to 7 December, and includes posters inside trams and at tram stops as well as the eye-catching advertising on the outside of the trams. The event is also widely covered by the media in Hong Kong, so provides great coverage for sponsors. 

Free Ride Day is a meaningful as well as enjoyable event, which shows how the business community contributes to the local community. A big thanks to our member companies who make it all possible, and we look forward to seeing you on 29 November!