Core Points - The Hong Kong government is expanding the exemption criteria for the Aircraft Passenger Departure Tax to enhance the competitiveness of Hong Kong International Airport [1][2] - The departure tax will increase from HKD 120 to HKD 200 per passenger starting from the 2025-2026 fiscal year [1] - The new exemptions will take effect on October 1, 2024, potentially benefiting approximately 830,000 transit passengers and 2.5 million multimodal transit passengers annually [2] Group 1 - The revised regulations will allow passengers who arrive at the airport and depart within 48 hours to be exempt from the departure tax [1] - Passengers who enter Hong Kong through means other than air travel and depart within 48 hours from the airport will also qualify for the exemption [1] - The government anticipates a revenue reduction of approximately HKD 670 million annually due to the new exemptions [2] Group 2 - The new exemptions are expected to attract more passengers to use the airport, reinforcing Hong Kong's status as an international aviation hub [2] - Increased transit passenger stays may lead to higher local spending on accommodations and other services, generating positive economic effects [2]