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Hong Kong S.A.R.
- Hong Kong is generally a safe destination with low crime rates but foreign travelers should exercise vigilance due to the new national security law.
- Hong Kong faces risks from natural disasters such as typhoons and flooding, which can cause significant travel disruption and flight cancellations.
Risk Factors
- Hong Kong has a low rate of violent crime; however, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas, and scams targeting tourists have previously been reported. Scams often involve an invitation for ceremonial tea, a cheap massage, etc. only to be charged an extortionist amount, often under duress, following the service.
- There are stringent penalties for drug offenses, including long prison sentences or even the death penalty for severe charges.
- Violent crime is rare and only occasionally reported. Although rare and seldom involving foreign nationals, violent crime is largely the result of criminal groups known as triads.
- Since the introduction of national security legislation in 2020 and 2024, activities considered a threat to state security could lead to arrest or deportation. Travelers should avoid political demonstrations and large gatherings.
- Foreigners in China, such as business and foreign government personnel, and journalists from Western countries, have been subject to arbitrary detention, interrogation, and exit bans by authorities. These actions are carried out under the pretext of alleged violations of national security laws.
- Sanitize your electronic devices of politically sensitive content, especially if entering mainland China from Hong Kong.
- Hong Kong offers a robust public transportation network. Driving can be challenging due to heavy traffic and different driving norms. Taxis have a good safety record and can be hailed from the street.
- Road safety is generally good, though travelers should be cautious during the typhoon season which can disrupt transport routes as a result of flooding.
- The political climate in Hong Kong was tense during the 2019-2020 anti-government protests. While the frequency and scale of protests have significantly decreased since the enactment of the national security law and the consequent government crackdown on protests, the potential for sudden demonstrations still remains. Travelers should avoid engaging in political gatherings and demonstrations due to the risk of arrest.
- The typhoon season typically runs from May to November. The passage of typhoons can cause heavy rainfall and significant floods in the city, leading to travel disruption and flight cancellations. Monitor alerts to stay abreast of conditions and move to safety during severe weather.