Hong Kong to seek more elderly care places in Guangdong, Chris Sun says
From 120 to 1,100 elderly residents in just three years—retirement in mainland China is booming.
Hong Kong Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun revealed in an interview that the number of elderly Hongkongers living in government-subsidised care homes in Guangdong has jumped from 120 at the end of 2022 to 1,100 by March 2026—a ninefold increase. Sun told the South China Morning Post that the growth proves the popularity of retiring across the border under the Residential Care Services Scheme, which currently covers 26 homes in the province. Shenzhen and Guangzhou are the most popular cities.
To meet rising demand, Sun said authorities will negotiate with operators to increase the number of places reserved for Hongkongers. Contracts and quotas can be adjusted based on usage statistics and service levels. The scheme offers eligible residents a choice, with the government covering care costs. The move reflects a broader trend of cross-border retirement, driven by lower costs and larger living spaces in mainland China compared to Hong Kong.
- 1,100 elderly Hongkongers now live in 26 designated care homes in Guangdong, up from 120 in 2022.
- The Residential Care Services Scheme saw a ninefold enrollment surge in just over three years.
- Hong Kong will renegotiate contracts with operators to expand capacity in popular cities like Shenzhen and Guangzhou.
Why It Matters
Expanding cross-border care options eases Hong Kong's elderly housing crunch while offering retirees affordable, quality alternatives.