Hong Kong's overall 5G network coverage is among the highest in the world. However, given the geographical span in rural and remote areas in Hong Kong as well as the ruggedness of the terrain, the existing mobile network coverage and capacity in some of these areas are still developing. As customer demand in these areas is relatively low, mobile network operators ("MNOs") may lack the commercial incentive to expand their mobile network infrastructure in these areas, resulting in less satisfactory 5G service in some rural and remote areas.
To address this, the 2023 Policy Address announced that the Government would expedite the expansion of mobile network infrastructure in rural and remote areas through subsidies to enhance the mobile communications network coverage in these areas.
The Subsidy SchemeLaunched in July 2025 and managed by the Office of the Communications Authority ("OFCA"), the Subsidy Scheme to Extend 5G Coverage in Rural and Remote Areas ("Scheme") provides financial support to MNOs. Under this Scheme, subsidies are reimbursed, subject to a cap, to help install new radio base stations ("RBS") at about 50 sites across different districts. These sites will be situated in country parks, outlying islands and other rural and remote areas, significantly enhancing mobile communications services in these regions.
