What Changed
- Commencement of a two-month public consultation from October 7 to December 6, 2026, on sound broadcasting licence renewals.
- Consolidated review exercise for CRHK and Metro applications ahead of their licence expiries on August 25, 2028.
- Schedule to submit CA recommendations on the licence renewals to the Chief Executive in Council by May 2027.
The Communications Authority (CA) of Hong Kong SAR has commenced a two-month public consultation on October 7, 2026, concerning the renewal applications for sound broadcasting licences submitted by Hong Kong Commercial Broadcasting Company Limited (CRHK) and Metro Broadcast Corporation Limited (Metro).
The current sound broadcasting licences held by CRHK and Metro are valid for a 12-year period from August 26, 2016, to August 25, 2028. Under the terms of their licences, both broadcasters submitted their renewal applications not less than 24 months prior to expiry. Because both licences expire on the same date, the CA is conducting a consolidated review exercise pursuant to the Telecommunications Ordinance (Cap. 106) and established regulatory procedures.
As part of the evaluation, the CA will assess the licensees' past performance and gather feedback from the public and the sector through multiple channels. These include the two-month public consultation running from October 7 to December 6, 2026, an opinion survey, focus group discussions, and an online public hearing scheduled for November 7, 2026. Members of the public can submit written views via email to [email protected], by fax at 2507 2219, or by mail to the Office of the Communications Authority in Wan Chai, Hong Kong.
Following the review process—which will consider the licensees' past performance, renewal proposals, industry developments, and public feedback—the CA plans to submit its recommendations on the licence renewal applications to the Chief Executive in Council by May 2027. This regulatory milestone directly impacts sound broadcasting operators, media professionals, and commercial entities operating within Hong Kong SAR's communications landscape.
Who May Be Affected
Hong Kong Commercial Broadcasting Company Limited (CRHK), Metro Broadcast Corporation Limited (Metro), broadcasting sector professionals, and the public in Hong Kong SAR.
Cross-Border Context
Monitored by international media, legal, and commercial entities following regulatory oversight and broadcasting licensing standards in Hong Kong SAR.
What to check next
- Dedicated webpage on the Communications Authority website for online public hearing registration details and licensee service information.
- Written public submission channels open through December 6, 2026 via [email protected], fax 2507 2219, or mail to OFCA Broadcasting Section 33.
This article provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. Consult the official text and obtain advice appropriate to your circumstances where needed.