Riding on World Habitat Day on 2 October, EOC Chairperson Mr Ricky CHU Man-kin shared his views on the housing challenges faced by ethnic minorities in Hong Kong in op-ed articles published in local newspapers.

Citing data from the 2021 population census, Mr Chu highlighted that approximately 8% of households in Hong Kong had a living space less than 20 square metres (215 sq ft). The percentage doubled to around 16% for non-ethnic Chinese households. In terms of substandard housing, around 3% of Hong Kong’s total population lived in subdivided units in 2021, while the figure for South Asians was nearly 14%.

Mr Chu wrote, “At the EOC, we receive reports of landlords rejecting ethnic minority tenants, charging them more, or giving them poorer choices. It is important to remember that, under the Race Discrimination Ordinance, it is unlawful to refuse to rent properties or provide inferior rental services based on the race of prospective tenants.”

To address these challenges, Mr Chu suggested that Hong Kong’s housing policy should incorporate considerations of liveability and community, allowing for a more holistic approach to the issue.  

“With higher numbers of ethnic minorities spread across the city, it is important to create an inclusive environment where individuals from different backgrounds can interact and thrive together,” Mr Chu asserted.

• Read the article in Ming Pao Daily (in Chinese only)
• Read the article in South China Morning Post
• Read the leaflet on what you should know as a real estate agent, landlord, tenant or home buyer under Hong Kong’s anti-discrimination ordinances