This is a full version of NEA’s reply issued to the media agency; published in Lianhe Zaobao, 24 Oct 2023.
Affordable meals are available at hawker centres
We refer to Mr Chen Shengwen’s letter, “Maintain social security functions of hawker centres”, 7 Oct.
The National Environment Agency (NEA) provides a conducive environment for hawkers to operate, so that they can price their food affordably for the public and sustain their own livelihoods.
While NEA does not control or regulate food prices, NEA also does not set any minimum tender bid price when hawkers bid for their stalls. Additionally, subletting and assignment of stalls are not allowed to prevent hawkers from engaging in rent-seeking behaviour which could drive up food prices.
There are measures to assist hawkers with other costs. These include productivity support grants for the upgrading of equipment, rental waivers and other support in times of need such as during COVID-19 or hospitalisation. Additionally, hawker centre design and infrastructure are regularly refreshed to keep the environment conducive for hawkers and patrons. The Government funds such improvement work, and stall rentals are not raised. Hawkers are granted rental remission for the duration of work.
NEA also extends support to new hawkers as they build up their businesses. Currently, NEA runs an Incubation Stall Programme, where eligible aspiring hawkers run their businesses at pre-fitted stalls with reduced rental for 15 months. NEA-appointed operators of new hawker centres run similar programmes.
Collectively, these measures have contributed to keeping operating costs lower for our hawkers, compared to private establishments. In pricing their food, hawkers have to also consider the cost of their ingredients, other operating costs, market competition, and what patrons are willing to pay. These factors differ from hawker to hawker.
刘国辉
小贩中心司司长
国家环境局