Hong Kong Proposes 2 Paths to Regulate Internet Cafes Renting HK$200 Overnight Booths
Updated
Updated · South China Morning Post · May 25
Hong Kong Proposes 2 Paths to Regulate Internet Cafes Renting HK$200 Overnight Booths
1 articles · Updated · South China Morning Post · May 25
Hong Kong authorities are weighing two regulatory routes to bring internet cafes offering overnight stays under formal oversight, targeting venues that have expanded beyond hourly gaming into sleep pods.
HK$200-a-night private booths in Mong Kok come with gaming PCs, sofa beds, food, laundry and optional HK$9 showers, blurring the line between gaming venue and budget lodging.
Those operators risk breaching existing rules because any business letting customers stay overnight must hold a hotel or guest house licence.
The proposed shake-up comes as some in the sector argue regulation should be rethought to support Hong Kong's esports growth rather than simply treat the venues as illegal accommodation.
As Hong Kong targets the esports boom, will new regulations create a player's paradise or a compliance nightmare?
Are rules for 'emergency bunker' cafes a safety measure or another tool for surveillance in a tightening city?