'Shenzhen Should Let Us Transport Empty Containers'

A group of cross-border truckers cried foul on Thursday, complaining that a new rule implemented by Shenzhen authorities has resulted in no work or income for them.

Under the policy that took effect in January, drivers would be suspended from work for 60 days if they are found to be transporting empty containers.

Shenzhen authorities did not give a reason for the new rule. Some see it as an attempt to prevent the spread of coronavirus, while other reports said it may have to do with the cross-border traffic situation.

The Container Transportation Employees General Union said that left about 200 truckers with no income since.

The union's head, Chan Dik-sau, added that some of them now have to pay rent to warehouses to store empty containers.

One of the affected drivers, surnamed Chan, who has been working in the industry for 18 years, criticised the new rule.

"They [The Shenzhen government] could suspend you from work right after they said so. They don't care about you... I feel helpless.

"I have no more income," he said.

The union also said the new rule has driven up the costs for local businesses, and could even lead to a drop in imports from the mainland.

Lawmaker Alice Mak of the Federation of Trade Unions has been helping the truckers.

"The measures are always introduced in a very short time. And very often, before a measure is introduced, they are not being consulted. They are just being notified and at short notice, so the drivers feel very helpless," she told RTHK's Natale Ching.

Mak said while she understands the need for mainland authorities to contain the virus, they should offer flexibility to the drivers so they can get back to work.