Hong Kong Textbook Costs Surge as Government Rules Out Publishing Own Books
HK01 · 1 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
The escalating cost of textbooks in Hong Kong is placing significant financial strain on families as the 2026/27 academic year approaches. With average price increases of 3.6%, some Form One textbook packages now cost nearly HK$7,000. Meanwhile, the government has shown little inclination to restore the HK$2,500 student allowance discontinued in last year's budget, citing fiscal constraints, nor to publish its own textbooks despite calls from legislators. The problem is compounded by publishers bundling electronic activation codes with new physical books, effectively preventing students from using second-hand textbooks.
Key Points
- 2026/27 Form One textbook packages at three major secondary schools cost between HK$6,107.5 and HK$6,931, with overall average price increase of 3.6%
- Legislators Tam Chun-kwok, Tang Fei, and Chan Man-yi have petitioned for restoration of the HK$2,500 student allowance, but officials indicate the treasury lacks funds
- Publishers bundle one-time electronic activation codes (QR codes) with new books, forcing annual purchases even when using second-hand textbooks
- Education sector insiders proposed government-published textbooks as a cost solution, but authorities rejected the idea to protect publisher interests
- Legislator Lau Chi-pang supports government textbook publishing, comparing it to "writing a recipe but not cooking the meal"
Why It Matters
The convergence of expensive textbooks, unavailable subsidies, and restrictive digital activation systems threatens educational equity in Hong Kong. As school fees rise and essential learning materials remain unaffordable for many families, legislators and welfare advocates warn that disadvantaged children may lose opportunities for holistic development without government intervention .
The convergence of expensive textbooks, unavailable subsidies, and restrictive digital activation systems threatens educational equity in Hong Kong. As school fees rise and essential learning materials remain unaffordable for many families, legislators and welfare advocates warn that disadvantaged children may lose opportunities for holistic development without government intervention .