The Housing Authority will extend the extra rent-free scheme for conventional wet markets to include long-standing vacant shops for retail business.

The offer of an extra rent-free period depends on the vacancy period of the shops:

* two extra months for shops that have been vacant for two to three years;

* four extra months for shops that have been vacant from three to four years; and

* six extra months for shops that have been vacant for more than four years.

To deter abuse of the concession, the extra rent-free period will be granted in stages during the three-year  tenancy term:

* The two extra months' rent free will be granted in the 6th and 12th months of the tenancy.

* The six extra months' rent free will be granted in the 6th, 12th, 18th, 24th, 30th and 36th months of the tenancy.

The enhancement will be implemented in the upcoming open rental tendering invitation on March 9. Successful bidder/bidders for shop premises meeting the criteria will enjoy extra rent-free period.