What Is an Annual General Meeting (AGM) for a Hong Kong Company?

An Annual General Meeting (AGM) is a legally mandated meeting that gives shareholders the opportunity to review a company’s financial performance, discuss governance matters, and make key decisions. In Hong Kong, holding an AGM is an important part of maintaining compliance for private limited companies—especially those with multiple shareholders.

In this article, we explain what an AGM is, whether it’s mandatory, what must be discussed, and how to comply with Hong Kong’s legal requirements.

What Is an AGM?

An AGM is a yearly meeting where a company’s shareholders come together to:

• Approve audited financial statements

• Appoint or reappoint directors and auditors

• Declare dividends

• Discuss corporate governance issues

• Address shareholder concerns

It ensures transparency, accountability, and alignment between a company’s leadership and its shareholders.

Is an AGM Mandatory in Hong Kong?

Yes—but there are exceptions.

According to the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance (Cap. 622), private companies must hold their first AGM within 9 months after the end of their first financial year. Subsequent AGMs must be held within 9 months of the end of each financial year.

However, a private company may be exempt if:

• It is a single-member company

• All shareholders pass a written resolution to dispense with the AGM

• It sends audited financial statements and reports to shareholders in lieu of holding a meeting

These exemptions are common in closely held or small private companies.

Key AGM Requirements

If your company does hold AGMs, you must comply with the following:

• Notice: Send written notice to all shareholders at least 21 days before the meeting.

• Quorum: The company’s Articles of Association will typically define a quorum.

• Agenda: Include key matters such as approval of financials, appointment of auditors, and any resolutions to be passed.

• Filing: While you don’t file AGM minutes with the Companies Registry, they must be documented and maintained for inspection.

Failure to Hold an AGM

Not holding an AGM (when required) or failing to follow the proper procedure can result in:

• Penalties imposed by the Companies Registry

• Fines for responsible directors

• Legal challenges from shareholders

It is crucial for directors and company secretaries to monitor statutory deadlines.

Simplify AGM Compliance with Woodburn

Woodburn Accountants & Advisors helps companies in Hong Kong stay compliant with all statutory obligations, including the preparation, coordination, and documentation of Annual General Meetings.

We provide:

• Preparation of financial statements and board resolutions

• Corporate secretarial services

• Regulatory compliance checks

With Woodburn’s expertise, you can streamline corporate governance and focus on growing your business—without the administrative burden.

Get in touch with Woodburn today to ensure your AGM obligations are fully met and your company remains in good legal standing.

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Woodburn Accountants & Advisors is one of China and Hong Kong’s most trusted business setup advisory firms.

Woodburn Accountants & Advisors is specialized in inbound investment to China and Hong Kong. We focus on eliminating the complexities of corporate services and compliance administration. We help clients with services ranging from trademark registration and company incorporation to the full outsourcing solution for accounting, tax, and human resource services. Our advisory services can be tailor-made based on the companies’ objectives, goals and needs which vary depending on the stage they are at on their journey.

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