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What Types of Industries Require Additional Licenses in Hong Kong?

Hong Kong is widely regarded as one of the most business-friendly jurisdictions in the world, with a fast and straightforward company formation process. However, while many businesses can operate under a basic Business Registration Certificate, certain industries require additional licenses or permits to comply with local laws and regulations.

In this guide, we’ll break down the key industries that require special licenses in Hong Kong, what those licenses cover, and how to obtain them.

Why Do Certain Industries Require Licensing?

Licensing is used by the Hong Kong government to:

  • Regulate sensitive sectors

  • Ensure consumer safety

  • Maintain public order

  • Enforce industry-specific standards

Failure to obtain the correct license can lead to fines, forced closure, or even imprisonment, so it’s crucial to get it right from the start.

Industries That Require Additional Licenses in Hong Kong

1. Food and Beverage Industry

Restaurants, cafes, bars, bakeries, and food stalls must obtain various licenses, including:

  • Restaurant Licence

  • Food Factory Licence

  • Liquor Licence

  • Import/Export Permits for Food Products

Regulatory bodies: Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD), Liquor Licensing Board

2. Education and Training Services

Businesses providing tutoring, language instruction, or vocational training may need:

  • Certificate of Registration of a School

  • Non-local Courses Registration (for overseas programs)

Regulatory body: Education Bureau

3. Financial Services

Any company offering asset management, securities trading, forex, or insurance services requires:

  • Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) License

  • Money Lenders License

  • Insurance Broker License

  • Trust or Company Service Provider (TCSP) License

Regulatory bodies: SFC, Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA), Insurance Authority, Companies Registry

4. Retail and Import/Export Businesses

Retailers dealing in certain goods need:

  • Import and Export Licenses (especially for controlled goods like pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and electronics)

  • Chinese Medicine Trader License

  • Pesticide Licence

Regulatory bodies: Trade and Industry Department, Customs and Excise Department

5. Logistics and Freight Forwarding

Companies engaged in shipping, courier, and warehousing may need:

  • Shipping Agent License

  • Warehouse Operator Permit

  • Air Cargo Agent Accreditation

Regulatory bodies: Civil Aviation Department, Transport Department

6. Beauty and Wellness

Businesses offering massage, skincare, or body treatments may require:

  • Massage Establishment Licence

  • Health and Beauty Salon Registration

Regulatory body: Hong Kong Police Force, FEHD

7. Real Estate and Property Management

Real estate agents and agencies must obtain:

  • Estate Agent’s Licence

  • Salesperson’s Licence

Regulatory body: Estate Agents Authority (EAA)

8. Employment and Recruitment Agencies

If your business facilitates job placements, you’ll need an:

  • Employment Agency Licence

Regulatory body: Labour Department

9. Telecommunications and Broadcasting

Businesses providing ISP services, online media, or broadcasting must secure:

  • Telecommunications Licence

  • Broadcasting Licence

Regulatory body: Office of the Communications Authority (OFCA)

10. Travel and Tourism

Tour operators and travel agencies require:

  • Travel Agent Licence

Regulatory body: Travel Industry Authority (TIA)

How to Know If Your Business Needs a License

Not all businesses need an additional license beyond the standard Business Registration Certificate. But if your business operates in any of the sectors listed above, you should:

  • Review Hong Kong government guidelines

  • Consult with a professional advisor

  • Submit applications well before you begin operations


Can Woodburn help you?

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.










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

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