Manufacturing Licence in Hong Kong
- a22162
- Apr 28
- 4 min read
Hong Kong Manufacturing Licenses Explained
Manufacturing Licence in Hong Kong
In Hong Kong, there isn't one single "manufacturing license" that covers all types of manufacturing activities. Instead, depending on
the specific goods being manufactured, different licenses or permits from various government departments might be required.
Here's a breakdown of some key areas and the associated licenses:
1. Food Manufacturing:
If you intend to prepare and/or manufacture food for sale for human consumption off the premises, you will likely need a Food Factory Licence issued by the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD).
This includes a wide range of activities such as preparing packaged foods, sauces, preserved foods, operating a takeaway food shop or catering service, roasting meat, and making confections.
Specific licenses are also required for milk factories, frozen confection factories, and bakeries.
To apply, you generally need to submit an application form (FEHB 94), a declaration on premises complying with government lease conditions (FEHB 192), and three copies of a scaled layout plan to the FEHD. An inspection of your premises will follow.
2. Manufacturing of Dutiable Commodities:
If you plan to manufacture alcoholic liquors, tobacco products, hydrocarbon oil, or methyl alcohol, you will need a Manufacturer's Licence from the Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department.
Applications should be made by a company registered with the Business Registration Office.
The applicant must be 18 years or older and a Hong Kong resident (or have a second responsible person who is).
Proof of the business address (landlord or tenancy agreement) is required.
3. Pharmaceutical Manufacturing:
Manufacturing pharmaceutical products requires a Licence for Manufacturer issued by the Pharmacy and Poisons Board of Hong Kong.
This covers the preparation of pharmaceutical products from raw materials to finished products, as well as secondary packaging activities like labeling and repackaging.
The manufacturing process must be supervised by a registered pharmacist or an approved person.
Separate licenses are needed for manufacturing dangerous drugs.
4. Manufacturing of Proprietary Chinese Medicines:
Manufacturing proprietary Chinese medicines requires a Manufacturer Licence in Proprietary Chinese Medicines issued by the Chinese Medicines Board.
5. Other Manufacturing Activities:
Depending on the specific industry, other licenses or permits might be necessary. For instance, manufacturing involving environmental impact might require permits from the Environmental Protection Department.
The Business Licence Information Service provided by the Trade and Industry Department can help you identify the specific licenses, permits, certificates, and approvals needed for your particular business operations in Hong Kong. You can access this service online and input details about your intended business activities.
General Information:
It's crucial to identify the specific type of manufacturing you will be undertaking to determine the correct licensing requirements.
Application processes generally involve submitting application forms, providing supporting documents (like business registration, premises plans, etc.), and paying the relevant fees.
Inspections of the manufacturing premises by the relevant government departments are often part of the approval process to ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards.
Licenses are usually valid for a specific period and require renewal.
To get precise information about the manufacturing license needed for your specific situation, it is recommended to use the Business Licence Information Service or directly contact the relevant government departments based on the type of goods you intend to manufacture.
How Bestar can Help
Manufacturing Licence in Hong Kong
Bestar plays a crucial role in helping you navigate the often complex process of obtaining a manufacturing license in Hong Kong. Our specialized knowledge and experience can save you time, reduce errors, and increase your chances of a successful application. Here's a breakdown of how Bestar can assist:
Understanding Requirements: Bestar possesses in-depth knowledge of the various manufacturing licenses available in Hong Kong (e.g., food factory license, pharmaceutical manufacturer license, etc.) and the specific requirements for each. We can help you identify the exact license(s) you need based on your manufacturing activities.
Navigating the Application Process: We are familiar with the application procedures, documentation needed, and the specific processes of different government departments (e.g., FEHD, Customs and Excise, Pharmacy and Poisons Board). We can guide you through each step, ensuring you don't miss any crucial details.
Preparing Documentation: Consultants can assist in preparing the necessary documents, such as business plans, factory layout plans, process flowcharts, and safety protocols, ensuring they meet the specific requirements of the licensing authority.
Liaising with Government Departments: Wey can act as a point of contact with the relevant government departments, handling inquiries, submitting applications, and following up on the progress. This can save you significant administrative burden.
Ensuring Compliance: We can advise you on the regulatory and compliance aspects related to your specific manufacturing activities, helping you set up your operations in accordance with Hong Kong laws and standards.
Risk Assessment and Mitigation: Bestar can help identify potential hurdles in the licensing process and develop strategies to mitigate these risks.
Facility Design and Layout: For many manufacturing licenses, especially those related to food or pharmaceuticals, detailed factory layout plans are required. Bestar can create plans that meet hygiene, safety, and operational efficiency standards mandated by the licensing authorities.
Compliance with Building Regulations: We ensure that your manufacturing facility complies with Hong Kong's building codes and regulations, which is often a prerequisite for obtaining a manufacturing license.
Understanding Legal Implications: Bestar can advise you on the legal implications of your manufacturing activities and the terms and conditions of the manufacturing license.
Contract Review: We can review contracts related to your manufacturing operations, such as leases, supplier agreements, and distribution agreements, ensuring they comply with Hong Kong law.
Financial Planning and Projections: Manufacturing license applications often require demonstrating financial viability. Bestar can help prepare financial projections, business plans, and other financial documents needed for the application.
Tax Compliance Advice: We can advise you on the tax implications of your manufacturing business in Hong Kong and ensure you are set up for tax compliance once licensed.
In summary, engaging the right professionals can significantly streamline the process of obtaining a manufacturing license in Hong Kong by providing:
Specialized knowledge and expertise.
Assistance with complex application procedures.
Accurate and compliant documentation.
Liaison with government authorities.
Guidance on regulatory compliance.
Mitigation of potential risks and delays.
By leveraging the skills of Bestar, you can navigate the intricacies of Hong Kong's manufacturing licensing landscape more effectively and efficiently, ultimately increasing your chances of a successful outcome. Remember to choose professionals with a proven track record and relevant experience in the specific type of manufacturing license you require.