Do I need a licence to sell food in Hong Kong

Do I Need a Licence to Sell Food in Hong Kong

Yes. Selling food in Hong Kong requires a licence from the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD). A Business Registration Certificate from the Inland Revenue Department is not sufficient. Trading without the correct licence is an offence.

Hong Kong Food Business Licence

The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department issues licences for various food premises. Your required licence depends on how you prepare and serve food, and on your premises type. Common categories include a general restaurant licence, a light refreshment restaurant licence, a factory canteen licence, and a food factory licence. Each category imposes specific requirements for premises, equipment and hygiene that must be met before the licence is granted.

Food Factory Licence Hong Kong

You likely need a food factory licence if you manufacture, process or pack food for sale to other businesses rather than serving it directly to consumers. Central kitchens, food processing plants and bakeries supplying retailers or restaurants fall under this category. The FEHD will inspect your premises to confirm compliance with food safety and sanitation standards before it issues the licence.

Food Business Registration Hong Kong

Some lower-risk food operations can register with the FEHD instead of holding a full licence. Registration is simpler than a licence application, but the business must still meet hygiene and safety standards. The FEHD determines whether your activity qualifies for registration or requires a full licence. Registration does not replace the need for a Business Registration Certificate from the Inland Revenue Department.

Food and Environmental Hygiene Department Licence

The FEHD is the sole authority for food business licensing in Hong Kong. It processes applications, conducts inspections and enforces the Food Business Regulation (Cap. 132X). The department publishes detailed guidelines for each licence category on its website, covering required floor plans, equipment lists and sanitation procedures. Application forms and the list of supporting documents are available from the FEHD's licensing office.

Additional Permits and Licences

Your food business may need other permits. Selling liquor for consumption on the premises requires a licence from the Liquor Licensing Board. Importing or exporting food products may need a permit from the FEHD or the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department. Each regulated activity requires a separate licence; holding a food business licence does not automatically entitle you to sell alcohol or import goods.

Application Process

Submit your application to the FEHD with the required plans, specifications and supporting documents. The department will inspect the premises and may request modifications before approving the licence. Fees and processing times vary by licence category and are stated on the FEHD's application page. Check the current fees and expected processing time before you submit.

What to Do Next

Identify the correct licence category for your food business by reviewing the FEHD's guidelines. Prepare the premises to meet the hygiene and structural requirements for that category. Submit the application with all required documents and pay the fee. Do not begin trading until the FEHD has issued the licence or registration certificate. Operating without the required licence can result in prosecution, fines and closure.