Required Report: Required - Public Distribution Date: July 07, 2025

Report Number: HK2025-0029

Report Name: FAIRS Country Report Annual

Country: Hong Kong

Post: Hong Kong

Report Category: FAIRS Country Report

Prepared By: FAS Hong Kong Staff

Approved By: Garrett Mcdonald

Report Highlights:

This report provides guidelines on Hong Kong’s food import regulations. For the 2025 FAIRS report,
updates have been made to the following sections: Section III: Packaging and Container Regulations -
Update on implementation date of Producer Responsibility Scheme; Section IV: Food Additive
Regulations - Amended MRL on Preservatives in Food Regulations; Section V: Pesticides and other
Contaminants - Contaminants Control Regulations, Proposed amendment on the Food Adulteration
(Metallic Contamination) Regulations; Section VI: Other Requirements, Regulations, and Registration
Measures -Import protocol for raw meat and poultry; and reduction of duties on alcoholic beverages
above 30 percent alcohol by volume.

THIS REPORT CONTAINS ASSESSMENTS OF COMMODITY AND TRADE ISSUES MADE BY USDA STAFF AND NOT NECESSARILY
STATEMENTS OF OFFICIAL U.S. GOVERNMENT POLICY
DISCLAIMER:
This report was prepared by the Agricultural Trade Office (ATO) of the USDA/Foreign
Agricultural Service in Hong Kong for U.S. exporters of domestic food and agricultural products.
While every possible care was taken in the preparation of this report, information provided may
not be completely accurate either because policies have changed since its preparation, or because
clear and consistent information about these policies was not available. It is highly recommended
that U.S. exporters verify the full set of import requirements with their foreign customers, who are
normally best equipped to research such matters with local authorities, before any goods are
shipped. FINAL IMPORT APPROVAL OF ANY PRODUCT IS SUBJECT TO THE
IMPORTING REGION’S RULES AND REGULATIONS AS INTERPRETED BY BORDER
OFFICIALS AT THE TIME OF PRODUCT ENTRY.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Executive Summary .................................................................................................................................. 3
Section I: Food Laws ................................................................................................................................ 3
Public Health and Municipal Services Ordinance, Cap. 132 ................................................................ 3
Food Safety Ordinance, Cap 612 ............................................................................................................. 4
Competent Authority ................................................................................................................................ 4
Section II: Labeling Requirements.......................................................................................................... 4
General Requirements .............................................................................................................................. 4
Appropriate Language ............................................................................................................................. 7
Exemptions from Labeling Regulations.................................................................................................. 7
Labeling on Genetically Engineered Food Products ............................................................................. 7
Section V: Pesticides and other Contaminants .................................................................................... 12
Section VI: Other Requirements, Regulations, and Registration Measures ..................................... 14
Appendix I: Government Regulatory Key Agency Contacts .............................................................. 24
Appendix II: Other Import Specialist Technical Contacts ................................................................. 26

FAIRS Country Report Annual Page 2

Executive Summary

Country Overview
Hong Kong is a Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China with its Basic Law
(mini constitution) reflecting the “one country, two systems” concept. Apart from foreign affairs and
defense, Hong Kong maintains distinct social, economic, judicial, and political systems, and food and
agricultural import regulations that are separate from those of mainland China.

Hong Kong imports over 95 percent of its food supplies. The United States remains a key food supplier
for Hong Kong. In 2024, U.S. agricultural and related products accounted for 7 percent of Hong Kong’s
global food and agricultural imports, behind China (32 percent) and Australia (8 percent). The region
operates as a “free port,” and only applies duties to distilled spirits (liquor) with more than 30 percent
alcohol content, tobacco, hydrocarbon oils, and methyl alcohol. These agricultural related products are
taxed at the following rates:

Cigarettes per 1,000 sticks: HKD $3,306 ($245)

Cigars per kg: HKD $ 4,005 ($316)
Distilled Spirits (Liquor) with more than 30 percent alcohol by volume:
 initial value up to HKD $200 ($25.64) at 100 percent
 value above HKD $200 ($25.64) at 10 percent
(Note: Beer, wine, and liquor with less than 30 percent alcohol by volume is not taxed.

Hong Kong participates in international organizations and trade agreements under the name “Hong
Kong, China.” While a separate member of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the Asia-Pacific
Economic Cooperation (APEC), Hong Kong participates in Codex and the World Organization for
Animal Health (WOAH) as a member of China’s delegation. Hong Kong draws reference from Codex
and the WOAH in the context of food safety standards and animal health standards in setting, or in lieu
of, domestic regulations.

Section I: Food Laws

Hong Kong is an independent customs territory separate from China and maintains its own import
regulations.

Public Health and Municipal Services Ordinance, Cap. 132

In Hong Kong, food intended for sale must be fit for human consumption as defined under the legal
framework for food safety control in Part V of the Public Health and Municipal Services Ordinance,
Cap.132 and subsidiary legislation. The list of subsidiary legislation includes:

 Coloring Matter in Food Regulations

 Dried Milk Regulations
 Food Adulteration (Artificial Sweeteners) Regulations

FAIRS Country Report Annual Page 3

  Food Adulteration (Metallic Contamination) Regulations
 Food and Drugs (Composition and Labeling) Regulations
 Food Business Regulation
 Frozen Confections Regulation
 Harmful Substances in Food Regulations
 Imported Game, Meat, Poultry, and Eggs Regulations
 Milk Regulation
 Mineral Oil in Food Regulations
 Preservatives in Food Regulations
 Pesticide Residues in Food Regulations

Food Safety Ordinance, Cap 612

Pursuant to Food Safety Ordinance (Cap.612), Hong Kong instituted a registration program for food
importers and distributors and a requirement for traders to maintain business records to enhance food
traceability. This ordinance also empowers the authorities to tighten import controls on specific food
types, prohibit the import and supply of problem foods, and order the recall of foods, when necessary.

Competent Authority

Hong Kong’s Center for Food Safety (CFS), which operates under the Hong Kong Food and
Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD), is responsible for implementing territory-wide food safety
policies and enforcing food-related legislation. Importers are encouraged to obtain health certificates,
issued by food safety and health authorities of countries of origin, to certify imported food is fit for
human consumption.

The HKG has a vigorous food surveillance program. The CFS draws food samples at the point of entry
and at the retail level for bacteriological examination and chemical analyses. In 2024, CFS tested 66,900
samples with an overall satisfactory rate of 99.8 percent.
The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) is responsible for the prevention of
the introduction and spread of animal and plant diseases through enforcement of related animal and
plant regulations.

Section II: Labeling Requirements

General Requirements

The Food and Drug (Composition and Labeling) Regulations requires food manufacturers and packers
to label prepackaged food products in a prescribed, uniform, and legible manner. Prepackaged food
means any food packaged in such a way that the contents cannot be altered without opening or changing
the packaging containing food ready for presentation to the ultimate consumer or a catering
establishment as a single food item.

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Although Hong Kong imports a variety of prepackaged food products, the import volume may not be
sufficient to justify a distinct Hong Kong-specific label. As the CFS accepts stick-on labels, Hong Kong
importers attach a stick-on label to products after their arrival in Hong Kong.

The following information is required on the label of all prepackaged food except for ‘exempted items’
as provided in the Regulations.

Name of the Food

 Prepackaged food shall be legibly marked or labeled with its name or designation.

 The food name should not be false, misleading, or deceptive but should serve to make the nature
and type of food known to the purchasers.

 If any brand name, including any fancy name, or any trademark would be likely to mislead a
purchaser in any respect as to the nature of the food, such name or mark shall be immediately
followed by the word "Brand" or the letters "TM", as appropriate, printed in legible letters or
characters of not less than 3 mm in height.

 The name of the food shall include or be accompanied if the food name could mislead the
purchaser by omission of an indication. For example,

o a food is powdered or is in any other physical condition; or

o that a food has been dried, freeze-dried, frozen, concentrated or smoked, or has been
subjected to any other treatment.

List of Ingredients
 Preceded by an appropriate heading consisting of the words “ingredients,” “composition”,
“contents” or words of similar meaning, the ingredients should be listed in descending order of
weight or volume determined at the time of their use when the food was packaged.

 If a food consists of or contains any of the following substances, the name of the substance shall
be specified in the list of ingredients.

o cereals containing gluten, (namely wheat, rye, barley, oats, spelt or their hybridized
strains and their products);
o crustacean and crustacean products;
o eggs and egg products;
o fish and fish products;
o peanuts, soybeans, and their products;
o milk and milk products (including lactose); or
o tree nuts and nut products.

 An additive constituting one of the ingredients of prepackaged food shall be listed by both its
functional class and its specific name or its identification number under the International
Numbering System (INS) for Food Additives. The trade is also at liberty to use the prefix “E” or
“e” with the INS number as adopted by the European Union under the E-numbering system.

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  If a food consists of or contains sulphite in a concentration of 10 parts per million or more, the
functional class of the sulphite and its name shall be specified in the list of ingredients.

 If hydrogenated oils are contained in prepackaged foods, the list of ingredients must contain
reference to “hydrogenated oil;” or the name of the oil must be identified as “hydrogenated” on
the ingredient list. This requirement took effect on December 1, 2023. More details of the
amendment can be found on CFS website.

Indication of “best before” or “use by” date1

 Prepackaged food shall be legibly marked or labeled with the appropriate durability indication as
follows:

o A “best before” (in Chinese characters as well) date; and

o In the case of a prepackaged food which, from the microbiological point of view, is
highly perishable and is likely, after a short period, to constitute an immediate danger to
human health, a “use by” (also in Chinese characters) date.
 The words “use by” and “best before” in English lettering and Chinese characters should be
followed by the date up to which specific properties of the food can be retained, to indicate the
shelf life of the food. The “use by” or “best before” date should be shown either in Arabic
numerals or in both the English and Chinese languages. The day, month, and year can appear in
any order, but the exact sequence must be clearly declared in both Chinese and English. For
specific details refer to the Regulation.

 Deep-frozen food and any food with a shelf life of more than 18 months are also required to have
a “best before” date.

Statement of Special Conditions for Storage or Instruction for Use

 If special conditions are required for storage to retain the quality or special instructions are
needed for prepackaged food use, a statement should be legibly marked on the label.
Name and Address of Manufacturer or Packer
 Prepackaged food should be legibly marked or labeled with the full name and address of the
manufacturer or packer, except under the following situations:

o The package is marked with an indication of the country of origin and the name and
address of the distributor or brand owner in Hong Kong, and the address of the
manufacturer or packer of the food in its country of origin has been notified in writing to
the Director of FEHD.
o The package is marked or labeled with an indication of its country of origin and with a
code marking identifying the manufacturer or packer in that country and particulars of the

1
Under the Food and Drugs (Composition and Labeling) Regulations, it is an offense to sell any food after its “use by” date.
Furthermore, any person who, not being the food manufacturer or packer or without their written authorization, removes or
obliterates any particulars on the label required under these regulations also commits an offense.

FAIRS Country Report Annual Page 6

 code marking and of the manufacturer have been notified in writing to the Director of
FEHD.

Count, Weight, or Volume

 The food label should include the numerical count or net weight or net volume of the food. Units
of measurements allowed for labeling purposes include Metric, Imperial, and Chinese units.

Appropriate Language

The marking or labeling of prepackaged food can be in either the English or the Chinese language or in
both languages. If both languages are used in the labeling or marking of prepackaged food, the name of
the food, nutritional labeling, and the list of ingredients shall appear in both languages.

Exemptions from Labeling Regulations

The following food categories are exempt from the labeling regulation: individually wrapped
confectionery products and preserved fruits intended for sale as a single item, prepackaged foods for sale
at catering establishment for immediate consumption and wines, fruit wines, and other drinks with an
alcoholic strength by volume of 10 percent or more.

For alcoholic drinks with an alcoholic strength by volume of more than 1.2 percent but less than 10
percent, the durability period must be labeled on the drinks. Apart from this requirement, these
beverages are exempt from all other labeling requirements.

Labeling on Genetically Engineered Food Products

At present, the HKG does not have any regulations regarding the labeling of genetically engineered
(GE) food products. The HKG makes no distinction between conventional and GE foods in regulating
food safety.

The HKG’s position on GE food is to encourage the trade to practice voluntary labeling. The guidelines
for voluntary labeling were established in 2006 and are based on the following four principals:

 The labeling of GE food complies with existing food legislation.

 The threshold level applied in the guideline for labeling purpose is five percent, with respect to
an individual food ingredient.

 Additional declaration on the food label is recommended when significant modifications of the
food, e.g. composition, nutrition value, level of anti-nutritional factors, natural toxicant, presence
of allergen, intended use, introduction of an animal gene, etc., have taken place.

 Negative labeling is not recommended particularly for the use of the following terms:

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 o GE free;
o Free from GE ingredients, etc.

For products with negative labeling, the HKG may test the products for GE ingredients and zero
tolerance will be adopted for testing purposes. If products are found to have misleading labeling, a
retailer may be subject to prosecution under Section 61 – False Labeling and Advertisement of Food or
Drugs of Chapter 132 Public Health and Municipal Services Ordinance.

If the trade chooses to apply negative labeling, the government advises the use of less definite terms
such as “sourced from non-GE sources” (which contains less than five percent of GE content) and to
have documentation to substantiate such declaration. For more details on the voluntary labeling
guidelines and biotechnology in Hong Kong, please refer to GAIN Reports #HK6026 and the Annual
Biotechnology Gain Report, respectively.

Nutritional Labeling

Hong Kong requires nutritional labeling on all prepackaged food sold in Hong Kong which must include
energy plus seven nutrients, namely: protein, carbohydrate, fat, saturated fat, trans fat, sodium, and
sugars. Products selling less than 30,000 units a year may apply for a small volume exemption provided
that the products do not carry any nutritional claims. Traders applying for exemption must pay $44 per
product variety for the first year and $43 for annual renewal. On-line applications cost approximately
$10 or less.
The nutritional labeling regulation does not apply to formula and food intended for consumption by
children under the age of 36 months (see Nutritional Labeling section) and other food for special dietary
uses.

Hong Kong’s nutritional labeling regulation is unique; all imported foods making nutritional claims
from all sources must be re-labeled for the Hong Kong market. U.S. product labels may not satisfy the
Hong Kong nutritional labeling requirements due to different rounding practices, and recommendations
for daily consumption. However, the HKG accepts stick-on labels, and many importers are willing to
apply a new label on behalf of exporters.

Given below are some key areas for which U.S. labels must be examined for compliance with Hong
Kong’s nutrition labeling requirements:

 U.S. products carrying claims on vitamins and minerals must have claims in absolute value per
100 gram or per serving size for sale in Hong Kong. Hong Kong requires all claimed nutrients to
be labeled in absolute value.

 The United States and Hong Kong have set different conditions for making nutritional claims.
For example, Hong Kong’s standard for “low fat” is 3 gm per 100 gm of food, while the U.S.
standard is 3 gm per serving. Therefore, a “low fat” U.S. product may not be allowed to make a
low-fat claim in Hong Kong.

 The United States and Hong Kong have set different definitions of zero for various nutrients. For
example, Hong Kong’s zero definition of transfat is 0.3 gms/100 gms, while the U.S. standard is

FAIRS Country Report Annual Page 8

 0.5 gms/serving. Therefore, a “0 transfat” on the nutrition panel of a U.S. product may violate
Hong Kong’s nutrition regulation.

Hong Kong’s nutritional labeling regulation also covers nutrient function claims, which must fulfill the
following criteria:

 Based on scientific substantiation and scientific consensus;

 Contains information on the physiological role of the claimed nutrient; and
 Content of the claimed nutrients must meet the relevant condition of nutrient content claim for
“source”, if applicable.

For more information on the impact of Hong Kong’s nutritional labeling regulation, please see GAIN
Reports #HK7011, #HK8017. Details of the regulation are contained in the Hong Kong government
website on nutrition labeling.

Nutritional Labeling on Infant Formula, Follow-up Formula, and Prepackaged Foods for Infants
and Children under 36 months
In 2014, Hong Kong introduced an amendment to the Food and Drugs (Composition and Labeling)
Regulations to regulate the nutritional composition of infant formula and restrict labeling of infant
formula, follow-up formula, and prepackaged food for infants and children under the age of 36 months.
The amendment requires the labeling of energy value and 29 nutrients (1+29) for infant formula and the
labeling of energy value and 25 nutrients (1+25) for follow-up formula. These requirements are in-line
with Codex standards. Infant formulas and follow-up formulas refer to formula for infants up to and
including 12 months and for young children from six months to 36 months, respectively.

Fluoride is not a required nutrient for infant formula. If it is contained in infant formula at a level
exceeding 100 ug per 100 kcal or 24 ug per 100 kJ, equivalent to the Codex standard, a statement
relating to the risk of dental fluorosis is mandatory.

For prepackaged food for infants and young children, labeling energy value and four nutrients, namely
protein, fat, carbohydrates, and sodium (1+4), as well as vitamin A and vitamin D (if they are added to
the food), is mandatory. All prepackaged food (excluding infant formula or follow-up) for infants and
young children up to the age 36 months are covered by this regulation.

Unlike Codex, Hong Kong requires prepackaged food for infants and young children to be labeled with
sodium content to combat salt-induced high blood pressure among the population from an early age.
Formula for special medical purposes for infants and young children is exempt from the labeling
requirements because the standard composition requirements may not meet the specific needs of these
children. Moreover, the amendment exempts formula packed in a container which has a total surface
area of less than 250 cm2 and prepackaged food for infants and young children packed in a container
which has a total surface area of less than 100 cm2 from the nutritional labeling requirements.

The nutritional composition requirements are provided in Section VI. More details are available at the
CFS website.

FAIRS Country Report Annual Page 9

Labeling for Organic Products

Hong Kong does not have specific regulations for labeling organic products. The Hong Kong Organic
Center allows products to carry its organic logos provided that these can fulfill the Center’s certification
requirements. USDA organic labels are allowed in Hong Kong.

Labeling for Plant-Based Meat and Dairy Alternatives

The HKG does not have any specific labeling requirements for plant-based meat and dairy alternatives.
Currently, plant-based meats such as Impossible Foods and Beyond Meat are available in Hong Kong
and post is not aware of any obstacles in their entry to this market.

Labeling for Halal Foods

No requirements for Halal labeling. The Hong Kong Tourism Board is promoting the region as a
Muslim-friendly tourism destination, and is supporting a program focused on Halal certification for
F&B establishments.

Section III Packaging and Container Regulations

Hong Kong currently has no special requirements for packaging or containers. However, Hong Kong
apartments are generally small with very little storage space. Therefore, packaging tends to be smaller
than that in the United States. For example, the normal retail packaging for milk is 1 liter.

Packaging Sustainability Measures

The Hong Kong government (HKG) continues to develop waste management strategies and is
increasingly pushing local food industry to adopt sustainable and “eco-responsible” packaging,
including under a producer responsibility scheme (PRS). Elements of the PRS include the Producer
Responsibility Scheme on Glass Beverage Containers (GPRS) and the Producer Responsibility Scheme
on Plastics Beverage Containers (PRS) (see related GAIN report). The GPRS was fully implemented on
May 1, 2023. Under the GPRS, local manufacturers and importers of glass beverages containers are
expected to pay a levy at $0.13 per liter-volume to help fund the recycling schemes. There are also other
requirements to meet to get exemption under the scheme. Further details are available under the Hong
Kong’s Environmental Production Department website., The implementation of PRS on Plastic
Beverage Containers and Beverage Cartons is targeted for implementation in 2026.

For information, please refer to Gain Report: Update on Hong Kong Producer Responsibility Scheme
for Glass Beverage Containers

Section IV: Food Additive Regulations

According to the Food and Drugs (Composition and Labeling) Regulations (Regulation 2 –
Interpretation), food additives includes neither vitamins nor minerals used for enriching food nutrients,

FAIRS Country Report Annual Page 10

nor seasoning substances like salt, herbs, or spices. Food additives are not allowed in the following
circumstances:

 To disguise defective raw materials like those which are bad or rotten;
 To enhance the color, odor, and flavor or shelf life of food but consequently lead to substantial
damage or reduction of nutrients;
 To simplify or facilitate food processing where the desired effect can be obtained by proper
processing practices and good hygienic standards; and
 To use additives that are hazardous to health.

The following food regulations stipulate chemicals/additives that are allowed/not allowed in food:

 Coloring Matter in Food Regulations – Chapter 132 H

o Schedule 1 lists the Permitted Coloring Matter

 Food Adulteration (Artificial Sweeteners) Regulations – Chapter 132 U

o The Schedule lists the Permitted Artificial Sweeteners

 Food Adulteration (Metallic Contamination) Regulations – Chapter 132 V

o Part 2 of Schedule lists the Maximum Level of Metal in Food

Note: See below Contaminants Control Regulations section for information on proposed
amendments to this regulation.

 Food and Drugs (Composition and Labeling) Regulations – Chapter 132 W

o Schedule 1 Part III lists additives in milk, butter, and cream products

 Harmful Substances in Food Regulations – Chapter 132AF

o Schedule 1 lists the Maximum Concentration of Certain Substances Present in Specified
Foods
o Schedule 2 lists the Prohibited Substances

 Mineral Oil in Food Regulations – Chapter 132 AR

 Milk Regulation – Chapter 132 AQ

o Section 21 lists Certain Ingredients Not to be Used in the Reconstitution of Milk or Milk
Beverages

 Preservatives in Food Regulations – Chapter 132 BD

o The Preservatives Regulation establishes a positive list for these substances meaning that only
the preservatives or antioxidants listed in the regulation are allowed in foods. The
preservatives listed in Schedule 1 can only be used in the food categories specified within the
maximum permitted levels. Alternative forms in which the permitted food additive may be
used (to be calculated as the permitted food additive) are listed in Schedule 1A.

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 o On December 30, 2024, the HKG updated the list of permitted preservatives / antioxidants in
the “positive list;” and the maximum permitted levels (MPL) of the permitted preservatives
and antioxidants on. For details related to the amendment, please visit CFS website and see
GAIN Report HK2023-0023.

Food additives which fall within the functional use stipulated in the above-mentioned regulations are
governed by the respective regulations.

The CFS refers to the safety evaluation done by international food safety authorities, such as Codex and
the Joint Food and Agriculture Organization/World Health Organization Expert Committee on Food
Additives (JECFA), when considering whether to allow food additives, which do not fall within the
regulated category, to be added to foods.

The CFS advises food manufacturers to exercise due care in choosing food additives, and to add only the
right type and right amount of food additive which serves the desired technological function for the
food. Food additives should be used under conditions of good manufacturing practices (GMP) which
include limiting their use to the lowest possible levels necessary to accomplish the desired effect
(Chapter 132W Schedule 1 Part IA Good Manufacturing Practices).

Section V: Pesticides and other Contaminants

Pesticide Residues in Food Regulations – Chapter 132 CM

Hong Kong’s first Pesticide Residues in Food Regulation took effect August 1, 2014.

The Regulation specifies in Schedule 1 a list of maximum residue limits (MRLs) / extraneous maximum
residue limits (EMRLs) for certain pesticide-food pairs (i.e. the maximum concentration of specified
pesticide residues permitted in specified food commodities). Schedule 2 lists exempted substances.

The key points of the regulatory framework include:

 Adopting Codex’s definition of "pesticide" and other related terms.

 Adopting Codex’s classification of foods.
 Adopting a list of MRLs/ EMRLs for certain pesticide –food pairs based on Codex and
supplemented by standards of China, the United States, and Thailand.
 Adopting a “modified positive list approach,” i.e., pesticide residues found outside the list will be
prohibited unless the food safety authority is satisfied that the level of residue will not be
dangerous to health. The authority will conduct risk assessments to draw a final decision.
 Providing a list of exempted substances to allow the trade to use pesticides that are natural and
for which the residues are identical to, or indistinguishable from, natural food components.
 Providing regular updates on the lists of MRLs/EMRLs and exempted substances2.
 Allowing application for revising/adding MRLs and exempted substances.

2
The CFS has not updated the lists after the regulation became effective in 2014.

FAIRS Country Report Annual Page 12

In 2024, CFS recalled several U.S. canned pasta sauce products due to their use ethylene oxide (ETO).
Hong Kong does not recognize a tolerance for ETO in foods and prohibits the sale of any products
containing ETO for human consumption.

The CFS suggests that exporters propose new MRLs/EMRLs or exempted pesticides for inclusion in
Schedules 1 and 2 with supporting information if planning to supply food to Hong Kong containing
pesticides not on the list. The CFS will consider applications on a case-by-case basis, depending on the
latest international developments, consistency with the existing list, supporting documentation, and risk
assessment based on the local food consumption patterns. However, the Hong Kong MRLs/EMRLs lists
have not been updated since implementation in 2014.

More information on the Regulation, including Users’ guidelines and database are available at CFS’s
pesticide website.

Cadmium

In recent years, the HKG cited detections of U.S. produce samples collected during routine surveillance
containing cadmium at levels exceeding Hong Kong’s standard. Following the enactment of the
amended metallic contamination regulation in 2018 and full implementation by November 1, 2020,
Hong Kong changed the maximum residue level of cadmium in leafy vegetables from 0.1 ppm to 0.2
ppm, adhering to the Codex standard. The United States has no specific regulation regarding cadmium
residues in lettuce or other vegetables.

Contaminants Control Regulations

Food Adulteration (Metallic Contamination) Regulations – Chapter 132 V

Part 2 of the Regulation Schedule lists the Maximum Level of Metal in Food. Further details are
available at this webpage.

On December 16, 2024, the HKG notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) (G/SPS/N/HKG/50) on
proposed changes to Food Adulteration (Metallic Contamination) in Food Regulations. Comments to the
Centre for Food Safety (CFS) were due on or before February 16, 2025. The HKG has not provided a
date for implementation. Notable changes in the amended regulations include:

 Adding and updating the maximum levels (MLs) for lead, cadmium and methylmercury in
specified foods with reference to the latest Codex standards;
 Adding new MLs for methylmercury in fish and fish balls / fish cakes with reference to the latest
mainland China standards (GB 2762-2022 “Maximum levels of Contaminants in Foods”); and
 Adding and updating the MLs for lead and cadmium in specified foods with reference to the
latest standards of major importing places.

For additional information, please refer to GAIN Report HK2024-0064.

Harmful Substances in Food Regulations – Chapter 132AF

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The Regulation contains two schedules. Schedule 1 and Schedule 2 lists the Maximum Concentration of
Certain Substances Present in Specified Foods and the Prohibited Substances respectively.

The HKG amended the Regulation in 2021. The amendment included the following:

 Setting/revising maximum level (ML) of mycotoxins, namely, aflatoxins, deoxynivalenol, and

patulin in foods.
 Setting ML of benzo[a]pyrene and erucic acid in edible fats and oils.
 Setting ML of monochloropropane 1,2-diol in condiments.
 Setting ML of benzo[a]pyrene, glycidol ad melamine in infant formula.
 Banning partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs).

In addition, effective June 1, 2023, it is prohibited to import or sell any edible oil, fat and food
containing PHO whether it is prepackaged and non-prepackaged. Exemptions are given to foods
containing fully hydrogenated oil. Full implementation for the ban of PHO will take place on December
1, 2023. Traders exporting fully hydrogenated oil must comply with new labeling requirements. For the
details on this regulation, please access the following link.

Action Levels of Certain Chemicals

While there are no regulations setting the maximum residue level of certain chemicals, the CFS, through
administrative measures, has adopted an action level for the following chemicals in its food surveillance
program.

Chemicals Action Level

DEHP 1.5 ppm
DBP 0.3 ppm
DINP 9 ppm
B[a]P in cooking oil3 10 μg/kg
Ractopamine4 Referencing Codex standard
in various animal products 5
Dioxins 1 pg/g
Sum of dioxins and DL- 6.5 pg/g
PCBs in hairy crabs

Section VI: Other Requirements, Regulations, and Registration Measures

Since 2023, Hong Kong amended its import protocol for U.S. red meats and poultry, switching from a
systems-based approach to requiring plant-by-plant registration. U.S. federally approved establishments
that wish to export red meats and poultry to Hong Kong should follow the constituent update posted on
USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) website on April 26, 2024. Starting January 1,

3
The HKG has set the limit of B[a]P in edible oils to 5 ug/kg in the amendment of the Harmful Substances in Food
Regulations
4
Paylean was approved for use in swine feeds in 2007 in Hong Kong
5
10 ppb for meat products

FAIRS Country Report Annual Page 14

2025, only U.S. facilities that are registered under this new scheme will be allowed to export.
Discussions on the process for adding new establishments after January 1, 2025, are still ongoing.

In August 2023, in response to the Japanese Government's action in discharging treated waste water
from the Fukushima Nuclear Power Station, the CFS issued a Food Safety Order which prohibits all
aquatic products, sea salt, and seaweeds originating from 10 metropolis/prefectures, namely Tokyo,
Fukushima, Ibaraki, Miyagi, Chiba, Gunma, Tochigi, Niigata, Nagano and Saitama, from being
imported into and supplied in Hong Kong. Hong Kong has not placed any requirement for attestation of
radioactivity on any U.S. agriculture products.

The HKG conducts regular food surveillance at import, wholesale and retail levels. In 2024, about
66,900 samples were collected for microbiological and chemical tests. The overall satisfactory rate was
99.8 percent.

The Food Safety Ordinance (Cap.612) requires Hong Kong food importers and distributors to register
with the CFS of the FEHD and to comply with record-keeping requirements for the movement of food
products for product traceability purposes.

Certification/Permit Requirements

There are specific legal/administrative requirements regarding the importation of the following items
due to their perishable or high-risk nature –

 game, meat, and poultry (including eggs);

 exotic meats;
 milk and milk beverages;
 frozen confections;
 marine products;
 plants;
 live animals; and
 endangered species.
For samples of health certificates, exporters may read the ATO Hong Kong GAIN Report – FAIRS
Export Certificate Report Annual.

Imported Game, Meat, Poultry, and Eggs Regulations

The importation of frozen or chilled beef, mutton and pork, and poultry is subject to import licensing
control. Each consignment of these products is to be covered by one import license which is valid for six
weeks. The CFS of the FEHD is responsible for issuing import licenses for these foods.

The Imported Game, Meat, Poultry, and Eggs Regulations require meat, poultry, and egg products
imported to Hong Kong to have an official certificate issued by a competent authority recognized by the
FEHD. The Department recognizes the United States Department of Agriculture as a competent
authority.

In addition, Hong Kong importers are required to apply for a permit from the CFS in advance of the
importation of ground meats and eggs from the United States. Each permit allows multiple shipments
within one year for ground meats and six months for eggs.

FAIRS Country Report Annual Page 15

Import Protocol for Raw Meat and Poultry

Effective February 14, 2025, Hong Kong transitioned from a “systems-based” approach to recognizing
foreign meat and poultry establishments to an “establishment or plant-based” registration system. Under
the new import protocol, U.S. slaughtering, cutting, processing and cold storage facilities seeking to
export raw meat and poultry products to Hong Kong must be registered with CFS prior to export. U.S.
slaughtering, cutting, processing, and cold storage facilities are encouraged to review the CFS list of
U.S. establishments here to verify all company information is current and accurate prior to export.
Registration is only required for raw meat and poultry products. Cooked and further processed products
(ham, bacon, sausages, canned meat) are not subject to the new import protocol requirements.

For additional information on registering U.S establishments and verifying establishment eligibility,
exporters should consult the FSIS Export Library.

Exotic Meats
U.S. exporters are advised to contact the FSIS or ATO in Hong Kong to check if any trade protocol has
been established between the United States and HKG with regards to the export of a particular exotic
meat to Hong Kong.

Hong Kong’s CFS expects U.S. exporters to produce a health certificate issued by the USDA FSIS for
all U.S. exotic meat exports to Hong Kong. Additionally, U.S. exporters are advised to contact the U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service to obtain the scientific name of the animal. If the animal is an endangered
species, a Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES)
certificate is required for the importation and exportation of the product. In addition, the Hong Kong
importer must apply for an import license from the AFCD before the meat products of any endangered
species can be imported into Hong Kong.

If the animal is not an endangered species, the U.S. exporter is required to obtain a certificate from the
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service certifying the animals’ scientific name and its domesticated origin. This
certificate is necessary for the importation of all exotic meats into Hong Kong. U.S. exporters, however,
are strongly advised to enquire about the documentation requirements from the CFS on a case-by-case
basis.

Milk
The Milk Regulation requires any fluid milk or milk beverage (including cream) to be imported into
Hong Kong from a source of manufacture that has been approved by the CFS. Before importing these
food products into Hong Kong, importers need to provide the following information:
 The full name and address of the milk or milk beverage processing plant;
 The law of the country of origin governing the production of milk or milk beverages;
 Empty containers of the milk or milk beverage with labels;
 Information on the heat treatment method of the milk or milk beverage and facilities, including
production equipment and water supply, in the processing plant;
 A certificate from an appropriate authority in the country of origin for the purpose of -
o certifying the effectiveness and efficiency of the heat treatment method in pasteurizing or
sterilizing the milk or milk beverage and that the products have been handled, processed,
and packed under hygienic conditions; and

FAIRS Country Report Annual Page 16

 o showing the chemical and bacteriological quality of the products;
 A statement from the manufacturer confirming the approximate shelf life of the products.

After obtaining the approval, importers may import the milk or milk (beverages) products into Hong
Kong. Initially, an import permit is valid for six months, after four renewals, an import permit valid for
one year may be issued. When a milk or milk beverage consignment arrives, before its release, products
will be inspected and, if necessary, sampled by the CFS. Upon the Center’s satisfaction, a “release”
letter will be issued to the local importer. Each milk shipment must be accompanied by a health
certificate.

Hong Kong’s milk regulation allows two types of milk registration: pasteurized and sterilized milk.

Frozen Confection
The Frozen Confection Regulation requires any frozen confection to be imported into Hong Kong from
a source of manufacture approved the CFS. Prior to importing these food products into Hong Kong,
importers need to provide the following information:

 The full name and address of the frozen confection processing plant;
 The law of the country of origin governing the production of frozen confections;
 Empty containers or wrappers of the frozen confection with labels;
 Information on the heat treatment method of the frozen confection and facilities, including
production equipment and water supply, in the processing plant;
 A certificate from an appropriate authority in the country of origin for the purpose of -
o certifying the effectiveness and efficiency of the heat treatment method in sterilizing the
frozen - confection and that the products have been handled, processed, and packed under
hygienic conditions; and
o showing the chemical and bacteriological quality of the products;
 Details of ingredients, including coloring matter, stabilizers, sweetening agents, etc., and their
amount in the frozen confection.

After obtaining the approval, importers may import the frozen confections into Hong Kong. Initially, an
import permit is valid for six months, however, after four renewals, an import permit valid for one year
may be issued. When a frozen confection consignment arrives and before its release, the products will be
inspected and if necessary, sampled by the Center. Upon the satisfaction of the Department, a “release”
letter will be issued to the importer. Each frozen confection shipment must be accompanied by a health
certificate.

Marine Products
Presently, it is not mandatory for seafood products to be accompanied by a health certificate, but U.S.
exporters to Hong Kong usually supply health certificates to facilitate customs clearance, particularly for
seafood products which are to be consumed raw. However, the certificates submitted do not have a
standard attestation since the HKG has not established official health certification requirements for U.S.
seafood products. The HKG accepts seafood certificates issued by individual states or the National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

FAIRS Country Report Annual Page 17

When a consignment of seafood products arrives at entry points in Hong Kong, it may be subject to
inspection or sampling. If the importer concerned is not able to present health certificates during
inspection, the CFS may take consignment samples for examination before release.

Plants
The importation of plants to Hong Kong is subject to the Plant (Importation and Pest Control)
Ordinance, Cap. 207. Any plant imported into Hong Kong must be accompanied by a Plant Import
License issued by the AFCD and a valid Phytosanitary Certificate issued by the competent authority in
the country of its origin.

No Plant Import License or Phytosanitary Certificate will be required for import of the following items:

 Cut flowers;
 Fruits and vegetables for consumption;
 Grains, pulses, seeds, and spices for human or animal consumption or for industrial use;
 Timber and timber products including rattan and bamboo;
 Dried tobacco and manufactured articles incorporating dried leaves; or
 Plants produced in and imported from China;
o to avoid any unnecessary delay in customs clearance for plants, U.S. exporters are
advised to ask their Hong Kong importers to obtain a Plant Import License from the
AFCD prior to shipment of the plants. If the application is found to be in order, a Plant
Import License will normally be issued after two working days from receipt of the
application.

Live Animals
The relevant legislation covering the importation of live animals is as follows:

 Public Health (Animals and Birds) Ordinance and Subsidiary Regulations, Cap. 139
 Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Ordinance, Cap.169
 Rabies Ordinance, Cap. 421
 Protection of Endangered Animals and Plants Ordinance, Cap.586
 Public Health and Municipal Services Ordinance and Subsidiary Legislation, Cap.132

Importation of live animals and birds is regulated under the Public Health (Animals and Birds)
Regulations, Cap. 139 and the Rabies Ordinance, Cap. 421. Importers must apply for a permit from the
AFCD before importation. The importer must be a locally-based person or a company incorporated in
Hong Kong that is answerable to the laws of Hong Kong and shall take every precautionary measure to
ensure compliance with all permit terms. The permit is valid for three months and good for one
consignment. In addition to import permits, a valid veterinary health certificate issued by the Animal
and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) must accompany animals and birds imported to Hong
Kong.

The AFCD is the regulatory department. Its website provides import requirements for animals and birds,
including dogs, cats, breeding pigs, horses, birds, poultry, reptiles, etc.

Endangered Species

FAIRS Country Report Annual Page 18

The Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance, Cap. 586, is the local
legislation which gives effect to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild
Fauna and Flora (CITES) in Hong Kong. The control regime follows closely the requirements under
CITES.

CITES imposes different export and import controls according to the Appendices in which a species is
listed. In general, species listed in Appendix I require an export license and an import permit, while an
export license is adequate for species listed in Appendix II. No import permit is required for species
listed in Appendix II. The licensing system covered by the ordinance is based on consignment or
keeping premises rather than on individual species.

The salient points of the Protection of Endangered Species Animals and Plants Ordinance are as follows:

Appendix I Species
 The importation of Appendix I species requires a license issued in advance by the AFCD. Each
license is valid for one shipment at one time. Commercial trade in Appendix I species of wild
origin is not allowed and the AFCD will not issue a license. Appendix I animals bred in captivity
for commercial purposes from CITES-registered farms and Appendix I plants artificially
propagated for commercial purposes are treated as Appendix II specimens and, therefore, subject
to the same control as Appendix II specimens.

Appendix II Species
 The ordinance does not require an import license for the importation of species listed on CITES
Appendix II (Except for live species of wild origin). Export licenses issued by the exporting
country are still required.

 Different from CITES requirements, the importation to Hong Kong of live species of wild origin
from CITES Appendix II is required to have an import license in addition to an export license
issued by the exporting country.

 The commercial importation of both wild and cultivated ginseng requires an export license
issued by the exporting countries. Hong Kong traders do not need to apply for any import
licenses. Individuals bringing in ginseng for personal use, regardless of wild or cultivated, do not
need to produce an export license issued by the exporting country or import licenses issued by
the AFCD.

Appendix III Listed Species

 For Appendix III listed species, the importation to Hong Kong requires an export license issued
by exporting countries. The importation of an Appendix III species is required to have a valid
CITES export permit or a certificate of origin issued by the exporting country. Traders do not
need to apply for any import licenses from the HKG.

FAIRS Country Report Annual Page 19

Products Containing Living Modified Organisms

Importers are required to seek prior approval from the AFCD before the importation of products
containing “genetically modified organisms” (GMOs), which are intended to be released to the
environment, pursuant to the Genetically Modified Organisms (Control of Release) Ordinance and the
Genetically Modified Organisms (Documentation for Import and Export) Regulation. “GMOs” in the
Ordinance are referred to as “LMOs” or “living modified organisms”.

Moreover, there are documentation requirements for shipments containing GMOs. Shipments containing
GMOs for food or feed or for processing must be accompanied by documentation containing the
following information:

 If the identity of the GMO is known, the shipment contains such a GMO; if the identity of the
GMO is not known, the shipment may contain such a GMO;
 The GMO is not intended for release into the environment;
 The common name, scientific name and, where available, commercial name of the GMO;
 The Internet address of the Biosafety Clearing House registration;
 The transformation event code of the GMO or, where available, its unique identifier code; and
 The details of the importer or exporter (such as name, address, and contact information) for
further information.

There is no specific requirement regarding the form of documentation accompanying GMO shipments.
The use of a commercial invoice or other documents required by existing documentation systems is
sufficient.

Products containing GMO ingredients for release into the environment or for contained use are required
to provide different attestations on documents.

Detailed requirements pertaining to the Regulation are provided at AFCD’s website.

Alcoholic Beverages

Under the amended Dutiable Commodities Ordinance, Cap. 109, Hong Kong traders are not required to
apply for any licenses or permits for the import or export, manufacture, storage, or movement of
alcoholic drinks with an alcoholic strength of less than 30 percent by volume. For duty purposes, no
valuation of alcoholic beverages is required. However, there is licensing/permit control on liquors with
an alcoholic strength of more than 30 percent by volume measured at a temperature of 20 degree
Celsius.

To facilitate the customs clearance for wine and alcoholic beverages, traders are encouraged to provide a
clear description in the freight/shipping documents of the type of liquor and the alcoholic strength of the
respective consignment.

Brandy and whisky imported for sale in Hong Kong are required to provide a Certificate of Origin,
certifying the type, nature, quality, and age of the liquor. If the brandy or whisky is to be re-exported and

FAIRS Country Report Annual Page 20

is not intended to be consumed in Hong Kong, the HKG does not require a Certificate of Origin for its
importation.

Please see GAIN Report HK1810 for an overview of Hong Kong’s import regulations for alcoholic
beverages.

Duties on Alcoholic Beverages Greater than 30 Percent by Volume:

On October 16 the Hong Kong Government (HKG) announced a significant reduction in the duty on
imported alcoholic beverages with an alcohol content above 30 percent by volume. The new policy
reduces the duty from a flat 100 percent tax to a tiered duty in which the initial value up to HKD $200
($25.64) per liter remains at 100 percent, while the duty on value above HKD $200 ($25.64) per liter is
reduced to 10 percent.

For additional information, please see GAIN Report HK2024-0057.

Dietary Supplements, Health and Organic Foods

In Hong Kong, dietary supplements, foods with health claims on the label, and organic foods are subject
to the same food ordinance as conventional foods. Retailers are expected to provide truthful labeling as
regulated by Chapter 132 Section 61– False Labeling and Advertisement of Food or Drugs.

Dietary supplements and health foods should not include medicinal ingredients or risk being regarded as
pharmaceutical products. Pharmaceutical products are subject to registration under the Health
Department and are regulated by the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance. On the other hand, Chinese
medicine, some of which may be regarded as health food, is subject to the Chinese Medicine Ordinance.
The Undesirable Medical Advertisements Ordinance (Chapter 231) prohibits advertisements claiming
that a product has curative or preventive effects on any of the diseases listed in the schedule to the
Ordinance.

The Hong Kong Organic Center provides organic certification for local produce but Hong Kong does
not have a law regulating imported organic food products. USDA organic labeled products are allowed
to be sold in Hong Kong.

Food Products Containing Cannabidiol (CBD)

Hong Kong has placed new legislative controls on cannabidiol (CBD) on February 1, 2023. Under the
Dangerous Drugs Ordinance (DDO), CBD is classified as a dangerous substance prohibited for use,
content, and exchange or sale. Importation of products (including food or drinks) containing CBD will
also breach the law and treated as drug trafficking. Offenders will subject to a maximum penalty of life
imprisonment and a fine of $0.64 million. With the start of the new regulation, Hong Kong Customs
have taken actions related to drug trafficking activities in 2022 for CBD related products in the market
including CBD and tetrahydro-cannabinol (THC).

FAIRS Country Report Annual Page 21

For more information, please refer to GAIN report: Hong Kong Moves to Amend Legislation to Include
CBD as a Dangerous Drug

Section VII: Other Specific Standards

Nutritional Composition on Baby Formula

The Food and Drugs (Composition and Labeling) (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulation 2014 stipulates the
nutrition composition requirements for infant formula. Infant formula is required to contain energy and
33 nutrients (1+33) at levels and proportions according to Codex standards.

Taurine and decosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are not mandatory nutrients, but if added to formula, must be
within the maximum level and proportion, respectively, as stipulated in the amendment and in line with
Codex standards.

Formula for special medical purposes for infants is exempt from the composition requirements because
the standard composition requirements may not meet the specific needs of these children. Detailed
composition requirements are contained in the regulation.

Milk Products

Schedule 1 of the Milk Regulation (Chapter 132 AQ) specifies the heat treatment method for the
pasteurization and sterilization of milk products.

Furthermore, the composition of milk and milk products including butter, cheese, ghee, and ice cream is
specified in the Food and Drugs (Composition and Labeling) Regulations (Cap. 132W) Schedule 1, Part
II.

Halal Foods

No standard requirements.

Plant-based Meat and/or Dairy Alternatives

Plant-based meats and dairy alternatives are subject to conventional food regulations. Hong Kong does
not have any specific regulation for these products or for lab-grown food ingredients as well.
Composition Standard of Other Food Products

Hong Kong regulations set composition requirements for the following products, namely, margarine,
coffee, lard, vinegar, malt vinegar, honey, and baking powder. Requirements are contained in the Food
and Drugs (Composition and Labeling) Regulations (Cap. 132W) Schedule 1, Part I.

Section VIII: Geographical Indicators, Trademarks, Brand Names, and Intellectual Property
Rights

FAIRS Country Report Annual Page 22

The Intellectual Property Department has the responsibility to protect intellectual property in Hong
Kong. It provides trademark, patent, and designs registration. The Trademarks Ordinance stipulates the
registration procedure of trademarks and the range of signs that can be registered as marks. Also, the
ordinance allows parallel imports except when "the condition of the goods has been changed or impaired
after they have been put on the market, and the use of the registered trademark in relation to those goods
is detrimental to the distinctive character or repute of the trademark".

The government supports an online trademarks search facility that contains all registered trademarks and
trademark applications in force on the Hong Kong Register of Trademarks. The search facility is free.

Section IX: Import Procedures

Documents required to facilitate customs clearance are:

 Manifests provided by shippers;

 Import licenses or removal permits (if required, importers should apply licenses or permits in
advance);
 Other supporting documents such as bill of lading, airway bill, invoice, packing list, etc.

In addition, the CFS requires importers to provide an official health certificate for the importation of
meat and egg products, frozen confection, and milk products. When a consignment arrives and before its
release, the products will be inspected, and if necessary, sampled. Upon the satisfaction of the
Department, a “release” letter will be issued to the importer.

Re-export Procedure for Hemp Products

Based on the Dangerous Drug Ordinance, Hong Kong does not allow entry of hemp products, except for
authorized persons.

For re-export and transshipment of hemp products (including hemp seeds) via Hong Kong, U.S.
exporters need to provide an “Export Authorization” document which is required for the application of a
“Removal License” from the Hong Kong Department of Health. The “Removal License” should be
obtained prior to shipment arrival in Hong Kong. Only with a “Removal License”, hemp product
shipments will be allowed to continue their journey to destinations.

The “Export Authorization” is a letter or document stating that the United States government allows or
does not have any objection to having the named “dangerous drug” be exported out of the United
States. The document should include the following information.

 Product name;
 Quantity;
 Name of exporter and importer;
 Bill of lading information; and
 Export Authorization from the U.S. state agricultural department.

FAIRS Country Report Annual Page 23

Section X: Trade Facilitation

Hong Kong is efficient in customs clearance limiting unnecessary hurdles for food imports. The Hong
Kong Customs and Excise Department has implemented a number of trade facilitation measures. For
example, a system is in place to allow electronic submission of cargo manifests prior to the arrival of
shipments. Also, an e-channel is made available for sea freight forwarders to submit advance house bill
of lading (inbound/transshipment ocean mode consignments) information.

Additionally, the Hong Kong Customs administers a voluntary Authorized Economic Operator Program
(AEO) which is open to all stakeholders. Companies which have met pre-determined security standards
will be accredited as AEOs. All accredited AEOs are eligible to enjoy trade facilitation measures such as
reduced or prioritized Customs inspection.

For air cargoes, the Hong Kong International Airport can expedite clearance by providing integrated
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) linkage between the eight major air cargo operators and the Customs
& Excise Department. The EDI facilitates trade by allowing pre-arrival customs clearance, covering all
types of cargo; providing a “priority consignments” facility and enabling authorized service providers to
provide cross boundary bonded truck services to Mainland China.

The HKG is in the process of launching Trade Single Window (TSW) by which members of the trade
can lodge the relevant types of trade document round the clock and check the status of their applications
and the validity of the licenses or permits at any time via an online platform. It is to be implemented by
three phases. Hence, the HKG is willing to accept electronic certificates.
Currently, the AFCD has agreed to accept electronic certificates issued by the Animal and Health Plant
Inspection Service on day-old chicks and commercial (pet) turtles from the United States. They are open
to accept electronic certificates on other plants and animals on a case-by-base negotiation with APHIS.

FSIS' launch of electronic certificates for meat products via PHIS has not yet been extended to Hong
Kong. The Hong Kong Center for Food Safety has been very forthcoming about electronic certification.
It has already registered with PHIS waiting for FSIS to extend electronic certification for meat products
to Hong Kong.

Appendix I: Government Regulatory Key Agency Contacts

 Department to implement food safety control policy

The Center for Food Safety

Food & Environmental Hygiene Department
43/F., Queensway Govt Offices
66 Queensway
Hong Kong
Tel: 852-2868-0000
Fax: 852-2834-8467

FAIRS Country Report Annual Page 24

Website: http://www.fehd.gov.hk
E-mail: [email protected]

 Department to control the importation of plants and live animals

Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department

5-8/F., Cheung Sha Wan Govt Offices
303, Cheung Sha Wan Rd
Kowloon, Hong Kong
Tel: 852-2708-8885
Fax: 852-2311-3731
Website: https://www.afcd.gov.hk/english/index.htmlError! Hyperlink reference not valid.
E-mail: [email protected]

 Department to register health foods containing medicinal ingredients

Department of Health
Pharmaceuticals Registration
Import & Export Control Section
18th Floor, Wu Chung House
213 Queen’s Road East, Wanchai
Hong Kong
Tel: 852-2961-8754
Fax: 852-2834-5117
Website: http://www.dh.gov.hk/english/main/main_ps/main_ps.html

 Department to issue licenses for imported dutiable commodities

Hong Kong Customs & Excise Department

Office of Dutiable Commodities Administration
6-9th floors, Harbor Building
38 Pier Road
Central
Hong Kong
Tel: 852-2815-7711
Fax: 852-2581-0218
Website: http://www.info.gov.hk/customs
Email: [email protected]

 Department for Trademark Registration

Intellectual Property Department

Trademarks Registry

FAIRS Country Report Annual Page 25

24th and 25th Floors, Wu Chung House
213 Queen’s Road East
Wan Chai
Hong Kong
Tel: 852-2803-5860
Fax: 852-2838-6082
Website: https://www.ipd.gov.hk/en/home/index.html

 World Trade Organization (WTO) Enquiry Point

Trade & Industry Department

Regional Cooperation Division
18/F., Trade Department Tower
700 Nathan Road
Kowloon, Hong Kong
Tel: 852-2392-2922
Fax: 852-2398-3747
Website: https://www.tid.gov.hk/eindex.html
E-mail: [email protected]

Appendix II: Other Import Specialist Technical Contacts

Agricultural Trade Office

U.S. Consulate General
18th Floor, St. John’s Building
33 Garden Road, Hong Kong
Tel: (852) 2841-2350
Fax: (852) 2845-0943
E-Mail: [email protected]
Website: https://www.atohongkong.com.hk/

FAIRS Country Report Annual Page 26

Attachments:

No Attachments

FAIRS Country Report Annual Page 27