031000Fishing
捕魚
Why 6 digits?
HSIC subclasses are 6 digits. The first four match the international ISIC class; Hong Kong adds a two-digit local suffix for finer detail, especially across its import and export trade, so a code steps from a 4-digit class straight to a 6-digit subclass. More on the HSIC structure.
This activity encompasses the commercial catching of fish in ocean, coastal, river, and inland waters. It includes the processing and preservation of fish, as well as the gathering of natural resources such as pearls, coral, algae, marine crustaceans, and molluscs.
This classification includes
- activities of vessels engaged both in fishing, and in processing and preserving of fish
- fishing on a commercial basis in ocean and coastal waters
- fishing on a commercial basis in rivers and inland waters
- gathering of natural pearls, coral and algae
- taking of marine crustaceans and molluscs
Classified elsewhere
These activities look similar but belong under different codes.
- fishing inspection, protection and patrol services
- processing of fish, crustaceans and molluscs on factory ships or in factories ashore
Licences and approvals
What this activity needs to operate
No sector-specific licence applies to this activity. It can be set up as a standard Hong Kong company without extra regulatory approvals. Premises-based or product-based permits can still apply case by case; Emerhub confirms the exact position during scoping.
Offshore profits claim feasibility
MediumFishing activities are typically conducted in ocean and coastal waters, which may allow for offshore operations. However, the processing and preserving of fish often require facilities and operations based in Hong Kong, limiting the potential for non-taxable treatment.
Business registration wording
Suggested business nature for this activity
English
FISHING AND FISH PROCESSING AND PRESERVING SERVICES
51/60 characters
Chinese 中文
捕魚及魚類加工保存
9/30 characters
Standard compliance
Compliance every Hong Kong company shares
Beyond anything specific to this activity, every Hong Kong company handles two-tiered profits tax, the annual return (Form NAR1) within 42 days of its incorporation anniversary, audited accounts, MPF enrolment for staff, and a company secretary. Emerhub runs all of it on your behalf.
See the full Hong Kong compliance calendarFrequently asked questions
Do I need a license to fish commercially?
Yes, a fishing license is required for commercial fishing activities in Hong Kong waters.
What are the tax implications for fishing businesses?
Fishing businesses may be subject to profits tax in Hong Kong unless they qualify for offshore treatment.
Can I process fish outside of Hong Kong?
Yes, fish can be processed outside Hong Kong, but ensure compliance with local regulations where processing occurs.
Incorporate in Hong Kong
Starting a fishing business in Hong Kong?
Emerhub incorporates your company, registers the business nature above with the IRD, files every licence application, and runs your company secretary and compliance calendar. You provide the documents; Emerhub handles every government interaction.
Start incorporation with Emerhub