181100Printing
印刷
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 printing of various materials on specific order, including books, magazines, calendars, greeting cards, and maps. It also includes the production of exercise books and name cards, as well as printing documents and metal plates, without engaging in the publishing of these items.
This classification includes
- albums, printing on specific order
- books, printing on specific order (without publishing)
- calendars, printing on specific order
- diaries, printing on specific order
- documents, printing on specific order
- exercise books, printing
- exercise books, printing on specific order
- greeting cards, printing on specific order
- magazines, printing on specific order (without publishing)
- maps, printing on specific order
- metal plates, printing on specific order
- name cards, printing on specific order
- newspaper printing (but without publishing)
- paper stationery, printing on specific order
- printing on glass on specific order
- printing on smart cards on specific order
- silkscreen printing on bakelite on specific order
- silkscreen printing on leather substitutes on specific order
- printing on solid articles n.e.c., on specific order
Classified elsewhere
These activities look similar but belong under different codes.
- publishing of newspaper or magazine with printing
- silk screen printing on textiles and wearing apparel
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
LowPrinting services are typically performed within Hong Kong and cater to local customers. Contracts for these services are often negotiated and concluded in Hong Kong, making it difficult to qualify for offshore treatment.
Business registration wording
Suggested business nature for this activity
English
PRINTING SERVICES FOR SPECIFIC ORDERS AND PRODUCTS
50/60 characters
Chinese 中文
特定訂單印刷服務
8/30 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 operate a printing business?
Yes, you may need specific licenses depending on the type of printing services offered.
What are the tax implications for printing services?
Printing services are subject to Hong Kong profits tax, as they are usually conducted within the territory.
Can I print materials for clients outside Hong Kong?
Yes, but the majority of your operations must remain within Hong Kong to comply with local regulations.
Incorporate in Hong Kong
Starting a printing 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