301100Building of ships and floating structures
船舶及浮動結構體的製造
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 involves the construction of ships and floating structures, including various types of sea-going vessels such as fishing crafts, tugs, and oil rigs. It encompasses the manufacturing of these crafts primarily using metal frames.
This classification includes
- barges of metal frame, manufacturing
- fishing crafts of metal frame, manufacturing
- oil rigs, manufacturing
- sea going vessels, manufacturing
- tugs of metal frame, manufacturing
Classified elsewhere
These activities look similar but belong under different codes.
- inflatable boats and rafts, manufacturing
- interior installation of boats
- iron or steel anchors, manufacturing
- marine engines, manufacturing
- sails, manufacturing
- ship-breaking
- sonobuoys, manufacturing
- specialised repair and maintenance of ships and floating structures
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
MediumWhile shipbuilding can be conducted offshore, many contracts are negotiated and concluded in Hong Kong. Additionally, the manufacturing process often requires local resources and facilities, making it less likely to qualify for non-taxable treatment.
Business registration wording
Suggested business nature for this activity
English
MANUFACTURING OF SHIPS AND FLOATING STRUCTURES
46/60 characters
Chinese 中文
船舶及浮動結構體製造
10/30 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
What licenses are required for ship manufacturing?
You may need specific manufacturing licenses and permits related to safety and environmental regulations. Consult local authorities for detailed requirements.
Can I operate a shipbuilding business without a physical presence in HK?
Operating without a physical presence is challenging due to the need for local facilities and resources. Most activities require a local base.
How is tax applied to profits from ship manufacturing?
Profits from ship manufacturing are subject to Hong Kong's corporate tax. Offshore profits may be eligible for non-taxable treatment under certain conditions.
Incorporate in Hong Kong
Starting a building of ships and floating structures 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