HSICDATA
HSIC V2.0Subclass

472299Retail sale of beverages (incl. alcoholic and non-alcoholic)

飲品(包括酒類及非酒類)零售店

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 subclass covers the retail sale of a variety of beverages, including both alcoholic drinks such as beer, wine, and spirits, as well as non-alcoholic options like soft drinks, juices, and bottled water. Retailers in this category may operate in various formats, including specialized beverage shops and general retail outlets.

This classification includes

  • Retail sale of beverages (with about equal halves of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic)

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

Low

This activity is inherently tied to Hong Kong as it involves retail operations within the region. Most contracts are negotiated and concluded with local customers, making it difficult to qualify for offshore treatment. The nature of retail requires a physical presence in Hong Kong.

Business registration wording

Suggested business nature for this activity

English

RETAIL SALE OF BEVERAGES

24/60 characters

Chinese 中文

飲品零售

4/30 characters

Test your own wording in the checker

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 calendar

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a license to sell alcohol?

Yes, you need a liquor license to sell alcoholic beverages in Hong Kong.

What are the tax implications for my business?

Retail businesses in Hong Kong are subject to profits tax on income generated within the region.

Can I operate this business online?

Yes, you can operate an online retail store, but you still need to comply with local regulations.

Incorporate in Hong Kong

Starting a retail sale of beverages (incl. alcoholic and non-alcoholic) 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