476100Retail sale of books, newspapers and stationery
書報及文具零售店
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 activity involves the retail sale of books, newspapers, and stationery items. It includes establishments such as bookstores, newspaper stands, and stationery stores that sell a variety of printed materials and office supplies directly to consumers.
This classification includes
- book stores
- books, newspapers and stationery stores
- newspaper stands
- stationery stores
- water colours, retail sale
Classified elsewhere
These activities look similar but belong under different codes.
- newspaper stands
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
LowThis activity is inherently tied to Hong Kong as it involves retail sales to local customers. Contracts are typically negotiated and concluded within Hong Kong, and the services are performed at physical locations in the city.
Business registration wording
Suggested business nature for this activity
English
RETAIL SALE OF BOOKS, NEWSPAPERS AND STATIONERY
47/60 characters
Chinese 中文
書報及文具零售
7/30 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 special license to sell books?
No special license is required to sell books in Hong Kong, but you must register your business.
Can I sell online and still be considered a local retailer?
Yes, selling online to local customers qualifies you as a local retailer.
What are the tax implications for my retail business?
Retail businesses in Hong Kong are subject to profits tax on income generated within the territory.
Incorporate in Hong Kong
Starting a retail sale of books, newspapers and stationery 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