501100Ship agents and managers
船務代理及管理人
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 providing services related to the management and operation of sea-going vessels. It includes acting as agents for ship owners, managing crew logistics, handling freight, and facilitating port operations for vessels, particularly those operating between Hong Kong and the Pearl River Delta region.
This classification includes
- crew agents
- freight agent of sea-going vessels
- management agent of sea-going vessels
- port agent of sea-going vessels
- ship agent and manager of sea-going vessels
- ship agent and manager of vessels moving between Hong Kong and the ports in the Pearl River Delta region
- sub-agent for sea-going vessels
Classified elsewhere
These activities look similar but belong under different codes.
- operation of floating casinos
- restaurant and bar activities on board ships, when provided by separate units
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 ship agents and managers can operate internationally, many contracts are negotiated and concluded in Hong Kong. The nature of the services often requires a physical presence in Hong Kong, tying the activity to local operations.
Business registration wording
Suggested business nature for this activity
English
SHIP AGENTS AND MANAGERS OF SEA-GOING VESSELS
45/60 characters
Chinese 中文
船務代理及管理人
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
What licenses do I need to operate as a ship agent?
You may need a business registration certificate and specific licenses depending on the services offered. Consult local regulations for detailed requirements.
Are there any tax benefits for offshore operations?
Profits from activities conducted entirely outside Hong Kong may qualify for offshore tax treatment. However, local operations may incur tax obligations.
Can I act as a sub-agent for foreign vessels?
Yes, you can act as a sub-agent, but ensure compliance with local regulations and agreements with the primary agent.
Incorporate in Hong Kong
Starting a ship agents and managers 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