501200Local representative offices of overseas shipping companies
海外船公司駐港辦事處
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 operation of local representative offices established by overseas shipping companies, including ship agents, operators, and owners. These offices facilitate communication and coordination between the overseas entities and local markets, providing services related to shipping and logistics.
This classification includes
- local branch offices of overseas ship agents
- local branch offices of overseas ship operators
- local branch offices of overseas ship owners
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 some operations may be conducted offshore, representative offices typically engage with local clients and services in Hong Kong. Contracts are often negotiated within Hong Kong, making it challenging to qualify for offshore treatment.
Business registration wording
Suggested business nature for this activity
English
LOCAL REPRESENTATIVE OFFICES OF OVERSEAS SHIPPING COMPANIES
59/60 characters
Chinese 中文
海外船公司駐港辦事處
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 a representative office?
A representative office does not require a specific license but must register for business in Hong Kong.
Can a representative office conduct business transactions?
No, a representative office cannot engage in direct business transactions or generate profits.
How is tax treated for representative offices?
Representative offices are generally not subject to profits tax as they do not conduct business activities.
Incorporate in Hong Kong
Starting a local representative offices of overseas shipping companies 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