501302Ship owners of sea-going vessels for freight transport
作貨運服務的遠洋輪船船東
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 owning and operating sea-going vessels specifically for the purpose of transporting freight. It includes chartering these vessels with crews to other operators on a full basis, as well as renting them out without crews on a bare vessel basis for freight transport.
This classification includes
- freight transport by own sea-going vessels
- chartering of own sea-going vessels with crews (i.e. on a full basis) to other operators for freight transport
- renting of own sea-going vessels without crews (i.e. on a bare vessel basis) to other operators for freight transport
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 freight transport can occur outside of Hong Kong, many contracts are often negotiated and concluded within the region. Additionally, the operational aspects may require a presence in Hong Kong, affecting the eligibility for offshore treatment.
Business registration wording
Suggested business nature for this activity
English
SHIP OWNERS OF SEA-GOING VESSELS FOR FREIGHT TRANSPORT
54/60 characters
Chinese 中文
作貨運服務的遠洋輪船船東
12/30 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 license to operate as a ship owner?
Yes, you must comply with local maritime regulations and obtain necessary licenses for operating sea-going vessels.
How is tax applied to freight transport income?
Income from freight transport may be subject to Hong Kong profits tax unless it qualifies for offshore treatment based on specific criteria.
What are the operational requirements for my vessels?
Your vessels must meet safety and regulatory standards set by the Hong Kong Marine Department and be properly registered.
Incorporate in Hong Kong
Starting a ship owners of sea-going vessels for freight transport 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