561101Hong Kong style tea cafes
港式茶餐廳
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 covers establishments primarily engaged in serving Hong Kong style tea and related beverages, often accompanied by light snacks or meals. These cafes typically offer a unique dining experience that reflects local culture and culinary traditions.
This classification includes
- Hong Kong style tea cafes
Licences and approvals
What this activity needs to operate
Activities under this code trigger the following licensing regimes. Emerhub prepares and files each application on your behalf.
General Restaurant Licence
Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD)
Required for any premises selling meals or unbottled non-alcoholic drinks for consumption on the premises, with no restriction on cooking methods or food types. Issued under the Food Business Regulation (Cap. 132X). Applicants may obtain a provisional licence while working toward the full licence.
- Processing time
- FEHD performance targets: Application Vetting Panel meeting within 20 working days of acceptance of the application; letter of requirements issued and final verification inspection within 8 working days of notification of compliance; provisional licence issued over the counter within 1 working day when all essential requirements are met
Official sourceVerified 2026-07-14
Liquor Licence
Liquor Licensing Board (executive and secretarial support provided by the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department)
Required by any person selling or supplying liquor for consumption on the premises, under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance (Cap. 109) and Dutiable Commodities (Liquor) Regulations (Cap. 109B). The Liquor Licensing Board is an independent statutory body that considers applications, generally for premises holding or applying for a restaurant licence. A liquor licence is issued only once the premises hold a full or provisional restaurant licence, or a Certificate of Compliance for club liquor licences.
Required in addition to the restaurant licence where liquor is served
- Processing time
- About 8 weeks for non-contested applications and about 10 weeks for contested or contentious applications, per the Liquor Licensing Board application guide flow chart
Official sourceVerified 2026-07-14
Offshore profits claim feasibility
LowHong Kong style tea cafes primarily serve local customers and are deeply tied to the local dining culture. The services are performed within Hong Kong premises, making it unlikely for profits to qualify for offshore treatment.
Business registration wording
Suggested business nature for this activity
English
HONG KONG STYLE TEA CAFES AND CATERING SERVICES
47/60 characters
Chinese 中文
港式茶餐廳及餐飲服務
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
Do I need a license to operate a tea cafe?
Yes, you need a food business license from the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department.
What are the tax obligations for my cafe?
You will be subject to profits tax on income generated within Hong Kong.
Can I offer delivery services?
Yes, you can offer delivery services, but ensure compliance with local food safety regulations.
Incorporate in Hong Kong
Starting a hong kong style tea cafes 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