563300Herb tea shops
涼茶鋪
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 establishments primarily engaged in retailing herbal teas and drinks. These shops may offer a variety of herbal infusions and related products, catering to consumers seeking alternative beverage options.
This classification includes
- herbal drinks shops
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.
Light Refreshment Restaurant Licence
Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD)
Required for premises selling light refreshments for consumption on the premises where only simple cooking processes are used and the food range is limited. Issued under the Food Business Regulation (Cap. 132X). A provisional licence option is available during the full licence application.
- 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
Offshore profits claim feasibility
LowHerb tea shops primarily serve local customers and are tied to physical premises in Hong Kong. Contracts for sales and services are typically negotiated and concluded within the region, making it difficult to qualify for offshore tax treatment.
Business registration wording
Suggested business nature for this activity
English
HERBAL DRINKS SHOP HERBAL TEA SERVICES
38/60 characters
Chinese 中文
涼茶鋪
3/30 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 herb tea shop?
Yes, you need to obtain a food business license from the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department.
What are the tax implications for my business?
Profits from your herb tea shop will be subject to Hong Kong profits tax, as the business is considered local.
Can I sell herbal drinks online?
Yes, you can sell online, but ensure compliance with local regulations regarding food safety and delivery.
Incorporate in Hong Kong
Starting a herb tea shops 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