591100Motion picture, video and television programme production activities
電影、錄像及電視節目製作活動
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 encompasses the production of motion pictures, television programs, and video content. It includes various related services such as consulting for production, as well as the operation of film studios and the creation of advertising films.
This classification includes
- advertising film production
- film studios
- motion picture production
- movie taking
- television programme and motion picture production consultant
- television programme production
- video picture production
- video picture production consultant
- video taking
Classified elsewhere
These activities look similar but belong under different codes.
- post-production activities
- real time (i.e. simultaneous) closed captioning of live television performances of meetings, conferences
- television broadcasting
- video tapes, CDs and DVDs, recorded, rental
- video tapes, CDs and DVDs, retail sale
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
LowThis activity is typically tied to Hong Kong premises and customers. Most contracts are negotiated and concluded within Hong Kong, and services are often performed locally, making it difficult to qualify for offshore treatment.
Business registration wording
Suggested business nature for this activity
English
MOTION PICTURE AND VIDEO PRODUCTION ACTIVITIES
46/60 characters
Chinese 中文
電影錄像及電視節目製作
11/30 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 produce films in Hong Kong?
Yes, you may need a film production license depending on the nature of your project and its distribution.
What are the tax implications for film production companies?
Film production companies are subject to Hong Kong profits tax on income generated within the territory.
Can I hire foreign talent for my production?
Yes, you can hire foreign talent, but you may need to apply for work visas for them.
Incorporate in Hong Kong
Starting a motion picture, video and television programme production activities 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