HSICDATA
HSIC V2.0Subclass

639100News agency activities

新聞通訊社活動

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 involves the collection, production, and distribution of news and information to various media outlets, including newspapers, television, and radio. News agencies serve as intermediaries that gather news from multiple sources and provide it to clients, ensuring timely and accurate reporting.

This classification includes

  • news agency

Classified elsewhere

These activities look similar but belong under different codes.

  • independent journalists
  • independent photojournalists

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

Low

News agency activities are typically tied to local premises and require interaction with Hong Kong customers. Contracts for news services are often negotiated and executed within Hong Kong, making it difficult to qualify for offshore treatment.

Business registration wording

Suggested business nature for this activity

English

NEWS AGENCY ACTIVITIES INCLUDING NEWS REPORTING

47/60 characters

Chinese 中文

新聞通訊社活動

7/30 characters

Test your own wording in the checker

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 calendar

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a license for a news agency?

Yes, operating a news agency in Hong Kong may require specific licenses depending on the services offered.

What are the tax implications for news agencies?

News agencies are subject to Hong Kong profits tax on income generated within the territory.

Can I operate a news agency remotely?

While some activities can be managed remotely, local presence is often necessary for effective operations and compliance.

Incorporate in Hong Kong

Starting a news agency 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