G/LIC/N/3/HKG/23  
 
8 October  2019 
(19-6493) Page: 1/32 
Committee on Import Licensing  Original: English  
 
 REPLIES TO QUESTIONN AIRE ON IMPORT LICEN SING PROCEDURES  
 
NOTIFICATION UNDER A RTICLE 7.3 OF THE AG REEMENT ON  
IMPORT LICENSING PRO CEDURES (201 9)1 
 HONG KONG, CHINA 
The following communication2, dated 27 September 201 9, is being circulated at the request of the 
delegation of Hong Kong, China.  
 
_______________  
 
 
In accordance with Article 7.3 of the WTO Agreement on Import Licensing Procedures, 
Hong Kong,  China submits herewith its reply to the Annual Questionnaire.  
 
____ ___________  
 
 
Table of contents  
1   TRADE AND INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT  ................................ ................................ .........  2 
1.1   Strategic commodities  ................................ ................................ ................................ . 2 
1.2   Rice, rough diamonds, pesticides, and ozone depleting substances  ................................ ... 5 
2   DEPARTMENT OF HEALT H ................................ ................................ ...........................  9 
2.1   Pharmaceutical products and medicines, proprietary Chinese medicines and 36  Chinese 
herbal medicines, and radioactive substances and irradiating apparatus  ................................ ... 9 
3   CUSTOMS AND EXCISE DEPARTMENT  ................................ ................................ ....... 12 
3.1   Dutiable commodities  ................................ ................................ ................................  12 
3.2   Controlled chemicals  ................................ ................................ ................................ . 14 
3.3   Optical disc mastering and replication equipment  ................................ .........................  15 
4   CIVIL ENGINEERING A ND DEVELOPMENT DEPAR TMENT  ................................ ..........  17 
4.1   Sand ................................ ................................ ................................ .......................  17 
5   AGRICULTURE, FISHER IES AND CONSERVATION  DEPARTMENT  ...............................  18 
5.1   Plants, plant pests and soil  ................................ ................................ ........................  18 
5.2   Endangered species of animals and plants  ................................ ................................ ... 20 
5.3   Live animals  ................................ ................................ ................................ ............  21 
5.4   Pesticides  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................  23 
                                                
1 See document G/LIC/3, Annex, for the Questionnaire.  
2 This notification replaces the notification circulated in document G/LIC/N/3/HKG/ 22 dated 4 October 
2018.  The application forms can be viewed/downloaded from the webpages specified.  G/LIC/N/3/HKG/23  
 
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  6   ENVIRONMENTAL PROTE CTION DEPARTMENT  ................................ .........................  25 
6.1   Waste  ................................ ................................ ................................ .....................  25 
6.2   Non-pesticide ha zardous chemicals  ................................ ................................ .............  27 
7   FOOD AND ENVIRONMEN TAL HYGIENE DEPARTME NT ................................ ..............  30 
7.1   Frozen or chilled meat and poultry  ................................ ................................ ..............  30 
 
_______________  
 
 
1  TRADE AND INDUSTRY D EPARTMENT  
1.1  Strategic commodities  
Outline of Systems  
1. The import licensing system for strategic commodities is administered by the Trade and Industry 
Department. Certain strategic commodities , such as arms and ammunition, explosives and radio 
transmitting equipment , are also subject to other controls administered by other government 
departm ents. 
 
Purposes and Coverage of Licensing  
2. Import licences are required for strategic commodities , covering  certain arms and ammunition, 
explosives, nuclear materials, facilities and equipment,  body armours, carbon fibres and prepregs, 
high-speed digital  computers, microprocessors made from compound semiconductors, sophisticated 
communication system s, encryption equipment for information security, night vision image 
intensifier systems, chemical weapon precursors and manufacturing facilities, certain biol ogical 
agents, plant pathogens and related manufacturing equipment, and facilities and articles for a use 
relating to nuclear, chemical or biological weapons.  
 
3. The import licensing system applies to goods originating in and coming from all places.  
 
4. The import licensing system is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports.  Instead, 
it seeks  to prevent the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region ( HKSAR ) from being used as a 
conduit for proliferation of weapons of mass destruction  and to ensure HKSAR's continuous access 
to technology and high -tech products.  
 
5. The import licensing system is a statutory requirement maintained under  the Import and Export 
Ordinance (Cap. 60) and the Import and Export (Strategic Commodities) Regulations (Cap.  60G).  
Certain strategic commodities are also subject to the controls of other Ordinances  as set out below : 
 
Products  Relevant Ordinances  
(a) Radio transmitting equipment   Sections 8 and 9 of the Telecommunications 
Ordinance (Cap. 106) 
(b) Arms, ammunition and explosives  Arms and ammunition are controlled under 
Firearms and Ammunition Ordinance (Cap. 238 ) 
and explosives are controlled under Dangerous 
Goods Ordinance (Cap. 2 95) 
 
Legislation does not leave designation of products to be subject to licensing to administrative 
discretion.  Any changes to the import licensing system require legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable  as the import licensing system is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of 
imports . G/LIC/N/3/HKG/23  
 
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  7.(a) Licence applications should be lodged in advance of importation taking into account the 
processing time required by the Trade and Industry Department, which is normally  2.5 clear 
working days for import licence applications covering strategic commodities, and the 
processing time of other  departments  is as follows : 
 
 (i) Hong Kong Police Force (for arms and ammunition): normally 2 working days (by hand) 
or 9 working days (by post) for a Limited Licence for Possession ; 24 working days for 
an Exemption or a Licence for Possession;  and 6 to 12 months  for the Arms Dealer's 
Licence,  provided that full details are given by the applicant.   
 (ii) Office of the Communications Authority (for radio transmitting equipment): 
within  4 working days for Radio Dealers Licence and 1 clear working day for Import 
Permit.  
 (iii) Marine Departm ent (for direct transhipment of explosives in vessels): 48 hours before 
arrival of the goods.  
 (iv) Civil Engineering and Development Department (for approving the explosives for use in 
HKSAR ): written approval will be issued to the applicant within 7 work ing days when all 
the information/documents required are provided and found to be satisfactory.  
 
(b) Requests for expeditious processing of import licence application will be entertained when 
there are sufficient justifications.  For strategic commodities imported without a licence owing 
to unfor eseen circumstances, based on the merit of individual cases, consideration will be 
given to issuing an import licence retrospectively on an exceptional basis.  
 
(c) There is no limitation as to the period of the year  during which applications for licence and/or 
importation may be made.  
 
(d) Trade and Industry Department is responsible for the processing and approval of import 
licence for strategic commodities .  For applications concerning arms, ammunition, explosives 
and radio transmitting equipment, the importer has to separately approach the relevant 
government departments in paragraph 1.1.7(a) above for endorsement on import or 
legitimate possession of the subject products.  
 
8. Applications for import of strategic commodities for legitimate use would normally be approved, 
unless there is doubt on the end -use of the goods or there is suspicion that the items imported may 
be re -exported illegally. Import licence applications may also be refused in cases where an 
international trade sanction on the exporting country / place  is in force.  Reasons for refusal will be 
given to the applicant . The applicant has a right to appeal to the Chief Executive of the HKSAR by 
writing to the Chief Secretary for Administration. The righ t to appeal to the Chief Executive is 
statutorily provided.  
 
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence  
9. All firms , institutions and individuals in HKSAR  are eligible to apply for import licences except 
under special circumstances where licensing faci lities to them are denied owing to malpractice of the 
firm/institution /individual  or some other special reasons.   
 
For the purpose of maintaining interference control, any person who imports or exports radio 
transmitting equipment (except equipment which is article in transit or transhipment cargo3) is 
required to obtain a permit from  the Office of the Communications Authority unless he is a holder of 
a "Radio Dealers Licence (Unrestricted) " issued by the Communications Authority to deal in the 
course of trade or business in radio transmitting apparatus.  The fee for issuance of a permit  is 
HK$150.  The annual licence fee for a Radio Dealers Licence (Unrestricted) is HK$1,500.   
 
For arms  and ammunition, all firms, institutions and individuals must obtain an Arms Dealer's Licence  
or a Licence for Possession before applying for  a Limited Li cence for Possession  from the Hong Kong 
Police Force  and an import licence from the Trade and Industry Department.   The prescribed fee for 
a Limited Licence for Possession is HK$ 160; Licence for Possession is HK$2,730; and a n Arms  
Dealer's Licence is from HK$6,010  to HK$ 14,150 . 
                                                
3 Radio transmitting equipment in transit is exempted from the licensing requirement.  In addition, radio 
transmitting equipment which is transhipment cargo is subject to a pre -notification system for trade facilitation 
purpose.  G/LIC/N/3/HKG/23  
 
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  Civil Engineering and Development Department will only include the explosives which are suitable 
for use in HKSAR  into the "List of Approved Explosives for Use in Hong Kong " (the List4). For 
explosives which are not on the List, t he importer must first apply to the Civil Engineering and 
Development Department and get the explosives included on the List  before importing them.  
 
Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence  
10. The import licence application form for strategic commodities  can be viewed at 
https://www.stc.tid.gov.hk/english/download/files/il_paper_form.pdf . Catalogues/technical 
specifications of the products under application have to be lodged with the application for technical 
assessment purpose.  As the case warrants, additional supporting documents/information may be 
required to substantiate the case.  
 
For arms and ammunition, application forms for a Licence for Possession, a Limited Licence for 
Possession, an Exemption and an Arms Dealer's Licence mentioned in paragraph  1.1.7(a)(i) can be 
downloaded at https://www.polic e.gov.hk/ppp_en/08_forms/ . 
 
For radio transmitting equipment, application forms for Radio Dealers Licence and Import Permit 
mentioned in paragraph 1.1.7(a)(ii)  can be downloaded  at the following website s: 
 
Application form for Radio Dealers Licence  
http://www.ofca.gov.hk/filemanager/ofca/common/electronic_services/licenses_application/A112.
pdf 
 
Application form for Import  Permit for Radiocom munications Transmitting Apparatus  
http://www.ofca.gov.hk/filemanager/ofca/common/electronic_services/licenses_application/a120.
pdf.  Online ap plication for Import Permit for Radiocommunications Transmitting Apparatus  is also 
available through the  Trade Single Window at  
https://www.tradesinglewindow.hk/portal/en/index.html .  
 
For explosives, application forms for approval of blasting explosives and non -blasting explosives for 
use in HKSAR  mentioned in paragraph 1.1.7(a)(iv) can be downloaded at  the following websites:  
 
Application form for approval of blasting explosives  
http://www.cedd.gov.hk/eng/forms/doc/explosive.pdf   
 
Application form for approval of non -blasting explosives  
http://www.ced d.gov.hk/eng/forms/doc/non_explosive.pdf  
   
11. The import licence is the only document required upon actual importation . 
 
12. No licensing fee  or administrative charge  is required .    
 
13. No deposit or advance payment is required.  
 
Conditions of Licensing  
14. The import licence for strategic commodities  is valid for 6 months from the date of issue.  The 
validity cannot be extended under normal circumstances.  
 
15. There is n o penalty for non -utilization.  Importers should however return an unused licence to 
the Trade and Industry Department for cancellati on. 
 
16. The licence is not transferable.  
 
17. A n import licence concerning strategic commodities  is usually issued with the following 
conditions :  "Re -export must be covered by an export licence issued by the Director -General of Trade 
and Industry"  and "T he goods covered by this licence are not to be used in relation to nuclear, 
biological or chemical weapons or missile capable of delivering these weapons".  
 
                                                
4 The List can be viewed at:  http://www.cedd.gov.hk/eng/services/mines_quarries/mqd_explos ives.html . G/LIC/N/3/HKG/23  
 
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  Other Procedural Requirements  
18. There are no other administrative  procedures required  prior to im portation.  
 
19. The banking authorities automatically provide foreign exchange for goods to be imported.  No 
licence is required as a condition to obtaining foreign exchange .  
 
1.2  Rice, rough diamonds, pesticides, and ozone depleting substances  
Outline of Systems  
1. Import licences /certificates  are required for import of rice  (unless for p urposes specifically 
exempted under the relevant legislation) , rough diamonds, pesticides, and ozone depleting 
substances.  These import measures  are applied for health, environmental protection reasons, to 
maintain a stable supply of rice and a reserve sto ck for emergencies, or for fulfilment of HKSAR's 
international obligations. The licensing  system for the above products is primarily operated by the 
Trade and Industry Department.  Ozone depleting substances import licences are issued by the 
Trade and Indu stry Department under delegation from the Environmental Protection Department.  
Import licences for pesticides (strictly for quarantine and pre -shipment cargo treatment) containing 
methyl bromide , an ozone depleting substance, are issued by the Trade and I ndustry Department.  
 
Purposes and Coverage of Licensing  
2. Import licensing /certification system  is intended for the following purposes:  
 
 Products  Purposes  
(a) Rice  To maintain a stable supply and  a reserve stock for 
emergenc ies 
(b) Rough diamonds  To fulfil i nternational obligation  
(c) Pesticides  To protect p ublic health  
(d) Ozone depleting substances  To protect the environment  
 
3. The import licensing/certification system applies to products coming from all places except rough 
diamonds and ozone depleting substances .  For rough diamonds , all imports of rough diamonds from 
non-participants of the Kimberley Process5 have been banned since  2 January 2003.  For ozone 
depleting substances , the imports of ozone depleting substances are banned unless such imports 
are allowed under the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer.  
 
4. The principal objective of the import licensi ng/certification  system is not to restrict the quantity 
or value of imports, but for purposes set out in paragraph 1. 2.2 above.  A quantitative limit is 
imposed for imports of some ozone depleting substances to ensure  that the amount of ozone 
depleting substances retained for local consumption does not exceed levels agreed under the 
Montreal Protocol.  
 
5. The import licensing /certification  system is a statutory requirement maintained under respective 
Ordinances listed  below :   
 
Products  Relevant Ordinances  
(a) Rice Reserved Commodities (Control of Imports, Exports 
and Reserve Stocks) Regulations (Cap. 296A),  
Reserved Commodities Ordinance (Cap. 296 ) 
(b) Rough diamonds  Import and Export (General) Regulations  (Cap. 60A) , 
Import and Export Ordinance (Cap. 60 ) 
(c) Pesticides  
 Pesticides Ordinance (Cap. 133 ) 
Import and Export (General) Regulations  (Cap. 60A) , 
Import and Export Ordinance (Cap. 60 ) 
                                                
5 The Kimberley Process is a negotiating forum originated from discussions in the United Nations General 
Assembly regarding rebel activities in some parts of Africa.  The forum aims at stopping trade in "conflict 
diamonds " from fuelling armed co nflicts, activities of rebel movements and illicit proliferation  of armament.  G/LIC/N/3/HKG/23  
 
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  Products  Relevant Ordinances  
(d) Ozone depleting substances  Ozone Layer Protection Ordinance (Cap. 403 ) 
 
Legislation does not leave designation of product to be subject to licensing /certification  to 
administrative discretion. Any changes to the import licensing /certification system  require legislative 
approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Having all other ozone depleting substances (except for essential or critical uses) fully banned, 
only the importation of hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) for local consumption is subject to 
quantitative restriction:  
 
I. Under the current quota allocation system, annual quotas are allocated on a pro rata basis 
among the existing registered importers , based on their 12-month pe rformance  (from 
November of the preceding year to October of the current year) as normal quotas.   If there 
are any unallocated normal quotas and/or any quantities of HCFCs that are exported from 
HKSAR  to other places in the control period, the amount will be allocated to the free quotas 
which  are open to all applicants on a first -come -first-served basis. Before the end of the 
control period, l etters are sent to existing registered importers informing them the normal 
quotas allocation for the subsequent cont rol year.  Within the control period, all registered 
importers could also apply for free quotas.  However, for the registered importers who have 
been allocated normal quotas, they cannot apply for free quota until their normal quotas 
have been exhausted.  A common ceiling of a certain amount of quota is assigned to each 
individual importer applying for free quotas.  Information concerning  the quota allocation 
and licensing systems is available  to the general public through a website:  
http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/air/ozone_layer_protection/wn6_info
.html .  Info rmation on the total amount of quota under the quota allocation system is also 
available upon request.  
 
II. The size of quotas , which is calculated on yearly basis,  is determined according to the 
requirements of the Montreal Protocol . Licences are issued t o registered companies on 
individual consignment basis.  
 
III. The Government will closely monitor the utilization of quotas and licences.  Importers are 
required to notify the Trade and Industry Department of details of the import within 14  days 
after imp ortation. Unused allocations will not be carried forward  to the quotas for the 
succeeding control period because the maximum level for each control period i.e. per 
calendar year is fixed  in accordance with the requirements of the Montreal Protocol . 
 
IV. Submission of applications for licences may be made at any time.  However, applications for 
imports of HCFCs for local consumption will only be considered if the applicants have enough 
valid quotas or sufficient quotas could be allocated to the applicants for the relevant control 
period. Methyl bromide could be imported with a valid licence provided that importers have 
obtained a valid P esticide s Permit from the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation 
Department and the import of methyl bromide is restricted to quarantine and pre -shipment 
applications.  
 
V. Import licences are normally issued in 2 clear working days.  
 
VI. The control period for ozone depleting substances is on a calendar year basis . To facilitate 
imports at the beginning of the succeeding  control period, the Trade and Industry  
Department will provide licensing service about 1 week prior to the expiry of the current 
control period.  
 
VII. Importers only need to approach the Trade and Industry  Department for registration and 
application and issue of licences.  
 
VIII. Normal quotas are allocated to registered importers with regard to their performance in the 
previous control period.  Free quot as for HCFCs , if available,  are allocated throughout the 
control period to all eligible applicants (see paragraph 1.2.9 below), including new importers, G/LIC/N/3/HKG/23  
 
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  on a first -come -first-served basis. A common ceiling of a certain amount of quota is assigned 
to each i ndividual importer applying for free quota.  Registered  importers can also acquire 
the quotas through quota transfer from the existing  normal  quota holders.  
 
IX-X. The questions are n ot applicable  as there is no bilateral quotas or export restraint 
arrange ments in place . 
 
XI. In the case of import for re -export where quotas will not be debited against the import quota, 
combined " import and export licence" or separate licences where applicable, will be issued 
on condition that the goods will have to be expor ted in full within the validity period of the 
licences . 
 
7.(a) Application for import licences /certificates  should be lodged in advance of importation taking 
into account the processing time. The processing time is 1 clear working day for rice and 
2 clear working  days for  ozone depleting substances and methyl bromide.  As regards the 
import certificates for rough diamonds, instant service is provided.  
 
(b) In exceptional c ases, a licence can be granted immediately on request.  
 
(c) There are no limitations a s to the period of the year during which application for 
licence/certificate and/or importation may be made.  
 
(d) The Trade and Industry Department is the sole administrative organ for the processing and 
approval of imp ort licences/certificates . 
 
8. Under normal circumstances, an application for an import licence /certificate  is usually granted if 
it meets the ordinary criteria.  Reasons  for refusal  will be given  to the applicant . Applicants  for rice, 
rough diamonds and pesticides  may appeal to the Chief Executive of the HKSAR in the event of 
refusal to issue an import licence /certificates . The Chief Executive may confirm, vary or reverse the 
decision of the Director -General of Trade and Industry. The right to appeal to the Chief E xecutive is 
provided in relevant statutes . For ozone depleting substances , applicants may appeal to the 
Administrative Appeals Board against decision of refusal to grant a licence by the Director of 
Environmental Protection.  
 
Eligibility of Importers to Ap ply for Licence  
9. For rice, under normal circumstances, only stockholders registered with the Trade and Industry 
Department may import rice into HKSAR  for local consumption. Registration is free of charge and 
open to any person/entity carrying on a busine ss registered in HKSAR . There is a published list of 
registered stockholders of rice.  
 
For rough diamonds, a person carrying on a business of importing rough diamonds must be 
registered with the Trade and Industry Department first before it can apply for an import certificate. 
Registration is open to all persons on payment of a fee of HK$ 645 (valid for 2  years). There is no 
published list of registered rough diamond traders.  
 
For ozone depleting substances, a company is required to register with the Trade and Industry 
Department before it can apply for an import licence.  Registration is open to all companies on 
payment of a fee of HK$ 2,430 (valid for 2 calendar years).  A list of registered importers is available 
upon request.  
 
For pesticides  (methyl  bromide) , a company is required to hold a pesticide s permit issued by the 
Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department before it can apply for an import licence except 
where the pesticide is being imported on a valid through bill of lading.  If impo rted on such a bill of 
lading, no pesticide s permit is required.  Application for a pesticide s permit is open to all business 
enterprises wishing to deal in pesticides.  A fee is charged for the permit, which may range from 
HK$985 to HK$ 1,650  depending on the type of permit.  There is no published list of permitted 
importers.    
 G/LIC/N/3/HKG/23  
 
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  Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence/Certificate  
10. In general, i nformation to be supplied includes particulars of the importer, of the importation 
and of the products to be imported.  
 
Samples of the Import Licence Form 3 applicable to rice and pesticides , Import Licence Form and 
Combined "Import and Export Licence" Form for ozone depleting substances  can be downloaded at:  
https://www.tid.gov.hk/english/aboutus/form/sampleform/forms_maincontent.html . Online 
application for Import Licence for Ozone Depleting Substances is also available through the  Trade 
Single Window at https://www.tradesinglewindow.hk/portal/en/index.html .  
 
The Import Certificate Application Form for rough diamonds  is available at 
https://www.tid.gov.hk/english/aboutus/form/publicform/nontextiles/files/tid503a.pdf . 
 
Certain documents are also required to support licence /certificate  applications of the following 
products:  
 
Products  Documents  
(a) Rough diamonds  A copy of the Kimberley Process Certificate 
issued by the relevant exporting country/place  
(b) Pesticides  (methyl bromide)  A pesticide s permit issued by the Agriculture, 
Fisheries and Conservation Department 
authorizing the importer to trade in pesticides or 
a valid through bill of lading  
 
11. The import licence is the only document required upon actual importation.  
 
12. Apart from applications covering ozone depleting substances  and rough diamonds , no licensing 
fee or administrative charge is required for import licence applications.  
 
For ozone  depleting substances, a fee of HK$ 815 and HK$1,210 is charged on the issue of a n import  
licence  and a combined "import and export licence" respectively . The price of ozone depleting 
substances import licence forms and combined "import and export licence" forms are HK$28 per pad 
(containing 5 sets) and HK$34 per pad (containing 5 sets) respectively.  
 
For rice  and pesticides , the price of non -textiles import licence forms is HK$ 20 per pad (containing 
20 sets)/HK$3 per set.   
 
For rough diamonds, a fee of HK$175 is charged on the issue of a n import  certificate.  Application 
for rough diamonds import certificate may be lodged through a downloadable application form which 
is free of charge . 
 
13. No deposit or advance payment is required.  
 
Conditions of Licens ing 
14. Unless otherwise stated, a n import licence /certificate  is valid for 28 days for rough diamonds, 6 
weeks for rice, 60 days for ozone depleting substances  and pesticides (methyl bromide).  The period 
of validity can be extended by the Director -Genera l of Trade and Industry depending on the merits 
of individual requests.  
 
15. There is n o penalty for non -utilization. Importers should however cancel or amend the 
licences/certificates.  
 
16. The licence/certificate is n ot transferable.  
 
17. The licensing/certification conditions are printed on the front or back of the import 
licence/certificate . 
 
Samples of the Import Licence Form 3 applicable to rice and pesticides , Import Licence Form and 
Combined "Import and Export Licence" Form for ozone d epleting substances  can be downloaded at:  G/LIC/N/3/HKG/23  
 
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  https://www.tid.gov.hk/english/aboutus/form/sampleform/forms_maincontent.html . 
 
Additional conditions applicable to rice  imported for local consumption and for re -export are set out 
on the specimens at:  
 
Specimen of Completed Import Licence Form 3 (Local Consumption)  
https://www.tid.gov.hk/english/import_export/nontextiles/nt_rice/files/rice_guidelines_annexVI.p
df 
 
Specimen of Completed Import Licence Form 3  (Re-Export)  
https://www.tid.gov.hk/english/import_export/nontextiles/nt_rice/files/rice_guidelines_annexVII.p
df  
 
The Import Certificate  Application Form  for rough diamonds  is available at: 
https://www.tid.gov.hk/english/aboutus/form/publicform/nontextiles/files/tid503a.pdf  
 
Other Procedural Requirements  
18. There are no other administrative  procedures required  prior to importation.  
 
19. The banking authorities automatically provide foreign exchange for goods to be imported.  No 
licence is required as a condition to obtaining foreig n exchange . 
 
2  DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH  
2.1  Pharmaceutical products and medicines, proprietary Chinese medicines and 
36 Chinese herbal medicines, and radioactive substances and irradiating apparatus  
Outline of Systems  
1. Licences are required for import of pharmaceutical products and medicines, proprietary Chinese 
medicines and 36 Chin ese herbal medicines, and radioactive substances and irradiating apparatus.   
These import measures  are applied for safety, health, security, or for fulfilment of HKSAR's 
international obligations. Import licences for these products are issued by the Depart ment of Health 
under delegation from the Trade and Industry Department.  
 
Purposes and Coverage of Licensing  
2. The import licensing  system  is intended for the following purposes:  
 
 Products  Purposes  
(a) Pharmaceutical products and 
medicines  To protect p ublic health  
(b) Proprietary Chinese medicines and 
36 Chinese herbal medicines  To protect p ublic health  
(c) Radioactive substances and 
irradiating apparatus  To fulfil i nternational obligation  and to ensure  
public safety, security and health  
 
3. The import licensing system applies to products coming from all places.  
 
4. The principal objective of the import licensing system is not to restrict the quantity or value of 
imports, but for purposes set out in par agraph 2.1.2 above.  
 
5. The import licensing system is a statutory requirement maintained under respective Ordinances 
listed  below :   
 
Products  Relevant Ordinances  
(a) Pharmaceutical products and 
medicines  Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance (Cap. 138 ) 
Import and Export (General) Regulations  (Cap. 
60A),  Import and Export Ordinance (Cap. 60 ) G/LIC/N/3/HKG/23  
 
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  Products  Relevant Ordinances  
(b) Proprietary Chinese medicines and 
36 Chinese herbal medicines  Chinese Medicine Ordinance (Cap. 549 ) 
Import and Export (General) Regulations  (Cap. 
60A), Import and Export Ordinance (Cap. 60 ) 
(c) Radioactive substances and 
irradiating apparatus  Radiation Ordinance (Cap. 303 ) 
Import (Radiation) (Prohibition) Regulations  (Cap. 
60K), Import and Export Ordinance (Cap. 6 0) 
 
Legislation does not leave designation of product to be subject to licensing to administrative 
discretion.  Any changes to the import licensing system require legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable  as the import licensing system is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of 
imports . 
 
7.(a) Application for import licences should be lodged in advance of importation taking into account 
the processing time.  The processing time is 1 clear working day for radioactive substances 
and irradiating apparatus; and 2 working days for pharmaceutical prod ucts and medicines; 
and proprietary Chinese medicines and 36 Chinese herbal medicines.  
 
(b) In exceptiona l cases, a licence can be granted immediately on request.  
 
(c) There are no limitations as to the period of the year during which application for lice nce and/or 
importation may be made.  
 
(d) Department of Health is the sole administrative organ for the processing and approval of 
import licences.  
 
8. Under normal circumstances, an application for an import licence is usually granted if it meets 
the ordin ary criteria.  Reasons for refusal will be given  to the applicant .  Applicants  may appeal to 
the Chief Executive of the HKSAR in the event of refusal to issue an import licence.  The Chief 
Executive may confirm, vary or reverse the decision of the Director -General of Trade and Industry.  
The right to appeal to the Chief Executive is provided in relevant statutes .   
 
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence  
9.(a) For import of radioactive  substances or irradiating apparatus, a separate Radioactive 
Subst ances Licence or Irradiating Apparatus Licence, as appropriate, issued by the Radiation 
Board is required.  
 
 Radioactive Substances Licence: the applicant is required, inter alia , to appoint a person to 
supervise t he activities under the licence.  The supe rvisor should have undergone the 
necessary training on radiation protection recognised by the Radiation Board.  Licence fee is 
HK$3,190.   There is no published list of licence holders.  
 
 Irradiating Apparatus Licence: for sale of irradiating apparatus in HKSAR , the applicant is 
required to provide the specifications of the irradiating apparatus, and test reports showing 
conformance with international standards, for assessment by the Radiation Board.  Licence 
fee is HK$570.   There is no published list of lic ence holders.  
 
(b) For pharmaceutical products and medicines, only those products which have been registered 
with the Pharmacy and Poisons Board are allowed to be imported for the purpose of local sale 
or distribution.  A company is required to hold an app ropriate dealer's licence issued by the 
Pharmacy and Poisons Board before it can apply for an import licence.  Application for the 
dealer's licence is open to all business enterprises dealing in pharmaceutical products and 
medicines.  A fee is charged for the licence, which may range from HK$625 to HK$2,680 
depending on the type of licence.  There is a published list of licensed wholesale dealers and 
manufacturers in the Drug Office website: http://www.drugoffice .gov.hk . 
 G/LIC/N/3/HKG/23  
 
- 11 - 
 
  (c)  For proprietary Chinese medicines, only those products which have been registered with the 
Chinese Medicine Board are allowed to be imported for the purpose of local sale or distribution.  
Application for import licence is also required for import of proprietary Chinese medicines for 
re-export purpose.  For Chinese herbal medicines, applications are required only for imp ort of 
36 Chinese herbal medicines ( 31 Chinese herbal medicines in Schedule 1 and 5 Chinese herbal 
medicines in  Schedule 2 ).  A company is required to hold an appropriate trade r's licence issued 
by the Chinese Medicine Board  before it can apply for an import licence.  Application for the 
trader' s licence is open to all business enterprises conducting business  in proprietary Chinese 
medicines and Chinese herbal medicines.  A fee is charged for the licence, which may range 
from HK$ 1,210  to HK$ 3,180  depending on the type of licence.  There is a published list of 
licensed Chinese medicines traders  in the Chinese Medicin e Council of Hong Kong  website: 
http://www.cmchk.org.hk . 
 
Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence  
10. In general, i nformation to be supplied includes particulars of the importer, of the imp ortation 
and of the products to be imported.  
 
Samples of the Import Licence Form 3 (for pharmaceutical products and medicines,  proprietary 
Chinese medicines and 36 Chinese herbal medicines) and the Import Licence Form for radioactive 
substance and irradiat ing apparatus  are available at:  
 
Import Licence Form 3  
https://www.tid.gov.hk/english/aboutus/form/sampleform/files/tra187.pdf  
 
Import Licence Form for Radioactive Substance and Irradiating Apparatus   
http://www.info.gov.hk/dh -rhu/common_pdf/Import%20licence%20Form -
%20electronic%20form%20TRA -RSIA%202014.pdf  
 
Certain documents are also required to support licence applications of the following products:  
 
Products  Documents  
(a) Radioactive substances and irradiating 
apparatus  A copy of the Radioactive Substances Licence or 
Irradiating Apparatus Licence as appropriate 
issued by the Radiation Board  
(b) Proprietary Chinese medicines and 
36 Chinese herbal medicines  A copy of valid trader's licence issued by the 
Chinese Medicines Board  
(c) Pharmaceutical products and 
medicines  A copy of valid trader’s licence issued by the 
Pharmacy and Poisons Board  
 
11. The import licence is the only document required upon actual importation.  
 
12. No licensing fee  or administrative charge  is required for import licence applications.   
 
13. No deposit or advance payment is required.  
 
Conditions of Licensing  
14. Unless otherwise stated, a n import licence is valid for 6 months.  The period of validity can be 
extended by the Director -General o f Trade and Industry depending on the merits of individual 
requests.  
 
15. There is n o penalty for non -utilization.  Importers should however cancel or amend the licences.  
 
16. The licence is n ot transferable.  
 
17. The licensing conditions are printed on th e front or back of the import licences .  Samples of the 
Import Licence Form 3  (for pharmaceutical products and medicines,  proprietary Chinese medicines 
and 36 Chinese herbal medicines)  and the Import Licence Form for radioactive substance and 
irradiating apparatus  are available at:  
 G/LIC/N/3/HKG/23  
 
- 12 - 
 
  Import Licence Form 3  
https://www.tid.gov.hk/english/aboutus/form/sampleform/files/tra187.pdf  
 
Import Licence Form for Radioacti ve Substance and Irradiating Apparatus   
http://www.info.gov.hk/dh -rhu/common_pdf/Import%20licence%20Form -
%20electronic%20form%20TRA -RSIA%202014.pdf   
 
Other Procedural Requirements  
18. A removal permit which is issued free of charge by the Radiation Board on behalf of the 
Commissioner for Labour, is required for moving radioactive substance on vehicles or vessels within 
the HKSAR.  Each  conveyance of radioactive substance should be under the supervision of the owner, 
consignor of the substances or his representative authorised in that behalf, who are holding 
recognised qualifications o n radiological protection.  
 
19. The banking authorities automatically provide foreign exchange for goods to be imported.  No 
licence is required as a condition to obtaining foreign exchange . 
 
3  CUSTOMS AND EXCISE D EPARTMENT  
3.1  Dutiable commodities  
Outline of Systems  
1. The import of dutiable commodities (tobacco, liquors with an alcoholic strength of more than 30 % 
by volume measured at temperature of 20°C, methyl alcohol and hydrocarbon oil) is controlled 
through (i) licensing of importers and (ii) issuing of removal permits.  An importer has to be licensed 
with the Customs and Excise Department before he can apply  for removal permit for import and 
removal of dutiable commodities.  
 
Purposes and Coverage of Licensing  
2. Removal permit is issued to licensed importers by the Customs and Excise Department to control 
the import and movement of dutiable commodities  (tobac co, liquors with an alcoholic strength of 
more than 30 % by volume measured at temperature of 20°C, methyl alcohol and hydrocarbon oil) . 
 
3. The import licensing system applies to dutiable commodities coming from all places outside 
HKSAR.  
 
4. The import licensing system is not intended to restrict the quantity or the value of import, but to 
protect and collect the excise duty imposed on the dutiable commodities.  
 
5. The licence and permit requirement is statutory under the Dutiable Commodit ies Ordinance  
(Cap. 109). Legislation does not leave designation of products to be subject to licensing to 
administrative discretion.  Any changes to the import licensing system require legislative approval . 
 
Procedures  
6. The questions are n ot applicable  as the import licensing system is not intended to restrict the 
quantity or value of imports . 
 
7.(a) For an importer to be licensed, the normal application processing time is not more than 
12 working days, upon receipt of all necessary documents and informa tion from the 
applicants.  
 
Applica tion for removal permit from a licensed importer should be lodged in advance of 
importation taking into account the processing time.  Normally, the issue of a removal permit 
to a licensed importer requires half a working d ay, upon receipt of all necessary documents 
and information from the applicants.  
 
(b) A licence cannot be granted immediately on request because of the time required to process 
the application, including validation of the information provided by the applic ant. G/LIC/N/3/HKG/23  
 
- 13 - 
 
   
(c) There is no limitation of time during the year on the application for licence and/or importation.  
 
(d) The import licences and removal permits are issued by the Customs and Excise Department 
only. It is not necessary for the applications to be passed on to other departments or 
authorities for note or approval.  
 
 All licence applications shall be submitted electronically to the Customs and Excise Department 
through the Dutiable Commodities System  (DCS) at https://www.dcs.customs.gov.hk . Please 
visit the DCS website for further information.  
 
 For the removal  permit application, applicants have to lodge the application using the 
recognized  electronic service provided by any of the three electronic service providers 
specified under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance.   Please visit the following website  or 
contact the electronic service providers  for further information:  
 https://www.customs. gov.hk/en/trade_facilitation/dutiable/licence_permit/permits/index.ht
ml#3 . 
 
8. Application for an importer to be licensed will normally be approved provided that the necessary 
criteria are met. Reason for refusal will be given to the applicant.  An applica nt has the right to 
appeal to the Administrative Appeals Board against the decision of refusal to grant an import licence 
or a removal permit by the Commissioner of Customs and Excise.  
 
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence  
9. All persons, firms an d institutions are eligible to apply to be licensed by the Customs and Excise 
Department.  
 
Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence  
10. For an importer to be licensed, information including particulars of the applicant and the pre mises 
related to the application has to be provided.  Checklists of supporting documents required for licence 
application are at https://www1.dcs.customs.gov.hk/dcsext/dcs/checkList LicApp . Please visit the 
DCS website  (https://www.dcs.customs.gov.hk ) for further information.   
 
A removal permit is required upon actual importation of the dutiable commodities. For the application 
of a removal permit, commercial documents relating to the dutiable commodities may be required.   
Please visit the following website  or contact the electronic service providers  for further information:  
https://www.customs.gov.hk/en/trade_facilitation/dutiable/licence_permit/permits/index.html#3 . 
 
11. For the  import of liquors, a certificate of age/origin may be required  upon actual importation . 
 
12. The administrative charge for issue of each import licence is HK$ 1,320 . The issue of a removal 
permit by the Customs and Excise Department is free of charge, but a service charge of permit 
application is required by the specified electronic service provide r. 
 
13. No deposit or advance payment is required  under normal circumstances . 
 
Conditions of Licensing  
14. The import licence for dutiable commodities is valid for 1 year which can be renewed upon 
application on a yearly basis.  
 
15. There is no penalty for non -utilization.  
 
16. The licence is n ot transferable.  
 
17. The Commissioner of Customs and Excise may impose special conditions or restrictions in 
particular cases as he thinks fit.  
 G/LIC/N/3/HKG/23  
 
- 14 - 
 
  Other Procedural Requirements  
18.  There are no other admini strative procedures required prior to importation.  
 
19. The banking authorities automatically provide foreign exchange for goods to be imported.  No 
licence is required as a condition to obtaining foreign exchange . 
 
3.2  Controlled chemicals  
Outline of Systems  
1. The import of controlled chemicals is controlled through (i) licensing of importers and (ii)  issuing 
of import authorization.  An importer has to be licensed with the Customs and Excise Department 
before he can apply for an import authorization to import the controlled chemicals for each 
consignment.  
 
Purposes and Coverage of Licensing  
2. Import authorization is issued to licensed importers by the Customs and Excise Department to 
regulate the import of controlled chemicals  (i.e. the substances listed in Schedules 1 and 2 to the 
Control of Chemicals Ordinance (Cap. 145 )). 
 
3. The import licensing system applies to controlled chemicals coming from any places outside the 
HKSAR.  
 
4. The import licensing system is not intended to restrict the quantity or the value of import, but to 
prevent diversion of controlled chemicals into illicit  manufacture of narcotic drugs and psychotropic 
substances.  
 
5. The licence requirement is statutory under the Control of Chemicals Ordinance (Cap. 145).  
Legislation does not leave designation of products to be subject to licensing to administrative 
discretion.  Any changes to the import licensing system require legislative approval . 
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable  as the import licensing system is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of 
imports . 
 
7.(a) Application for licences and import authorization should be lodged in advance of importation 
taking into account the processing time.  For an importer to b e licensed, the normal processing 
time would be 14 days.  The licensed importer has to lodge an Import Authorization Application 
and supporting documents at least 4 working days before the actual importation of controlled 
chemicals.  
 
(b) A licence  cannot b e granted immediately on request because of the time required to process 
the application.  
 
(c) There is no limitation of time during the year on the application for licence and/or importation.  
 
(d) The Customs and Excise Department is the sole administrati ve authority responsible for the 
processin g and approval of licence and import authorization applications.   
 
8. Licences will normally be granted to established companies, hospitals and educational or scientific 
organizations on application.  Reason s for refusal will be given to the applicant. An applicant has 
right to appeal to the Administrative Appeals Board against the decision of refusal to grant a licence 
by the Commissioner of Customs and Excise.  
 
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence  
9. All importers may apply for an import licence under the Control of Chemicals Ordinance  
(Cap. 145). 
 G/LIC/N/3/HKG/23  
 
- 15 - 
 
  Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence  
10. An applicant for a licence is required to provide the Customs and Excise Department with 
information about his personal and company particulars, business address and storage place for 
controlled chemicals, etc. in his application.  For the application of a n import authorization, 
commercial documents relating to the import of controlled chemicals have to be provided.  
Application forms for licence and import authorization are available at 
http://www.customs.gov.hk/en/trade_facilitation/chemicals/licence/index.html . Online application 
for Authorization to Import Controlled Chemicals is also available through the  Trade Single Window 
at https://www.tradesinglewindow.hk/portal/en/index.html .  
 
11. The import authorization is the only document required under the Control of Chemicals Ordinance 
(Cap. 145) upon actual importat ion.  For the import of ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, ergometrine, 
ergotamine and norephedrine,  import licences issued by the Department of Health under the Import 
and Export Ordinance (Cap.60) are also required (see section 2 above).  
 
12. The administrative  charge for a licence is HK$ 1,530  for each year and an import authorization 
is free of charge.  
 
13. No deposit or advance payment is required.  
 
Conditions of Licensing  
14. The licence is valid for 1 year which can be renewed upon application on yearly basi s. 
 
15. There is n o penalty for non -utilization. Licensee should however surrender his licence and/or 
import authorization for amendment or cancellation where appropriate.  
 
16. The licence is not transferable.  
 
17. There are  no other conditions attached to  the issue of a licence.  
 
Other Procedural Requirements  
18. There are no other administrative  procedures required  prior to importation.  
 
19. The banking authorities automatically provide foreign exchange for goods to be imported.  No 
licence is required as a condition to obtaining foreign exchange . 
 
3.3  Optical disc mastering and replication equipment  
Outline of Systems  
1. An import  licensing system  is maintained  for the import control of Optical Disc Mastering and 
Replication Equipment from all cou ntries.  
 
Purpose and Coverage of Licensing  
2. The import licensing system applies to the import of optical disc mastering and replication 
equipment.  
 
3. The import licensing system applies to optical disc mastering and replication equipment coming 
from any places outside HKSAR.  
 
4. The import licensing system is not intended to restrict the quantity or the value of import, but to 
enforce a robust intellectual property rights regime in HKSAR and to prevent the use of optical disc 
mastering and replication  equipment for copyright infringing activities.   
 
5. The licence requirement is statutory under the Import and Export Ordinance (Cap. 60 ).  Legislation 
does not leave designation of products to be subject to licensing to administrative discretion.  Any 
changes to the import licensing system require legislative approval . 
 G/LIC/N/3/HKG/23  
 
- 16 - 
 
  Procedures  
6. Not applicable  as the import licensing system is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of 
imports . 
7.(a) Application for a licence shall be lodged in advance of impor tation.  The issue of an import 
licence normally takes 2 working days.  
 
(b)   A licence cannot be granted immediately upon request.  
 
(c) There is no limitation of time during the year where application for licence and/or importation 
can be made.  
 
(d) The Customs and Excise Department is the sole administrative organ responsible for the 
consideration of licence application.  
 
8. Application for a licence will be approved provided the ordinary criteria are met. Reasons for 
refusal will be given to the app licant. The applicant may appeal to the Chief Executive of the HKSAR 
against the refusal.  The right to appeal to the Chief Executive is statutorily provided.  
 
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence  
9. All persons, firms and institutions are eligible  to apply for the licence.  
 
Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence  
10. An applicant for a licence is required to provide the Customs and Excise Department with 
particulars of the applicant or his company and the arrival details, etc. in the application.  Related 
supporting documents have to be provided. Sample of the applicat ion form is available at 
http://www.tid.gov.hk/english/aboutus/form/sampleform/files/tra187.pdf .  
 
Online application for Import Licence for Optical Disc Mastering and R eplication Equipment is also 
available through the  Trade Single Window at 
https://www.tradesinglewindow.hk/portal/en/index.html .  
 
11. The import licence is the only document required up on actual importation.  
 
12. No licensing fee or administrative charge  is required . 
 
13. No deposit or advance payment is required.  
 
Conditions of Licensing  
14. The licence is valid only  for 6 months from the date of issue.  It may cover partial shipments 
within the 6 -month period.  Extension of validity may also be granted on application . 
 
15. There is no penalty for non -utilization.  
 
16. The licence is n ot transferable.  
 
17. There are no other conditions attached to the issue of a licence.  
 
Other Procedural Requirements  
18. There are no other administrative  procedur es require d prior to importation.  
 
19. The banking authorities automatically provide foreign exchange for goods to be import ed.  No 
licence is required as a condition to obtaining foreign exchange . 
 G/LIC/N/3/HKG/23  
 
- 17 - 
 
  4  CIVIL ENGINEERING AN D DEVELOPMENT DEPART MENT  
4.1  Sand  
Outline of Systems  
1. A permit to import or transport sand in HKSAR is required under the Sand Ordinance (Cap. 147).  
The permit system enables the protect ion of beaches and seabed in HKSAR.  Permits are issued by 
the Civil Engineering and Development Department (CED D). 
 
Purpos es and Coverage of Licensing  
2. Permits issued by CED D are required for imports of sand in excess of 100 kg.  Sand produced by 
any quarrying operation or by the washing of other materials is not covered.  
 
3. The permit system applies to natural sand import ed from all places.  
 
4. The permit system is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports , but to provide a 
mechanism to enable the protection of beaches and seabed in HKSAR.  
 
5. The permit system is statutorily required under Section 3 of the  Sand Ordinance (Cap. 147 ).  
Legislation does not leave designation of products to be subject to licensing to administrative 
discretion.  Any changes to the permit system require legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable  as the import licensing s ystem is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of 
imports . 
 
7.(a) Permits to import sand are issued upon written application.  Permit application should be 
lodged in advance of importation taking into account the processing time which normally tak es 
2 working days.  
 
(b) In exceptional cases, a permit can be granted immediately upon written request.  
 
(c) There are no limitations as to the period of the year during which permit applications and/or 
importation may be made.  
 
(d) CEDD is the sole admini strative organ regarding the processing and approval of sand permits.  
 
8. Applications for a permit will not be refused if the ordinary criteria are met.  Reasons for refusal 
will be given to the applicant.  
 
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence  
9. Any person including sand buyer or import company is eligible to apply for sand permits.  There 
is no registration fee.  There is no published list of authorized importers.  
 
Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence  
10. Information required relates to source, quantity, destination, contract agreement between 
importer and exporter, and export licence issued by the exporting country.  The application form for 
a sand permit is available at https://www.cedd.gov.hk/eng/public -services -forms/public -forms/fill -
management/index.html .  
 
11. The sand permit is the only document required upon actual importation.  
 
12. No licensing fee or administrative charge is required.  
 
13. No deposit or advance payment is required.  
 G/LIC/N/3/HKG/23  
 
- 18 - 
 
  Conditions of Licensing  
14. The validity period of a p ermit  is determined by the validity period of the export licence issued 
by the exporting country, up to a maximum of 30 days. This period can be extended upon 
application.  A new permit will be issued.  
 
15. There is no penalty for non -utilization.  
 
16. The p ermit is not transferable . 
 
17. The permit conditions can be found in the application form availabl e at  
https://www.cedd.gov.hk/eng/public -services -forms/public -forms/fill -management/index.html . 
 
Other Procedural Requirements  
18. There are no other administrative procedures required prior to importation.   
 
19. The banking authorities automatically provide foreign exchange for goods to be imported.  No 
licence is required as a condition to obtaining foreign exchange . 
 
5  AGRICULTURE, FISHERIES AND CONSER VATION DEPARTMENT  
5.1  Plants, plant pests and soil  
Outline of Systems  
1. Import  licences, supported by phytosanitary certificates, are required for import of plants.  Prior 
authorizations are required for import of plant pest or soil.  Plant quarantine requirements are 
provided under the Plant (Importation and Pest Control) Ordinance (Cap. 207 ) administered by the 
Agriculture , Fisheries  and Conservation  Department. All principles and procedures are based on the 
Plant Protection Agreement for the Asia and Pacific Region and the International Plant Protection 
Convention (IPPC).  
 
Purposes  and Coverage of Licensing  
2. For import of plants, a Plant Import Licence (PIL) issued by the Agriculture , Fisheries  and 
Conservation  Department is required.  "Plant" includes timber, trees, shrubs, leaves, roots, flowers, 
fruits, tubers, bulbs, corms, st ocks, cuttings, layers, slips, suckers, seeds, and any part of a plant 
whether or not intended for growing, planting or propagation or from which further plants may be 
grown, planted or propagated.  
 
For import of plant pests or soil, an authorization in wr iting (AIW) issued by the Director of 
Agriculture , Fisheries and Conservation is required.  "Plant pest" means any bacterium, fungus, 
virus, mycoplasma, alga or other plant or any invertebrate animal which is capable of being injurious 
or destructive to plants.  "Soil" includes earth, sand, clay and peat.  
 
3. PIL and AIW apply to plants originating in and coming from all places outside HKSAR.  The only 
exception is the exemption for plants and soil imported from any place in China  outside H KSAR . 
 
4. Neither PIL nor AIW is intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports.  The sole purpose is 
to establish an effective means for plant quarantine to prevent the spread of plant pest in compliance 
with the recommendations of the Plant Protec tion Agreement for the Asia and Pacific Region  and the 
IPPC. 
 
5. PIL and AIW are statutory instruments under the Plant (Importation and Pest Control) Ordinance 
(Cap. 207 ).  Legislation does not leave designation of plant to be subject to licensing to 
admin istrative discretion.  Any changes to the import licensing system require legislative approval . 
 G/LIC/N/3/HKG/23  
 
- 19 - 
 
  Procedures  
6. Not applicable  as the import licensing system is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of 
imports . 
 
7.(a) Application for PIL or AIW sho uld be lodged in advance of importation.  It should be taken into 
account that processing of applications takes 2 clear working days.  
 
(b) PIL, but not AIW, can be granted immediately on request when there is a genuine need under 
exceptional cases.  
 
(c) There are no limitations as to the period of the year during which application for importation 
can be made.  
 
(d) Both PIL and AIW are administered by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation 
Department.  No other administrative body is involved.  
 
8. Application of PIL and AIW will not be refused if the ordinary criteria are met.  Reasons for refusal 
will be  given to the applicant . The applicant  has the right to appeal to the Chief Executive of the 
HKSAR by notice in writing within 14 days from the date w hen he was informed of the decision.   The 
right to appeal to the Chief Executive is statutorily provided.  
 
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence  
9. All persons, firms and institutions are eligible to apply for PIL and AIW without any pre -conditiona l 
requirement.  
 
Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence  
10. The required information is outlined in the application form for PIL at  
https://www.afcd.gov.hk/english/quarantine/qua_plants/qua_plants_pq/qua_plants_pq_imp/files/
pprd_11003b.rtf .  An additional requiremen t for AIW is a written justification for the importation.   
 
11. Upon actual importation, all First Schedule (Part I) plants and Gossypium  spp. must be 
accompanied by a PIL, a valid phytosanitary certificate (PSC) and certificate of 
fumigation/disinfection (CF/D) issued by the exporting country or else the consignment will be seized 
for destruction. For all other plants, only PIL and PSC are required.   Actual importation of a plant 
pest or soil requires AIW and other documents, usually PSC and CF/D stated on  the AIW as special 
conditions for the authorization.  
 
12. No licensing fee or administrative charge is required  for PIL and AIW.  
 
13. No deposit or advance payment is required.  
 
Conditions of Licensing  
14. The validity for both PIL and AIW is 2 months.  
 
15. There is n o penalty for non -utilization of PIL or AIW.  
 
16. PIL and AIW are not  transferable.  
 
17. There may be special quarantine requirements attached to the PIL and AIW. The conditions are 
based on the principles and procedures recommended by the Asia and Pacific Plant Protection 
Commission and the IPPC.  
 
Other Procedural Requirements  
18. There are no other administrative  procedur es required prior to importation.  
 
19. The banking authorities automatically provide foreign exchange for goods to be im ported.  No 
licence is required as a condition to obtaining foreign exchange . G/LIC/N/3/HKG/23  
 
- 20 - 
 
  5.2  Endangered species of animals and plants  
Outline of Systems  
1. Import licences are required for  the import of (a) endangered species listed in Appendix I of the 
Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flor a (CITES) , whether 
alive, dead, parts or derivatives , and (b) live endangered species o f wild origin in CITES Appendix  II.  
 
Purposes and Coverage of Licensing  
2. Import licences issued by the Agriculture , Fisheries and Conservation Department are required  
for the import of animals and plants listed in CITES Appendix I (including their parts and derivatives, 
and things claimed to contain ingredients made from these  endangered species ), and live 
endangered species of wild origin in CITES Appendix II . Import licences are not required for the 
import of CITES Appendix II species other than live specimens of wild origin and CITES Appendix  III 
species, subject to the production of a valid CITES export permit  or certificate of origin.  
 
3. The import licensing requi rement applies to traders as well as individuals importing these items 
from all territories.  
 
4. The import licensing system is not intended  to restrict the quantity or value of imports, but to 
protect endangered species and to prevent them from over -explo itation in accordance with CITES.  
 
5. The import licensing system is a statutory requirement maintained under  the Protection of 
Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap.  586) which gives effect to CITES.  Under 
the Ordinance, the Secretary f or the Environment may, by order published in the Gazette, amend 
the list of endangered species  to be subject to licensing requirement .  Any other changes  to the 
import licensing system  require legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable  as the imp ort licensing system is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of 
imports . 
 
7.(a) Application for import licences should be lodged in advance of importation (at least 2  working 
days or more depending on complexity).  However, the issue of a licence  is not automatic and 
shipments should not be effected unless and until the licence has been issued.  
 
(b) Normally an import licence cannot be granted immediately upon request.  
 
(c) There are no limitations as to the period of the year during which application for licence and/or 
importation may be made.  
 
(d) Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department is the sole authority in considering 
endangered species aspects but all applications for import licences have to be supported by 
CITES export pe rmits issued by the exporting economies.   
 
 Moreover, the CITES Secretariat or CITES authority of exporting economies may have to be 
consulted in certain applications.  
 
8. Licensing policy follows closely the provisions and spirit of CITES.  Any applicant  aggrieved by a 
decision of the Director of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation relating to the issue, refusal or 
cancellation of a licence or any condition specified in a licence may appeal to the Administrative 
Appeals Board . 
 
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence  
9. Any person can lodge an application.  
 G/LIC/N/3/HKG/23  
 
- 21 - 
 
  Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence  
10. The required information is summarized in the application form available  at 
https://www.afcd.gov.hk/english/conservation/con_end/con_end_lc/con_end_lc_app/files/AF243e
18_final_20180502.pdf .  With respect to live specimens, controls of and r equirements for import of 
live animals and plants also apply.   
 
11. Import licence issued by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department together with 
original of the CITES Export Permit issued by the exporting economy are required upon actual 
importation.  
 
12. The licence fees are as follows:  
 
(a) Import Licence for live animals ( one or more  species)    HK$4 60 
(b) Import Licence other than live animals  (one or more  species)   HK$1 70 
 
13. No deposit or advance payment is required.  
 
Conditions of Licensing  
14. Import licences  are normally valid for 6 months or less.  The validity of a licence can be extended 
provided that the licensee lodges an application and gives satisfactory justification to the Director of 
Agriculture , Fisheries and Conservation before its expiry.  
 
15. There is no penalty for non -utilization.  
 
16. The licence is n ot transferable.  
 
17. Standard conditions, covering the requirement of presenting the shipment together with the 
required licence to authorized officers for inspection, are applicable.  
 
Other Procedural Requirements  
18. There are no other administrative  procedur es require d prior to importation.  
 
19. The banking authorities automatically provide foreign exchange for goods to be imported.  No 
licence is required as a condition to obtaining foreign exchange . 
 
5.3  Live animals  
Outline of Systems  
1. A special permit is required for all live animals and birds imported into HKSAR.  The permit must 
be obtained in advance from the Agriculture , Fisheries  and Conservation  Department before 
animals/birds are sent to HKSAR. The terms and conditions of the permit must be fully complied 
with. Such animals or birds must be sent into HKSAR as manifest cargo.   
 
Purposes and Coverage of Licensing  
2. A special permit issued by the Agriculture , Fisheries  and Conservation  Department is required for 
the import of animals o r birds.  
 
3. The special permit system generally applies to any person bringing any animal or bird into HKSAR  
from all countries .  For non -CITES animals or birds imported directly from the Mainland  of China , 
other rules may apply.  
 
4. The special permit is not used to restrict the quantity or value of imports, but to protect public 
and animal health; to provide for public safety and animal welfare; and to prevent cruelty to animals.  
 
5. The special permit system is a statutory requirement under the Public Health (Animals and Birds) 
Ordinance (Cap.  139) and/or the Rabies Ordinance (Cap.  421) with linkage to the Prevention of 
Cruelty to Animals Ordinance (Cap.  169).  Legislation does not leave designation of the items to be G/LIC/N/3/HKG/23  
 
- 22 - 
 
  subject to licensing to adm inistrative discretion.  Any changes to the special permit system require 
legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable  as the special permit system is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of 
imports . 
 
7.(a) Application for a special permit should be lodged well in advance of importation (at least 
5 working days). However, the granting of a special permit is not automatic and importation 
must not be arranged unless a permit is obtained in advance. The applicant may, after 
receiving a permit, need some time to comply with the terms and conditions of the permit, 
and should allow for this.  
 
(b) Depending on circumsta nces a special permit may be granted , subject to the payment of the 
prescribed fee . 
 
(c) There are no limitations as to the period of the year during which application for licence and/or 
importation may be made.  
 
(d) The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conserva tion Department has the sole authority to grant special 
permits.  
 
8. Applications may be rejected or refused if requirements cannot be met.  Reasons for refusal will 
be given to the applicant.  The applicant may appeal to the Administrative Appeals Board.  
 
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence  
9. Any person may lodge an application.  
 
Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence  
10. The required information is summarized in the application form at 
https://www.afcd.gov.hk/english/quarantine/qua_ie/qua_ie_ipab/qua_ie_ipab_idc/files/common/A
F240_Jul16E.pdf .  
 
11. The special permit and other documents specified by terms/conditions of the permit, and 
documents required under any other legislation are required upon actual importation.  
 
12. The current fee schedule for special permits is available at 
https://www.afcd.gov.hk/english/quarantine/qua_ie/qua_ie_ipab/files/g110_fee_for_special_permi
t_jan18b.pdf .  
 
13. No deposit or advance payment is required . 
 
Conditions of Licensing  
14. Permit s are valid for 6 months.  The validity of import permits may be extended for a month 
upon application at a fee of HK$155.  
 
15. There is no penalty for non -utilization.  
 
16. Permits can be transferable between importers upon application  and the payment of amendment 
fee of HK$155 . 
 
17. Yes, varying according to  the type of animal and country of origin.  
 
Other Procedural Requirements  
18. There are no other administrative  procedur es require d prior to importation.  
 G/LIC/N/3/HKG/23  
 
- 23 - 
 
  19. The banking authoritie s automatically provide foreign exchange for goods to be imported.  No 
licence is required as a condition to obtaining foreign exchange . 
 
5.4  Pesticides  
Outline of Systems  
1. Licences are required for import of pesticides.  Import licences for pesticides (other than methyl 
bromide) are issued by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department under delegation 
from the Trade and Industry Department.  Import licences fo r pesticides (strictly for quarantine and 
pre-shipment of cargo treatment) containing methyl bromide, an ozone depleting substance, are 
issued by the Trade and Industry Department (see section  1.2 above).  
 
Purposes and Coverage of Licensing  
2. Import licen sing of pesticides is intended for the protection of public health.  Pesticides means 
any insecticide, fungicide, herbicide, acaricide or any substance (whether organic or inorganic) or 
mixture of substances used or intended to be used for preventing, dest roying, repelling, attracting, 
inhibiting or controlling any insect, rodent, bird, nematode, bacterium, fungus, weed or other form 
of plant or animal life or any virus, which is a pest; or any substance or mixture of substances used 
or intended to be used as a plant growth regulator, defoliant or desiccant, but does not include any 
purely mechanical device for trapping or catching insects, rodents or other animals; any purely 
electromagnetic or ultrasonic device for the control of mosquitoes, rodents or oth er pests; any 
antiseptic, disinfecting solution or preparation in clinical or sanitary applications that is neither 
specified in Schedule 1 nor in Part 1 of Schedule 2 to the Pesticides Ordinance (Cap. 133 ); any 
pharmaceutical product; and any pesticide no t specified in Schedule 1 nor in Part 1 of Schedule 2 to 
the Pesticides Ordinance (Cap. 133 ) that is contained in an individual package or container not 
exceeding 10g or 10mL and used indoors for laboratory research, chemical analysis or as a reference 
standard.  
 
3. The system applies to products (other than methyl bromide) coming from any places.  For methyl 
bromide which is an ozone depleting substance, import from non -parties to the Montreal Protocol 
are banned.  Only imports from Montreal Protocol signa tories of methyl bromide are allowed for local 
consumption starting from 1  January  1995.  The import of methyl bromide is restricted to quarantine 
and pre -shipment applications.  
 
4. The principal objective of the import licensing system is not to restrict the quantity or value of 
imports but for purposes of protecting public health.  
 
5. The import control is a statutory requirement maintained under the Pesticides Ordinance 
(Cap. 133), the Import and Export (General) Regulations  (Cap. 60A) and  Import and Export 
Ordinance (Cap. 60 ).  Legislation does not leave designation of product to b e subject to licensing to 
administrative discretion.  Any changes to the import control system  require legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable  as the import control system is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of 
imports . 
 
7.(a) Application for import licences should be lodged in advance of importation taking into account 
the processing time. The processing time is within 1 working day for pesticides other than 
methyl bromide under normal circumstances and 2 clear working days for me thyl bromide.  
 
(b) In exceptional cases, a licence can be granted immediately on request.  
 
(c) There are no limitations as to the period of the year during which licence applications may be 
made.  
 
(d) The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department is the sole administrative organ for 
the processing and approval of pesticides import licences (other than methyl bromide) 
whereas an importer has to approach the Trade and Industry Department for the processing 
and approval of import licences for methyl bromide.  G/LIC/N/3/HKG/23  
 
- 24 - 
 
  8. Under normal circumstances, an application for a pesticides import licence is usually approved if 
it meets the ordinary criteria.  Reasons  for refusal  will be given  to the applicant .  Appli cants may 
appeal to the Chief Executive of the HKSAR in the event of refusal to issue an import licence.  The 
Chief Executive may confirm, vary or reverse the decision of the Director -General of Trade and 
Industry.  The right to appeal to the Chief Executi ve is statutorily provided.  For methyl bromide, 
applicants may appeal to the Administrative Appeals Board against decision of refusal to grant a 
licence  relating to ozone depleting substances  by the Director of Environmental Protection.  
 
Eligibility of I mporters to Apply for Licence  
9. A company is required to hold an appropriate pesticides licence/permit issued by the Agriculture, 
Fisheries and Conservation Department before it can apply for an import licence except where the 
pesticide is being imported on a valid through bill of lading.  If imported on such a bill of lading, no 
pesticides licence/permit is required.  
 
Application for a pesticides licence/permit is open to all business enterprises wishing to deal in 
pesticides. A fee is charged for the lic ence/permit, which may range from HK$ 575 to HK$ 1,650  
depending on the type of licence/permit.   
 
For methyl bromide  which is also an ozone depleting substance , a company is further  required to 
register with the Trade and Industry Department before it can a pply for an import licence.  
Registration is open to all companies on payment of a fee of HK$ 2,430  (valid for 2  calendar  years).  
There is no published list of licensed/permitted importers.   
 
Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licenc e 
10. Information to be supplied includes particulars of the importer, of the importation, of the 
products to be imported and a pesticides licence or pesticides permit issued by the Agriculture, 
Fisheries and Conservation Department authorizing the importe r to trade in pesticides or a valid 
through bill of lading. Sample of Import Licence Form 3 is available at 
http://www.tid.gov.hk/english/aboutus/form/sampleform/files/t ra187.pdf .  Online application for 
Import Licence for Pesticides is available through the  Trade Single Window at 
https://www.tradesinglewindow.hk/portal/en/index.html . 
 
11. The import licence is the only document required on actual importation.  
 
12. Apart from applications for importing methyl bromide, no licensing fee is required for import 
licence applications.   
 
For applying Import Licence for Pesticides in person at counter, the Import Licence Form 3 required 
to be submitted is priced at HK$ 20 per pad (containing  20 sets)/HK$3 per set.  Online application 
through the Trade Single Window is free of charge.  
 
For methyl bromide, a fee of HK$815 and HK$1,210 is charged on the issue of an ozone  depleting 
substances import licence and an ozone  deple ting substances combined "import and export licence" 
respectively. The price of ozone  depleting substances import licence forms and combined "import 
and export licence" forms are HK$28 per pad (containing 5  sets) and HK$34 per pad (containing 
5 sets) respe ctively.  
 
13. No deposit or advance payment is required.  
 
Conditions of Licensing  
14. A pesticides import licence is valid for 6 months.  For methyl bromide, an ozone depleting 
substances import licence is, unless otherwise stated, valid for 60 days.  
 
15. There is no penalty for non -utilization.  Importers should however cancel or amend the licences.  
 
16. The licence is n ot transferable.  
 G/LIC/N/3/HKG/23  
 
- 25 - 
 
  17. The licensing conditions are printed on the front or back of the import licences .  Samples of the 
Import Licence For m 3 applicable to pesticides and Import Licence Form for ozone depleting 
substances are available at: 
https://www.tid.gov.hk/english/aboutus/form/sampleform/forms_maincontent.html  
 
Other Procedural Requirements  
18. There are no other administrative  procedur es requir ed prior to importation.  
 
19. The banking authorities automatically provide foreign exchange for goods to be imported.  No 
licence is required as a condition to obtaining foreign exchange . 
 
6  ENVIRONMENTAL PROTEC TION DEPARTMENT  
6.1  Waste  
Outline of Systems  
1. The import of waste into HKSAR is contro lled under a permit system administered by the 
Environmental Protection Department.  Its requirements are tied in with those of the Basel 
Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal.  
 
Purposes and Coverage of  Licensing  
2. A permit is required for import of the following types of waste :  
 
(a) any waste of a kind specified in the Sixth Schedule of the Waste Disposal Ordinance (Cap.354, 
WDO), unless the waste is uncontaminated and is imported for the purpose of a reprocessing, 
recycling or recovery operation or the reuse of the waste;  
(b) any wa ste of a kind specified in the Seventh Schedule of the WDO, or not specified in the Sixth 
Schedule of the WDO; or  
(c) any e -waste (i.e. air conditioners, refrigerators, washing machines, television sets, computers, 
printers, scanners and monitors that hav e been abandoned) that does not fall within the 
description of paragraph (a) or (b).  
 
3. The import permit system applies to wastes originating in and coming from any places outside 
HKSAR.  
 
4. Other than those requirements of the Basel Convention, the syst em is not intended to restrict the 
quantity or value of imports. It serves to ensure that prior consents among the export, import and 
transit competent authorities  concerned are obtained before commencement of any waste shipment.  
It facilitates the contin uation of legitimate waste trade and to stop any illegal shipment. The system 
enables HKSAR to fulfil its international obligations under the Basel Convention and serves to ensure 
environmentally sound management of waste in the HKSAR.  
 
5. The import permi t system is a statutory requirement maintained under the Waste Disposal 
Ordinance (Cap. 354 ). Legislation does not leave designation of waste to be subject to control to 
administrative discretion. Any changes to the import permit system  require legislative  approval . 
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable  as the import control system is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of 
imports . 
 
7.(a) Permit applications should be lodged in advance of the importation.  The processing time for 
an application varies fr om case to case, depending primarily on the time taken by the 
competent authorities of the exporting economies concerned to provide feedback for the 
application, and on whether the application form is duly completed and lodged with all the 
required support ing documents.  To allow for sufficient time for the competent authorities to 
make responses, it is advisable for the applicants to lodge  their applications at least 90  days 
before the commencement of the proposed shipment of waste.  
 G/LIC/N/3/HKG/23  
 
- 26 - 
 
  (b) A permit cannot be granted immediately.  Under the Basel Convention, consents from all 
export and transit economies concerned are required prior to any waste shipment.  We are 
unable to issue any permit without obtaining the views from the export and transit econom ies 
concerned.  
 
(c) There are no limitations as to the period of the year during which permit application  and/or 
importation  may be made.  
 
(d) The Environmental Protection Department is the sole administrative organ responsible for the 
processing and appro val of waste import permit.  
 
8. A waste import permit will normally be granted with or without conditions to the applicant if the 
ordinary criteria as stipulated in the Waste Disposal Ordinance  (Cap. 354)  are met (e.g. the proposed 
waste shipment is in lin e with the spirit and requirements of the Basel Convention).  Reasons  for 
refusal  will be given  to the applicant.  The applicant may appeal to the Appeal Board established 
under the Waste Disposal Ordinance  (Cap. 354) . In any case, it should be noted that t o tie in with 
the latest requirements of the Basel Convention, import of hazardous waste from developed 
economies including Liechtenstein and member states of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation 
and Development and the European Union into the HKSAR h as been banned since 
28 December  1998.  
 
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence  
9. All firms and institutions are eligible to apply for a waste import permit.  Nevertheless, the 
applicant should normally be the disposer or the importer of the waste.  
 
Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence  
10. The required information is outlined in the permit application  form at 
http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/sites/default/files/epd/english/environmentinhk/waste/guide_ref/files/
import_appn_form.pdf . 
 
11. On actual importation, the waste should be accompanied by the permit, a waste movement 
document recording the details of the waste shipment, and a liability insurance covering any claims 
arising out of damage to human health, property and the environment which may result from the 
waste import operation.  
 
12. An application fee of HK$11,595 or HK$18,4 30 will be charged for the application of a single 
shipment or a multiple -shipment permit respectively.  
 
13. The applicant is required to deposit a bond or financial guarantee payable to the Government of 
the HKSAR.  The amount of the bond or financial gua rantee required will be determined on a 
case-by-case basis. It enables the waste disposal authority to recover cost of any seizure or disposal 
or alternative environmentally sound management of waste in case the intended waste shipment 
could not be complet ed as originally intended.  The bond or guarantee will be returned to the 
applicant upon fulfilment and completion of all conditions of the shipment, including the final 
disposal/recycling of the waste.  
 
Conditions of Licensing  
14. There are two types of p ermit, namely single -shipment permit and multiple -shipment permit.  
The former type is valid for one shipment only, and whereas the latter type can have a validity 
period of up to 1 year for repeated shipments of the same type of waste from the same source  and 
to the same disposer or recycler.  The validity of a permit cannot be extended.  A new application 
has to be lodged if the importing activity is to be continued after the validity period of the permit.  
 
15. There is no penalty for non -utilization.  
 
16. The permit  is not transferable.  
 
17. The  conditions are varied according to the type of wastes and country of origin.  One essential 
condition is the taking back of the imported wastes if the wastes were found other than the permitted  G/LIC/N/3/HKG/23  
 
- 27 - 
 
  ones (i.e. specif ied in the permit) or if the wastes cannot be treated/recycled as intended and 
stranded in HKSAR  for whatever reasons, the wastes shall be returned to the place of origin . 
 
Other Procedural Requirements  
18. There are no other administrative  procedur es required prior to importation.  
 
19. The banking authorities automatically provide foreign exchange for goods to be imported.  No 
licence is required as a condition to obtaining foreign exchange . 
 
6.2  Non-pesticide hazardous chemicals  
Outline of Systems  
1. Both an import permit and a licence are required for the import of non -pesticide hazardous 
chemicals that have potentially harmful or adverse effects on human health or the environment, 
including such chemicals that  are subject to regulation of the Stockho lm Convention on Persistent 
Organic Pollutants, or the Rotterdam Convention on the Prior Informed Consent Procedure for 
Certain Hazardous Chemicals and Pesticides in International Trade.  
 
Purposes and Coverage of Licensing  
2. The import permitting and impo rt licensing requirements are  stipulated  in the Hazardous 
Chemicals Control Ordinance (HCCO)  (Cap. 595 ) and the Import and Export Ordinance (IEO) 
(Cap. 60) respectively .  Under the HCCO, anyone wishing to import any hazardous chemicals  subject 
to control (scheduled chemicals) needs to apply for an import permit , which is normally valid for 
1 year. In addition, for every shipment of scheduled chemicals entering HKSAR , an import licence is 
also required under the IEO. Both permits and licences are issued by t he Environ mental Protection 
Department.  
 
The import permitting  and licensing system , which forms part of the overall control of non -pesticide 
hazardous chemicals in HKSAR , covers two types  of scheduled chemicals, as follows:  
 
Type 1 Chemical s  
 
1. Hexabromobiphenyl  
2. Hexabromodiphenyl ether (hexaBDE) and heptabromodiphenyl ether (heptaBDE) : 
(a) 2,2’,4,4’,5,5’ - hexabromodiphenyl ether (BDE -153) 
(b) 2,2’,4,4’,5,6’ - hexabromodiphenyl ether ( BDE-154) 
(c) 2,2’,3,3’,4,5’,6 - heptabromodiphenyl ether (BDE -175) 
(d) 2,2’,3,4,4’,5’,6 -heptabromodiphenyl ether (BDE -183) 
(e) Other hexa - and heptabromodiphenyl ethers present in commercial octabromodiphenyl 
ether 
3. Hexachlorobenzene  
4. Pentachlorobenzene  
5. Polychlorinated biphenyls  
6. Tetrabromodiphenyl ether and pentabromodiphenyl ether  
(a) 2,2’,4,4’ - tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE -47) 
(b) 2,2’,4,4’,5 - pentabromodiphenyl ether (BDE -99) 
(c) Other tetra - and pentabromodiphenyl ether pres ent in commercial pentabromodiphenyl 
ether 
7. Hexabromocyclododecane  
(a) hexabromocyclododecane  
(b) 1,2,5,6,9,10 -hexabromocyclododecane and its main diastereoisomers  
 
Type 2 Chemical s 
 
1. Asbestos:  
(a) Actinolite  
(b) Anthophyllite  
(c) Amosite  
(d) Crocidolite  G/LIC/N/3/HKG/23  
 
- 28 - 
 
  (e) Tremodlite  
2. Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), its salts and perfluorooctane sulfonyl fluoride (PFOSF)  
(a) Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS)  
(b) Salts of perfluorooctane sulfonic acid  
(c) Perfluorooctane  sulfonyl fluoride (PFOSF)  
3. Polybrominated biphenyls  
(a) Octabromobiphenyls  
(b) Decabromobiphenyls  
4. Polychlorinated terphenyls  
5. Short -chain chlorinated paraffins  
6. Tetraethyl Lead  
7. Tetramethyl Lead  
8. Tributyltin compounds:  
 (a)  Tributyltin oxi de 
 (b)  Tributyltin fluoride  
(c)  Tributyltin methacrylate  
(d)  Tributyltin benzoate  
(e) Tributyltin chloride  
(f)  Tributyltin linoleate  
(g)  Tributyltin naphthenate  
9. Tris(2,3 -dibromopropyl) phosphate  
 
The import permitting  and licensing system does not apply to a scheduled chemical if the chemical 
is a constituent element of a manufactured product, except when the chemical is PCB and when its 
concentration as a constituent element of a manufactured product exceeds 0.005 % (or 50  ppm) and 
its volume exceeds 0.05 litre.  The import permitting  and licensing requirement  also does not apply 
to a Type  2 chemical if the chemical is, or is a part of, an article in transit.  
 
3. The import permitting and licensing system applies to the sche duled chemicals coming from any 
places.   Transshipment and transit of the scheduled chemicals, except for transit of Type 2 chemicals, 
through HKSAR  are also subject to control.  Exemptions of import licensing under certain conditions 
are available for air  transshipment cargoes and transit of Type 1 chemicals.  
 
4. The import permitting and licensing system is not intended to  restrict the quantity or value of 
imports, but to  implement effective control on non -pesticide hazardous chemicals to protect human 
health and the environment in accordance with, inter alia, the principles of the Stockholm Convention 
and the Rotterdam Convention. The import quantities are subject to scru tiny to avoid improper 
use/release of the hazardous chemicals.  
 
5. The import permitting and licensing system is statutorily required  in the HCCO and the IEO . The 
legislation does not leave designation of waste to be subject to control to administrative d iscretion .  
Any changes  to the import permitting  and licensing system require legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. There is no quota restriction for i mport ing the scheduled chemicals  and any importer can apply 
for an import permit/licence. There is also no restriction on the source of the scheduled chemicals.  
These scheduled chemicals are being phased out or whose use is severely restricted internationally, 
as required under the Stoc kholm Convention and the Rotterdam Convention. The HCCO import 
permit application will be assessed on a case -by-case basis and a permit will be granted only if there 
is justification for the need to import the proposed quantity of a scheduled chemical, and  the importer 
can demonstrate that the import activities can comply with other local legislation. The quantities 
allowed for each IEO licence  are limited by the annual import quantity permitted in the HCCO import 
permits. Guidelines and application forms a re available on the website of the Environmental 
Protection Department  at  
https://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/laws_regulations/comp_guides/cg_hazardo us_chemical.html . 
 
7.(a) Processing time for permit/licence applications varies from case to case, depending on the 
complexity of the application, the response time of overseas government agencies and the 
availability of supporting information from the imp orters.   
 G/LIC/N/3/HKG/23  
 
- 29 - 
 
  For a permit application, t he target processing time is within 15 working days  upon receipt of  
all necessary information, payment of application fee, and completion of site visit, if required, 
to verify the information provided by the applicant.    
 
For an IEO import licence application, the target processing time is within 2 clear working days 
upon receipt of all relevant information.  In line with the prior informed consent procedure of 
the Rotterdam Convention, an IEO licence application will o nly be considered if the applicant 
can produce evidence of explicit consent of the exporting and importing countries agreeing to 
the export and import, unless otherwise exempted by the Environmental Protection 
Department.   
 
A HCCO import permit and an IEO  import licence must be obtained prior to the arrival of the 
shipment.  
 
(b) Since detailed assessment is required for processing the HCCO permit or IEO licence 
applications, these permits/licences cannot be granted immediately upon request.  
 
(c) There are  no limitations as to the period of the year during which permit application and/or 
importation may be made . 
 
(d) The Environmental Protection Department is the sole administrative organ to issue the HCCO 
permit and IEO licence applications.  
 
8. Under normal circumstances, application for a HCCO import permit  or an IEO import licence is 
granted if the application meets the legal requirements stipulated in the laws as well as the 
requirements of the Stockholm Convention and the Rotterdam Convention .  In the event of refusal 
to issue a  HCCO  import permit, the reasons will be given . The  applicant may appeal to the 
Administrative Appeal s Board  against the refusal. In case of an IEO import licence application , the 
applicant has a right to  appeal to the Chief Executive of the HKSAR.  The right to appeal to the Chief 
Executive is statutorily provided.  
 
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence  
9. All persons, firms and institutions are eligible to apply for the HCCO i mport permits.  All HCCO 
import permit holders  are eligible to apply  for the IEO import licence s.  There is no published list of 
authorized importers.  
 
Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence  
10. The information required for a HCCO import permit and an IEO Import Licence Form 3 application 
is outlined in the sample application forms at  the following websites:  
 
Permit to Import  
https://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/sites/default/files/epd/english/application_for_licences/applic_froms/
files/hcc1.pdf .  Online application is also available through the Trade Single Window  at 
https://www.tradesinglewindow.hk/portal/en/index.html . 
 
Permit to Transship and Transit  
http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/sites/default/files/epd/english/application_for_licences/applic_froms/fi
les/hcc3.pdf  
 
IEO Import Licence Form 3  
https://www.tid.gov.hk/english/aboutus/form/sampleform/files/tra187.pdf  
 
11. A HCCO import permit and an IEO import licence are  required upon actual importation.  
 
12. A non -refundable application fee of HK$1 ,280 or HK$1 ,710 is required at the time of submission 
of an application for a HCCO import permit for local use or for transshipment/transit respectively.   
Renewal application fee is HK$710 for local use and HK$920 for transshipment/transit . No licensing 
fee or administra tive charge is required for an IEO Import Licence Form 3 application.  For import 
licence application made in paper mode, application forms  (Form No.: TRA187)  have to be purchased G/LIC/N/3/HKG/23  
 
- 30 - 
 
  at HK$ 20 per pad (containing 20  sets).  Online application of Licence for Sc heduled Chemicals 
through the Trade Single Window is free of charge.  
 
13. No deposit or advance payment is required.  
 
Conditions of Licensing  
14. A HCCO import permit is valid for not more than 12 months .  The validity of a permit cannot be 
extended but th e permit can be renewed on yearly basis.  An IEO import licence is valid for 6  months 
from the date of issue.  Extension of validity may be granted on application.  
 
15. There is no penalty for non -utilization.  
 
16. The licence and permit are n ot transferable.  
 
17. Standard conditions, covering environmental requirements, safety, packaging, labelling, storage, 
transportation, disposal, emergency arrangements, return shipments and reporting, are included in 
the HCCO import permits. No other conditio ns are attached to the issue of the IEO licence s. 
 
Other Procedural Requirements  
18. Requirements under the Stockholm Convention and the Rotterdam Convention need to be 
observed.  
 
19. The banking authorities automatically provide foreign exchange for goods to be imported. No 
licence is required as a condition to obtaining foreign exchange . 
 
7  FOOD AND ENVIRONMENT AL HYGIENE DEPARTMEN T 
7.1  Frozen or chilled meat and poultry  
Outline of Systems  
1. Import licences are required for import of frozen or chilled mea t and poultry. Import licences are 
issued by the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department under delegation from the Trade and 
Industry Department.  
 
Purposes and Coverage of Licensing  
2. The import licensing system covers the importation of frozen or chil led meat and poultry. The 
meat includes beef, mutton, pork, veal or lamb, and the offal of any animal from which such meat 
is derived. The poultry includes the carcass of a domestic fowl, duck, goose or turkey or any part of 
such a carcass, and any part of  a bird mentioned above which is edible or used in the preparation 
of food.  
 
3. The import licensing system applies to products coming from any places.  
 
4. The principal objective of the import licensing system is not to restrict the quantity or value of 
imports, but for public health and food safety.  
 
5. The import licensing system is a statutory requirement maintained under the Import and Export 
(General) Regulations (Cap. 60A ) and Import and Export Ordinance (Cap. 60 ).  The legislation does 
not leave des ignation of product to be subject to licensing to administrative discretion.  Any changes 
to the import licensing system  require legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable  as the import control system is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of 
imports . 
 G/LIC/N/3/HKG/23  
 
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  7.(a) Application for import licences should be lodged in advance of importation taking into account 
the processing time.  The issue of an import licence under normal circumstances requires 
1 working day (excluding Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays, dates of submission and 
issuing).  
 
(b) The issue of an import licence under normal circumstances requires 1 working day (excluding 
Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays, dates of submission and issuing).  
 
(c) There are no limitations as to the period of the year during which licence applications  and/or 
importation  may be made.  
 
(d) The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department is the sole administrative organ res ponsible 
for the processing and approval of meat and poultry import licences.  
 
8. Application for a licence will be approved provided the ordinary criteria are met.  Reason for 
refusal will be given to the applicant.  Applicants may appeal to the Chief Exe cutive of the HKSAR 
against a decision of refusal for issuing a licence.  The right to appeal to the Chief Executive is 
statutorily provided.  
 
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence  
9. A company is required to be registered with the Food and Environm ental Hygiene Department 
under the Registration Scheme for Food Importers and Food Distributors before it can apply for an 
import licence. Registration is open to all business enterprises. The registration fee is HK$195 for 3 
years. There is a published li st of registered importers.  
 
Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence  
10. Information to be supplied includes particulars of the importer, of the importation and of the 
products to be imported. Health certificate issued by the rec ognized issuing entity  of the exporting 
economy concerned or specific approval from the Director of Food and Environmental Hygiene is 
required to support licence applications.  Sample of Import Licence Form 3 is available at 
http://www.tid.gov.hk/english/aboutus/form/sampleform/files/tra187.pdf . 
 
11. The import licence is the only document required upon actual importation.  
 
12. No licensing fee is required for import lice nce applications.  The price of non -textiles import 
licence forms is HK$ 20 per pad (containing 20 sets).  
 
13. No deposit or advance payment is required.  
 
Conditions of Licensing  
14. An import licence is valid for 6 weeks.  The period of validity cannot be extended.  The licence 
applicant should request cancellation of the expired licence and may apply for a new licence.  
 
15. There is n o penalty for non -utilization.  Importers should however cancel the licences.  
 
16. The license is n ot transferable.  
 
17. Apart from the licensing conditions printed on the sample import licence 
(http://www.tid.gov.hk/english/aboutus/form/sampleform/files/tra187.pdf ), the conditions set out 
at Annex  are applicable to frozen or chilled meat and poultry which are not subject to quantitative 
restriction.  
 
Other Procedural Requirements  
18. There are no other administrative  procedur es require d prior to importation.  
 
19. The banking authorities automatically provide foreign exchange for goods to be imported.  No 
licence is required as a condition to obtaining foreign exchange . 
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  ANNEX  
LICENSING CONDITIONS  TO BE IMPOSED ON IM PORT LICENCE  
FOR FROZE N / CHILLED MEAT AND  POULTRY  
(I) The licensing conditions imposed for import of frozen/chilled meat and poultry for local 
consumption area are as follows:  
 
(a) Issuing Entities without Health Certificate  
(i) This licence is valid for one shipment only.  
(ii) The consignment  covered by this licence must not be released for sale and/or for 
use in the preparation of food in Hong Kong unless the Food and Environmental 
Hygiene Department has sighted the health certificate  covering it and given written 
approval . 
 
(b) Non-issuing Entities / Issuing Entities for Chilled Meat / Poultry  
(i) This licence is valid for one shipment only.  
(ii) This licence is issued subject to compliance with the conditions laid down in the 
letter to the applicant from the Director of the Food and Envi ronmental Hygiene 
dated _______ under Ref. IPGMP -__________.  
 
(II) The licensing conditions imposed for import of frozen/chilled meat and poultry for re -export 
area are as follows:  
 
(a) Issuing Entities  
(i) This licence is valid for one shipment only.  
(ii) The consignment c overed by this licence is solely for re-export  purpose. Release 
from cold storage for sale and/or for use in the preparation of food in Hong Kong 
is prohibited.  
 
(b) Non-issuing Entities / Issuing Entities for Chilled Meat / Poultry  
(i) This licence is valid for o ne shipment only.  
(ii) The consignment covered by this licence is solely for re-export  purpose.  
(iii) This licence is issued subject compliance with the conditions laid down in the letter 
to the applicant from the Director of the Food and Environmental Hygiene dated 
________ under Ref. XPGMP -__________.  
 
 
 
__________