G/LIC/N/3/HKG/18  
 
25 September 2014  
(14-5388)  Page: 1/32  
Committee on Import licensing  Original: English  
 
  REPLIES TO QUESTIONNAIRE ON IMPORT LICENSING PROCEDURES 
 
NOTIFICATION UNDER ARTICLE 7.3 OF THE AGREEMENT ON  
IMPORT LICENSING PROCEDURES1 
 H ONG KONG, CHINA 
The following communication2, dated 22 September 2014, is being circulated at the request of the 
delegation of Hong Kong, China. 
 
_______________ 
 
1   TRADE AND INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT .......................................................................... 2  
1.1   Import licensing system for textiles .............................................................................. 2  
1.2   Importation of st rategic commo dities ........................................................................... 4  
1.3   Import licensing system on rice, roug h diamonds, pesticides (methyl bromide), and 
ozone depleting substances ................................................................................................ 7  
2   DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH .......................................................................................... 11  
2.1   Import licensing system on pharmaceutical products and medicines, proprietary 
chinese medicines and 36 chinese herbal medicines, and radioactive substances and irradiating apparatus ........................................................................................................ 11
 
3   CUSTOMS AND EXCI SE DEPARTMENT ........................................................................ 13  
3.1   Import licensing system  for dutiable commodities ......................................................... 13 
3.2   Import licensing system for controlled chemicals (for substances listed in 
schedules 1 and 2 of the control of ch emicals ordinance, chapter 145 only) .............................. 15 
3.3   Import licensing system for optica l disc mastering and re plication equipment .................... 17 
4   CIVIL ENGINEERING AND DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT ........................................... 18  
4.1   Import control system for sand ................................................................................... 18 
5   AGRICULTURE, FISHERIES AN D CONSERVATION DEPARTMENT ................................ 19  
5.1   Import control on pl ants, plant pest s and soil ............................................................... 19 
5.2   Import licensing system for enda ngered species of an imals and plants ............................. 21 
5.3   Import contro l on live animals .................................................................................... 23 
5.4   Import control on pesticides ....................................................................................... 24 
                                               
1 See document G/LIC/3, Annex, for the Questionnaire. 
2 This notification replaces the notification circulated in document  G/LIC/N/3/HKG/17 dated 
30 September 2013.  Annexes I-XXIX referred to in the notification are available for consultation in the Secretariat (Market Access Division).  Most of the An nexes can also be viewed/downloaded from the webpages 
specified. G/LIC/N/3/HKG/18 
 
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  6   ENVIRONMENTAL PROT ECTION DEPARTMENT .......................................................... 26  
6.1   Import co ntrol on waste ............................................................................................ 26 
6.2   Import control on non- pesticide hazard ous chem icals .................................................... 28 
7   FOOD AND ENVIRONMENTA L HYGIENE DEPARTMENT ............................................... 31  
7.1   Import control on frozen  or chilled meat and poultry ...................................................... 31 
 
 
_______________ 
  1  TRADE AND INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT 
1.1  Import licensing system for textiles  
Outline of Systems 
1.   The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) maintains an import licensing system 
for textiles imports from the Mainland of China (the Mainland).  It functions as a surveillance 
system to back up HKSAR's textiles export co ntrol system.  The import licensing system is 
administered by the Trade and Industry Department.  Importers are required to cover each 
consignment with textiles import licences issued  by the Director-General of Trade and Industry 
prior to the actual arrival of the goods from the Mainland, unless they have lodged textiles import notifications in lieu of import licences if the textiles traders concerned have been registered under the Textiles Trader Registration Scheme and so ex empted from the import licensing requirements. 
 
Purposes and Coverage of Licensing 
2.  The licensing system applies only to the importation of textiles products from the Mainland, 
with the exception of:  
(a) Textiles transhipments; 
 
(b) Woven or knitted fabric swatches and sample yarn imported by air and not exceeding 0.8 m2 
in size in respect of fabric swatches and 1.2 kg  in weight in respect of each type of yarn; 
 
(c) Textiles articles imported by an individual for his personal use or as bona fide gifts to 
another individual; and 
 
(d) Textiles articles imported as part of the provisions required for consumption or use by the 
crew or passengers of the vessel, aircraft or vehicle on which the articles are carried. 
 
For (c) and (d), textiles products imported are ex empted from licensing requirement provided that 
they are in a quantity which is reasonable having regard to the purpose for which they are imported.   
3.  The system applies only to textiles coming fr om the Mainland irrespective of the origin of the 
goods. 
 
4.  The textiles import licensing system is not intend ed to restrict the quantity or value of imports, 
but to function as a surveillance system to back up HKSAR's textiles export control system.  Traders are, however, provided with a convenient alternative of registering under the Textiles 
Trader Registration Scheme, under which registered textiles traders need only to lodge import 
notifications completed by themselves, in lieu of licences issued by the Director-General of Trade 
and Industry, to cover their textiles shipments imported from the Mainland.   
5.  The textiles import licensing system is a statutory requirement maintained under the Import 
and Export Ordinance, Chapter 60 of the Laws of Hong Kong which also provides for registered textiles traders to be exempted from certain licen sing requirements.  The law does not provide for G/LIC/N/3/HKG/18 
 
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  administrative discretion to designate particular type of textiles imports to be subject to licensing 
requirement.  Any alterations to the textiles impo rt licensing system require legislative approval. 
 Procedures 
6.  Not applicable. 
 7.(a) A textiles importer may obtain a consignment-specific textiles import licence prior to, but 
not more than 28 days before the arrival of goods as a textiles import licence is valid for 
28 days.  Under normal circumstances, a consignment-specific textiles import licence application is approved within two clear working days after application.  Post-import applications i.e. after the goods in question have arrived, will not be entertained except 
under exceptional circumstances with strong justification. 
  For textiles traders registered under the Textiles Trader Registration Scheme, they also 
have the option to lodge an import notificati on, to be completed by themselves in paper 
form or electronic form before importation.  Electronic service for the lodgement of textiles notifications is available round-the-clock.  
 
(b) Expeditious issue of a licence may be granted in justified cases.  (c) Import licence applications may be made all year around. 
 
(d) The Trade and Industry Department is the sole administrative organ responsible for the 
processing and approval of textiles import licences. 
 
8.  An application for an import licence is normally approved if the requisite details concerning the import shipment are provided.  In the event of refusa l to issue a licence, the reasons will be given.  
The applicant has a right to appeal to the Chief Executive of the HKSAR. 
 Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence 
9.  All individuals and businesses registered in the HKSAR are eligible to apply for consignment-
specific textiles import licences.  All importers, exporters, manufacturers, carriers and freight 
forwarders with valid business registration in the HKSAR that are engaged in the textiles trade within the scope of the Textiles Trader Registration Scheme (TTRS) may apply for registration 
thereunder.  The registration fee is currently HK$349 per annum. 
  There are no published lists of authorized importers. 
 
Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence 
10.  For the application of textiles import licence, the importer has to provide information on 
particulars of the importer, foreign exporter and details of the consignment.  Samples of Import 
Licence (Textiles) Form 7 and Import Notifi cation (Textiles) are at Annexes I and II
3 respectively.  
No supporting documents are required for applicatio ns of Import Licence (Textiles) Form 7 lodged 
before the arrival of goods.   
 
11.  A valid Import Licence (Textiles) Form 7 or a duly completed Import Notification (Textiles) is 
required upon actual importation. 
 
12.  The fee for an application for Import Licence (Textiles) Form 7 is HK$45.  A fee of HK$2.9 is 
currently charged for each textiles notification lodged in paper form in addition to the cost of the paper notification form at HK$0.7 each whereas HK$0.7 is payable for each electronic lodgement 
of a fresh textiles notification.   
 13.  No deposit or advance payment is required for Import Licence (Textiles) Form 7. 
                                               
3 Samples of Import Licence (Textiles) Form 7 and Im port Notification (Textiles) can be viewed at:  
http://www.tid.gov.hk/english/aboutus/form/sampleform/forms_maincontent.html  (English and Chinese 
versions).   G/LIC/N/3/HKG/18 
 
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  Conditions of Licensing 
14.  A consignment-specific textiles import licence is valid for 28 days from the date of issue.  The 
validity of a licence cannot be extended.  Under no rmal circumstances, the licence applicant should 
request cancellation of the expired licence and apply for a new licence. 
 
15.  A textiles import licence not utilised within the validity period must be returned to the Trade and Industry Department for cancel lation.  Similarly, a textiles import licence should be returned 
for amendment if necessary.  The Trade and Industry Department may take legal and/or 
administrative action against import of textiles  not under and in accordance with a licence. 
 16.  Licence is not transferable. 
 
17.  No other conditions attached to the issue of a licence.  
Other Procedural Requirements 
18.  No other administrative/procedural requirements prior to importation. 
 
19.  No foreign exchange control.  
 1.2  Importation of strategic commodities  
Outline of Systems 
1.  The licensing control system on the import of strategic commodities is administered by the 
Trade and Industry Department.  However, certain strategic commodities such as arms and ammunition, explosives and radio transmitting equipment are also subject to the controls 
administered by other government departments. 
 Purposes and Coverage of Licensing 
2.  Import licences are required for strategic commodities.  Examples of strategic commodities 
include 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 systems, encryption equipment for 
information security, night vision image intensifier systems, chemical weapon precursors and 
manufacturing facilities, certain biological agents, plant pathogens and related manufacturing equipment, and facilities and articles for a use relating to nuclear, chemical or biological weapons. 
 
3.  The licensing system applies to goods originating in and coming from any places. 
 
4.  The import licensing system on strategic commodi ties is not intended to restrict the quantity or 
value of imports.  Instead, it is to prevent 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 respective Ordinances and their subsidiary legislation under the Laws of Hong Kong (see below).  Legislation does not 
leave designation of products to be subject to licensing to administrative discretion.  Any changes 
such as subjecting a new product to import licensing or removal of an existing product therefore require legislative approval.   
 
Strategic commodities are subject to the control of  the Import and Export (Strategic Commodities) 
Regulations made under the Import and Export Ordi nance, Cap. 60, Laws of Hong Kong.  Certain 
strategic commodities are also subject to the controls of other Ordinances: 
 G/LIC/N/3/HKG/18 
 
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  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. 295. 
 
Procedures 
6. Not applicable. 
 
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: 
 
 (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 Po ssession; 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 Department (for direct transhipment of explosives in vessels): 48 hours before 
arrival of the goods. 
 (iv) Civil Engineering and Development Department (for endorsement on import licence 
application of explosives): instantly. 
 (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 unforeseen 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 responsibl e for the processing and approval of strategic 
commodities licences.  For applications concerning arms, ammunition, explosives and radio transmitting equipment, the importer has to separately approach the relevant government 
departments in paragraph 1.2.7(a) above fo r 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.  In the case of refusal to 
issue a licence, the reasons will be given.  Th e applicant has a right to appeal to the Chief 
Executive of the HKSAR by writing to the Chief Secretary for Administration.  The right to appeal to the Chief Executive is statutorily provided. 
 
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence 
9.  All firms, institutions and individuals in Hong Kong are eligible to apply for import licences 
except under special circumstances where licensi ng facilities to them are denied owing to 
malpractice of the firm/institution/individual or some other special reasons.    G/LIC/N/3/HKG/18 
 
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  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 cargo4) 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. 
 
For arms and ammunition, all firms, institutions and individuals must obtain an Exemption, an 
Arms Dealer's Licence or a Licence for Possession from the Hong Kong Police Force before applying 
for a Limited Licence for Possession and an import licence from the Hong Kong Police Force and 
the Trade and Industry Department respectively.  The prescribed fee for a Limited Licence for 
Possession is HK$86; Licence for Possession is HK$2,060; an Exemption is HK$540; and an Arms 
Dealer's Licence is from HK$5,140 to HK$11,700. 
 Civil Engineering and Development Department will only endorse an import licence for explosives which are on the "List of Approved Explosives for Use in Hong Kong" (the List
5) .   T o  i m p o r t  
explosives not on the List, the importer (a person or company) must first apply to the Civil 
Engineering and Development Department for the explosives to be included on the List.  
Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence 
1 0 .  A s amp le  form is  at  Anne x I I I
6.  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, samples of application forms for a Licence for Possession, a Limited Licence for Possession, an Exemption and an Arms Dealer's Licence mentioned in 
paragraph 1.2.7(a)(i) are at Annexes IV, V, VI and VII
7 respectively. 
 
For radio transmitting equipment, samples of application forms for Radio Dealers Licence and 
Import Permit mentioned in paragraph 1.2.7(a)(ii) are at Annexes VIII and IX8 respectively. 
 
11.  A valid import licence is required upon actual importation. 
 
12.  No licensing fee is charged for the Import Licence for Strategic Commodities.  
 13.  No deposit or advance payment is required. 
 
Conditions of Licensing 
14.  An import licence covering strategic commodities is valid for 6 months from the date of issue.  
The validity cannot be extended under normal circumstances. 
 15.  No penalty for non-utilization.  Importers should however return an unused licence to the 
Trade and Industry Department for cancellation. 
 16.  Not transferable.  
                                               
4 Radio transmitting equipment in transit is exempted from the licensing requirement.  In addition, radio 
transmitting equipment which is transhipment cargo is subj ect to a pre-notification system for trade facilitation 
purpose. 
5 The List can be viewed at: http://www.cedd.gov.hk/eng/services/ mines_quarries/mqd_ explosives.html  
(English version) 
6 Sample of the form can be viewed at: 
http://www.stc.tid.gov.hk/english/download/files/il_paper_form.pdf  (English version). 
7 The application forms can be downloaded from: http://www.police.gov.hk/ppp_en/08_forms/  (English 
version). 
8 The application forms can be downloaded from: 
http://www.ofca.gov.hk/filemanager/ofca/common/electronic_services/licenses_application/A112.pdf  
(Annex VIII) (English and Chinese versions) and 
http://www.ofca.gov.hk/filemanager/ofca/common/electronic_services/licenses_application/a120.pdf  
(Annex IX) (English and Chinese versions). G/LIC/N/3/HKG/18 
 
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  17.  An import licence concerning strategic commodities is usually issued with the following 
conditions:  "Re-export must be covered by an ex port licence issued by the Director-General of 
Trade and Industry" and "The 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". 
 
Other Procedural Requirements 
18.  No other administrative/procedural requirements prior to importation. 
 
19.  No foreign exchange control.   1.3  Import licensing system on rice, roug h diamonds, pesticides, and ozone depleting 
substances  
Outline of Systems 1.  Licences/certificates are required for import of rice (unless for purposes specifically exempted 
under the relevant legislation), rough diamonds, pesticides, and ozone depleting substances.  
These import measures are applied for health, en vironmental protection reasons, to maintain a 
stable supply of rice and a reserve stock 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 
Industry 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 Industry Department.   
 Purposes and Coverage of Licensing 
2. Import licensing is intended for the following purposes: 
 
 Products 
Purposes 
(a) Rice  Maintaining a stable supply and a reserve stock 
for emergencies. 
(b) Rough diamonds International obligation. 
(c) Pesticides Public health. 
(d) Ozone depleting substances Environmental protection. 
 3.  The system applies to products coming from all places except items (b) and (d) of 
paragraph 1.3.2 above.  For item (b), all imports of rough diamonds from non-participants of the 
Kimberley Process
9 have been banned since 2 January 2003.  For item (d), 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 licensing/certification system is not to restrict the quantity 
or value of imports, but for purposes set out in paragraph 1.3.2 above.  A quantitative limit is 
imposed for imports of some ozone depleting subs tances 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 under the Laws of Hong Kong (see below).  Legislation does not leave 
designation of product to be subjected to licensing/certification to administrative discretion.  Any 
changes such as subjecting a new product to import licensing/certification or removal of an existing product therefrom require legislative approval. 
                                               
9 The Kimberley Process is a negotiating forum orig inated from discussions in the United Nations 
General Assembly regarding re bel activities in some parts of Africa.  The forum aims at stopping trade in 
"conflict diamonds" from fuelling armed conflicts, activi ties of rebel movements and illicit proliferation of 
armament. G/LIC/N/3/HKG/18 
 
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 Products Relevant Ordinances  
(a) Rice Reserved Commodities Ordinance, Cap. 296. 
(b) Rough diamonds Import and Export (General) Regulations, Import 
and Export Ordinance, Cap. 60. 
(c) Pesticides  Pesticides Ordinance, Cap. 133. 
Import and Export (General) Regulations, Import 
and Export Ordinance, Cap. 60. 
(d) Ozone depleting substances Ozone Layer Protection Ordinance, Cap. 403. 
 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 performance (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 
Hong Kong 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, letters are sent to exis ting registered importers informing them the 
normal quotas allocation for the subsequent control 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/olp .  Information 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.  Lice nces are issued to 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 Depa rtment of details of the import within 14 
days after importation.  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 co uld 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 Pesticides  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 current control period for ozone depleting substances is from 1 January to 
31 December 2014.  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. 
 G/LIC/N/3/HKG/18 
 
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  VIII. Normal quotas are allocated to registered importers with regard to their performance in 
the previous control period.  Free quotas for HC FCs, if available, are allocated throughout 
the control period to all eligible applicants (see paragraph 1.3.9(c) below), including new 
importers, on a first-come-first-served basis.  A common ceiling of a certain amount of 
quota is assigned to each individual importer applying for free quota.  Registered importers 
can also acquire the quotas through quota transfer from the existing normal quota holders. 
 
IX-X. Not applicable. 
 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 exported 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 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 
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 import licences/certificates. 
 
8.  Under normal circumstances, an application for an import licence/certificate is usually granted 
if it meets the ordinary criteria.  In the event of refusal, the reasons will be given.  Applicants for 
items 2(a), (b) and (c) above 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 an d Industry.  The right to appeal to the Chief 
Executive is provided in relevant statutes.  For item 2(d), 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 Apply for Licence 
9.(a) For rice, under normal circumstances, only stockholders registered with the Trade and 
Industry Department may import rice into Hong Kong for local consumption.  Registration is free of charge and open to any person/entity carrying on a business registered in Hong Kong.   
 
(b) 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. 
 
(c) 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. 
 
(d) For pesticides (methyl bromide), a company is required to hold a pesticides permit issued 
by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservati on 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 permit is required.  Application for a pesticides permit is open to all business enterprises wishing to deal in pesticides.  A 
fee is charged for the permit, which may range from HK$855 to HK$1,435 depending on 
the type of permit.  There is no published list of permitted importers.   
 G/LIC/N/3/HKG/18 
 
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  Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence/Certificate 
10.  In general, information to be supplied includes particulars of the importer, of the importation 
and of the products to be imported.  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 pesticides 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 on actual importation.  
12.  Apart from applications covering ozone depleting substances and rough diamonds, no 
licensing fee is required for import licence applic ations.  For ozone depleting substances licences, a 
fee of HK$815 and HK$1,210 is charged on the issue of an import licence and a combined "import 
and export licence" respectively.  The price of oz one 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.  The price of non-textiles import licence forms is HK$24 per pad (containing 20 sets)/HK$3 per set.  For rough diamonds import certificate, a fee of HK$175 is 
charged on the issue of a certificate and the pr ice of import certificate forms is HK$21 per pad 
(containing 20 sets)/HK$6 per set.  
13.  No deposit or advance payment is required. 
 Conditions of Licensing 
14.  Unless otherwise stated, an import licence/ce rtificate is valid for 28 days for rough diamonds, 
6 weeks for rice, 60 days for ozone depleting subs tances and pesticides (methyl bromide).  The 
period of validity can be extended by the Director -General of Trade and Industry depending on the 
merits of individual requests. 
 
15.  No penalty for non-utilization. Importers should however cancel or amend the licences/certificates. 
 
16.  Not transferable.  17.  Apart from the licensing/certification conditio ns printed on the front or back of the import 
licence/certificate (samples of the Import Licence Form 3 applicable to items (a) and (c) in 
paragraph 1.3.2, Import Certificate for item (b) in paragraph 1.3.2, Import Licence Form and Combined "Import and Export Licence" Form for item (d) in paragraph 1.3.2 are at Annexes X, XI, 
XII and XIII10 respectively), additional conditions set out in Annex XIV are applicable to rice 
imported for local consumption and for re-export respectively.   
Other Procedural Requirements 
18.  No other administrative/procedural requirements prior to importation. 
 19. No foreign exchange control. 
 
                                               
10 Samples of these forms can be viewed at:  
http://www.tid.gov.hk/english/aboutus/form/sampleform/forms_maincontent.html  (English version). G/LIC/N/3/HKG/18 
 
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  2  DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH 
2.1  Import licensing system on pharmaceut ical products and medicines, proprietary 
Chinese medicines and 36 Chinese herbal me dicines, 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 Chinese 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 Department of 
Health under delegation from the Trade and Industry Department.   
Purposes and Coverage of Licensing 
2.  Import licensing is intended for the following purposes: 
 
 Products 
Purposes 
(a) Pharmaceutical products and 
medicines Public health. 
(b) Proprietary Chinese medicines and 
36 Chinese herbal medicines Public health. 
(c) Radioactive substances and 
irradiating apparatus International obligation, public safety, security 
and  health. 
 
3.  The 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 paragraph 2.1.2 above.  
 5.  The import licensing system is a statutory requirement maintained under respective Ordinances 
under the Laws of Hong Kong (see below).  Legislation does not leave designation of product to be 
subjected to licensing to administrative discretion.  Any changes such as subjecting a new product to import licensing or removal of an existing product therefrom require legislative approval.  
 Products 
Relevant Ordinances  
(a) Pharmaceutical products and 
medicines Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance, Cap. 138. 
Import and Export (General) Regulations, Import and Export Ordinance, Cap. 60. 
(b) Proprietary Chinese medicines and 
36 Chinese herbal medicines Chinese Medicine Ordinance, Cap. 549. 
Import and Export (General) Regulations, Import 
and Export Ordinance, Cap. 60. 
(c) Radioactive substances and 
irradiating apparatus Radiation Ordinance, Cap. 303. 
Import (Radiation) (Prohibition) Regulations, 
Import and Export Ordinance, Cap. 60. 
 Procedures 
6.  Not applicable. 
 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 products and medicines; and proprietary Chinese medicines and 36 Chinese herbal medicines.  
 
(b) In exceptional cases, a licence can be granted immediately on request.  G/LIC/N/3/HKG/18 
 
- 12 - 
 
  (c) There are no limitations as to the period of the year during which application for licence 
and/or importation may be made. 
 (d) Department of Health is the sole administra tive 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 ordinary criteria.  In the even t of refusal, the reasons will be given.  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 re verse 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 
Substances 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 the activities under the licence.  The supervisor should have undergone the 
necessary training on radiation protection reco gnised by the Radiation Board.  Licence fee 
is HK$3,190. 
 
 Irradiating Apparatus Licence: for sale of irradiating apparatus in Hong Kong, 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. 
 
(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 appropriate 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 importers and exporters of pharmaceutical products and a published list of 
wholesalers of poisons in the Drug Office website: http://www.drugoffice.gov.hk . 
 
(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 import 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 trader'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 Medicine Council of Hong Kong website: http://www.cmchk.org.hk . 
 
Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence 
10.  In general, information to be supplied includes particulars of the importer, of the importation 
and of the products to be imported.  Certain documents are also required to support licence applications of the following products: G/LIC/N/3/HKG/18 
 
- 13 - 
 
   
 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 on actual importation. 
 
12.  No licensing fee is required for import licence applications.    
13.  No deposit or advance payment is required. 
 Conditions of Licensing 
14.  Unless otherwise stated, an import licence is va lid for 6 months.  The period of validity can be 
extended by the Director-General of Trade and In dustry depending on the merits of individual 
requests.  
15.  No penalty for non-utilization.  Importers should however cancel or amend the licences. 
 16.  Not transferable. 
 
17.  The licensing conditions are printed on the fron t or back of the import licences (samples of the 
Import Licence Form 3 and Import Licence Fo rm for Radioactive Substance and Irradiating 
Apparatus are at Annexes X
11 and XV12 respectively). 
 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 on radiological protection. 
 19. No foreign exchange control.  
3  CUSTOMS AND EXCISE DEPARTMENT 
3.1  Import licensing system for dutiable commodities  Outline of Systems 
1.  The import of dutiable commodities (tobacco, liquors with an alcoholic strength of more than 30 
per cent 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.  
                                               
11 Sample of Import Licence Form 3 can be viewed at:  
http://www.tid.gov.hk/english/aboutus/form/sampleform/files/tra187.pdf  (English and Chinese versions). 
12 Sample of Import Licence Form for Radioactive Su bstance and Irradiating Apparatus can be viewed at: 
http://www.info.gov.hk/dh-rhu/common_pdf/Import%20licence%20Form-%20electronic%20form%20TRA-
RSIA%202014.pdf  (English and Chinese versions). G/LIC/N/3/HKG/18 
 
- 14 - 
 
  Purposes and Coverage of Licensing 
2.  Removal permit is issued to licensed impo rters by the Customs and Excise Department to 
control the import and movement of dutiable commodities.  
3.  The system applies to dutiable commodities coming from all places outside HKSAR. 
 
4.  The import licensing system is neither intended  to restrict the quantity nor the value of import, 
but to protect and collect the excise duty impo sed on the dutiable commodities.  The existing 
licensing system is deemed satisfactory and no alternative method has been considered. 
 5.  The licence and permit requirement is statutory under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance, 
Cap. 109.  Legislation does not leave designation of products to be subjected to licensing to 
administrative discretion.  Legislative approval is required should there be any changes in the existing system. 
 
Procedures 
6.  Not applicable. 
 
7.(a) For an importer to be licensed, the normal application processing time is not more than 12 
working days, provided that all information required are sufficiently provided by the applicants.  Application 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 day, provided that all information required are sufficiently provided by 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 applicant. 
 
(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.  For the removal permit application, 
applicants have to lodge the application using the recognized electronic service provided 
by any of the three electronic service provid ers specified under the Dutiable Commodities 
Ordinance.   
 
8.  Application for an importer to be licensed w i l l  n o r m a l l y  b e  a p p r o v e d  p r o v i d e d  t h a t  t h e  
necessary criteria are met.  In case an application is refused, the reason for the refusal will be given to the applicant.  An applicant 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 and 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 
premises related to the application has to be provided.  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.  Samples of licence application form and licence are at Annexes XVI
13 and XVII respectively. 
                                               
13 The application form can be downloaded at: 
http://www.customs.gov.hk/filema nager/common/pdf/pdf_forms/ced65.pdf  (English and Chinese versions). G/LIC/N/3/HKG/18 
 
- 15 - 
 
  11.  In relation to import of liquors, a certificate of age may be required. 
 12.  The administrative charge for an import licence is HK$1,090 for each year.  The issue of a removal permit by the Customs and Excise Departme nt is free of charge, but a service charge of 
permit application is required by the specified electronic service provider. 
 13.  No deposit or advance payment is required. 
 
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.  No penalty for non-utilization.  
16.  Not transferable. 
 17.  The Commissioner of Customs and Excise may impose special conditions or restrictions in 
particular cases as he thinks fit. 
 Other Procedural Requirements 
18.  No other administrative/procedural requirements prior to importation. 
 
19.  No foreign exchange control.  
3.2  Import licensing system for contro lled chemicals (for substances listed in 
schedules 1 and 2 of the control of ch emicals ordinance, chapter 145 only)  
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 im porters by the Customs and Excise Department to 
regulate the import of controlled chemicals. 
 3.  The system applies to controlled chemicals coming from any places outside the HKSAR. 
 
4.  The import licensing system is not intended to restrict the quantity nor the value of import, but to prevent diversion of controlled chemicals into illicit manufacture of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances.  It is deemed satisfactory and no alternative method has been 
considered. 
 5.  The licence requirement is statutory under the Control of Chemicals Ordinance, Cap. 145.  
Legislation does not leave designation of products to be subjected to licensing to administrative 
discretion.  Legislative approval is required shou ld there be any changes in the existing system. 
 
Procedures 
6.  Not applicable. 
 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 be licensed, the 
normal processing time would be 14 days.  The licensed importer has to lodge an Import Authorization Application and supporting docu ments at least 4 working days before the 
actual importation of controlled chemicals. 
 G/LIC/N/3/HKG/18 
 
- 16 - 
 
  (b) A licence cannot be granted immediately on request because of the time required to 
process the application. 
 ( c )  T h e r e  i s  n o  l i m i t a t i o n  o f  t i m e  d u r i n g  t h e year on the application for licence and/or 
importation. 
 (d) The Customs and Excise Department is the sole administrative authority responsible for 
the processing and approval of licence and import authorization applications.   
 8 .   L i c e n c e s  w i l l  n o r m a l l y  b e  g r a n t e d  t o  e s t a blished companies, hospitals and educational or 
scientific organizations on application.  In case an application is refused, the reason for the 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. 
 
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 an import authorization, 
commercial documents relating to the import of controlled chemicals have to be provided.  Samples of application forms for licence and import authorization are at Annexes XVIII and XIX
14 
respectively.  Application through electronic means is also available and acceptable.   11.  The import authorization is the only document required under the Control of Chemicals 
Ordinance, Cap. 145 upon actual importation.  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 basis. 
 15.  No penalty for non-utilization.  Licensee should however surrender his licence and/or import authorization for amendment or cancellation where appropriate. 
 
16.  Not transferable.  
17.  No other conditions attached to the issue of a licence. 
 Other Procedural Requirements 
18.  No other administrative/procedural requirements prior to importation. 
 19.  No foreign exchange control.  
                                               
14 The application forms can be downloaded from: 
http://www.customs.gov.hk/en/trade_facilitation/chemicals/licence/index.html  (English and Chinese versions). G/LIC/N/3/HKG/18 
 
- 17 - 
 
  3.3  Import licensing system for optical disc mastering and replication equipment  
Outline of Systems 1.  The HKSAR maintains a licensing system for the import control of Optical Disc Mastering and 
Replication Equipment from all countries. 
 
Purpose and Coverage of Licensing 
2.  The system applies to the import of optical disc mastering and replication equipment. 
 
3.  The 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.  It is not 
possible for the government to abolish th e system without legislative approval. 
 
Procedures 
6.  Not applicable. 
 
7.(a) Application for a licence shall be lodged in advance of importation.  The issue of an import 
licence normally takes 2 working days. 
 
(b) A licence cannot be granted immediately upon request. 
 ( c )  T h e r e  i s  n o  l i m i t a t i o n  o f  t i m e  d u r i n g  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 provid ed the ordinary criteria are met.  In the case an 
application is refused, the reasons for the refusal will be given to the applicant.  The applicant may 
appeal to the Chief Executive of the HKSAR against the refusal. 
 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 application form is at Annex X
15.  
 
11.  The import licence is the only document required upon actual importation. 
 12.  There is no licensing fee or administrative charge. 
 
13.  No deposit or advance payment is required.  
                                               
15 The sample form can be viewed at: 
http://www.tid.gov.hk/english/aboutus/form/sampleform/files/tra187.pdf  (English and Chinese versions). G/LIC/N/3/HKG/18 
 
- 18 - 
 
  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.  No penalty for non-utilization. 
 16.  Not transferable. 
 
17  No other conditions attached to the issue of a licence.  Other Procedural Requirements 
18.  No other administrative/procedural requirements prior to importation. 
 19.  No foreign exchange control. 
 
4  CIVIL ENGINEERING AND DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT 
4.1  Import control system for sand  
Outline of Systems 
1.  A permit to transport sand in HKSAR is required under the Sand Ordinance.  The permit system 
enables the protection of beaches and seabed in HKSAR.  Permits are issued by the Civil 
Engineering and Development Department (CEDD). 
 
Purposes and Coverage of Licensing 
2.  Permits issued by CEDD are required for the importation of sand in excess of 100 kg. 
 
3.  The system applies to natural sand imported from all places.  Processed sand and washed sand 
are not covered by the Ordinance. 
 
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 und er Section 3 of the Sand Ordinance, Cap. 147.  
Any changes to the permit system will require legislative approval. 
 
Procedures 
6.  Not applicable. 
 
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 takes not 
more than 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 may 
be made. 
 (d) CEDD is the sole administrative organ regard ing the processing and approval of application 
for importation of sand. 
 8.  Applications for a permit will not be refused if the ordinary criteria are met.  Reasons for refusal will be given to the applicant in case of unsuccessful application. 
 G/LIC/N/3/HKG/18 
 
- 19 - 
 
  Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence 
9.  Only sand buyers and import companies are 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, quanti ty and destination, contract documents between 
importer and exporter, export licence issued by the exporting countries. Sample of the application 
form for a Sand Removal Permit (for Removal and Transportation of Sand in Hong Kong) and a 
sample of the Permit are at Annexes XX
16 and XXI respectively.  
 11.  Proof of valid vehicular or vessel licence. 
 
12.  No fees are charged for sand permits.  
13.  No deposit or advance payment is required. 
 Conditions of Licensing 
14.  The validity of Permit is determined by the va lidity date of the export licence issued by the 
exporting country for a maximum of 30 days.  This period can be extended upon application.  A 
new permit will be issued. 
 
15.  No penalty for non-utilization. 
 16.  Permits are not transferable. 
 
17.  The condition of Permit is at Annex XXII.  
 
Other Procedural Requirements 
18.  The Mainland river trade cargo vessels engaging in importation of sand from the Mainland are 
required to be registered through a local shi pping agent with Harbour Control Section of the 
Immigration Department and to obtain a Notice of Direction (Sand Barge Route) from Marine 
Department prior to importation.  
 19.  No foreign exchange control. 
 
5  AGRICULTURE, FISHERIES AND CONSERVATION DEPARTMENT 
5.1  Import control on plants, plant pests and soil  
Outline of Systems 
1.  Import licences, supported by phytosanitary ce rtificates, are required for import of plants.  
Prior authorizations are required for import of plant pest or soil.  
Plant quarantine requirements are framed 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 Plan t 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 Licenc e (PIL) issued by the Agriculture, Fisheries and 
Conservation Department is required.  "Plant" includes timber, trees, shrubs, leaves, roots, flowers, fruits, tubers, bulbs, corms, stocks, cutting s, layers, slips, suckers, seeds, and any part of 
                                               
16 The application form can be downloaded from: http://www.cedd.gov.hk/eng/forms/fm/index.html   
(English and Chinese versions). G/LIC/N/3/HKG/18 
 
- 20 - 
 
  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 writing (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 Hong Kong. 
 
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 quaran tine to prevent the spread of plant pest in 
compliance with the recommendations of the Plant Protection 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 de signation of plant to be subjected to licensing 
to administrative discretion.  It is not possible for the Government of HKSAR to abolish the system without legislative approval. 
 
Procedures 
6.  Not applicable. 
 
7.(a) Application for PIL or AIW should 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.  The reasons for 
any refusal are always given to the applicant who ha s the right to appeal to the Chief Executive of 
the HKSAR by notice in writing within 14 days from the date when he was informed of the 
decision. 
 
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence 
9.  All persons, firms and institutions are eligible to apply for PIL and AIW without any 
pre-conditional requirement. 
 Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence 
10.  The required information is outlined in the sample application form for PIL at Annex XXIII
17.  
An additional requirement 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. 
                                               
17 The application form can be downloaded from:  
http://www.afcd.gov.hk/english/quarantine/qua_plants/qua_plants_pq/qua_plants_pq_imp/files/pprd_11003b.
pdf (English and Chinese versions). G/LIC/N/3/HKG/18 
 
- 21 - 
 
  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 fee is charged for PIL and AIW. 
 
13.  No deposit or advance payment required.  
Conditions of Licensing 
14.  The validity for both PIL and AIW is 2 months. 
 15.  No penalty for non-utilization of PIL or AIW. 
 
16.  Neither PIL nor AIW is transferable.  
17.  There may be special quarantine requirements  attached to the PIL and AIW.  The conditions 
are based on the principles and procedures recomme nded by the Asia and Pacific Plant Protection 
Commission and the IPPC. 
 
Other Procedural Requirements 
18.  No other administrative/procedural requirements prior to importation. 
 
19.  No foreign exchange control. 
 5.2  Import licensing system for 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 Flora (CITES), 
whether alive, dead, parts or derivatives, and (b) live endangered species of 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 ingred ients made from these endangered species), and 
live endangered species of wild origin in CITES A ppendix 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 requirement applies to tr aders as well as individuals importing these items 
from all territories. 
 
4.  The import licensing system is not used to re strict the quantity or value of imports, but to 
protect endangered species and to prevent them from over-exploitation in accordance with CITES. 
 
5.  The import licensing system is a statutory requirement maintained under Chapter 586 of the 
Laws of Hong Kong which gives effect to CITES.  Under the Ordinance, the Secretary for the 
Environment may, by order published in the Gazett e, amend the list of endangered species to be 
subjected to licensing requirement.  Any other changes require legislative approval. 
 Procedures 
6.  Not applicable. 
 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 G/LIC/N/3/HKG/18 
 
- 22 - 
 
  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 permits 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. 
 Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence 
10.  The required information is summarized in the sample application form attached at 
Annex XXIV
18.  With respect to live specimens, controls of and requirements 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$460 
 (b) Import Licence other than live animals (one or more species)  HK$170  
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 applic ation and gives satisfactory justification to the 
Director of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation before its expiry.  
15.  No penalty for non-utilization. 
 16.  Not 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.  No other administrative/procedural requirements prior to importation. 
                                               
18 The application form can be downloaded from: 
http://afcd.gov.hk/english/conservation/con_end/con_end_lc/con_end_lc_app/files/AF243e06.pdf  (English 
version). G/LIC/N/3/HKG/18 
 
- 23 - 
 
  19.  No foreign exchange control. 
 5.3  Import control on 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 or birds. 
 3.  The 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, 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 Chapter 139 and/or Chapter 421 
with linkage to Chapter 169 of the Laws of Hong Kong.  Legislation does not leave designation of 
the items to be subjected to licensing to administrative discretion.  Any changes require legislative 
approval. 
 Procedures 
6.  Not applicable. 
 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 circumstances 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 Conservation  Department has the sole authority to grant 
special permits, and the permits are subject to full compliance with requirements. 
 
8.  Applications may be rejected or refused if requirements cannot be met.  The applicant may 
appeal to the Administrative Appeals Board.  
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence 
9.  Any person may lodge an application. G/LIC/N/3/HKG/18 
 
- 24 - 
 
   
Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence 
10.  The required information is summarized in the sample application form at Annex XXV19. 
 
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 at Annex XXVI
20.  
 
13.  Application fees must be paid upon the su bmission of the application.  The fees are not 
refundable once the permit has been approved. 
 
Conditions of Licensing 
14.  Permits 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.  No penalty for non-utilization. 
 
16.  Permits can be transferable between im porters 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.  No other administrative/procedural requirements prior to importation. 
 19.  No foreign exchange control. 
 
5.4  Import control on 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 for 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 1.3 above). 
 Purposes and Coverage of Licensing 
2.  Import licensing 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, destroying, 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 other 
pests; any antiseptic, disinfecting solution or preparation in clinical or sanitary applications; any pharmaceutical product; and any pesticide not 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 
                                               
19The application form can be downloaded from: 
http://www.afcd.gov.hk/english/quarantine/qua_ie /qua_ie_ipab/qua_ie_ipab_idc/files/AF240_Eng.pdf  (English 
version). 
20 The fee schedule can be viewed at: 
http://www.afcd.gov.hk/english/quarantine/qua_ie/q ua_ie_ipab/files/g110_fee_for_special_permit_mar05b.do
c (English and Chinese versions). G/LIC/N/3/HKG/18 
 
- 25 - 
 
  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 signatories 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 and the Import and Export (General) Regula tions, Import and Export Ordinance, Cap. 60 
under the Laws of Hong Kong.  Legislation does not leave designation of product to be subjected to 
licensing to administrative discretion.  Any changes such as subjecting a new product to import licensing or removal of an existing product therefrom require legislative approval. 
 
Procedures 
6.  Not applicable. 
 
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 
methyl 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.  
 8.  Under normal circumstances, an application for a pesticides import licence is usually approved 
if it meets the ordinary criteria.  In the event of refusal, the reasons will be given.  Applicants may 
appeal to the Chief Executive of the HKSAR in the ev ent 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 Execut ive 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 Importers to Apply for Licence 
9.  A company is required to hold an appropriate pesticide 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 
pesticide licence/permit is required.  Application for a pesticide licence/permit is open to all business enterprises wishing to deal in pesticides.  A fee is charged for the licence/permit, which may range from HK$520 to HK$1,435 depending on the type of licence/permit.  There is no 
published list of licensed/permitted importers.  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 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).  
 Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence 
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, G/LIC/N/3/HKG/18 
 
- 26 - 
 
  Fisheries and Conservation Department authorizing the importer to trade in pesticides or a valid 
through bill of lading.  Sample of Import Licence Form 3 is at Annex X21.   
 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.  The price of non-textiles import licence forms is HK$24 per pad 
(containing 20 sets)/HK$3 per set.  For methyl  bromide, a fee of HK$815 and HK$1,210 is charged 
on the issue of an ozone depleting substances im port licence and an ozone depleting substances 
combined "import and export licence" respective ly.  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. 
 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.  No penalty for non-utilization.  Importers should however cancel or amend the licences.  
16.  Not transferable. 
 17.  The licensing conditions are printed on the fron t or back of the import licences (samples of the 
Import Licence Form 3 applicable to pesticides  and Import Licence Form for ozone depleting 
substances are at Annexes X and XII
22 respectively). 
 
Other Procedural Requirements 
18.  No other administrative/procedural requirements prior to importation. 
 19.  No foreign exchange control. 
 
6  ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT 
6.1  Import control on waste  
Outline of Systems 
1 .   T h e  i m p o r t  o f  w a s t e  i n t o  H K S A R  i s  c o n t r o l l e d  u n d e r  a  p e r m i t  s y s t e m  a d m i n i s t e r e d  b y  t h e  
Environmental Protection Department.  Its requir ements 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 any waste, unless the waste is specified in Schedule 6 of the 
Waste Disposal Ordinance, and it is uncontaminated and is intended for recycling or reuse 
purposes.  
3.  The permit system applies to wastes originat ing in and coming from any places outside HKSAR. 
 4.  Other than those requirements of the Basel Co nvention, the system 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 continuation of legitimate waste trade and to stop any illegal shipment.  
                                               
21 Sample of Import Licence Form 3 can be viewed at: 
http://www.tid.gov.hk/english/aboutus/form/sampleform/files/tra187.pdf  (English and Chinese versions). 
22 Samples of these forms can be viewed at:  
http://www.tid.gov.hk/english/aboutus/form/sampleform/forms_maincontent.html  (English version). G/LIC/N/3/HKG/18 
 
- 27 - 
 
  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 waste import permit system is a statutory requirement maintained under the Waste 
Disposal Ordinance, Cap. 354 of the Laws of Hong Kong.  The legislation does not leave 
designation of waste to be subjected to control to administrative discretion.  Legislative approval is 
required should there be any change in the existing system. 
 
Procedures 
6.  Not applicable. 
 
7.(a) Permit applications should be lodged in advance of the importation.  The processing time 
for an application varies from case to case, depending primarily on the time taken by the 
competent authorities of the exporting econom ies concerned to provide feedback for the 
application, and on whether the application form is duly completed and lodged with all the 
required supporting 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. 
 (b) A permit cannot be granted immediately.  Under the Basel Convention, consents from all 
export and transit economies concerned are requ ired prior to any waste shipment.  We are 
unable to issue any permit without obtainin g the views from the export and transit 
economies concerned. 
 
(c) There are no limitations as to the period of  the year during which permit application may 
be made. 
 
(d) The Environmental Protection Department is the sole administrative organ responsible for 
the processing and approval 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 are met (e.g. the proposed waste 
shipment is in line with the spirit and requirem ents of the Basel Convention).  In the event of 
refusal to issue a permit, the reasons will be gi ven, and the applicant may appeal to the Appeal 
Board established under the Waste Disposal Ordinance.  In any case, it should be noted that to tie 
in with the latest requirements of the Basel Convention, import of hazardous waste from 
developed economies including Liechtenstein and me mber states of the Organisation for Economic 
Cooperation and Development (OECD) and the Eu ropean Union (EU) into the HKSAR has 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 im porter of the waste.  There is no published list 
of authorized importers. 
 
Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence 
10.  The required information is outlined in the sample permit application at Annex XXVII
23. 
 
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. 
 
                                               
23 The application form can be downloaded from:  
http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmenti nhk/waste/guide_ref/file s/import_appn_form.pdf  (English 
and Chinese versions). G/LIC/N/3/HKG/18 
 
- 28 - 
 
  12.  An application fee of HK$11,595 or HK$18,430 will be charged for the application of a single 
shipment or a multiple-shipment permit respectively.  A multiple-shipment permit 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. 
 
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 financ ial guarantee 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 ma nagement of waste in case the intended waste 
shipment could not be completed 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 permit, 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 repeat ed 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.  No penalty for non-utilization. 
 
16.  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 ones (i.e. specified in the permit) or if the wastes cannot be treated/recycled as 
intended and stranded in Hong Kong for whatever  reasons, the wastes shall be returned to the 
place of origin.  Other Procedural Requirements 
18.  No other administrative/procedural requirements prior to importation. 
 19. No foreign exchange control. 
 
6.2  Import control on 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 Stockholm 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 import licensin g requirements are stipulated in the Hazardous 
Chemicals Control Ordinance (HCCO), Cap. 595, and the Import and Export Ordinance (IEO), Cap. 60, of the Laws of Hong Kong 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 Hong Kong, an import licence is also required under the IEO.  Both permits and licences are issued by the Environmental Protection Department. 
 
The permitting/licensing system, which forms part of the overall control of non-pesticide hazardous chemicals in Hong Kong, covers two types of scheduled chemicals, as follows: 
 G/LIC/N/3/HKG/18 
 
- 29 - 
 
  Type 1 Chemicals  
 
- Hexachlorobenzene (HCB); - Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB).  
 
Type 2 Chemicals 
 
- Asbestos (actinolite, anthophyllite, amosite, crocidolite and tremolite); 
 Polybrominated biphenyl (PBB) (hex abromobiphenyl, octabromobiphenyl and 
decabromobiphenyl); 
- Polychlorinated terphenyls (PCT); 
- Tetraethyl lead; 
- Tetramethyl lead; - Tris(2,3-dibromopropyl) phosphate. 
 
The permitting/licensing system does not apply to a scheduled chemical if the chemical is a 
constituent element of a manufactured product, ex cept when the chemical is PCB and when its 
concentration as a constituent element of a ma nufactured product exceeds 0.005 per cent (or 
50 ppm) and its volume exceeds 0.05 litre.  The permitting/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 system applies to the scheduled chemicals coming from any places.  Transshipment and 
transit of the scheduled chemicals, except for tran sit of Type 2 chemicals, through Hong Kong 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 system is intended 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.  There is no restriction on the value of the 
imported chemicals but the import quantities are subject to scrutiny to avoid improper use/release 
of the hazardous chemicals.  
 
5.  The system is stipulated in the HCCO an d the IEO, both of which do not provide for 
administrative discretion to designate partic ular type of chemicals to be subject to 
permitting/licensing requirement.  Any alterati on to the import permitting/licensing system 
requires legislative approval.  
Procedures  
6.  There is no quota restriction for importing 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 Stockholm Convention an d the Rotterdam Conventi on.  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 sch eduled 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 are available on the website of the 
Environmental Protection Department. 
 7.(a) Processing time for permit/licence applications varies from case to case, depending on the 
complexity of the application, the response ti me of overseas government agencies and the 
availability of supporting information from the importers.  The target processing time of a 
permit application 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 proc edure of the Rotterdam Convention, an IEO 
licence application will only 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.  G/LIC/N/3/HKG/18 
 
- 30 - 
 
   
(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) The HCCO import permits and the IEO import licences can be applied for at any time 
during the year. 
 
(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 Appeals 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.  
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence 
9.  All persons, firms and institutions are eligible to apply for the HCCO import permits.  All HCCO 
import permit holders are eligible to apply for the IEO import licences.  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 Annex XXVIII
24 and Annex X25 
respectively.  
 
11.  A HCCO import permit and an IEO import licence are required at the time of 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 application/licensing fee is required for an IEO Import Licence Form 3 
application.  But import licence application forms (Form No.: TRA187) have to be purchased at 
HK$26 per pad (containing 20 sets).    
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 the 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.  No penalty for non-utilization. 
 16.  Not transferable. 
 
17.  Standard conditions, covering environmental requirements, safety, packaging, labelling, storage, transportation, disposal, emergency arra ngements, return shipments and reporting, are 
                                               
24The application forms for HCCO import permits can be downloaded from:  
http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/applicatio n_for_licences/applic_ froms/files/hcc1.pdf  (English and Chinese 
versions) and 
http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/applicatio n_for_licences/applic_ froms/files/hcc3.pdf  (English and Chinese 
versions). 
25 Sample of IEO Import Licence Form 3 can be viewed at:  
http://www.tid.gov.hk/english/aboutus/form/sampleform/files/tra187.pdf  (English and Chinese versions). G/LIC/N/3/HKG/18 
 
- 31 - 
 
  included in the HCCO import permits.  No other conditions are attached to the issue of the IEO 
licences.  Other Procedural Requirements 
18.  Requirements under the Stockholm Conventi on and the Rotterdam Convention need to be 
observed.  
19.  No foreign exchange control. 
 7  FOOD AND ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE DEPARTMENT 
7.1  Import control on frozen or chilled meat and poultry  
Outline of Systems 
1.  Licences are required for import of frozen or chilled meat and poultry.  Import licences are 
issued by the Food and Environmental Hygiene De partment under delegation from the Trade and 
Industry Department.  
 Purposes and Coverage of Licensing 
2.  The licensing system covers the importation of  frozen or chilled 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 dome stic 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 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, Import and Export Ordinance, Cap. 60.  The legislation does not 
leave designation of product to be subjected to lic ensing to administrative discretion.  Any changes 
such as subjecting a new product to import licensing or removal of an existing product therefrom 
require legislative approval.  
Procedures 
6.  Not applicable. 
 
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) There are no limitations as to the period of the year during which licence applications may 
be made. 
 
(c) The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department is the sole administrative organ 
responsible 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.  In case an application is refused, the reason for the refusal will be given to the applicant.  Applicants may appeal to the Chief Executive of the HKSAR agains t a decision of refusal for issuing a licence. 
 G/LIC/N/3/HKG/18 
 
- 32 - 
 
  Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence 
9.  A company is required to be registered with the Food and Environmental 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 busi ness enterprises.  The registration fee is HK$195 for 
3 years.   There is a published list 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 issu ed by the recognized authority 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 at Annex X
26. 
 11.  The import licence is the only document required on actual importation.  
12.  No licensing fee is required for import licence applications.  The price of non-textiles import 
licence forms is HK$33 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.  No penalty for non-utilization.  Importers should however cancel the licences. 
 
16.  Not transferable.  
17.  Apart from the licensing conditions printed on the import licence at Annex X, the conditions 
set out at Annex XXIX are applicable to frozen or chilled meat and poultry which are not subject to 
quantitative restriction. 
 
Other Procedural Requirements 
18.  No other administrative/procedural requirements prior to importation. 
 
19.  No foreign exchange control. 
 
__________  
                                               
26 Sample of Import Licence Form 3 can be viewed at:  
http://www.tid.gov.hk/english/aboutus/form/sampleform/files/tra187.pdf  (English and Chinese versions).