Step-by-Step Process for Exporting to Hong Kong

Step 1: Obtain Importer-Exporter Code (IEC)

To legally export goods from India, IEC is mandatory.

Documents required:

PAN Card
Business Registration Proof
Address Proof
Bank Details

Apply through the DGFT portal.

Step 2: Understand Hong Kong Market Requirements

Hong Kong has a liberal trade policy with minimal restrictions.

Key advantages:

No customs duty on most goods
No VAT or GST
Fast customs clearance

However, some items ARE regulated:

Pharmaceutical products
Certain chemicals
Radio equipment
Food items requiring safety certificates
Precious metals and gemstones

Check Hong Kong’s Trade and Industry Department (TID) regulations for your product category.

Step 3: Identify the Correct HS Code and Duty Structure

Even though Hong Kong has zero import tariff on most goods, the HS code is still required for:

Documentation
Shipping bills
Customs classification

Accurate HS code ensures smooth clearance in both India and Hong Kong.

Step 4: Prepare Required Export Documentation

Export documents must be accurate and complete.

Standard Documents:

Commercial Invoice
Packing List
Shipping Bill (filed via ICEGATE)
Bill of Lading/Airway Bill
Certificate of Origin (if requested)
Insurance Certificate

Special Documents for Specific Goods (if required):

FSSAI compliance for food exports
Phytosanitary certificate for agricultural items
Product test reports (electronics, toys)
Precious metal certification (for jewelry exports)

Step 5: Ensure Proper Packaging and Labeling

Hong Kong follows international standards for labeling.

General Label Requirements:

Product description
Manufacturer details
Batch/lot number
Expiry date (for perishables)
Country of origin (Made in India)

For food items:

Ingredient declaration
Allergen information
Nutritional facts

Step 6: Select the Shipping Method

Sea Freight:

Best for large volumes and cost efficiency.
Common ports include Hong Kong Port, Kwai Tsing Container Terminals.

Air Freight:

Ideal for high-value, urgent, or small shipments.
Shipped via Hong Kong International Airport.

Choose Incoterms such as FOB, CIF, DDP depending on buyer partnership.

Step 7: File Shipping Bill & Complete Indian Customs Clearance

Your shipping partner or CHA will:

Prepare an export shipping bill
Upload documents on ICEGATE
Clear goods through customs

Once cleared, goods move for loading.

Step 8: Hong Kong Customs Clearance

Hong Kong is known for fast and efficient customs processing.

Customs may verify:

Commercial documents
HS Code
Product nature
Safety certificates (if applicable)

Most goods clear within hours, not days.

Step 9: Delivery to Buyer or Marketplace

Once cleared, goods move to:

Buyer’s warehouse
Retailers or distributors
Hong Kong Free Trade Zones
E-commerce platforms such as HKTVmall, Alibaba, etc.

Hong Kong also serves as a gateway to mainland China, creating additional opportunities.

Step 10: Claim Export Incentives in India

Eligible exporters can apply for:

RoDTEP rebates
Duty Drawback (subject to category)
GST refund under LUT/Bond

Maintain all shipping and customs documents for audit compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Does Hong Kong charge customs duty on imports?

No, most items are duty-free, except restricted goods.

2. Does Hong Kong require Chinese-language labeling?

Not mandatory for most goods, but bilingual labels (English + Chinese) help in retail.

3. Are food imports regulated?

Yes, food items require safety compliance and may require laboratory reports.

4. Is Hong Kong a good market for re-exporting to China?

Yes. Hong Kong is a major re-export hub.

5. How fast is customs clearance in Hong Kong?

Usually within a few hours if documentation is accurate.

Final Tips for Exporters to Hong Kong

Study product demand and competition.
Maintain transparent communication with buyers.
Use reliable freight forwarders familiar with Hong Kong routes.
Keep compliance documents ready for regulated goods.

Disclaimer

This blog is for informational purposes only. Export procedures, customs requirements, and trade regulations may change based on updates by DGFT, ICEGATE, Hong Kong Customs, and Trade & Industry Department. Readers should consult certified professionals before taking action. Saving Mantra is not responsible for any decisions made based on this content.

Step-by-Step Process for Export to Hong Kong