Entering the Hong Kong market for business
Consultation on operating an international business through Hong Kong: we help assess the business model, structural requirements, and key aspects of working in this market. The format of cooperation and timelines depend on the business structure and the chosen operational model. After the business begins operating, accounting and administrative support can also be provided
WoBorders is an independent private consulting company. We provide advisory and administrative support and are not affiliated with any government authority or official registry
countries where we support company formation and international business growth
years of consulting experience for international businesses across European and Asian markets
clients who successfully launched their businesses abroad with our support
We are proud of our clients and sincerely grateful for their trust
Which businesses are the Hong Kong market suitable for
A Hong Kong company is most commonly used for international trade, online businesses, and service-based models working with clients across different countries. Below are typical use cases
Why entrepreneurs choose Hong Kong
Hong Kong combines English as a working language, a separate legal system, and a clear corporate structure. Below are key advantages that are especially valuable for international business operations
English as a working language
English is widely used in the legal, corporate, and business environments in Hong Kong. This makes it easier to work with documents, contracts, and international communication
Separate legal system
Hong Kong operates under the “one country, two systems” model and has a legal system distinct from mainland China's. For international businesses, this provides legal clarity and a familiar common law environment
Clear corporate structure
A Private Company Limited by Shares is the most common company format for international business operations
Convenient structure for international operations
Companies in Hong Kong are often used to working with clients, partners, and contractors from different countries
Still have questions about doing business in Hong Kong?
Taxes an reporting in Hong Kong for businesses
Hong Kong has one of the most transparent and business-friendly tax systems for international companies. Below are the key tax rates, taxation principles, and basic accounting and reporting requirements.
👉 You can read more about Hong Kong taxes and the territorial taxation principle in our separate article.
The most common corporate structure for international business
In Hong Kong, the most common legal structure is a Private Company Limited by Shares — a limited liability company similar to an LLC. This format is used by most international businessesthat work with clients outside Hong Kong. It is the standard company structure for international business, IT, e-commerce, and consulting.
Private Company Limited by Shares — the most common type of company in Hong Kong for international business, e-commerce, IT, consulting, and trading companies. This format is most often chosen when a business works with clients in different countries.
Key things to know about this structure:
Shareholders’ liability is limited to the amount of their contributions, and the company cannot publicly offer its shares. It is a standard private structure used for operational activities, contractual work, and international transactions.
Basic requirements:
For this type of structure, it is typically sufficient to have one director and one shareholder, who may be the same person. There is no residency requirement for the director; however, companies usually maintain a corporate secretary, a registered address in Hong Kong, and a share capital of at least HKD 1.
Who it is suitable for:
This structure is commonly used by e-commerce businesses, IT companies, consulting firms, agency models, and international trading companies.
Format:
Preparation of the required documents and further company management can be carried out remotely.
What information is usually reviewed before starting operations
Typically, to start operating through Hong Kong, a basic set of information about the founders and the planned business activities is prepared. If you plan to operate in Hong Kong, it is important to determine the business structure in advance prepare the necessary information required for standard organizational procedures.
Estimated timeframe for company formation in Hong Kong
Opening a business in Hong Kong (Private Company Limited by Shares) usually takes up to 5 working days after the preparation of documents and completion of the required administrative procedures.
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How international businesses typically operate through Hong Kong
Working with Hong Kong usually begins with analysing the business model, structural requirements, and operational specifics of this market. After operations begin, the company operates in accordance with Hong Kong’s corporate and tax framework and local business regulations.
Formats of consulting support for businesses operating in Hong Kong
The cost of consulting support for businesses operating through Hong Kong starts at € 1,600. The final price depends on the chosen support package, business support services, and the selected method for opening a business account. Below are the main packages for launching operations and ongoing corporate support.
BASIC
Best for entrepreneurs exploring international operations
- Initial consultation (30 min)
- Consultation on business structure and operational setup
- Corporate secretary for 1 year and legal address
- Consultation on international payment solutions such as Payoneer
STANDARD
Optimal option for businesses with international operations
- Everything included in the Basic package, plus:
- A certified corporate document package and apostilled*
*This document package may be required to open a bank account, pass KYC checks, or establish a subsidiary company in another jurisdiction. The apostille confirms the legal validity of the documents outside Hong Kong.
PRO
Comprehensive solution for businesses requiring support in Hong Kong
- Everything included in the Basic and Standard packages, plus:
- CFC notification filing (for Ukrainians only)
- Opening a business account with Airwallex
Consultation on doing business in Hong kong
Your consultant
Ivan Chebotarov
CEO & co-Founder
Describe your request or ask a question
We usually reply within 15 minutes during business hours. No obligation
Frequently asked questions about business in Hong Kong
Can international entrepreneurs operate through structures in Hong Kong?
Yes. Foreign nationals can own 100% of the shares of a Hong Kong company and act as the sole director and shareholder. There are no citizenship restrictions for company owners.
Are there any requirements for a business's management structure in Hong Kong?
No, a local director is not required to register a company in Hong Kong. A foreign national can act as a director, but the company must have at least one individual director, a corporate secretary, and a registered address in Hong Kong. If the secretary is an individual, they must usually reside in Hong Kong. If it is a company, its registered or principal office must be located in Hong Kong.
What payment solutions do companies typically use?
Opening an account in traditional Hong Kong banks can be difficult for non-residents and often requires physical presence and business connections with Hong Kong. For this reason, many companies use international fintech platforms, such as Airwallex, Payoneer account , or Wise, which allows businesses to operate in major currencies and process international payments.
Is Hong Kong considered an offshore jurisdiction?
No, Hong Kong is not considered a classic offshore jurisdiction. It is an international financial center with transparent regulation and a stable legal system. In some countries, including Ukraine, Hong Kong may be classified as a jurisdiction with preferential taxation for tax control purposes.
What are the taxation features for international income in Hong Kong?
Hong Kong applies the territorial taxation principle, meaning only income generated within Hong Kong is subject to tax. If a company conducts its activities outside the territory and can prove it, such income may not be taxable.
This may apply if:
– the company has no clients or suppliers in Hong Kong
– company management is conducted outside Hong Kong
– goods or services are not provided within Hong Kong
– key business decisions are made outside Hong Kong
Offshore income status is confirmed during the tax reporting process.
What tax does a company pay if operating in Hong Kong?
Hong Kong applies a two-tier profits tax system. The first HKD 2 million of profit is taxed at 8.25%, while the remaining profit is taxed at 16.5%. At the same time, Hong Kong does not impose VAT, dividend tax, or capital gains tax.
👉 👉 You can read more about Hong Kong taxes and the territorial taxation principle in our separate article.
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