Hong Kong Orientation Guide

Business Councils and Groups

Set Up a Business

By law,every person,firmor corporation conducting business in Hong Kongmust register that business and pay an annual fee. Failure to do so may result in a heavy fine or even imprisonment. Organizations involved in charitable work are exempt frompaying a fee although they must still register. Setting up a company inHong Kong is relatively simple, although the regulationsmust be followed precisely and, if in doubt, it is always advisable to seek the help of professionals in the field. Moreover, there are many publications available on the topic; for example, the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) updates Establishing an Office in Hong Kong on an annual basis. Below is a summary of the steps youmust follow to incorporate a private limited company in Hong Kong; however, we advise you to consult with appropriate authorities in order to understand what isfullyrequired fortheprocess. + Choose a suitable name for the company. + Check proposed name against registered list of names. This can be done at the Companies Registry. + Prepare and complete two signed copies of the Memorandum and Articles of Association, signed andwitnessed. + Complete the Statutory Declaration of Compliance signed and witnessed. + Write a check for the registration fee and capital duty.

American Chamber of Commerce

www.amcham.org.hk

American Women’s Association

www.awa.org.hk

Australian Chamber of Commerce

www.austcham.org.hk

British Chamber of Commerce

www.britcham.com

Canadian Chamber of Commerce

www.cancham.org

Chamber of HongKongListed Companies

www.chklc.org

Submit the above documents to the Companies Registry with a cover letter to the following address:

Chinese General Chamber of Commerce

Companies Registry

www.cgcc.org.hk

14/F Queensway Government Offices 66 Queensway, Admiralty Tel: 2867 2600 www.cr.gov.hk/en/home/index.htm

Financial Woman’s Association

www.fwahk.org

HK Women Professionals & Entrepreneurs Association

+ Be sure to get a company seal made. A rubber stamp referred to locally as a “chop”.

www.hkwpea.org

HKAssociationofBusiness& Professional Women

www.hkabpw.org

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