WORLD TRADE
ORGANIZATIONG/LIC/N/3/HKG/6
16 October 2002
(02-5624)
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
HONG KONG, CHINA
The following communication2, dated 27 September 2002, has been received from the
Permanent Mission of Hong Kong, China.
_______________
I. TRADE AND INDUSTRY  DEPART MENT..........................................................................3
A. I MPORT LICENSING SYSTEM FOR TEXTILES .................................................................................3
B. I MPORTATION OF STRATEGIC COMMODITIES ..............................................................................5
C. I MPORT CONTROL ON RICE , PESTICIDES , PHARMACEUTICAL PRODUCTS AND
MEDICINES , RADIOACTIVE SUBSTANCES AND IRRADIATING APPARATUS ,
OZONE -DEPLETING SUBSTANCES , GOODS FROM IRAQ, DIAMONDS FROM ANGOLA ,
AND ROUGH DIAMONDS FROM SIERRA LEONE .............................................................................8
II. CUSTOMS AND EXCISE  DEPART MENT........................................................................14
A. I MPORT LICENSING SYSTEM FOR DUTIABLE COMMODITIES ......................................................14
B. I MPORT LICENSING SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLED CHEMICALS (FOR SUBSTANCES LISTED
IN SCHEDULES 1 AND 2 OF THE CONTROL OF CHEMICALS ORDINANCE , CHAPTER  145
ONLY ) .............................................................................................................................. ..........16
C. I MPORT LICENSING SYSTEM FOR LEFT -HAND DRIVE VEHICLES AND OUTBOARD
ENGINES EXCEEDING 111.9 KILOWATTS (150 HORSEPOWER )...................................................18
D. I MPORT LICENSING SYSTEM FOR OPTICAL DISC MASTERING AND REPLICATION
EQUIPMENT ............................................................................................................................... .19
III. CIVIL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT............................................................................21
A. I MPORT CONTROL SYSTEM FOR SAND .......................................................................................21
IV. AGRICULTURE, FISHERIES AND CONSERVATION DE PARTMENT.....................22
A. I MPORT CONTROL ON PLANTS , PLANT PESTS AND SOIL ............................................................22
                                                     
1 See document G/LIC/3, Annex, for the Questionnaire.
2This notification replaces the notification circulated in document G/LIC/N/3/HKG/5 dated 2
November 2001.  Annexes I-XXII referred to in the notification are available for consultation in the Secretariat
(Market Access Division).  Most of the Annexes can also be viewed/downloaded from the webpages specified.G/LIC/N/3/HKG/6
Page 2
B. I MPORT LICENSING SYSTEM FOR ENDANGERED SPECIES OF ANIMALS AND PLANTS .................24
C. I MPORT CONTROL ON LIVE ANIMALS ........................................................................................26
V. ENVIRONMENTA L PROTECTION DEPARTME NT.....................................................28
A. I MPORT CONTROL ON WASTE ....................................................................................................28
VI. FOOD AND ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE DEP ARTMENT.......................................30
A. I MPORT CONTROL ON FROZEN OR CHILLED MEAT AND POULTRY .............................................30G/LIC/N/3/HKG/6
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I. TRADE AND INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT
A. IMPORT LICENSING SYSTEM FOR TEXTILES
Outline of system
1. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) maintains an import licensing system
for textiles imports from all sources.  It functions as  a surveillance system to back up HKSAR's textiles
export control system.  The system is administered  by the Trade and Industry Department.  Importers
are required to apply for textiles import licences to cover each consignment prior to the actual arrival of
the goods, unless they have been registered unde r the Textiles Trader Registration Scheme and
exempted from the import licensing requirements.
Purposes and coverage of licensing
2. The licensing system covers the importation of all textiles products , with the exception of :
(a) textiles articles imported by a person which are for his personal use or as gifts and are in a
quantity which is reasonable having regard to the purpose for which they are imported;
(b) woven or knitted fabric swatches and sample yarn imported by air and not exceeding 0.8m2 in
size in respect of fabric swatches and 1.2 kg in  weight in respect of each type of yarn; and
(c) textiles articles constituting part of the prov isions required for consumption or use by the crew
or passengers of the vessel, aircraft or vehicle on which the articles are carried.
3. The system applies to textiles coming from any  places.
4. The textiles import licensing system is not intended 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  joining the Textiles Trader Registration Scheme,
under which registered textiles traders need only to  submit notifications completed by themselves, in
lieu of licences issued by the Trade and Industry Department, to cover their imported consignments.
5. The textiles import licensing system is a stat utory 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 licensing require ments.  The legislation does not leave designation
of products to be subjected to licensing to administ rative discretion.  The abolition of the textiles import
licensing system requires legislative approval.
Procedures
6. Not applicable.
7.(a) A textiles importer should obtain an 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, an
import licence application submitted to the Trade and Industry Department is approved two clear
working days after the date upon which the appl ication is received.  Fo r Special Import Licence
(Textiles) Forms 8b, 8c and 8e at Annex I, under normal circumstances, applications are approved on an
instantaneous basis.  Late applications i.e. afte r the goods in question have arrived, may be approved
retrospectively subject to certain conditions being met.G/LIC/N/3/HKG/6
Page 4
A textiles trader registered under the Tex tiles Trader Registration Scheme may submit an
import notification or a transhipment notification (if the goods are transhipment cargo) completed by
himself, in lieu of an import licence, at the time of importation.
(b) Expeditious issue of a licence may be granted in justified cases.
(c) There are no limitations as to the period of the year during which licence applications may be
made.
(d) The Trade and Industry Department is the sole administrative organ regarding the processing
and approval of textiles import licences.
8. An application for an import licence is normally gr anted if it meets the ordinary criteria.  In the
event of refusal to issue a licence, the reasons will be given, and the applicant may appeal to the Chief
Executive of the HKSAR by writing to the Chief Secret ary for Administration of the Government of the
HKSAR.
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
9. All businesses registered in the HKSAR are elig ible to apply for textiles import licences.  All
importers, exporters, manufacturers, carriers and freight  forwarders may apply to be registered under the
Textiles Trader Registration Scheme.  The registration fee is currently HK$2,825 per annum.
For Special Import Licence (Textiles) Form 8b (Annex I) covering imports of piece-knitted
garments made from Hong Kong origin knit-to-shape panels assembled outside Hong Kong for eventual
exportation to the United States, applicants must first be registered with the Trade and Industry
Department under a special factory registration arra ngement as a factory knitting knit-to-shape panels
and/or manufacturing piece-knitted garments for export to  the United States.  An annual registration fee
of HK$3,003 is payable.  For Speci al Import Licence (Textiles) Form 8c and Form 8e, there are no
registration requirements.
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 shipment.
Samples of Import Licence (Textiles) Form 7, Special Import Licence (Textiles) Form 8b,
Form 8c and Form 8e, Import Notification (Textile s), and Transhipment Notification (Textiles) are
at Annex I3. No supporting documents are required for import licence applications (Form 7)
submitted before the arrival of goods.  For Special  Import Licences, supporting documents such as the
relevant special export licence or certificate of or igin should be submitted together with the licence
applications.
11. A valid textiles import licence or a completed im port notification or transhipment notification is
required upon actual importation.
                                                     
3 Sample of these forms can be viewed from:
http://www.tid.gov.hk/english/aboutus/form/sampleform/forms_maincontent.html (English Version)G/LIC/N/3/HKG/6
Page 5
12. The fee for an application for Import Licence (T extiles) Form 7 is HK$40 and that for Special
Import Licence Forms 8b, 8c and 8e is HK$43, to be paid  in the form of cash or adhesive or impressed
postage stamps affixed or franked on the applicati on, or through Easy Pay Sy stem (an electronic fund
transfer system provided by a consortium in HKSAR). No fee is charged for the completion and
submission of notifications.
13. No deposit or advance payment is required.Conditions of licensing
14. A textiles import licence is valid for 28 days from the date of issue.  The validity of a licence
cannot be extended.  Under normal circumstances, th e 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 should be cancelled within a
specified period after expiry of the licence.  Simila rly, a licence should be submitted for amendment for
short-shipment within a specified period after the date of arrival of the goods.  The Trade and Industry
Department may take legal and/or administrativ e action against unreported short-shipment or non-
utilisation of licences.
16. Not transferable.
17. No other conditions attached to the issue of a licence.
Other procedural requirements
18. No.19. No foreign exchange control.
B. I
MPORTATION OF STRATEGIC COMMODITIES
Outline of system
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
ammunitions, explosives and radio transmitting equipmen t 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 ammunitions, explosives , nuclear materials, facilities and equipment,
high-speed digital computers, memory devices made from compound semiconductors,  sophisticatedcommunication system and radio transmitting equi pment, encryption equipment for information
security, chemical weapon precursors and manufacturin g facilities, certain biological agents, plant
pathogens and related manufacturing equipment, and f acilities and articles for a use relating to nuclear,
chemical or biol ogical weapons.
3. The licensing system applies to goods originating in and coming from any 
places.G/LIC/N/3/HKG/6
Page 6
4. The import licensing system on strategic commodities is not intended to restrict the quantity or
value of imports.  Instead, it is to monitor the infl ow of strategic commodities and to protect HKSAR's
access to high technology products.  .
5. The import licensing system is a statutory requirement maintained under respective
Ordinances and their subsidiary legislation under th e 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
therefrom require legislative approval.
Strategic Commodities are subject to the control of the Import and Export (Strategic
Commodities) Regulations made under the Import and Export Ordinance, Cap 60, Laws ofHong Kong.  Certain strategic commodities are also  subject to the controls of other Ordinances:
Product
Relevant Ordinance
Radio transmitting equipment Sections 8 and 9 of the Telecommunications
Ordinance, Cap. 106
Arms, ammunitions and explosives Arms  and ammunitions are controlled under
Firearms and Ammuniti on Ordinance, Cap. 238
and explosives are controlled under DangerousGoods Ordinance, Cap. 295
Procedures
6. Not applicable.7.(a) Licence applications should be submitted in advance of importation taking into account the
processing time required by the Trade and Indus try Department, which is normally two and a
half clear working days for import applicati ons covering strategic commodities, and the
processing time of other departments :
(i) Hong Kong Police Force (for arms and ammunition):  normally two working days (by
hand) or ten working days (by post) for Li mited Licence for Possession or six to twelve
months for the Arms Dealer's Licence.
(ii) Office of the Telecommunications Authorit y (for radio transmitting equipment):  within
five working days for Radio Dealers Li cence and one 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 Department (for e ndorsement on import licence application of
explosives):  instantly.
(b) Request for expeditious processing of import licence application will be entertained when there
are sufficient justifications.  For strategic goods imported without a licence owing to unforeseen
circumstances, consideration will be given to issuing a retrospective import licence on an
exceptional basis.G/LIC/N/3/HKG/6
Page 7
(c) There is no limitation as to the period of the year during which application for licence and/or
importation may be made.
(d) Trade and Industry Department is responsible for the processing and approval of strategic
commodities licences.  For applications concerning arms, ammunitions, explosives and radiotransmitting equipment, the importer has to separately approach the relevant government
departments in paragraph 7(a) above for endorsement on import or legitimate possession of
the subject products.
8. Applications for import of strategic commod ities for legitimate use are normally 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 is in force.  In th e case of refusal to issue a licence, the reasons will be
given. The applicant has a right to appeal to the Ch ief 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 and institutions are eligible to apply for import licences except under special
circumstances where licensing facilities to them ar e denied owing to malpractice of the firm/institution
or some other special reasons.
For the purpose of maintaining interference cont rol, any person who imports or exports radio
transmitting equipment is required to obtain a pe rmit from the Telecommunications Authority unless he
is a holder of a "Radio Dealers Licence" issued by  the Telecommunications Authority to deal in the
course of trade or bu siness in radio transmitting apparatus.
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence
10. A sample form is at Annex II4.  Catalogues/technical specifications of the products under
application have to be submitted with the application for technical assessment purpose.  As the case
warrants, additional supporting documents/information may be required to be submitted to substantiate
the case.
For arms and ammunition, samples of applicat ion forms for a Limited Licence for Possession
and for Arms Dealer’s Licence mentione d in para. 7(a)(i) are at Annexes III5 and IV5 respectively.
For radio transmitting equipment, samples of a pplication forms for Radio Dealers Licence and
Import Permit mentioned in 7(a)(ii) are at Annexes V6 and VI6 respectively.
11. A valid import licence is required upon actual importation.
12. No licensing fee is charged.
13. No deposit or advance payment is required.Conditions of licensing
                                                     
4 Sample of the form can be viewed from:
http://www.stc.tid.gov.hk/doc/topic/samplepricesellingplace_w.htm  (English version)
5 The application forms can be downloaded from:
http://www.info.gov.hk/police/aa-home/english/licensing/forms/index.htm  (English version)
6 The application forms can be downloaded from:
 http://www.ofta.gov.hk/howto/form-list.html  (English version)G/LIC/N/3/HKG/6
Page 8
14. An import licence covering strategic commodities is  valid for six months from the date of issue.
The validity cannot be extended under normal circumstances.
15. No.  Importers should however return an unused  licence to the Trade and Industry Department
for cancellation.
16. Not transferable.17. The following conditions are normally attached  to the issue of an import licence concerning
strategic commodities:  "Re-export not permitted ex cept under and in accordance with an export licence
issued by the Department" and "The goods are not to be used in relation to nuclear, biological or
chemical weapons or missile capab le of delivering these weapons".
Other procedural requirements
18. No other administrative procedures required.19. No foreign exchange control.
C. I
MPORT CONTROL ON RICE , PESTICIDES , PHARMACEUTICAL PRODUCTS AND MEDICINES ,
RADIOACTIVE SUBSTANCES AND IRRADIATING APPARATUS , OZONE -DEPLETING SUBSTANCES ,
GOODS FROM IRAQ, DIAMONDS FROM ANGOLA , AND ROUGH DIAMONDS FROM SIERRA LEONE
Outline of system
1. Licences are required for import of rice, pe sticides, pharmaceutical products and medicines,
radioactive substances and irradiating apparatus, and ozone-depleting substances.  All goods imported
from Iraq are prohibited except petroleum or petrol eum product being imported by a person who has the
approval of the Committee established by the Secu rity Council of the United Nations in Resolution
No. 661 to do so.  Imports of diamonds from Angola  are prohibited unless the diamonds are the subject
of a specified certificate of origin in accordance w ith Resolution No. 1173 of the Security Council of the
United Nations. Imports of rough diamonds are also prohibited from Sierra Leone unless the diamonds
are controlled through a specified certificate of or igin regime in accordance with Resolution No. 1385 of
the Security Council of the United Nations. These import controls are applied for safety, health,
environmental protection reasons, or for fulfilment of  HKSAR's international obligations.  The control
system 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 (other than methyl bromide) are issued by the
Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Departme nt under delegation from the Trade and Industry
Department.  Import licences for pesticides containing methyl bromide, an ozone-depleting substance,
are issued by the Trade and Industry Department .  Import licences for pharmaceutical products and
medicines are issued by the De partment of Health under delegation from the Trade and Industry
Department.
Purposes and coverage of licensing
2. Import licensing/control is intended for the following purposes:
Products Purpose of control
(a) rice maintaining a reserve stock for emergency purpose
(b) pesticides public healthG/LIC/N/3/HKG/6
Page 9
Products Purpose of control
(c) pharmaceutical products and
medicinespublic health
(d) radioactive substances and irradiating
apparatuspublic health
(e) ozone-depleting substances environmental protection
(f) ban on all goods imported from Iraq
(except petroleum and petroleum
products under prescribed
circumstances)international trade sanctions
(g) ban on diamonds imported from
Angola (unless the diamonds are thesubject of a specified certificate of
origin)international trade sanctions
(h) ban on rough diamonds imported
from Sierra Leone (unless the
diamonds are controlled through aspecified certificate of origin regime)international trade sanctions
3. The system applies to products coming from all 
places except items (e), (f), (g) and (h) of
paragraph 2 above.  For item (e), all imports of  ozone-depleting substances from non-parties to the
Montreal Protocol are banned.  Only imports from Mont real Protocol signatories of methyl bromide and
hydrochlorofluorocarbon ar e allowed for local consumption starting respectively from 1 January 1995
and 1 January 1996.  The import of methyl bromide is restricted to quarantine and pre-shipment
applications.  For item (f), all imports from Iraq are banned under the United Nations Sanctions (Iraq)
Regulation made under the United Nations Sanctions Ordinance.  For item (g), imports of diamonds
from Angola are banned under the United Nations Sanctions (Angola) Regulation made under theUnited Nations Sanctions Ordinance. For item (h), imports of rough diamonds from Sierra Leone are
banned under the United Nations Sanctions (Sierra Leone) (Prohibition against Importation of
Diamonds) Regulation 2002 made under the United Nations Sanctions Ordinance.
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 above.  A quantitative limit is imposed for imports of
rice
7 and some ozone-depleting substances8 to ensure:
(a) rice:  stable and adequate supply and to provide a reserve stock for emergency situations;  and(b) ozone-depleting substances:  that the amount of ozone-depleting substances retained for local
consumption does not exceed levels agreed under the Montreal Protocol on Substances thatDeplete the Ozone Layer.
5. The import licensing system is a statutory re quirement maintained under respective Ordinances
under the Laws of Hong Kong (see below).  Legisl ation does not leave design ation of product to be
subjected to licensing to administrative discreti on.  Any changes such as subjecting a new product to
import licensing or removal of an existing pr oduct therefrom require legislative approval.
                                                     
7 The HKSAR Government will fully liberalise the rice tr ade as from 1 January 2003. The Government intends
only to exercise the minimum control to ensure a st able supply of rice for local consumption. Upon full
liberalisation, while import of rice will continue to be subject to licensing requirements, the quantatitive limitimposed on rice imports will be removed. Capital and financial entry requirements of registering as ricestockholders to import rice will also be removed. All interested parties may register as rice stockholders.
8 The ozone-depleting substances refer to hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs)G/LIC/N/3/HKG/6
Page 10
Product Relevant Ordinance
(a) Rice:(b) Pesticides:
(c) Pharmaceutical products and
medicines:Reserved Commodities Ordinance, Cap. 296
Pesticides Ordinance, Cap. 133
Import and Export (General) Regulations, Import
and Export Ordinance, Cap. 60
Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance, Cap. 138
Import and Export (General) Regulations, Import
and Export Ordinance, Cap. 60
(d) Radioactive substances and
irradiating apparatus:
(e)         Ozone depleting substances:Radiation Ordinance, Cap. 303
Import (Radiation) (Prohibition) Regulations,
Import and Export Ordinance, Cap. 60
Ozone Layer Protection Ordinance, Cap. 403
Procedures
6. Only the importation of rice and some ozone-depleting substances (viz.
hydrochlorofluorocarbons) for local consump tion are subject to quantitative restriction:
(a) Rice
I. The Trade and Industry Department answers enquiries on all information on the
import licensing of rice, including that concerning allocation of quotas and
formalities of filing applications for licences.
II. The size of quotas is calculated to be able to meet the level of demand which is adjusted
half-yearly.
III. Import licences for rice imported for local consumption are issued to registered rice
importers, none of whom is a domestic producer of rice.  In accordance with the
objective of ensuring an adequate supply of  rice to HKSAR, the importers are obliged
to import rice in accordance with quotas allocated to them and thus there would not be
any unused allocation.  Information on the names of importers is given to the public on
request.  Such information would similarl y be given to the governments and export
promotion bodies of expor ting countries upon request.
IV. After announcement of the half-yearly rice quota, applications for import licences may
be submitted immediately until the applicant's half-yearly quota is fully utilised.
V. Import licences for rice are issued in one clear working day.
VI. The importers can have their licences issu ed immediately before the commencement of
the half-yearly period.  Accordingly they can use the full half-yearly period for the
importation of rice.G/LIC/N/3/HKG/6
Page 11
VII. Import licences for rice are handled sing ly by the Trade and Industry Department.
VIII. Licences are normally issued to registered importers only.IX. Not applicable.X. In the case of import for re-export where quotas are not required, import licences will
be issued on condition that the goods will have to be exported.
(b) Ozone-depleting substances
I. A revised quota allocation system has been introduced since January 2000.  Under the
system, part of the quotas (Normal Quota) will be allocated automatically, based on
12-month performance in the previous contro l year; the remaining part of the quotas
(Free Quota) will be open to all applicants  on a first-come-first-served basis.  Letters
were sent to potential importers for info rming them of the implementation of the
revised quota allocation system.  Information on the revised quota allocation andlicensing systems is provided to the general public free of charge.  Information on the
total amount of quotas under the revised quota allocation system is also available upon
request.
II. The size of quotas is determined on a tw elve-month basis.  Licences are issued to
registered companies on individual consignment basis.
III. The Government will closely monitor the utilisation of quotas and licences.  Importers
are required to notify the Trade and Industry Department of details of the import within
14 days after importation.  Unused allocations will not be added to quotas for thesucceeding control period because the maximum level for each control period is fixed.
A list of quota holders is available upon request.
IV. Submission of applications for licences may be made at any time.  However,
applications for imports of hydrochlorof luorocarbons (HCFCs) for local consumption
will only be considered if the applicants have enough valid quotas or sufficient quotas
could be allocated to the applicants for the relevant control period.  Methyl bromidecould be imported with a valid licence provid ed that importers have obtained pesticide
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 two clear working days.VI. The current control period for ozone-depleting substances is from 1 January to
31 December 2002.  To facilitate imports at the beginning of the succeeding control
period, the Trade and Industry  Department will provide licensing service one week
prior to the expiry of the current control period.
VII. Importers only need to approach the Trade and Industry  Department for registration and
application and issue of licences.
VIII. Normal quotas are allocated to importers with regard to their performance in the
previous control period.  Free quotas for HC FCs are allocated throughout the control
period to all eligible applicants (see para. 9(b) below) on a first-come-first-serve
d basis.
A common ceiling of a certain amount of quota will be assigned to each individual
importer applying for free quota.  The ceiling is calculated based on the demandsG/LIC/N/3/HKG/6
Page 12
shown in the past years.  New importers  can also acquire the quotas through quota
transfer from the existing quota holders.
IX-X. Not applicable.
XI. In the case of import for re-export where quotas are not required, import and export
licences will be issued at the same time on condition that the goods will have to be
exported within the validity period of the export licences.
7.(a) Application for import licences should be s ubmitted in advance of importation taking into
account the processing time.  The processing time is one clear working day for rice, pesticides
(other than methyl bromide) and radioactive subs tances and irradiating apparatus, and two clear
working days for pharmaceutical products and medicines, ozone-depleting substances and
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 application for licence 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 covering rice, oz one-depleting substances, methyl bromide, and
radioactive substances and irradiating appara tus whereas an importer has to approach the
Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department  and the Department of Health respectively
for the processing and approval of import licen ces covering pesticides (other than methyl
bromide) and pharmaceutical  products and medicines.
8. Under normal circumstances, an application for an import licence is usually granted if it meets
the ordinary criteria.  In the event of refusal, the r easons will be given.  Applicants for items 2(a), (b), (c)
and (d) above may appeal to the Chief Executive of  the HKSAR in the event of refusal to issue an
import licence.  The Chief Executive may confirm, va ry or reverse the decision of the Director-General
of Trade and Industry.  The right to appeal to the Chief Executive is statutorily provided.  For item 2(e),
applicants may appeal to the Administrative Appeals Board against decision of refusal to grant a licence
by the Director of En vironmental Protection.
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
9.(a) For rice (imported for local consumption), a comp any is required to be registered with the Trade
and Industry Department first before it can appl y for an import licence.  Registration is open for
application from time to time where necessary.  All business enterprises fulfilling the minimum
registration criteria can apply.  Registration crite ria are set out clearly at the time of application.
No fee is charged for the registration.  An up-to-date list of registered importers is maintained
by the Department for inspection by the public at a fee of HK$5.
(b) For ozone-depleting substances, a company is re quired to register with the Trade and Industry
Department before it can apply for an import li cence.  Registration is open to all companies on
payment of a fee of HK$2,805 (valid for 2 years).  A list of registered importers is available
upon request.
(c) For import of radioactive substances or irradiating apparatus, a separate Radioactive Substance
Licence or Irradiating Apparatus Licence, as a ppropriate, issued by the Radiation Board is
required.G/LIC/N/3/HKG/6
Page 13
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 recognised by th e Radiation Board.  It may take up to 8 weeks
for the issuance of the licence if site assessment is required.  Licence fee is HK$2,770.
Irradiating Apparatus Licence: for sale of irradiating apparatus in Hong Kong , the applicant is
required to provide the specifications of the ir radiating apparatus, and test reports showing
conformance with international standards, for assessment by the Radiation Board.  Licence fee
is HK$570.
(d) For pharmaceutical products and medicines, onl y those products which have been registered
with the Pharmacy and Poisons Board are allowe d 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 appl y for an import licence.  Application for the
dealer's licence is open to all business ente rprises dealing in pharmaceutical products and
medicines.  A fee is charged for the licence, which may range from HK$780 to HK$1,220
depending on the type of licence.  There is a published list of licensed importers and exportersof pharmaceutical products and a published list of  wholesalers of poisons in the Pharmaceutical
Service website: http://www.info.gov.hk/pharmser/.
(e) For pesticides, a company is required to hold an appropriate pesticide licence/permit issued by
the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation De partment 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 enterp rises 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.
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence
10. Information to be supplied includes particular s 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:
Item Document
(a) Rice for local consumption subject
to quantitative requirementContract between buyer and seller
(b) Radioactive substances and
irradiating apparatusA copy of the radioactive substances licence or
irradiating apparatus licence as appropriate issued
by the Radiation Board
(c) Pesticides A pesticide licence or pesticide 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 requi red by the Government of HKSAR on actual
importation.G/LIC/N/3/HKG/6
Page 14
12. Apart from applications covering ozone-depletin g substances, no licensing fee is required for
import licence applications.  For ozone-depleting subs tances import licence, a fee of HK$940 is charged
on the issue of a licence.  The price of non-tex tiles import licence forms is HK$26 per pad (containing
20 sets) and that of ozone-depleting substances import licence forms is HK$28 per pad (containing
5 sets).
13. No deposit or advance payment is required.Conditions of licensing
14. An import licence is valid for sixty days, unless otherwise stated, for ozone-depleting
substances, six weeks for rice and six months for the other products listed in paragraph 2.  The periodof validity can be extended by the Director-General of Trade and Industry depending on the merits of
individual requests.
15.
No.  Importers should however cancel or amend the licences.
16. Not transferable.
17. Apart from the licensing conditions printed on the front or back of the import licence
(samples of the Import Licence Form 3 applicable to items (a) to (d) in paragraph 2 and Import
Licence Form for item (e) in paragraph 2 are respectively at Annexes VII9 and V III9), additional
conditions set out in Annex IX are applicable to rice which is subject to quantitative restriction.  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 withinthe HKSAR.  Each conveyance of radioactive substa nce 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.
II. CUSTOMS AND EXCISE DEPARTMENT
A. I
MPORT LICENSING SYSTEM FOR DUTIABLE COMMODITIES
Outline of system
1. The import of dutiable commodities (tobacco, liquor s, methyl alcohol and hydrocarbon oil) are
controlled through (i) licensing of importers and (ii) issuing of removal permits.  An importer has to be
licensed with the Customs and Exci se Department before he can apply for removal permit for import
and removal of dutiable commodities.
Purposes and coverage of licensing
2. Removal permit is issued to licensed importers by Customs and Excise Department to control
the import and movement of dutiable commodities.
                                                     
9 Samples of these forms can be viewed from the webpage specified under footnote 3.G/LIC/N/3/HKG/6
Page 15
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 imposed  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 re quired should there be any changes in the existing
system.
Procedures
6. Not applicable.7.(a) Application for removal permit from a licensed importer should be submitted in advance of
importation taking account of the processing time.  For an importer to be licensed, the normalapplication processing time is not more than 14 working days.  For the issue of a removal
permit to a licensed importer, it would require  half  a working day, provided that full details are
given by the applicants.
(b) A licence cannot be granted immediately on reque st because of the time required to process the
application.
(c) There is no limitation of time during the year on the application for licence and/or importation.
(d) The 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 organs for
visa, note or approval.  The importer is onl y required to apply for the import licence and
removal permit from the Customs and Excise Department.  For the removal permit application,
applicants have to submit the application usin g a recognized electronic service provided by
Tradelink, the electronic service provider specified under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance.
8. Application for an importer to be licen sed will normally be approved provided 
that the ordinary
criteria are met.  In case an application is refu sed, 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 in cluding particulars of the applicant and the
proposed licensed premises have to be provided.  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 respectively at Annexes X10 and XI.
                                                     
10 The application form can be downloaded from:
http://www.info.gov.hk/customs/eng/forms/forms_e.html (English version)G/LIC/N/3/HKG/6
Page 16
11. A removal permit is required upon actual importation of the dutiable commodities. In relation to
import of liquors, a certificate of age may be required.
12. The administrative charge for an import licence is HK$950 for each year. The issue of the
removal permit is free of charge by Customs and Ex cise Department and a service charge of permit
application by the specified electr onic service provider is required.
13. No deposit or advance payment is required.Conditions of licensing
14. The import licence for dutiable commodities is valid for one year which can be renewed upon
application on a yearly basis.
15. No.16. Not transferable between importers.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.
B. IMPORT LICENSING SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLED CHEMICALS (FOR SUBSTANCES LISTED IN
SCHEDULES 1 AND 2 OF THE CONTROL OF CHEMICALS ORDINANCE , CHAPTER  145 ONLY )
Outline of system
1. The import of controlled chemicals is controlle d through (i) licensing of importers and (ii)
issuing of import authorization.  An importer ha s to be licensed with the Customs and Excise
Department before he can apply for an import aut horization to import the controlled chemicals for each
consignment.
Purposes and coverage of licensing
2. Import authorization is issued to licensed importers by Customs and Excise Department to
regulate the import of controlled chemicals.
3. The system applies to controlled chemi cals coming from any places outside HKSAR.
4. The import licensing system is not intended to re strict 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 th e Control of Chemicals Ordinance, Cap. 145.
Legislation does not leave designa tion of products to be subjected to licensing to administrative
discretion.  Legislative approval is required shoul d there be any changes in the existing system.G/LIC/N/3/HKG/6
Page 17
Procedures
6. Not applicable.
7.(a) Application for licences and import authoriza tion should be submitted 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 submit an Import Authorization
Application and supporting documents at least 4 working days before the actual importation of
controlled chemicals.
(b) A licence cannot be granted immediately on reque st because of the time required to process the
application.
(c) There is no limitation of time during the year on the application for licence and/or importation.
(d) The licences and import authorizations are issued  by the Customs and Excise Department.  It is
not necessary for the applications to be passed on to other departments or organs for visa, noteor approval.  The importer is only required to apply for a licence and an import authorization for
imports of controlled chemicals from the Customs and Excise Department.
8. Licences will normally be granted to established companies, hospitals and educational or
scientific organizations on application.  In case an application is refused, the reason for the refusal willbe 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 licen ce 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 pr ovide the Customs and Excise Department with
information about his personal and company par ticulars, business address and storage place for
controlled chemicals, etc. in his application.  For the application of an impor t authorization, commercial
documents relating to the import of controlled chemi cals have to be provided.  Samples of application
forms for licence and import authorization are at Annexes XII11 and XIII11 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,
ergom etrine, ergotamine and norephedrine,  import licences under the Import and Export Ordinance,
Cap.60 are also required.
12. The administrative charge for a licence is HK$790 for each year and an import authorization is
free of charge.
13. No deposit or advance payment is required.
                                                     
11 The application forms can be downloaded from the webpage specified under footnote 10.G/LIC/N/3/HKG/6
Page 18
Conditions of licensing
14. The licence is valid for one year which can be renewed upon application on yearly basis.
15. No penalty for non-utilization.  Licensee shoul d however surrender his licence and/or import
authorization for amendment or cancellation where appropriate.
16. Not transferable between importers.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.
C. IMPORT LICENSING SYSTEM FOR LEFT -HAND DRIVE VEHICLES AND OUTBOARD ENGINES
EXCEEDING 111.9 KILOWATTS (150 HORSEPOWER )
Outline of system
1. The import of left-hand drive vehicles and out board engines are controlled through the issuing
of import licence for each imported consignment of these two types of articles.
Purposes and coverage of licensing
2. The system applies to the import of left-hand drive vehicles and outboard engines exceeding
111.9 kilowatts (150 horsepower).
3. The system applies to goods coming from any places outside HKSAR.
4. The licensing is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports.  The system aims to
bring the import of left-hand drive vehicles and outboard engines under government control so as to
prevent the engagement of these articles in smuggling activities.
5. The licence requirement is statutory under the Import and Export Ordinance, Cap. 60.  It is not
possible for the government to abolish the system without legislative approval.
Procedures
6. Not applicable.
7.(a) Application for a licence should be made in  advance of importation taking into account the
processing time by the licence office.  The issue of an import licence under normal
circumstances requires 14 working hours.
(b) A licence cannot be gran ted immediately on request.
(c) There is no limitation of time during the year where application for licence and/or importation
may be made.G/LIC/N/3/HKG/6
Page 19
(d) Consideration of licence applications is only  effected by a single administrative organ.
8. Application for a licence will be approved provided the ordinary criteria are met.  In case an
application is refused, the reasons for the refusal will be given to the applicant.  Applicants may appeal
to the Chief Executive of the HKSAR against a decision of refusal for issuing a licence.
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 pr ovide the Customs and Excise Department with
information about his personal and company particulars and the arrival details, etc. in his application.
Related supporting documents have to be provided. The application form and its supplement are at
Annexes VII12 and XIV respectively.
11. No document other than the import licence is required upon actual importation.
12. There is no licensing fee or administrative charge.13. No deposit or advance payment is required.Conditions of licensing
14. The licence is valid for six months and cannot be extended upon expiry.
15. No.
16. Licences are not transferable.17. No other conditions are attached to the issue of a licence.Other procedural requirements
18. No other administrative procedures are required.19. No foreign exchange control.
D. I
MPORT LICENSING SYSTEM FOR OPTICAL DISC MASTERING AND REPLICATION EQUIPMENT
Outline of system
1. The imports of optical disc mastering and replication equipment are controlled through the
issuing of import licence for each consignment of these two types of equipment.
Purpose and coverage of licensing
2. The system applies to the import of mastering and replication equipment.
                                                     
12 The sample form can be viewed from the webpage specified under footnote 3.G/LIC/N/3/HKG/6
Page 20
3. The system applies to mastering and repli cation equipment coming from any places outside
HKSAR.
4. The import licensing system is not intended to rest rict the quantity or the value of import, but to
enforce a robust intellectual property rights regime in HKSAR and to prevent the use of 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 the system without legislative approval.
Procedures
6. Not applicable.7.(a) Application for a licence should be made in  advance of importation taking into account the
processing time by the licence office.  The is sue of an import licence under normal circumstances
requires two working days.
(b) A licence cannot be gran ted immediately upon request.
(c) There is no limitation of time during the year where application for licence and/or importation
can be made.
(d) Consideration of licence application is only effected by a single administrative organ.
8. Application for a licence will be approved provided the ordinary criteria are met.  In the case an
application is refused, the reasons for the refusal will be given to the applicant.  Applicant may appeal to
the Chief Executive of HKSAR against a decision of refusal for issuing a licence.
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 pr ovide 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.  Samp le of the application form is at Annex VII13.
11. No document other than the import licence.
12. There is no licensing fee or administrative charge.13. No deposit or advance payment is required.Conditions of licensing
14. The licence is valid only for six months from the da te of issue.  It may cover partial shipments
within the six-month period. Extension of va lidity may also be granted on application.
15. No.
                                                     
13 The sample form can be viewed from the webpage specified under footnote 3.G/LIC/N/3/HKG/6
Page 21
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.
III. CIVIL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
A. IMPORT CONTROL SYSTEM FOR SAND
Outline of system
1. A permit to transport sand in HKSAR is requi red under the Sand Ordinance.  The permit system
is to protect the beaches and seabed in HKSAR.   Permits are issued by the Civil Engineering
Department (CED).
Purposes and coverage of licensing
2. Permits issued by CED 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 under 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
submitted in advance of importation taking into account the processing time whic
h takes not
more than two 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) CED is the sole administrative organ regarding the processing and approval of  application for
importation of sand.
8. Applications for a permit will not be refused if th e ordinary criteria are met.  Reasons for refusal
will be given to the applicant in case of unsuccessful application.G/LIC/N/3/HKG/6
Page 22
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
9. All persons or 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, quantity and destination, and documents issued by
relevant Authority certifying the vessels or vehicles used for the exportation of sands Samples of
application forms for a Sand Removal Permit and a Permit to Remove and Transport Sand in Hong
Kong and the New Territories are at Annexes XV14 and XVI.
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. Permits are valid for a maximum of  six months.  This period can  be extended upon application.
A new permit will be issued.
15. There is no penalty for the non-utilisation of a permit.16. Permits are issued for a particular vehicle or vessel which could be used by different importers.
17. There are no other conditions attached to the issuance of a permit.
Other procedural requirements
18. Mainland China river trade cargo vessels engaging in importation of sand from mainland China
are required to be registered through a local shi pping agent with Harbour Control Section of the
Immigration Department prior to importation.
19. No foreign exchange control.
IV. AGRICULTURE, FISHERIES AND CONSERVATION DEPARTMENT
A. IMPORT CONTROL ON PLANTS , PLANT PESTS AND SOIL
Outline of system
1. Import licences, supported by phytosanitary certificates, are required for import of plants.
Prior authorizations are required for import of plant pest or soil.
Plant quarantine requirements are framed unde r the Plant (Importation and Pest Control)
Ordinance , Cap. 207 administered by the Agriculture, Fi sheries and Conservation Department.  All
                                                     
14 The application form can be downloaded from:
http://www.info.gov.hk/ced/eng/downloading/forms/forms.htm  (English version)G/LIC/N/3/HKG/6
Page 23
principles and procedures are based on the Plant Pr otection Agreement for the Asia and Pacific Region
and the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC).
Purposes and coverage of licensing
2. For import of plants, a Plant Import licence (P IL) issued by the Agriculture, Fisheries and
Conservation Department is required.  "Plant" includ es timber, trees, shrubs, leaves, roots, flowers,
fruits, tubers, bulbs, corms, stocks, cuttings, layers, slip s, suckers, seeds, and any part of a plant whether
or not intended for growing, planting or propagation or from which further plants may be grown, planted
or propagated.
For import of plant pests or soil, an authoriza tion in writing (AIW) issued by the Director of
Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation is required.  "Plant pest" means any bacterium, fungus, virus,
mycoplasma, mycoplasma-like organism, alga, viroid or  other plant or any invertebrate animal which is
capable of being injurious or destructive to pl ants.  "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 of PIL for plants imported from mainland China.
4. Neither PIL nor AIW is intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports.  The sole purpose is
to establish an effective means for plant quarantine to prevent the spread of plant pest in compliance
with the recommendations of the Plant Protec tion Agreement for the Asia and Pacific Region.
5. PIL and AIW are statutory instruments under the Plant (Importation and Pest Control)
Ordinance, Cap. 207.  Legislation doe s not leave designation 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 submitted in advance of importation.  It should be taken
into account that processing of appli cations takes two clear working days.
(b) PIL, but not AIW, can be granted immediatel y 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 th e 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.G/LIC/N/3/HKG/6
Page 24
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence
10. The required information is outlined in the sample application form for PIL at Annex XVII15.
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 certifica te (PSC) and certificate of fumigation/disinfection
(CF/D) issued by the exporting country or else the consignment will be seized for destruction.  For all
other plants, only PIL and PSC are required.
Actual importation of a plant pest or soil re quires 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 two months.
15. There is no penalty for non-utilization of PIL or AIW.16. Neither PIL nor AIW is transferable.17.(a) Not applicable.
(b) 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.
Other procedural requirements
18. No.19. Not applicable.
B. I
MPORT LICENSING SYSTEM FOR ENDANGERED SPECIES OF ANIMALS AND PLANTS
Outline of system
1. Import licences are required for import of endangered species of animals and plants, whether
alive, dead, stuffed specimen, parts or derivatives.
Purposes and coverage of licensing
2. Import licences issued by the Agriculture, Fish eries and Conservation Department are required
for the import of animals and plants listed in th e Convention on International Trade in Endangered
Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) Appendices  I and II (including their readily recognizable
                                                     
15 The application form can be downloaded from:
http://www.afcd.gov.hk/web/english/public_info/businese_info/permit/index.htm  (English version)G/LIC/N/3/HKG/6
Page 25
parts and derivatives), and medicines containing or  claiming to contain ingredients made from highly
endangered animal species.  Import licences are not required for the import of CITES Appendix III
species and plants that are artificially propagated, subject to the production of a valid export licence 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 restri ct 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 187 of the
Laws of Hong Kong which gives effect to CITES.  Legislation does not leave designation of the items to
be subjected to licensing to administrative disc retion.  Any changes require legislative approval.
Procedures
6. Not applicable.7.(a) Application for import licences should be submitted in advance of importation (at least two
working days or more depending on complexity).  However, the issue of a licence is not
automatic and shipments should not be effected  unless and until the licence has been issued.
(b) Normally an import licence cannot be granted immediately upon request.(c) There are no limitations as to the period of the year during which application for licence and/or
importation may be made.
(d) Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Depart ment is the sole authority in considering
endangered species aspects but all applicati ons 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 relating to the issu e, refusal or cancellation of a licence or any condition
specified in a licence may appeal by way of petition to the Chief Executive.
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
9. Any person can submit an application.
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence
10. The required information is summarized in th e sample application form attached at Annex
XVIII16.  With respect to live specimens, controls of  and requirements for import of live animals and
plants also apply.
                                                     
16 The application form can be downloaded from the webpage specified under footnote 15.G/LIC/N/3/HKG/6
Page 26
11. Import licence issued by the Agriculture, Fisher ies 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 (per species) HK$420
(b) Import Licence for animals/plant parts (per species) HK$140
13. No.Conditions of licensing
14. The Import Licences are normally valid for six months or less.  The validity of a licence can be
extended provided that the licensee submits an appl ication and gives satisfactory justification to the
Director of Agricu lture, Fisheries and Conservation before its expiry.
15. No.
16. Not transferable.17. No.Other procedural requirements
18. No.
19. Not applicable.
C. IMPORT CONTROL ON LIVE ANIMALS
Outline of system
1. A special permit is required for all live anim als 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 c onditions of the permit must be fully complied with.
Such animals or birds must be se nt 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 brin g i n g  a n y  a n i m a l  o r  b i r d  i n t o  H K S A R .   F o r
non-CITES birds imported directly from mainland China other rules may apply.
4. The special permit is not used to restrict the quantity or value of imports, but to protect public
and animal health;  to provide for public safety and animal welfare;  and to prevent cruelty to animals.
5. The special permit system is a statutory re quirement 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 di scretion.  Any changes require legislative approval.G/LIC/N/3/HKG/6
Page 27
Procedures
6. Not applicable.
7.(a) Application for a special permit should be submitted well in advance of importation (at least
five 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 co mply with the terms and conditions of the permit, and should
allow for this.
(b) Depending on circumstance 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 Depa rtment 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 submit an application.
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence
10. The required information is summarized in  the sample application form at Annex XIX17.
11. The special permit and other documents specified by terms/conditions of the permit, and
documents required under any other legislation.
12. The current fee schedule for special permits is at Annex XX18.
13. Fee must be paid upon application.Conditions of licensing
14. A Special Permit is valid for three months.  Permits for regular importers of food animals into
HKSAR from mainland China are valid for six months.  The validity of import permits may be extended
for a month upon application at a fee of HK$140.
15. No.
16. Not transferable.17. Yes, varying according to the type of animal and country of origin.
                                                     
17 The application form can be downloaded from the webpage specified under footnote 15.
18 The fee schedule can be viewed from:
http://www.afcd.gov.hk/quarantine/lsk/import/spfee.pdf  (English version)G/LIC/N/3/HKG/6
Page 28
Other procedural requirements
18. No.
19. Not applicable.
V. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT
A. IMPORT CONTROL ON WASTE
Outline of system
1. The import of waste into HKSAR is controlle d under a permit system administered by the
Environmental Protection Department.  Its requirement s 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, unle ss 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 originating in and coming from any places outside
HKSAR.
4. Other than those requirements of the Basel Conven tion, the system is not intended to restrict the
quantity or value of imports.  It serves  to ensure that prior consents from the exporting economies
concerned are obtained before commencement of an y waste shipment.  It facilitates the continuation of
legitimate waste trade and to stop any illegal ship ment.  The system enables HKSAR to fulfil its
international obligations under the Basel Conventi on 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 submitted in advance of the importation.  The processing time for
an application varies from case to case, depend ing primarily on the time taken by the competent
authorities of the exporting 
economies concerned to provide feedback for the application, and
on whether the application form is duly completed and submitted with all the requiredsupporting documents.  To allow for sufficient time for the competent authorities to make
responses, it is advisable for the applicants to submit their applications at least 90 days before
the commencement of the proposed shipment of waste.
(b) No.  Under the Basel Convention, consents from all 
exporting economies concerned are
required prior to any waste shipment. We are una ble to issue any permit without obtaining the
views from the exporting economies concerned.G/LIC/N/3/HKG/6
Page 29
(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 th e 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 me t (e.g. the proposed waste
shipment is in line with the spirit and requirements of  the Basel Convention).  In the event of refusal to
issue a permit, the reasons will be given, and the app licant 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, im port of hazardous waste from developed economies including
Liechtenstein and member states of the Orga nisation for Economic Cooperation and Development
(OECD) and the European Communities (EC) 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 a pply 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 XXI19.
11. On actual importation, the waste should be accompanied by the permit, a waste movement
document recording the details of the waste shipme nt, and a liability insurance covering any claims
arising out of damage to human health, property and the environment which may result from the waste
import operation.
12. An application fee of HK$11,595 or HK$18,430 will be  charged for the application of a single
shipment or a multiple-shipment permit respectivel y.  A multiple-shipment permit can have a validity
period of up to one 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 financia l guarantee required will be determined on a
case-by-case basis.  It enables the waste disposal aut hority to recover cost of any seizure or disposal or
alternative environmentally sound management of wa ste 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 sh ipment, 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 periodof up to one year for repeated shipments of the same type of waste from the same source and to the
                                                     
19 The application form can be downloaded from:
http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/waste/guide_ref/guide_wiec_tcs3_3.html  (English version)G/LIC/N/3/HKG/6
Page 30
same disposer or recycler.  The validity of a permit cannot be extended.  A new application has to be
submitted if the importing activity is to be continued after the validity period of the permit.
15. No.
16. Not transferable.
17. Yes, 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.
19. Not applicable.
VI. FOOD AND ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE DEPARTMENT
A. IMPORT CONTROL ON FROZEN OR CHILLED MEAT AND POULTRY
Outline of system
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 domestic fowl, duck, goose or turkey or any part of
such a carcass, and any part of a bird mentioned above which is edible or used in the preparation of
food.
3. The 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 re quirement maintained under the Import and Export
(General) Regulations, Import a nd Export Ordinance, Cap. 60.  Th e 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.G/LIC/N/3/HKG/6
Page 31
7.(a) Application for import licences should be submitted in advance of importation taking into
account the processing time.  The issue of an import licence under normal circumstances
requires one working day (excluding Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays, dates of
submission and issuing).
(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 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 against a decision of refusal for issuing a licence.
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
9. A company is required to be registered with the Food and Environmental Hygiene
Department first before it can apply for an import licence.  Registration is open to all business
enterprises.  At present no fee is charged for the registration.
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence
10.  Information to be supplied includes particulars of the importer, of the importation and of the
products to be imported.  Health certificate issued by the recognized authority of the exportingeconomy 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 VII
20.
11. The import licence is the only document required by the Government of HKSAR on actual
importation.
12. No licensing fee is required for import licence applications.  The price of non-textiles import
licence forms is HK$26 per pad (containing 20 sets).
13. No deposit or advance payment is required.Conditions of licensing
14. An import licence is valid for six 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.  Importers should however cancel or amend the licences.16. Not transferable.17. Apart from the licensing conditions printed on the import licence at Annex VII
21 the
conditions set out at Annex XXII are applicable to frozen or chilled meat and poultry which are notsubject to quantitative restriction.
                                                     
20 Sample of the form can be viewed from the webpage specified under footnote 3.
21 Sample of the form can be viewed from the webpage specified under footnote 3.G/LIC/N/3/HKG/6
Page 32
Other procedural requirements
18. No.
19. No foreign exchange control.
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