hong kong sar - sigep · 95% of food supplies due to limited domestic production. ......

ITALIAN TRADE AGENCY ICE – Italian Trade Commission

Hong Kong Office

Suite 4001, Central Plaza Via Liszt 21, 00144 Roma, Italia 18 Harbour Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong T el : +39 0659921

T +852 28466500 F +852 28684779 www.ice.gov.it

[email protected] www.italtrade.com/hongkong Part. Iva 12020391004

Hong Kong SAR (Regione Amministrativa Speciale)

SIGEP 2018: Market Report

Aggiornamento: Dicembre 2017

Ufficio di Hong Kong

Suite 4001, Central Plaza

18 Harbour Road

Wanchai, Hong Kong

Telefono +852 2846 6500

Fax: +852 2868 4779

Email: [email protected]

www.ice.gov.it/paesi/asia/hongkong (italiano)

www.italtrade.com/hongkong (inglese)

www.italtrade.cn (中文)

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.ice.gov.it/paesi/asia/hongkong

http://www.italtrade.com/hongkong

http://www.italtrade.cn/


Hong Kong Office


T +852 28466500 F +852 28684779 www.ice.gov.it


Throughout the years, Hong Kong companies have been purchasing large quantities of

imported food from abroad for both the local and mainland markets. Hong Kong imports over

95% of food supplies due to limited domestic production. It is one of the top markets in the

world for food and beverages, processed, fresh and frozen gourmet products. As the huge

demand of the mainland continues to grow, Hong Kong is well-position to become a

distribution and trading centre for imported food and beverage destined for China. Hong

Kong can also act as a product sale and market testing platform for foreign food companies

planning to develop the mainland market, and can formulate the right marketing and

promotional strategies for the products.

As just a brief note, there are roughly 400 bakery shops; more than 60 ice cream stores, and

more than 270 coffee shops in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong is one of the top markets in the world for food and beverages products. Many

Hong Kong food and beverages manufacturers deal directly with overseas importers and

supermarket chains. Hong Kong’s food and beverages trading companies have played a

pivotal role in introducing Western foods to mainland consumers, and in assisting smaller

producers based locally and on the Chinese mainland in selling abroad. Hong Kong also

serves as a trading hub for re-exports into mainland China, Macau and other neighboring

markets in Asia.

As shown in table 1, between January-July 2016, Hong Kong’s total exports of processed

food and beverages increased by 14%, reaching HK$33 billion. As illustrated in table 2,

Chinese mainland was the largest export market for Hong Kong’s processed food and

beverages (accounting for 38% of the total), followed by the Vietnam (26%). The food and

beverages industry in Hong Kong is largely related to re-export activities. These industry

players, in addition to importing and purchasing food and beverage from all over the world

for Hong Kong, have also contributed to turning Hong Kong into a trading centre for

processed food and beverage.


Hong Kong Office


T +852 28466500 F +852 28684779 www.ice.gov.it


Table 1 Performance of Hong Kong's Exports of Processed Food and Beverages, source: HKTDC

Table 2 Performance of Hong Kong's Exports of Processed Food and Beverages by Markets, source: HKTDC


Hong Kong Office


T +852 28466500 F +852 28684779 www.ice.gov.it


1. Ingredients (Ingredients for ice cream parlors, bakeries and catering

of confectionaries)

HONG KONG'S IMPORTS BY ORIGINS

OF BUTTER (HS 040510)

VALUE: USD (TH)

- 2014 - - 2015 - - 2016 -

RANK ORIGINS VALUE %SHR %CHG VALUE %SHR %CHG VALUE %SHR %CHG

TOTAL 55,353 100 21.2 49,720 100 -10.2 50,768 100 2.1

1 NEW ZEALAND 28,127 50.8 46.1 26,395 53.1 -6.2 27,717 54.6 5

2 FRANCE 5,331 9.6 44.9 4,812 9.7 -9.7 5,601 11 16.4

3 AUSTRALIA 13,162 23.8 6.6 10,509 21.1 -20.2 9,566 18.8 -9

4 DENMARK 4,656 8.4 13.2 4,249 8.5 -8.8 3,441 6.8 -19

5 JAPAN 252 0.5 -16.1 634 1.3 151.6 550 1.1 -13.3

6 BELGIUM 987 1.8 -61.6 214 0.4 -78.3 1,065 2.1 398

7 UNITED KINGDOM

47 0.1 5 156 0.3 228.5 108 0.2 -30.7

8 NETHERLANDS 661 1.2 -42.1 570 1.1 -13.8 630 1.2 10.6

9 U S A 383 0.7 -41.1 483 1 25.9 170 0.3 -64.8

10 CHINA 716 1.3 333.6 360 0.7 -49.7 695 1.4 93

11 URUGUAY 81 0.1 9.9 344 0.7 323.6 393 0.8 14.5

12 INDIA 246 0.4 203.8 146 0.3 -40.7 160 0.3 9.4

13 GABON - - - - - - - - -

14 CANADA 6 * = 90 0.2 .. - - -100

15 POLAND 99 0.2 = 47 0.1 -52.1 101 0.2 113.4

16 PAKISTAN 75 0.1 22.9 61 0.1 -18.2 26 0.1 -57.4

17 GERMANY 158 0.3 -69.5 3 * -97.8 5 * 50.8

18 INDONESIA 19 * -86.3 37 0.1 97.3 31 0.1 -16.4

19 ITALY 44 0.1 -70.2 40 0.1 -8.9 65 0.1 61.1

20 MALAYSIA - - -100 - - - 34 0.1 =

SOURCE: HONG KONG TRADE STATISTICS, CENSUS & STATISTICS DEPT. DECEMBER 2017.


Hong Kong Office


T +852 28466500 F +852 28684779 www.ice.gov.it



OF BUTTER (HS 040510)

VALUE: USD (TH)

JAN - OCT 2017

RANK ORIGINS VALUE %SHR %CHG TOTAL 55,633 100 43.6

1 NEW ZEALAND 35,830 64.4 83.4

2 FRANCE 5,600 10.1 20.4

3 AUSTRALIA 5,533 9.9 -33.2

4 DENMARK 3,815 6.9 44.7

5 JAPAN 998 1.8 151.8

6 BELGIUM 935 1.7 -7.2

7 UNITED KINGDOM 852 1.5 776.3

8 NETHERLANDS 702 1.3 21.5

9 U S A 288 0.5 135.2

10 CHINA 265 0.5 -36.1

11 URUGUAY 242 0.4 -24.2

12 INDIA 144 0.3 -8.1

13 GABON 95 0.2 =

14 CANADA 61 0.1 =

15 POLAND 58 0.1 -42.2

16 PAKISTAN 40 0.1 123.2

17 GERMANY 38 0.1 635.2

18 INDONESIA 35 0.1 19.2

19 ITALY 30 0.1 -49.9

20 MALAYSIA 24 * 24.6



Hong Kong Office


T +852 28466500 F +852 28684779 www.ice.gov.it



OF FLOUR OF WHEAT OR OF MESLIN (SITC 04610)

VALUE: USD (TH)

- 2014 - - 2015 - - 2016 -

RANK ORIGINS VALUE %SHR %CHG VALUE %SHR %CHG VALUE %SHR %CHG TOTAL 117,872 100 -3.4 118,256 100 0.3 107,904 100 -8.8

1 CHINA 62,042 52.6 -11.6 60,849 51.5 -1.9 48,286 44.7 -20.6

2 JAPAN 21,854 18.5 -5 21,924 18.5 0.3 24,324 22.5 10.9

3 TAIWAN 10,327 8.8 19 11,128 9.4 7.8 11,536 10.7 3.7

4 VIETNAM 6,448 5.5 26.8 6,573 5.6 1.9 6,032 5.6 -8.2

5 KOREA REP 2,048 1.7 99.4 2,885 2.4 40.9 2,608 2.4 -9.6

6 SINGAPORE 4,319 3.7 62.4 3,454 2.9 -20 3,073 2.8 -11

7 THAILAND 2,594 2.2 3.8 2,134 1.8 -17.7 2,166 2 1.5

8 PHILIPPINES - - - 340 0.3 = 1,331 1.2 291.5

9 INDIA 1,111 0.9 11 1,317 1.1 18.6 1,688 1.6 28.2

10 SRI LANKA 3,080 2.6 -17.1 2,069 1.7 -32.8 1,827 1.7 -11.7

11 AUSTRALIA 490 0.4 39.5 794 0.7 62 1,274 1.2 60.3

12 CANADA 1,183 1 -21.2 1,058 0.9 -10.6 926 0.9 -12.5

13 FRANCE 337 0.3 110.1 433 0.4 28.2 449 0.4 3.7

14 UNITED KINGDOM

621 0.5 91.6 575 0.5 -7.5 680 0.6 18.3

15 ITALY 437 0.4 19.3 624 0.5 42.8 442 0.4 -29.1

16 INDONESIA 234 0.2 -22.8 163 0.1 -30.5 129 0.1 -21

17 PORTUGAL - - - - - - 181 0.2 =

18 TURKEY 185 0.2 -73.2 413 0.3 123.1 315 0.3 -23.7

19 U S A 276 0.2 75.3 631 0.5 128.9 242 0.2 -61.6

20 NEW ZEALAND - - -100 14 * = 42 * 201.8



Hong Kong Office


T +852 28466500 F +852 28684779 www.ice.gov.it



OF FLOUR OF WHEAT OR OF MESLIN (SITC 04610)

VALUE: USD (TH)

JAN - OCT 2017

RANK ORIGINS VALUE %SHR %CHG TOTAL 87,296 100 -1.9

1 CHINA 35,183 40.3 -12.6

2 JAPAN 22,683 26 15.1

3 TAIWAN 8,650 9.9 -9.4

4 VIETNAM 5,548 6.4 10.9

5 KOREA REP 2,922 3.3 34.4

6 SINGAPORE 2,194 2.5 -14.4

7 THAILAND 1,836 2.1 2.6

8 PHILIPPINES 1,440 1.6 42.8

9 INDIA 1,435 1.6 1.2

10 SRI LANKA 977 1.1 -38.1

11 AUSTRALIA 957 1.1 -7.1

12 CANADA 711 0.8 -2.2

13 FRANCE 552 0.6 61.5

14 UNITED KINGDOM 489 0.6 -17

15 ITALY 463 0.5 28.4

16 INDONESIA 279 0.3 161.2

17 PORTUGAL 230 0.3 64.5

18 TURKEY 211 0.2 -17.5

19 U S A 183 0.2 73.4

20 NEW ZEALAND 94 0.1 197.9



Hong Kong Office


T +852 28466500 F +852 28684779 www.ice.gov.it



OF SALT(INCLUDING TABLE SALT AND DENATURED SALT)AND PURE SODIUMCHLORIDE,WHETHER OR NOT IN AQUEOUS SOLUTION;SEA WATER. (HS 2501)

VALUE: USD (TH)

- 2014 - - 2015 - - 2016 -

RANK ORIGINS VALUE %SHR %CHG VALUE %SHR %CHG VALUE %SHR %CHG TOTAL 6,715 100 5.3 6,390 100 -4.8 6,849 100 7.2

1 CHINA 3,348 49.9 -11.8 3,346 52.4 -0.1 3,536 51.6 5.7

2 SPAIN 24 0.4 35.6 17 0.3 -28.8 16 0.2 -6.8

3 U S A 722 10.8 30.8 554 8.7 -23.3 671 9.8 21.1

4 NEW ZEALAND 308 4.6 46.4 242 3.8 -21.3 351 5.1 44.9

5 JAPAN 440 6.6 4.4 283 4.4 -35.6 451 6.6 59.2

6 MALAYSIA 48 0.7 -27.6 291 4.6 506.2 387 5.7 32.9

7 AUSTRALIA 600 8.9 40.3 466 7.3 -22.3 357 5.2 -23.5

8 PAKISTAN 36 0.5 150.1 19 0.3 -46.4 96 1.4 399.7

9 UNITED KINGDOM

217 3.2 60.9 301 4.7 38.9 239 3.5 -20.8

10 ITALY 193 2.9 164.1 184 2.9 -4.5 118 1.7 -36

11 GERMANY 113 1.7 -0.4 100 1.6 -11.4 79 1.2 -20.6

12 KOREA REP 51 0.8 64.7 71 1.1 37.7 89 1.3 26.1

13 FRANCE 149 2.2 103 134 2.1 -9.8 112 1.6 -16.5

14 NETHERLANDS 82 1.2 42.7 50 0.8 -38.2 57 0.8 12.8

15 THAILAND 39 0.6 -12.1 36 0.6 -7.7 61 0.9 69.3

16 BELGIUM 51 0.8 -62.6 39 0.6 -23.9 43 0.6 12.1

17 TAIWAN 113 1.7 62.3 113 1.8 -0.1 65 1 -42

18 INDIA 138 2 11.8 42 0.7 -69.2 7 0.1 -82.3

19 SINGAPORE 1 * -66.8 9 0.1 644.3 7 0.1 -14.4

20 SOUTH AFRICA - - - - - - - - -



Hong Kong Office


T +852 28466500 F +852 28684779 www.ice.gov.it



OF SALT(INCLUDING TABLE SALT AND DENATURED SALT)AND PURE SODIUMCHLORIDE,WHETHER OR NOT IN AQUEOUS SOLUTION;SEA WATER. (HS 2501)

VALUE: USD (TH) JAN - OCT 2017


1 CHINA 3,134 46 8.4

2 SPAIN 670 9.8 ..

3 U S A 648 9.5 29.5

4 NEW ZEALAND 373 5.5 53.4

5 JAPAN 371 5.4 15.4

6 MALAYSIA 319 4.7 0.3

7 AUSTRALIA 262 3.8 -11.8

8 PAKISTAN 192 2.8 191.5


10 ITALY 148 2.2 41.2

11 GERMANY 79 1.2 17.4

12 KOREA REP 76 1.1 -4.8

13 FRANCE 67 1 -37.7

14 NETHERLANDS 63 0.9 20.4

15 THAILAND 53 0.8 12.1

16 BELGIUM 38 0.6 10

17 TAIWAN 34 0.5 -44

18 INDIA 21 0.3 176.3

19 SINGAPORE 16 0.2 330.7

20 SOUTH AFRICA 14 0.2 =



Hong Kong Office


T +852 28466500 F +852 28684779 www.ice.gov.it



OF SUGAR SYRUPS CONTAINING ADDED FLAVOURING OR COLOURING MATTER (94 KG) (HS 21069030)

VALUE: USD (TH)

- 2014 - - 2015 - - 2016 -

RANK ORIGINS VALUE %SHR %CHG VALUE %SHR %CHG VALUE %SHR %CHG

TOTAL 9,468 100 10.6 10,578 100 11.7 11,968 100 13.1

1 MALAYSIA 2,375 25.1 22.4 3,090 29.2 30.1 3,466 29 12.2

2 TAIWAN 1,334 14.1 30.8 1,556 14.7 16.7 2,508 21 61.1

3 U S A 1,917 20.2 -5.6 1,159 11 -39.6 1,103 9.2 -4.8

4 INDONESIA 1,270 13.4 2.7 1,275 12.1 0.4 1,314 11 3.1

5 CHINA 1,318 13.9 -2 2,601 24.6 97.2 2,497 20.9 -4

6 KOREA REP 253 2.7 316.5 198 1.9 -21.7 159 1.3 -19.8

7 ITALY 406 4.3 44.1 237 2.2 -41.6 275 2.3 15.8

8 JAPAN 58 0.6 47.6 79 0.8 37.4 171 1.4 115.6

9 PHILIPPINES 34 0.4 -71.1 - - -100 61 0.5 =

10 FRANCE 161 1.7 4.5 66 0.6 -58.9 117 1 76.8

11 SINGAPORE 60 0.6 -4.4 28 0.3 -54 34 0.3 22.3

12 SPAIN 47 0.5 76.3 11 0.1 -75.6 * * -98.5

13 UNITED KINGDOM

59 0.6 137.8 53 0.5 -9.9 29 0.2 -45

14 PAKISTAN - - - 30 0.3 = - - -100

15 INDIA 42 0.4 583 62 0.6 46.9 9 0.1 -84.9

16 THAILAND 19 0.2 132.6 10 0.1 -45.1 74 0.6 622.7

17 SWEDEN 2 * = 10 0.1 508 6 0.1 -39.3

18 NETHERLANDS - - - - - - 19 0.2 =

19 NEW ZEALAND

32 0.3 = 6 0.1 -79.9 15 0.1 129

20 CZECH REP - - - - - - - - -



Hong Kong Office


T +852 28466500 F +852 28684779 www.ice.gov.it



OF SUGAR SYRUPS CONTAINING ADDED FLAVOURING OR COLOURING MATTER (94 KG) (HS 21069030) VALUE: USD (TH) JAN - OCT 2017


1 MALAYSIA 2,962 29.6 -0.8

2 TAIWAN 2,321 23.2 5.5

3 U S A 1,487 14.9 57.1

4 INDONESIA 1,003 10 -8.9

5 CHINA 970 9.7 -55.7

6 KOREA REP 665 6.7 524.2

7 ITALY 147 1.5 -36.9

8 JAPAN 113 1.1 -20.8

9 PHILIPPINES 77 0.8 114.2

10 FRANCE 42 0.4 -26.3

11 SINGAPORE 38 0.4 13.3

12 SPAIN 35 0.4 ..


14 PAKISTAN 20 0.2 =

15 INDIA 19 0.2 109.1

16 THAILAND 17 0.2 -76.3

17 SWEDEN 13 0.1 129.4

18 NETHERLANDS 10 0.1 -48.3

19 NEW ZEALAND 8 0.1 -42.9

20 CZECH REP 7 0.1 =



Hong Kong Office


T +852 28466500 F +852 28684779 www.ice.gov.it



OF SUGARS AND SUGAR CONFECTIONERY (HS 17)

VALUE: USD (TH)

- 2014 - - 2015 - - 2016 -

RANK ORIGINS VALUE %SHR %CHG VALUE %SHR %CHG VALUE %SHR %CHG TOTAL 330,157 100 -1 338,546 100 2.5 320,100 100 -5.4

1 CHINA 71,181 21.6 -0.9 64,375 19 -9.6 63,294 19.8 -1.7

2 JAPAN 53,409 16.2 1 67,107 19.8 25.6 68,577 21.4 2.2

3 KOREA REP 61,521 18.6 -2.1 48,297 14.3 -21.5 51,670 16.1 7

4 THAILAND 32,609 9.9 1.8 38,189 11.3 17.1 29,678 9.3 -22.3

5 MALAYSIA 21,576 6.5 -12.1 16,803 5 -22.1 17,566 5.5 4.5

6 U S A 20,757 6.3 -9.3 24,353 7.2 17.3 21,202 6.6 -12.9

7 TAIWAN 8,558 2.6 -11.5 8,652 2.6 1.1 9,526 3 10.1

8 GERMANY 15,416 4.7 14.6 12,577 3.7 -18.4 11,096 3.5 -11.8

9 UNITED KINGDOM

6,166 1.9 -12.4 7,210 2.1 16.9 7,263 2.3 0.7

10 AUSTRALIA 4,016 1.2 -8.3 5,030 1.5 25.3 6,728 2.1 33.7

11 SWITZERLAND 8,497 2.6 5.6 7,804 2.3 -8.2 5,604 1.8 -28.2

12 NEW ZEALAND 1,227 0.4 -6.9 3,505 1 185.7 4,427 1.4 26.3

13 ITALY 4,024 1.2 18.7 3,610 1.1 -10.3 3,325 1 -7.9

14 TURKEY 842 0.3 84.6 1,661 0.5 97.4 1,463 0.5 -12

15 INDONESIA 3,181 1 -0.4 2,280 0.7 -28.3 2,739 0.9 20.1

16 CANADA 1,670 0.5 -18.8 1,891 0.6 13.2 2,192 0.7 15.9

17 NETHERLANDS 1,848 0.6 -22.3 3,386 1 83.2 2,531 0.8 -25.3

18 VIETNAM 1,445 0.4 62.5 1,334 0.4 -7.7 1,405 0.4 5.3

19 MACAU SAR 1,463 0.4 154.2 1,309 0.4 -10.6 1,192 0.4 -8.9

20 INDIA 875 0.3 6.5 866 0.3 -1 1,030 0.3 19



Hong Kong Office


T +852 28466500 F +852 28684779 www.ice.gov.it



OF SUGARS AND SUGAR CONFECTIONERY (HS 17)

VALUE: USD (TH)

JAN - OCT 2017


1 CHINA 52,865 20.3 5.5

2 JAPAN 47,697 18.3 -10.8

3 KOREA REP 45,877 17.6 10.4

4 THAILAND 26,367 10.1 9.7

5 MALAYSIA 18,553 7.1 37.7

6 U S A 15,651 6 6.2

7 TAIWAN 10,188 3.9 45.6

8 GERMANY 8,774 3.4 -3.7

9 UNITED KINGDOM 6,339 2.4 7.6

10 AUSTRALIA 4,017 1.5 -25.6

11 SWITZERLAND 3,433 1.3 -26.6

12 NEW ZEALAND 3,096 1.2 -19.8

13 ITALY 2,061 0.8 -24.2

14 TURKEY 1,968 0.8 73.3

15 INDONESIA 1,946 0.7 -2.6

16 CANADA 1,883 0.7 18.9

17 NETHERLANDS 1,830 0.7 2.6

18 VIETNAM 1,055 0.4 -0.2

19 MACAU SAR 934 0.4 1.8

20 INDIA 862 0.3 -3.4



Hong Kong Office


T +852 28466500 F +852 28684779 www.ice.gov.it


1.1 Certifications required by Hong Kong SAR

Mode / organizations

The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department of the Government of the Hong

Kong Special Administrative Region

Centre for Food Safety of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative

Region

Under the Public Health and Municipal Services Ordinance, there are specific legal

requirements for the import of perishable or high-risk food namely, meat, milk, frozen

confections and marine products. In general, the control process involves a pre-entry import

licensing system, verification of health certificates and prior approval of source of

manufacture. In other words, local importers are required to apply for import permits, while

overseas exporters need to supply their agents or importers with necessary documentation

such as health certificates from their own government.

For importing ice cream/ frozen confection:

Food and Environmental Hygiene Department of the Government of the Hong Kong Special

Administrative Region is responsible for implementing territory-wide policies of food safety

control and enforcing the food legislation.

(a) The full name and address of the frozen confection processing plant;

(b) The law of the country of origin governing the production of frozen confections;

(c) Empty containers or wrappers of the frozen confection with labels;

(d) Information on the heat treatment method of the frozen confection and facilities, including

production equipment and water supply, in the processing plant;

(e) A certificate from an appropriate authority in the country of origin for the purpose of -

Certifying the effectiveness and efficiency of the heat treatment method in sterilizing the

frozen confection and that the products have been handled, processed and packed under

hygienic conditions

Showing the chemical and bacteriological quality of the products; and

(f) Details of ingredients, including colouring matters, stablisers and sweeting agents, etc.,

and their amount in the frozen confection.

For other imported food:

Food importers, through close liaison with exporting countries, are responsible for ensuring

that food items they procure comply with the local legislation. To help ensure hygienic

standards of food, importers are encouraged to obtain health certificates issued by health

authorities of countries of origin to accompany their imports certifying that the food products

concerned are fit for human consumption.

You should also follow the food legislation and guidelines.

The basic food law in Hong Kong is laid down in Part V of the Public Health and Municipal

Services Ordinance (Cap. 132). The main provisions cover general protection for food

http://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/food_leg/food_leg_list.html#part5

http://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/food_leg/food_leg_list.html#part5


Hong Kong Office


T +852 28466500 F +852 28684779 www.ice.gov.it


purchasers, offences in connection with sale of unfit food and adulterated food, composition

and labeling of food, food hygiene, seizure and destruction of unfit food.

Another food law in Hong Kong, the Food Safety Ordinance (Cap. 612), provides new food

safety control measures, including a registration scheme for food importers and food

distributors and a requirement for food traders to maintain proper records of the movements

of food to enhance food traceability. It also empowers the authorities to make regulations for

tightening import control on specific food types and to make orders to prohibit the import and

supply of problem food and order the recall of such food.

Labeling requirements:

All prepackaged food for sale in Hong Kong, whether imported or manufactured locally,

should comply with the mandatory nutrition labeling scheme and be marked and labeled

appropriately. It requires the food information of energy and seven specified nutrients to be

listed on food labels, namely, protein, carbohydrates, total fat, saturated fat, trans fat, sodium

and sugars.

1.2 Trends and opportunities

In recent decades, consumers tend to focus more on organic products, healthy (low-fat) food

products. Increasingly, responsible and health-conscious parents have been switching to

organic foods for their kids even if it's more costly.

Furthermore, Hong Kong now develops a new trend of home cooking. Hectic city dwellers

are usually burdened by enormous work pressures. However, cooking class now becomes a

popular choice, for example: dessert class, bakery class, Chinese and western cuisines class.

Attending cooking class nowadays is a fun and leisure hobby. Those with myriad affairs to

attend discover that preparing delicious dishes can be developed into a lifetime interest that

also relaxes their minds during the process.

Also, with the advent of bread machine and all the food process machines, people in Hong

Kong now enjoy and prefer cooking and preparing food with good quality ingredients at

home. Responsible and health-conscious parents have been switching to organic foods for

their kids even if it's more costly.

Various food safety issues raised consumers’ concerns about their daily food intake. They

were increasingly aware about the composition of processed food and beverages, as they

sought to minimise their consumption of chemical additives. These factors also impacted

consumer choice of health and wellness products during. Consumers were increasingly

turning to naturally healthy and organic variants as an alternative to the usual better for you

products.

http://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/whatsnew/whatsnew_fstr/whatsnew_fstr_Food_Safety_Bill.html


Hong Kong Office


T +852 28466500 F +852 28684779 www.ice.gov.it


Foods categorized as natural and beneficial to health are fit with local consumers’ taste and

preference. The purchase of organic food is expecting to be a major trend in Hong Kong’s

food and beverage market. Local consumers are being more conscious on food safety issues

and nutrition values of food products, and demanding for safe, organic and health food

products. Consumers today prefer transparency in all products that they purchased. They are

more likely to consume products with clear indications and labels of nutritional value on the

package for health foods. There is positive perception of European countries as a supplier of

fresh, quality and safe products in the market.

As a result of the ageing population, consumers are seeking easy-to-prepare, high quality

nutritional foods to compensate for their lowered taste sensitivity. Food manufacturers are

introducing low carbohydrate or added sugar foods. The slimness culture in Hong Kong has

also given rise to the development of “dietary foods” that contain added fibre to make the

food more filling and delay digestion.

As consumers become more demanding in terms of food diversification and safety, product

segmentation in the food market is expected to become increasingly prevalent, leading to the

creation of distinct brands. At present, the battle is to establish those brands, with mid- to

high-end consumers expected to demonstrate a significant loyalty to companies that embody

the premium end of the sector.

Ice Cream and Frozen Desserts Market in Hong Kong

With the rapid advertising from retailers, the sales of ice cream retained a steady growth in

the market. Single portion dairy ice cream is the most common type of purchase as impulse

ice cream can be easily bought via local stores. In terms of local consumers’ taste, chocolate

coated vanilla ice cream or plain vanilla ice creams are the most popular. Various fruit or

green tea flavours offered by Japanese and Korean brands are also well-received by local

consumers. While ice cream sticks is more favourable over cone for Hong Kong consumers,

the mixture of outer chocolate layer, nuts within and ice cream inside is considered to be a

perfect match for many local consumers.

Coffee Market in Hong Kong

Driven by rising coffee culture, the coffee market is continued to grow in Hong Kong’s

market. With an increasing number of large chain coffee stores and personalized cafes, Hong

Kong is under growing popularity in coffee culture. Since coffee drinking seems as a

fashionable lifestyle among teenagers, the market segment has been enlarged to the younger

population. Sophisticated consumers are demanding for higher quality of food and beverage.

They are more likely to brew their preferred coffee at home and office. Consumers are likely

to own coffee machine for single-serve purpose. The most sought after machines for buyers

today are the higher-priced, single-serve, capsule-based varieties. As a result, the

consumption of coffee capsule was still big in 2017.


Hong Kong Office


T +852 28466500 F +852 28684779 www.ice.gov.it


Chocolate Market in Hong Kong

Chocolates are increasingly experimenting with new ingredients and flavors to meet changing

local consumer needs. They are also innovating new confectionery products, which have

reduced sugar and fat levels for health-conscious people. Innovation in the confectionery

market has eliminated the addition of ingredients and additives containing high sugar. Instead,

sugar-free products have been introduced in a bid to improve the health of the

consumers. Besides, the hot and humid climate from July till September in Hong Kong is a

major challenge to chocolate industry players. To retain consumers in hot seasons, some

chocolate shops serve drinks or ice cream to provide a variety of choices.

Bakery & Pastry Market in Hong Kong

Due to medical reasons, the perception among local consumers is that low sugar products are

healthier and more natural. Smaller versions of bakery items are appeal to consumers’ desire

to enjoy the taste and texture without worrying about calories. Mini-portion sizes of about

two to four bites are the growing trend, since carry less calories compared to their full-size

counterparts. Mini pies, petite croissants, and bite-sized cakes are the latest in this category.

1.3 Fairs in Hong Kong

The Hong Kong International Bakery Expo

A newly designated professional B2B trade platform, Hong Kong International Bakery

Expo (HKIBE), organized by the Vertical Expo Service, is set and targeted to tailor for the

industry, particularly the Asia-Pacific region. HKIBE provides the opportunities to meet with

buyers of bakery shop owners, food manufacturers, trading houses and agents, restaurants

and hotels, food service and distributors, professional associations, bakery institution and

media from mainly the South-East Asia countries and of course the Hong Kong local buyers.

http://www.hkbakeryexpo.com

HOFEX

HOFEX, is the largest biennial food and hospitality tradeshow in Asia-Pacific region, has

completed during in Hong Kong during 8 – 11 May 2017. It is organized by the Hong Kong

Exhibition Services Ltd and Allworld Exhibitions Ltd. In the 2017 HOFEX, there were over

2,500 international suppliers and distributors of food, beverages, foodservice equipment,

hospitality design and technology, including 50+ national pavilions, showcased their latest

quality products. HOFEX provides a remarkable return on investment that is unmatched by

other media. HOFEX offers a tremendous opportunity to showcase products and services in

the world's most lucrative markets. Also, HOFEX indulges their exhibitors and visitors with a

series of informative and mind-stimulating events ranging from culinary and wine

competitions to conference with expert advice on different topics. The next HOFEX will be

held from 7 – 10 May 2019 at Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Hong Kong; to

continue serving as a premier meeting place to connect overseas suppliers with buyers from

China and other countries in Asia-Pacific.

http://www.hofex.com

http://www.hkbakeryexpo.com/

http://www.hofex.com/


Hong Kong Office


T +852 28466500 F +852 28684779 www.ice.gov.it


Food Expo

The Food Expo is a popular summer event, organized in Hong Kong by the Hong Kong

Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and held at the Hong Kong Convention and

Exhibition Centre in August every year. In 2017 Food Expo, more than 1,500 exhibitors from

26 countries and regions participated in the fair. The fair’s trade hall drew more than 21,000

trade buyers from 62 countries and regions, up one per cent year-on-year. Featuring a Trade

Hall and a Public Hall, the expo serves a wide variety of quality food products from all over

the world including bakery products, beverages, snacks, processed food, instant food, fruits &

vegetables, green & organic food, kitchenware, seasonings and seafood and provides

numerous business opportunities to buyers and spoiling public visitors with mouth-watering

delicacies.

http://www.hktdc.com/fair/hkfoodexpo-en

Restaurant and Bar Hong Kong

Restaurant and Bar Hong Kong (RBHK) is Asia’s leading fine dining and food exhibition. It

is organized by the Diversified Communication Hong Kong, and hold at the Hong Kong

Convention & Exhibition Centre in every September. With its unique position focusing on

the top-quality food service and the bar market, it has become the highlight event of the

industry, delivering top F&B professionals from Hong Kong, Macau and Guangdong. In

2017 Restaurant & Bar, the fair gathered 300 exhibitors, bringing high-quality food service

and solutions to top-end potential in-traders. It received response from more than 19,032

high-spending decision-makers, including head chefs, purchasing directors and restaurant

managers come to look for and are prepared to pay for the best.

http://www.restaurantandbarhk.com/expo

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hong_Kong

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hong_Kong_Trade_Development_Council

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hong_Kong_Trade_Development_Council

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hong_Kong_Convention_and_Exhibition_Centre

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hong_Kong_Convention_and_Exhibition_Centre

http://www.hktdc.com/fair/hkfoodexpo-en

http://www.restaurantandbarhk.com/expo


Hong Kong Office


T +852 28466500 F +852 28684779 www.ice.gov.it


2. Machinery / Equipment (Equipment for ice cream shops, bakeries and

restaurants)


OF BAKERY MACHINERY AND MACHINERY FOR THE MANUFACTURE OFMACARONI, SPAGHETTI OR SIMILAR PRODUCTS (HS 843810)

VALUE: USD (TH)

- 2014 - - 2015 - - 2016 -

RANK ORIGINS VALUE %SHR %CHG VALUE %SHR %CHG VALUE %SHR %CHG TOTAL 10,074 100 -30.5 9,687 100 -3.8 13,128 100 35.5

1 JAPAN 2,656 26.4 1.5 2,128 22 -19.9 5,504 41.9 158.6

2 NETHERLANDS 242 2.4 -80.3 522 5.4 115.7 128 1 -75.6

3 TAIWAN 2,108 20.9 -17.7 1,860 19.2 -11.7 1,689 12.9 -9.2

4 GERMANY 2,042 20.3 45.9 1,236 12.8 -39.5 778 5.9 -37

5 ITALY 975 9.7 -22.3 1,162 12 19.2 787 6 -32.3

6 CHINA 951 9.4 -68.7 614 6.3 -35.5 3,573 27.2 482.4

7 AUSTRIA 79 0.8 -52.3 473 4.9 497.8 98 0.7 -79.3

8 SWITZERLAND 272 2.7 -69.6 899 9.3 230.1 133 1 -85.2

9 SPAIN - - -100 150 1.5 = - - -100

10 CANADA 81 0.8 9.6 122 1.3 50.2 202 1.5 65

11 FRANCE 104 1 -49.7 66 0.7 -36.5 73 0.6 11

12 UNITED KINGDOM

78 0.8 121.7 112 1.2 44 - - -100

13 U S A 83 0.8 32.4 71 0.7 -14.7 21 0.2 -70.9

14 DENMARK 61 0.6 -46.3 155 1.6 154.1 58 0.4 -62.6

15 SWEDEN 77 0.8 -82.8 16 0.2 -78.8 6 * -60.9

16 SAUDI ARABIA - - - - - - - - -

17 BELGIUM 66 0.7 0.4 72 0.7 9.4 49 0.4 -31.5



Hong Kong Office


T +852 28466500 F +852 28684779 www.ice.gov.it



OF BAKERY MACHINERY AND MACHINERY FOR THE MANUFACTURE OFMACARONI, SPAGHETTI OR SIMILAR PRODUCTS (HS 843810)

VALUE: USD (TH) JAN - OCT 2017


1 JAPAN 2,990 28.1 -34.1

2 NETHERLANDS 2,362 22.2 ..

3 TAIWAN 2,115 19.9 50.6

4 GERMANY 1,829 17.2 171.3

5 ITALY 348 3.3 -53.5

6 CHINA 178 1.7 -95

7 AUSTRIA 165 1.6 68.7

8 SWITZERLAND 157 1.5 17.7

9 SPAIN 141 1.3 =

10 CANADA 131 1.2 -34.9

11 FRANCE 71 0.7 8.2

12 UNITED KINGDOM 54 0.5 =

13 U S A 36 0.3 73.8

14 DENMARK 28 0.3 -46.5

15 SWEDEN 14 0.1 117.2

16 SAUDI ARABIA 8 0.1 =

17 BELGIUM 6 0.1 -88.2



Hong Kong Office


T +852 28466500 F +852 28684779 www.ice.gov.it



OF ELECTRIC COFFEE OR TEA MAKERS (HS 851671)

VALUE: USD (TH)

- 2014 - - 2015 - - 2016 -


1 CHINA 110,292 92.2 14.7 94,361 92.1 -14.4 108,452 91.1 14.9

2 ITALY 4,666 3.9 -28.5 3,712 3.6 -20.5 3,018 2.5 -18.7

3 GERMANY 1,121 0.9 59.6 1,245 1.2 11 2,300 1.9 84.7

4 SWITZERLAND 604 0.5 12.1 201 0.2 -66.8 1,425 1.2 610.3

5 CZECH REP - - - - - - 86 0.1 =

6 UKRAINE - - - - - - - - -

7 ROMANIA 94 0.1 126.3 115 0.1 22.5 84 0.1 -26.9

8 U S A 76 0.1 -5.9 33 * -57.3 145 0.1 346.4

9 SLOVENIA 93 0.1 250.7 147 0.1 59.3 134 0.1 -8.9

10 PORTUGAL 859 0.7 73.2 1,002 1 16.6 996 0.8 -0.6

11 MALAYSIA 14 * .. 38 * 168.3 97 0.1 157.4

12 NETHERLANDS 332 0.3 13.8 171 0.2 -48.4 314 0.3 83.2

13 AUSTRALIA 479 0.4 -3 270 0.3 -43.7 707 0.6 162

14 FRANCE 154 0.1 36.2 115 0.1 -25.4 70 0.1 -39.3

15 UNITED KINGDOM 233 0.2 65.6 421 0.4 80.5 34 * -92

16 AUSTRIA - - -100 - - - - - -

17 FINLAND - - - - - - - - -

18 TAIWAN 161 0.1 941.3 193 0.2 19.8 79 0.1 -59.2

19 COLOMBIA 3 * = - - -100 - - -

20 JAPAN 46 * .. 263 0.3 475.8 189 0.2 -27.9



Hong Kong Office


T +852 28466500 F +852 28684779 www.ice.gov.it



OF ELECTRIC COFFEE OR TEA MAKERS (HS 851671)

VALUE: USD (TH)

JAN - OCT 2017

RANK ORIGINS VALUE %SHR %CHG TOTAL 150,617 100 60

1 CHINA 142,594 94.7 67.9

2 ITALY 2,545 1.7 -4.6

3 GERMANY 1,859 1.2 3.6

4 SWITZERLAND 1,187 0.8 -7.4

5 CZECH REP 568 0.4 ..

6 UKRAINE 369 0.2 =

7 ROMANIA 299 0.2 392.4

8 U S A 217 0.1 50.4

9 SLOVENIA 201 0.1 50.7

10 PORTUGAL 186 0.1 -81.3

11 MALAYSIA 152 0.1 81

12 NETHERLANDS 96 0.1 -65.9

13 AUSTRALIA 69 * -90.2

14 FRANCE 65 * -2.3

15 UNITED KINGDOM 50 * 48.6

16 AUSTRIA 28 * =

17 FINLAND 24 * =

18 TAIWAN 23 * -57.5

19 COLOMBIA 19 * =

20 JAPAN 18 * -86.4



Hong Kong Office


T +852 28466500 F +852 28684779 www.ice.gov.it



OF ELECTRO-MECHANICAL DOMESTIC FOOD GRINDERS, MIXERS, AND FRUITOR VEGETABLE JUICE EXTRACTORS, WITH SELF-CONTAINED ELECTRICMOTOR (HS 850940)

VALUE: USD (TH)

- 2014 - - 2015 - - 2016 -

RANK ORIGINS VALUE %SHR %CHG VALUE %SHR %CHG VALUE %SHR %CHG TOTAL 149,608 100 -9.7 123,321 100 -17.6 77,914 100 -36.8

1 CHINA 137,806 92.1 -11.4 108,485 88 -21.3 67,220 86.3 -38

2 SLOVENIA 1,238 0.8 316.7 1,007 0.8 -18.7 1,636 2.1 62.5

3 GERMANY 205 0.1 84.4 756 0.6 269.5 964 1.2 27.4

4 U S A 4,831 3.2 -18.2 6,793 5.5 40.6 3,525 4.5 -48.1

5 KOREA REP 1,506 1 43.8 1,250 1 -17 357 0.5 -71.5

6 ITALY 732 0.5 273.1 1,023 0.8 39.8 745 1 -27.2

7 MALAYSIA 588 0.4 -25.5 263 0.2 -55.2 758 1 187.9

8 FRANCE 739 0.5 166 391 0.3 -47.1 973 1.2 149.1

9 SWITZERLAND 84 0.1 -1.1 69 0.1 -18.1 81 0.1 17.2

10 AUSTRALIA 248 0.2 .. 118 0.1 -52.4 30 * -74.7

11 NETHERLANDS - - -100 293 0.2 = 179 0.2 -38.9

12 THAILAND 41 * 103.4 233 0.2 471.5 168 0.2 -27.8

13 TAIWAN 559 0.4 287.1 1,870 1.5 234.6 283 0.4 -84.8

14 NEW ZEALAND 644 0.4 = - - -100 89 0.1 =

15 JAPAN 84 0.1 -13.5 151 0.1 78.3 95 0.1 -37

16 HUNGARY 12 * -68 123 0.1 931.4 366 0.5 198.1

17 CZECH REP - - - - - - 104 0.1 =

18 POLAND 1 * -82.1 - - -100 5 * =

19 QATAR - - - - - - - - -

20 GREECE - - - - - - - - -



Hong Kong Office


T +852 28466500 F +852 28684779 www.ice.gov.it



OF ELECTRO-MECHANICAL DOMESTIC FOOD GRINDERS, MIXERS, AND FRUITOR VEGETABLE JUICE EXTRACTORS, WITH SELF-CONTAINED ELECTRICMOTOR (HS 850940)

VALUE: USD (TH)

JAN - OCT 2017


1 CHINA 59,435 90.2 5.3

2 SLOVENIA 1,719 2.6 12.3

3 GERMANY 1,420 2.2 94.1

4 U S A 721 1.1 -73.1

5 KOREA REP 622 0.9 137.6

6 ITALY 447 0.7 -35.8

7 MALAYSIA 247 0.4 -61.2

8 FRANCE 231 0.4 -36.2

9 SWITZERLAND 174 0.3 147.3

10 AUSTRALIA 147 0.2 396.3

11 NETHERLANDS 118 0.2 -28.2

12 THAILAND 111 0.2 -33.9

13 TAIWAN 91 0.1 -66.9

14 NEW ZEALAND 66 0.1 -26.3

15 JAPAN 62 0.1 -24.1

16 HUNGARY 46 0.1 -87.5

17 CZECH REP 40 0.1 -61

18 POLAND 34 0.1 654.6

19 QATAR 29 * =

20 GREECE 19 * =



Hong Kong Office


T +852 28466500 F +852 28684779 www.ice.gov.it



OF REFRIGERATORS,FREEZERS AND OTHER REFRIGERATING OR FREEZINGEQUIPMENT,ELECTRIC OR OTHER;HEAT PUMPS OTHER THAN AIRCONDITIONING MACHINES OF HEADING 8415. (HS 8418)

VALUE: USD (TH)

- 2014 - - 2015 - - 2016 -


1 CHINA 97,137 40.1 5 97,508 44.8 0.4 107,183 45.5 9.9

2 THAILAND 36,912 15.2 -3 32,212 14.8 -12.7 31,951 13.6 -0.8

3 JAPAN 25,653 10.6 14.5 21,346 9.8 -16.8 21,507 9.1 0.8

4 U S A 18,560 7.7 6.1 11,829 5.4 -36.3 11,180 4.7 -5.5

5 GERMANY 9,278 3.8 -21.6 8,660 4 -6.7 10,878 4.6 25.6

6 ITALY 9,166 3.8 37.6 6,670 3.1 -27.2 6,957 3 4.3

7 VIETNAM 2,324 1 20.5 1,769 0.8 -23.9 3,694 1.6 108.9

8 TAIWAN 6,736 2.8 -36.7 6,929 3.2 2.9 6,045 2.6 -12.7

9 MALAYSIA 5,429 2.2 -9.3 4,238 1.9 -21.9 6,261 2.7 47.7

10 SINGAPORE 4,674 1.9 51.9 2,945 1.4 -37 4,607 2 56.4

11 KOREA REP 7,401 3.1 -5 6,338 2.9 -14.4 5,510 2.3 -13.1

12 POLAND 1 * .. 32 * .. 345 0.1 975.5

13 TURKEY 2,167 0.9 6.7 1,859 0.9 -14.2 1,872 0.8 0.7

14 FRANCE 2,164 0.9 -8.9 1,964 0.9 -9.2 1,460 0.6 -25.7

15 INDONESIA 1,477 0.6 19.5 1,677 0.8 13.5 2,779 1.2 65.7

16 UNITED KINGDOM

2,727 1.1 7.5 2,234 1 -18.1 2,554 1.1 14.3

17 AUSTRIA 29 * -79.8 351 0.2 .. 928 0.4 164.7

18 PHILIPPINES 1,017 0.4 29.6 62 * -93.9 582 0.2 842.4

19 DENMARK 1,360 0.6 22.9 1,034 0.5 -24 817 0.3 -21

20 ROMANIA 124 0.1 = 398 0.2 221.2 1,049 0.4 163.5



Hong Kong Office


T +852 28466500 F +852 28684779 www.ice.gov.it



OF REFRIGERATORS,FREEZERS AND OTHER REFRIGERATING OR FREEZINGEQUIPMENT,ELECTRIC OR OTHER;HEAT PUMPS OTHER THAN AIRCONDITIONING MACHINES OF HEADING 8415. (HS 8418)

VALUE: USD (TH)

JAN - OCT 2017

RANK ORIGINS VALUE %SHR %CHG

TOTAL 194,478 100 -0.9

1 CHINA 78,458 40.3 -11.3

2 THAILAND 29,154 15 10.2

3 JAPAN 22,767 11.7 29.1

4 U S A 10,489 5.4 6.9

5 GERMANY 8,388 4.3 -10.7

6 ITALY 7,574 3.9 36.2

7 VIETNAM 5,671 2.9 84.4

8 TAIWAN 5,446 2.8 16.7

9 MALAYSIA 3,809 2 -31.3

10 SINGAPORE 3,692 1.9 -9.7

11 KOREA REP 3,419 1.8 -26.8

12 POLAND 1,577 0.8 ..

13 TURKEY 1,533 0.8 -8.8

14 FRANCE 1,421 0.7 -0.8

15 INDONESIA 1,387 0.7 -41.6

16 UNITED KINGDOM 1,305 0.7 -11.7

17 AUSTRIA 1,269 0.7 45.4

18 PHILIPPINES 1,206 0.6 156.5

19 DENMARK 969 0.5 45.1

20 ROMANIA 886 0.5 -15.5



Hong Kong Office


T +852 28466500 F +852 28684779 www.ice.gov.it


2.1 Certifications required by Hong Kong SAR, also in terms of safety in the

workplace

Mode and Organizations

Occupational Safety and Health Council (OSHC) of the Hong Kong Special

Administrative Region

Labour Department of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region

The Factories and Industrial Undertakings Ordinance (Chapter 59), the Occupational Safety

and Health Ordinance (Chapter 509) and the (Chapter 56) are the main legislation on

occupational safety and health administered by the Labour Department. Requirements for

ensuring the safety and health of employees at work are laid down in the ordinances and their

subsidiary regulations.

The Occupational Safety and Health Ordinance provide for the safety and health protection to

employees in workplaces, both industrial and non-industrial. It is basically an enabling

ordinance setting out requirements in general terms.

They also provide occupational Safety Service; carry out by Occupational Safety Officers.

They:

Enforce the Occupational Safety and Health Ordinance, the Factories and Industrial

Undertakings Ordinance and their subsidiary Regulations through inspection of

workplaces to ensure that the requirements on safety, health and welfare are complied

with

Carry out accident investigations and give advice to employers and employees on how

to reduce existing workplace hazards

Offer free advice to owners in the planning and layout of factories and workplaces,

and in-plant/in-house safety programme

Provide support services to instil safety concepts to the public at large with a view to

inculcating a safety culture among employers and employees and securing their

commitment to self-regulation to bring in a safety management approach in keeping

with the Occupational Safety Charter

Operate the Occupational Safety and Health Training Centre which provides training

for government and non-government personnel in occupational safety and health.


Hong Kong Office


T +852 28466500 F +852 28684779 www.ice.gov.it


2.2 Trends and opportunities

Hong Kong, as an international city, can also help foreign companies explore markets in

other parts of Asia. European and American food producers opting to set up branch

companies and factories in Asia would find confidence investing in Hong Kong because of

the favourable business environment, sound legal system and intellectual property rights (IPR)

protection offered by Hong Kong. Moreover, Hong Kong’s simple customs clearance

procedures for imported food raw materials can ensure a stable supply of raw materials and

smooth operation of production lines for food factories.

Hong Kong is an ideal platform for doing business in Asia, especially for market entry to

China. As Western countries have taken on Eastern food consumption trends, Hong Kong

serves as a gateway to provide Western food-stuffs, including equipment and machinery.

Hong Kong is a popular venue for hosting regional headquarters or representative offices for

multinational companies to manage their businesses in the Asia Pacific. By setting up branch

companies in Hong Kong, foreign companies can stay close to the Asian market, particularly

the China market.

According to the Hong Kong’s Trade Statistics, the total of Hong Kong’s imports by origins

resulted in an overall increase. For instance, the total number of bakery machinery (HS

843810) grew from 2014 - USD 10,074 (thousand) to 2016 – USD 13,128 (thousand).

Generally speaking, the Asian-produced machines maintained a leading position in the

market. China had long been the top importer in machinery over the past three years, namely

in electric coffee or tea makers (HS 851671), electro-mechanical domestic food machinery

(HS 850940) and freezing equipment sectors (HS 8418). Apart from the mentioned sectors,

Japan was the largest exporter in the bakery machinery and machinery sector (HS 843810),

followed by the Netherlands. In addition, Italy recorded a positive performance in both

electro-mechanical domestic food machinery (HS 850940) and freezing equipment (HS 8418)

sectors. In terms of electro-mechanical domestic food machinery (HS 850940), the Italian

import marked a notable growth from 2014 – USD 732 (thousand) to 2016 – USD 745

(thousand). In terms of freezing equipment (HS 8418), after a drop in 2015, the Italian import

increased by 4.3%, from 2015 – USD 6,670 (thousand) to 2016 – USD 6,957 (thousand). Due

to the increase of bakery stores and restaurants in Hong Kong, this results to greater demand

for Italian-made machines in the market, providing high-quality in the food and beverage

industry.


Hong Kong Office


T +852 28466500 F +852 28684779 www.ice.gov.it


3. Guide to the Market

3.1 Payment Method

For performing business in Hong Kong, it is fairly common to pay with cash / payment in

advance / cheque / letter of credit (L/C).

The L/C cycle operates in the following way: after a buyer and a seller have entered into a

sales contract, the buyer applies for a L/C from an issuing bank. Upon receiving the L/C, the

seller would check its authenticity with an advising bank. Having confirmed the L/C is

correct, the seller exports the goods and prepares a series of documents such as Inspection

Certificate, Bill of Lading etc., proving to its negotiating bank that the goods shipped are in

accordance with the buyer’s standard. Before the negotiating bank releases money to the

seller, it will check on face value that the submitted documents tally with the buyer’s

instruction. Thereafter, the negotiating bank will forward the documents to the buyer through

its issuing bank.

3.2 Elements of issues relating to transport and customs clearance

The Customs and Excise Department (C&ED) of the Hong Kong Special Administrative

Region, attaches great importance to the protection and facilitation of legitimate trade and

industry in addition to upholding the trading integrity of the Hong Kong Special

Administrative Region (HKSAR). Risk management is employed on selection of cargo for

examination to ensure Customs intervention at control points is kept to the minimal.

Also, for import clearance:

Documents required to facilitate Customs clearance are

Manifests;

Import / export licence or removal permit (if required);

Copy of detention notice (if applicable); and / or

Other supporting documents such as bill of lading, airway bill, invoice, packing list

etc.


Hong Kong Office


T +852 28466500 F +852 28684779 www.ice.gov.it


3.3 Reference of major chains for bakery, café, chocolate, pastry and ice-cream

Bakery –

Arome - https://www.aromebakery.com.hk

Maxims - http://www.maxims.com.hk

Yamazaki - http://www.yamazaki.hk

Café –

Pacific Coffee - http://www.pacificcoffee.com

Simply life - http://www.simplylife.com.hk

Starbucks - http://www.starbucks.com.hk

Chocolate –

Godiva - https://www.godiva.com.hk

La Maison du Chocolat - http://www.lamaisonduchocolat.hk

Leonidas - http://www.leonidas.com.hk

Pastry –

Paul Lafayet - http://www.paullafayet.com

Jean-Paul Hevin - http://www.jeanpaulhevin.com.hk

Pierre Herme - http://www.pierreherme.com

Ice-cream –

Haagen Dazs - http://haagen-dazs.com.hk

XTC - http://www.xtc.com.hk

3.4 Other information

Currently, the packaged food and beverage handled by Hong Kong logistics companies are

mostly high-priced products, e.g. imported chocolates, cheese, and premium frozen meat /

dessert. Since such food products must be stored under 0-4°C or -18°C, sealed seamless cold

chain management is required during transportation. As most mainland logistics companies

fail to control the temperature in the course of delivery, the food can easily go bad. On the

contrary, Hong Kong logistics companies can provide a series of high value-added services.

For instance, starting from the time the food products are received, Hong Kong logistics

companies would take the temperature and make a record. In the course of loading/unloading

the seamless refrigerated containers in the cold storage and picking up/delivering the goods

from the cold storage, temperature control is in place throughout the whole process. The

refrigerated cargo fleet is equipped with GPS and can provide information on logistics for the

clients at any time. Before handing the goods over to the recipient, infrared thermometers are

used to measure the temperature to ensure that it is up to standard. Since the management of

Hong Kong logistics companies is stringent, many foreign food producers/suppliers wishing

to develop the mainland market prefer to cooperate with Hong Kong companies.

https://www.aromebakery.com.hk/

http://www.maxims.com.hk/

http://www.yamazaki.hk/

http://www.pacificcoffee.com/

http://www.simplylife.com.hk/

http://www.starbucks.com.hk/

https://www.godiva.com.hk/

https://www.google.com.hk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwjSiIXw04nRAhVUeVAKHRevAW0QFgggMAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.lamaisonduchocolat.hk%2F&usg=AFQjCNG4TgjDXGCI8_BTPI7qjQ-wa0Qyww&sig2=hdutQGTfV7qC5RckbHilwQ

http://www.lamaisonduchocolat.hk/

http://www.leonidas.com.hk/

http://www.paullafayet.com/

http://www.jeanpaulhevin.com.hk/

http://www.pierreherme.com/

http://haagen-dazs.com.hk/

http://www.xtc.com.hk/


Hong Kong Office


T +852 28466500 F +852 28684779 www.ice.gov.it


Associations:

The Hong Kong Food Council

Hong Kong Food Industry Association (formerly the Hong Kong Food Council) was

established in 1984, is an independent and non-profit organizations, including members of

Hong Kong's major food industry groups and manufacturers. The past 14 years, they actively

organize seminars and different types of activities, and its main objectives include:

Communicate with the local food industry, research and perform investigation all

issues related to the food.

Safeguard the common interests of our food industry.

Gathering information, organizing seminars and carry out various activities to

promote food hygiene standards. Also, protect public health, and to promote the

understanding and the relevant issues of the industry.

Food Research and promotional activities in the industrial and trade

http://www.hkfc.org.hk

Hong Kong Chefs Association

Hong Kong Chefs Association (HKCA) is a non-profit making organization established in

1991. The HKCA takes an active part in supporting and soliciting essential food activities in

Hong Kong such as fun food fiestas, charity fund raising events, major local culinary

competitions as well as social and educational events. In addition, it encourages members to

participate in international culinary competitions held globally to share professional

knowledge and experiences. The HKCA promote and advance friendly relations between and

among persons within kitchen and hospitality management.

http://www.hongkong-chefs.com

Hong Kong Bakery and Confectionery Association

The Hong Kong Bakery and Confectionery Association were established in the 1987,

regarding on the bakery and confectionaries in Hong Kong. They aim to raise the technical

standard of the profession, to train and motivate the people in the bakery and confectionery

sector, as well as to make bakery and confectionery business a prosperous and thriving trade

in Hong Kong.

http://www.todaybaking.hk

The Hong Kong Food, Drink & Grocery Association

The Hong Kong Food, Drink & Grocery Association (The FDGA) is an industry issues

driven association. The FDGA was founded about 30 years ago and is well recognized by the

industry, Government and other stakeholders. It was established to provide a platform for

companies in manufacturing, importing, marketing and distribution of branded food, drink or

grocery products in Hong Kong. Its members will review and discuss industry issues, decide

on action where necessary and communicates with the media, industry or Government on

these issues.

http://www.fdga.org.hk/index.php

http://www.hkfc.org.hk/

http://www.hongkong-chefs.com/

http://www.todaybaking.hk/

http://www.fdga.org.hk/index.php