F&B Business in Hong Kong: Restaurant HSIC Codes and Licences

F&B in Hong Kong: An Overview

The F&B industry is one of Hong Kong's most vibrant economic sectors, with over 15,000 restaurants and thousands more food stalls, cafes, and catering businesses. It falls under HSIC Section I: Accommodation and Food Service Activities, specifically Division 56.

HSIC Codes for F&B Businesses

Division 56: Food and Beverage Service Activities

Sub-Classification Tips

If your restaurant serves multiple cuisines, use the code that best describes your primary revenue-generating cuisine. For example:

• A tea restaurant (茶餐廳) serving both Chinese and Western = 561101 (Chinese restaurants) — as it is a distinctly Hong Kong-Chinese format
• A fusion restaurant with equal Japanese and Western elements = 561105 (Other restaurants n.e.c.)

The Bank Risk Issue for F&B

Night clubs (563001), karaoke lounges (563002), and bars/pubs (563003) face elevated bank scrutiny due to their cash-intensive nature and association with entertainment. If you're opening a bar:

• Expect Enhanced Due Diligence from mainstream banks
• Prepare photos of the premises, sample menus, and proof of food service
• Virtual banks (ZA Bank, Mox) may be more accommodating
• Fintech payment solutions (Stripe, Adyen) may be a viable alternative for card payments

Required Licences for F&B

1. Food Business Licence (FEHD)

This is the primary operating licence for all food businesses in Hong Kong.

Types:

• General Restaurant Licence: For restaurants with seating and table service
• Light Refreshment Restaurant Licence: For cafes, fast food, and takeaways without table alcoholic beverages
• Food Factory Licence: For food production for wholesale/distribution

Application process:

1. Find and lease suitable premises (must be in a commercially zoned building)
2. Submit architectural plans to FEHD for approval
3. Pass inspection of plumbing, ventilation, and fire safety
4. Obtain fire safety approval from Fire Services Department
5. Apply for the licence

Timeline: 3–6 months from application to opening

Cost: Varies; HK$3,000–8,000 for the licence fee, plus significant renovation costs for compliance

2. Liquor Licence

If you plan to serve alcoholic beverages:

• Liquor Licence: Required for all premises serving alcohol for consumption on the premises
• Off-Licence: For off-premises alcohol sales (bottle shops)
• Applied for through the Licensing Board
• Requires objection notice period (neighbours can object)
• Annual renewal required

3. Music and Noise

If you have live music or DJs:

• Music and Dance Licence: Required for regular live entertainment or dancing by patrons
• Applied through the FEHD
• Noise assessment may be required

4. Tobacco Control

Under the Smoking (Public Health) Ordinance:

• Smoking is prohibited inside most indoor areas, including restaurants
• Some bars may qualify for smoking exemptions under specific conditions

Staffing Requirements

F&B businesses must comply with:

• MPF: Mandatory for all employees, including part-time workers
• Employees' Compensation Insurance: Mandatory
• Minimum wage: Currently HK$40/hour (2024)

Fit-Out Compliance

FEHD has specific requirements for F&B premises:

• Ventilation: Must meet FEHD standards for cooking fumes extraction
• Drainage: Floor drains required in cooking areas
• Handwashing: Dedicated handwashing basins separate from dishwashing
• Pest control: Evidence of regular pest control service

Finding Your F&B HSIC Code

Use our HSIC Code Finder to search for your specific F&B category. This will help you:

1. Identify the precise HSIC code for your concept
2. Use the official title for your Business Nature declaration
3. Understand if your category carries any bank risk flags