Hong Kong Restaurant Market Overview
HK$120 billion
Market Size
4.2%
Annual Growth
16,000+
Restaurants
2,000+
New/Year
HK$4,500,000/year
Avg Revenue
250,000
Employed
Startup Costs in Hong Kong
Estimated investment ranges based on restaurant size and concept (in HKD)
HK$500,000 - HK$1,500,000
Small cha chaan teng or noodle shop (under 30 seats)
HK$1,500,000 - HK$4,000,000
Casual dining restaurant (30-80 seats)
HK$4,000,000 - HK$15,000,000
Fine dining or destination restaurant (80+ seats)
Required Licenses & Permits
Essential permits you'll need to legally operate a restaurant in Hong Kong
General Restaurant Licence
Basic license to operate a restaurant (no liquor)
Authority: Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD)
Liquor Licence
Required to serve alcohol on premises
Authority: Liquor Licensing Board
Business Registration Certificate
Mandatory registration for all businesses
Authority: Inland Revenue Department
Fire Services Certificate
Fire safety compliance certification
Authority: Fire Services Department
Typical Operating Costs
Tax Information
Sales Tax / VAT
No GST/VAT in Hong Kong
Corporate Tax
Profits Tax: 8.25% (first HK$2M), 16.5% thereafter
Employment Tax
MPF contribution: 5% each employer/employee (capped)
Key Regulations to Know
Important compliance requirements for restaurant operators in Hong Kong
Market Opportunities
- No sales tax
- Strong food culture
- Wealthy consumer base
- Gateway to China
Key Challenges
- Extremely high rent
- Long licensing process
- Small kitchen spaces
- Staff turnover
🍽️Popular Cuisines in Hong Kong
Top Locations to Consider
Official Resources
Government and industry resources to help you get started in Hong Kong