Export to Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a free port: it charges no customs duty on most goods, only on a few items such as liquor, tobacco and fuel. It is one of the biggest buyers of Indian cut diamonds and jewellery, and also takes electronics, marine products and food, much of which is re-exported to mainland China and the rest of Asia. Food safety is controlled by the Centre for Food Safety.

What it buys from India

• Cut and polished diamonds, gold and silver jewellery
• Electrical machinery and mobile phones
• Marine products, spices and processed food

Import rules on their side

• No customs duty is charged on most goods, but all imports and exports must be declared to Customs and Excise within 14 days.
• Meat, poultry, eggs and frozen confections need a health certificate from the exporting country and permission from the Centre for Food Safety; all food must meet Hong Kong limits for residues and contaminants.
• Prepackaged food needs labels in English or Chinese (or both), with nutrition labelling.

Practical tips

• HKTDC fairs — the jewellery shows, Food Expo and gifts fairs — draw buyers from all over Asia and are a cost-effective first exhibition.
• If the goods go on to mainland China, they must also meet Chinese import rules (for food, GACC registration).
• Traders move fast and expect prompt quotes; payment by telegraphic transfer is common once trust is built.