Import and Export Licensing Requirements

Unless exempted by law, all import and export of rice into and from Hong Kong must be covered by valid import or export licences as appropriate.
For rice imported for re-export, an import licence and an export licence should be obtained.
The import and export licences are valid for 8 weeks and 28 days from the date of issue respectively. Both licences are valid for one shipment only.

Trader to check whether the shipment is exempted by law

If not exempted, submit application form and supporting documents via the Trade Single Window (TSW) or at Integrated Customer Service Centre (ICSC)

Licence applications to be processed by Trade and Industry Department (TID)

TID to inform applicant the result via TSW or ICSC

Trader to deliver the import/export licence to carrier before import/ export

Under normal circumstances, licences will only be issued to registered stockholders to cover rice imported for local consumption.
Licence applications should be submitted well in advance of arrival/departure of shipments.
Belated licence applications may be accepted only if supporting documents can be provided.
Licensees should comply with the conditions attached to a licence.
All requests for amendment or cancellation of issued licences must be made in writing to the Director-General of Trade and Industry (DGTI).