Tax News & Updates

As a foreigner working in Hong Kong, have you ever wondered whether you are considered a Hong Kong tax resident? Hong Kong’s unique territorial source tax system, coupled with the resident definition rules that combine the objective number of days of stay with subjective life connections, makes it sometimes confusing to clarify one’s status. Whether you are on a short-term assignment or plan to live in Hong Kong permanently, understanding how the Inland Revenue Department defines tax residency is crucial to correctly fulfilling your tax responsibilities and optimizing your financial situation.

📋 Key Facts at a Glance Hong Kong has no VAT or GST: There is no broad-based sales tax, value-added tax, or goods and services tax on transactions. Selecti...

📋 Key Facts at a Glance Property Tax Rate: 15% on Net Assessable Value (2024-25) Key Exemption: Owner-occupied residential properties are generally exempt...

📋 Key Facts at a Glance Historic Change: All residential property "cooling measures" abolished on February 28, 2024 - including Special Stamp Duty (SSD), B...

As a non-local entrepreneur considering expanding your business in Hong Kong, you are likely attracted by its legendary low-tax environment. But the key question is: Is Hong Kong’s tax system still the same tax haven it was five years ago? The answer is "yes" and "no". Although the core territorial source taxation principle remains firm, dramatic changes in global tax policy are reshaping the application of the rules in Hong Kong. From the new Foreign Income Exemption (FSIE) system to the upcoming global minimum tax, find out...

Did you know? Properly planning the financing structure of your start-up company can save you tens or even hundreds of thousands of Hong Kong dollars in tax expenses. Hong Kong offers one of the most favorable tax environments in Asia for fundraising start-ups, but planning your stamp duty strategy smartly requires clear guidance. This article will break down how you can optimize your fundraising strategy, take advantage of existing exemptions, and avoid common pitfalls that can drain your precious capital.

Did you know? A simple customs valuation error could at any time expose your business to tens of thousands in fines, trigger in-depth audits, or even lead to criminal prosecution. While Hong Kong’s free port status means that most imported goods are exempt from duty, for the remaining 1% of dutiable goods, accurate valuation compliance is crucial. In today's global trade environment, understanding Hong Kong's customs valuation framework is not only to avoid penalties, but also to optimize the supply chain and maintain competitive advantage...

📋 Key Facts at a Glance Profits Tax: Two-tiered system: 8.25% on first HK$2M, 16.5% on remainder for corporations. Stamp Duty Reform: Special Stamp Duty (S...

Are you disputing a tax assessment in Hong Kong? Between 2023 and 2025, Hong Kong will carry out its most significant tax reform in decades. These changes bring new challenges and opportunities to the cases you are working on. Understanding the retroactive effect of the new legislation and how the transitional arrangements will affect your case will be key to achieving a favorable outcome and avoiding unexpected tax liabilities.

📋 Key Facts at a Glance Maximum Tax Rate: Progressive rates up to 17%, with standard rate of 15% on first HK$5M and 16% above that (2024/25) Tax System: Te...

Are you considering a cross-border merger or acquisition between Hong Kong and Mainland China? With the Greater Bay Area (GBA) becoming one of Asia's most dynamic economic regions, understanding the complex tax implications is crucial for deal success. From navigating vastly different tax systems to...

Have you ever wondered why you received a rates bill before moving in for a brand new flat you purchased in Hong Kong? How do developers calculate these costs and reflect them in property prices? Whether you are a developer, investor or prospective buyer, it is important to understand Hong Kong’s property rates assessment mechanism. This comprehensive guide will explain how the Rating and Valuation Department assesses rates for newly completed properties, helping you accurately budget your expenses and make smart property decisions.