Thinking of Starting a Business in Hong Kong? Your 2025 Roadmap Hong Kong offers one of the most business-friendly environments in the world, with low taxes, global connectivity, and a streamlined regulatory framework. If you’re considering starting a business, the process can be straightforward—if you know the right steps. At IMSG, we specialize in helping businesses establish and maintain their operations in Hong Kong. Let us handle the complexities while you focus on growth. Contact us at comsec@imsg.com.hk to get started.   1. Define Your Business Idea Before launching a business, ask yourself: What problem does my business solve? Who are my target customers? What makes my business different from competitors? A strong business idea meets a market need and offers unique value. Research your industry and identify opportunities to position your company for success.   2. Choose the Right Business Structure Your legal structure affects liability, taxation, and operational flexibility. Consider the following options: Sole Proprietorship – Simple and cost-effective but offers no liability protection. Partnership – Shared ownership where partners are jointly responsible for obligations. Private Limited Company – The most common choice, providing limited liability and credibility.   3. Appoint Key Personnel Shareholders – Owners of the company’s shares, entitled to dividends but not direct profits. Shareholders make major company decisions, such as appointing directors, but do not manage daily operations. Directors – Oversee the company’s strategy, operations, and compliance, making key business decisions. Company Secretary – A mandatory role ensuring compliance with corporate laws and governance. A sole director cannot also serve as the company secretary. Need a company secretary? IMSG is here to assist: comsec@imsg.com.hk   4. Choose and Register Your Business Name Select a name that reflects your brand identity. Ensure it’s unique by checking availability through the Hong Kong Companies Registry before proceeding with registration.   5. Secure a Business Address Every Hong Kong company must have a registered office (P.O. boxes are not allowed). This address will be used for official correspondence. IMSG can provide a registered office if needed.   6. Register Your Company To legally incorporate your business, the following are required to submit to the Hong Kong Companies Registry: Incorporation Form ( NNC1 ) Articles of Association Business Registration ( IRBR1 )   7. Obtain Necessary Licenses & Permits Certain industries, such as finance, education, and food services, require additional licenses. We can guide you through the application process.   8. Open a Business Bank Account Most banks in Hong Kong require: Company incorporation documents A business plan Proof of operations Identification documents for directors and shareholders IMSG can assist with banking setup to ensure a smooth experience.   9. Maintain Compliance & Ensure Growth To keep your business in good standing, you must: File Annual Returns with the Companies Registry. Submit Profits Tax Returns to the Inland Revenue Department. Renew Business Registration annually. Maintain accurate records and adhere to governance requirements. We don’t just help businesses start—we help them succeed long-term. Start Today—Take the First Step There’s no perfect time to start a business in Hong Kong - the key is to begin. You don’t need to have everything figured out right away; learning and growth happen along the way. Think big, start small, and scale strategically.   At IMSG, we make the process simple so you can focus on what truly matters. Let’s discuss your vision—contact us at comsec@imsg.com.hk and take the first step toward building your business in Hong Kong.

In today’s market, the notion that a company can be both profitably successful and socially responsible is not only possible—it's increasingly expected. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) aligns business operations with social values, enhancing a company's brand reputation and securing its longevity. Good for the World, Great for Business Why CSR Matters for Profitability Enhanced Brand Loyalty : Adopting CSR practices helps build a loyal customer base. Consumers today prefer brands that demonstrate social value, often willing to pay a premium for products and services offered by socially conscious companies. Attract and Retain Talent : Companies known for their CSR initiatives are attractive to top talent, enhancing employee satisfaction and reducing turnover rates. Engaged employees are more productive, which translates to increased profitability. Operational Savings : Implementing sustainable practices can lead to significant cost savings. For example, reducing waste or improving energy efficiency lowers operational costs over time. Risk Management : Effective CSR practices can mitigate risks by aligning a company’s operations with societal expectations and regulatory requirements, reducing the likelihood of costly legal or reputational issues. Innovation and Market Expansion : CSR drives innovation by pushing companies to find sustainable solutions, which can open up new markets and expand customer bases. Success Stories and Data Studies and corporate examples underline the profitability of embracing CSR. Companies that integrate social responsibility often see enhanced market value and better stock performance compared to those that do not. Moreover, purpose-driven companies have been found to grow at a faster rate, underscoring the tangible benefits of CSR initiatives. CSR is not just a moral obligation but a strategic advantage that can differentiate a company in a crowded market. By focusing on the long-term benefits of sustainable and ethical operations, businesses do not just contribute to a better world—they build a more profitable one as well. Sophia Man Company Secretarial Supervisor sophia.man@imsg.com.hk