Guide to Hong Kong Duty-Free Rules

Hong Kong is known for its duty-free policy on most goods, meaning there is no sales tax or VAT on general items. However, there are restrictions on certain goods like alcohol, tobacco, and controlled substances. Here’s a complete guide to duty-free allowances when entering and leaving Hong Kong.

1. Duty-Free Allowances When Entering Hong Kong

If you're arriving in Hong Kong, you can bring in certain items duty-free, but there are limits on alcohol and tobacco.

Alcohol Allowance

• For visitors aged 18 or above, you can bring in one of the following duty-free:

  • 1 liter of spirits (over 30% alcohol by volume), or

  • 2 liters of wine or champagne, or

  • 2 liters of beer

Anything above this limit will be subject to import duties.

Tobacco Allowance

• For visitors aged 18 or above, the duty-free tobacco allowance is:

  • 19 cigarettes, or

  • 1 cigar (weighing no more than 25g), or

  • 25g of other tobacco products

Bringing in more than the allowed amount requires you to declare it and pay duties.

Other Items

• Personal belongings (such as clothing, electronics, and gifts) are generally not taxed unless they are in large commercial quantities.

• Cash declarations: If carrying HKD 120,000 or more (or equivalent in foreign currency), you must declare it at customs.

2. Duty-Free Allowances When Leaving Hong Kong

Hong Kong does not impose export duties, but your destination country may have limits on what you can bring in duty-free. Here are some general guidelines:

• China:

  • Travelers entering mainland China from Hong Kong can bring up to 1 liter of alcohol and 200 cigarettes duty-free.

• Macau:

  • Duty-free allowance includes 1 liter of alcohol and 19 cigarettes.

• United Kingdom, EU, USA & Australia:

  • Each country has its own duty-free limits, so check before traveling.

3. Buying Duty-Free in Hong Kong

• Duty-Free Shops: You’ll find duty-free shops at Hong Kong International Airport, selling alcohol, tobacco, cosmetics, and luxury goods at tax-free prices.

• Shopping in the City: Since Hong Kong has no sales tax, luxury brands, electronics, and cosmetics can be cheaper than in other countries.

4. Prohibited & Restricted Items

Some items cannot be brought into Hong Kong duty-free, including:

• Drugs & Controlled Substances (including CBD products, which are illegal in Hong Kong)

• Firearms & Weapons (including pepper spray)

• Meat & Dairy Products (subject to import restrictions)

• Endangered Animal Products (such as ivory or shark fin)

Final Tips

✔ If you exceed duty-free limits on alcohol or tobacco, declare it at customs to avoid fines.
✔ Hong Kong's duty-free status makes it a great place to buy high-end goods, but check your home country’s rules before bringing them back.
✔ Always check for updated regulations before traveling, as rules can change.

By understanding these duty-free rules, you can enjoy shopping and traveling to Hong Kong hassle-free!