Hong Kong is renowned for its attractive tax system, which offers several advantages for businesses and investments. Specifically, the key features of taxation in Hong Kong include:
- Profits Tax: Hong Kong applies a flat rate of 16.5% for corporate profits tax. This relatively low rate helps reduce the tax burden for companies.
- Territorial Taxation Principle: Hong Kong follows the principle of territorial taxation, meaning that income generated by companies outside of Hong Kong is generally not subject to taxation in Hong Kong.
- No Value Added Tax (VAT) or Sales Tax: Hong Kong does not impose VAT, which provides an additional advantage for companies engaged in trading operations in the region.
- No tax on dividend distribution to non-residents: Hong Kong does not levy tax on the distribution of dividends to non-residents.
These features contribute to Hong Kong's reputation as a favourable tax jurisdiction for businesses and investors. However, it is important to consult with tax professionals or legal advisors to understand the specific circumstances and requirements related to taxation in Hong Kong.
It is important to consider some nuances regarding the mentioned "territorial taxation principle." Attention should be paid to understanding the definition of "territorial," as it holds the catch.
Income is recognised as "derived in Hong Kong" not only if your business receives it from a local company but also if the centre of decision-making is deemed to be in Hong Kong.
This means that even if the income is generated from activities outside of Hong Kong but the decision-making authority resides in Hong Kong, it will be considered as derived in Hong Kong and may be subject to taxation there.
Suppose, when opening a bank account in Hong Kong, local banks, like in any other jurisdiction, may require proof of presence or intentions to conduct business in the region. One such form of confirmation could be the presence of a leased office in Hong Kong. This requirement is logical and expected. However, there is a challenge: the tax authorities consider the existence of a leased office and a bank account in Hong Kong as factors confirming the "presence" in Hong Kong. As a result, Hong Kong is recognized as the place of decision-making, leading to the obligation to pay tax on the entire profit derived from the company's activities according to the prevailing tax rate.
Due to this reason, it may be advisable to open payment accounts in other jurisdictions. To receive assistance in opening bank accounts, please consult our specialists.
In Hong Kong, there is a mandatory annual
audit requirement to determine the taxable base of an organisation's income.
The high level of trust from global regulators towards the jurisdiction, the ability to transparently optimise the tax burden, and the fact that practically any European and British FinTech (Electronic Payment Institution) will open an account for a Hong Kong company make Hong Kong the only viable and acceptable tax-free jurisdiction.