List of Items Prohibited from Being Brought into Hong Kong and Precautions

As a Special Administrative Region of China, Hong Kong implements independent entry and customs policies. Below is a list of items that are prohibited or strictly restricted when entering Hong Kong. Please follow these guidelines carefully to avoid legal risks or fines.

I. Absolutely Prohibited Items

1. Drugs and Controlled Substances
2. Any form of drugs (such as heroin, cocaine, marijuana) is strictly prohibited, and possession or trafficking can result in life imprisonment.

3. Medicines containing controlled substances (such as codeine-containing cough medicine, sleeping pills) must be accompanied by a doctor’s prescription and drug instructions; otherwise, they may be seized for investigation.

4. Weapons and Offensive Items

5. Includes firearms, ammunition, stun guns, switchblades, brass knuckles, crossbows, etc.

6. Replica weapons (such as toy guns) may also be temporarily detained by customs.

7. Counterfeit Goods and Pirated Items

8. Carrying counterfeit branded goods (such as bags, watches, clothing) or pirated discs, books may result in confiscation and criminal charges.

9. Animals, Plants, and Their Products (Without Permission)

10. Fresh or processed meat (such as ham, sausages), seafood, dairy products, eggs, fruits, seeds, etc., need to be declared and quarantine certificates provided; otherwise, they will be destroyed.
11. Endangered animal and plant products (such as ivory, pangolin scales, coral) require a permit under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES); otherwise, it will be considered smuggling.

II. Restricted Items (Need Declaration or Tax Payment)

1. Cash and Valuables

2. If carrying over HKD 120,000 (or equivalent foreign currency) in cash or bearer negotiable instruments, declaration to customs is required. Failure to declare may result in fines or confiscation.

3. Tobacco and Alcohol

4. Tax-Free Allowance: Passengers aged 18 and above can carry duty-free 19 cigarettes (or 1 cigar), 1 liter of alcoholic beverages (alcohol content over 30%).

5. Excess quantities will incur taxes (high rates, such as approximately HKD 1.7 per cigarette).

6. Medicines and Medical Supplies

7. Prescription medicines must be accompanied by a doctor’s certificate (in English or Chinese), especially those containing antibiotics, steroids, or anesthetic components.

8. Traditional Chinese medicine or herbal medicine should indicate ingredients; some herbs (such as musk, bear bile products) may be banned.

9. E-cigarettes and Related Products

10. Hong Kong has a complete ban on importing, manufacturing, or selling e-cigarettes, heated tobacco products, etc. Bringing them into Hong Kong may result in confiscation and fines.

III. Other Important Precautions

1. Hazardous Materials and Explosives

2. Includes fireworks, firecrackers, flammable liquids (such as gasoline), corrosive chemicals, etc., which are prohibited in all forms.

3. Culturally Sensitive Items

4. Publications, maps, or other materials involving disputes over China's sovereignty or territorial integrity may trigger customs inspections. It is recommended to avoid carrying them.

5. High-Value Personal Items

6. When carrying luxury items (such as high-end watches, jewelry) or professional photography equipment, retain purchase receipts to prevent being mistaken for smuggling.

7. Latest Policy Inquiry

8. Before traveling, visit the Hong Kong Customs website (www.customs.gov.hk) or call +852 2815 7711 to confirm the latest regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I bring personal medication? A: Yes, but keep the original packaging and instructions. For prescription drugs, attach a doctor’s certificate (preferably translated into English).

Q: Can alcohol purchased at duty-free shops be brought into Hong Kong? A: If already purchased at duty-free shops in other countries, ensure the total volume does not exceed 1 liter (alcohol content over 30%). Otherwise, declaration and tax payment are required.

Q: What procedures are needed to bring pets into Hong Kong? A: A special permit must be applied for in advance, along with proof of rabies vaccination and health documents. For more details, contact the Hong Kong Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department.