By Sandeep Chaudhary
Can Nepali Exhibitors Sell Goods at Hong Kong Exhibitions?
According to the official policy of the Hong Kong Immigration Department, exhibitors visiting Hong Kong under a visitor visa or business visit permit are strictly not allowed to sell goods directly to the general public during exhibitions, trade fairs, or any commercial events. The immigration guidelines, listed under Permissible Activities for Visitors, clearly state that while a foreign visitor may participate in exhibitions, display or promote products, or supervise booth operations, direct selling of goods or collection of payments is strictly prohibited.
In simple terms, Nepali exhibitors who travel to Hong Kong to showcase their products can legally promote, market, and demonstrate items during the event. They can also meet clients, negotiate contracts, and receive business inquiries. However, they cannot perform commercial transactions such as selling goods, receiving money, or distributing products to customers during the exhibition. Doing so would fall under employment or business operations, which require a work or employment visa instead of a visitor visa.
This restriction is applied to maintain a clear distinction between “visitor activity” and “employment activity” within Hong Kong’s immigration law. As per Section 41 of the Immigration Ordinance (Cap. 115), any person who breaches a condition of stay—such as conducting unauthorized business—is liable to a fine of up to HKD 50,000 and imprisonment for up to two years. Therefore, exhibitors must follow the immigration conditions carefully to avoid legal penalties or blacklisting.
In cases where Nepali companies wish to actually sell goods or conduct paid activities at Hong Kong events, they should apply for an Employment Visa under the Short-Term Work Scheme (Form ID 990A). This allows limited-time commercial or hands-on activity during trade fairs, provided it is properly approved before the event. Many major exhibition organizers in Hong Kong, such as those under the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), also issue circulars reminding exhibitors that direct sales are not permitted under visitor entry status.
For Nepali exhibitors, the best practice is to use trade fairs for promotion and networking—showing samples, collecting business orders, and signing contracts to be fulfilled after returning to Nepal. Any exchange of goods or payments should take place through regular export channels, not during the exhibition itself.
To ensure smooth participation and proper visa documentation, Yatra For Fun Pvt. Ltd., Nepal’s leading travel and visa service company, provides full support for Hong Kong Business, Visitor, and Trade Fair Visa applications. The company also assists exhibitors in obtaining invitation letters, completing business documentation, and ensuring compliance with Hong Kong immigration laws.
For assistance:
Contact: 9802348957 or 9708072951
Website: https://www.yatraforfun.com
