Wine in Hong Kong
All wine in Hong Kong is imported. Total consumption was 5.4 million litres in 2005, up from 5.1 million litres in 2004 ,although total imports were 13.5 million litres in the same year. These figures seem to indicate that there is a significant amount of transhipping from Hong Kong.
Alcohol plays a big part in Hong Kong life and total alcohol consumption was estimated to be around 237 million litres in 2005 . Wine consumption currently only stands at around 5.5% of total consumption in volume terms, compared with beer at 88% and spirits at 5.6%. Despite the small percentage of volume sales, wine represents around 50% of total alcohol sales by value.
Wine consumption has been steadily increasing. Based on figures for 2005, per capita consumption is estimated at 0.7 litres for still wine over the total population and around 0.9 litres for the population over 15. In general most drinkers of alcoholic beverages are aged between 18 and 45 years. Approximately 60% of wine sales are in off-trade channels.
Red wine accounts for around 78% market share by volume and 82% by value but white wine is increasing in popularity, particularly with females as it is considered easier to drink. It also is suited to Hong Kong’s climate and preference for seafood and chicken.
For more information and assistance, email the Corporation’s Executive Officer – Emerging Markets, Ali Hogarth.
Market Requirements
Hong Kong is essentially a free port and there are few trade barriers and no import tariffs, tariff quotas, surcharges or value added or general services taxes. However wine does fall into one of four categories which are “dutiable commodities”.
The Export Market Guide entry for Hong Kong contains comprehensive marketing and regulatory information including duties and taxes, labelling requirements and an overview of Australian wine in Hong Kong. Access to the Guide is by subscription.
Useful Contacts
Hong Kong Resources
Australian Resources