A Complete Guide to Choosing a Company Secretary in Hong Kong

When setting up a business in Hong Kong, appointing a Company Secretary is a legal requirement for all companies registered under the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance. A Company Secretary plays a crucial role in ensuring that your company remains compliant with local regulations and corporate governance standards.

What is a Company Secretary?

A Company Secretary in Hong Kong is responsible for:

Maintaining statutory registers and records
Filing annual returns and notifications
Organizing board meetings and recording minutes
Ensuring compliance with the Companies Ordinance
Acting as a liaison between the company and government authorities

Legal Requirements

Under Hong Kong law:

Every company must appoint a Company Secretary within specified timeframes
For private companies, the Company Secretary can be either an individual or a corporate entity
If an individual, they must be a Hong Kong resident
If a corporate entity, they must have a registered office or place of business in Hong Kong

Choosing the Right Company Secretary

Qualifications to Look For

When selecting a Company Secretary for your Hong Kong company, consider the following qualifications:

Professional credentials (HKICS, ACCA, CPA)
Experience with Hong Kong corporate compliance
Understanding of your industry's specific requirements
Language capabilities (Cantonese, Mandarin, English)
Availability and responsiveness