Food Report CGI Hong Kong

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITI ES IN HONG KONG
Guide to Export Food Products to Hong Kong
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Contact:
M. Sridharan, Consul (Commercial)
Consulate General of India
16 D United Centre • 95 Queensway • Hong Kong
Phone 852 + 2528 4476 • Fax 852 + 2529 0421
Commerce2@indianconsulate.org.hk
http://www.indianconsulate.org.hk
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January 2002
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This report is intended as overview information about the potentials of the market to pave way for in-depth analysis by the individuals.
References to other sources and organisations should not be construed as endorsement.
Table of Contents
4.4 Market Entry Strategies for Organisations..30
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ................................. 1 Market Access Init iative (MAI).......................30
Dissemination of Information..........................31
Business Opportunities in Hong Kong..........31
1. INTRODUCTION.......................................... 9 Business Opportunities in India....................31
Virtual Trade Fairs.........................................31
Food Commodity Trade Fairs in Hong Kong....32
2. HONG KONG MARKET SCOPE............... 11 Business Delegation.......................................34
Study............................................................34
2.1 Overview of Hong Kong Food Market........ 11
4.5 Market Entry Strategies for Exporters........35
2.2 Important Import Products........................ 12 Trade Query..................................................35
Subscribing to Newsletter...............................35
2.3 Market Dynamics ...................................... 13 Virtual Trade Fair for Food Export ..................35
China's Accession to the WTO....................... 13 Food Commodity Trade Fairs in India..............36
Health Scares................................................ 13 Food Commodity Trade Fairs in Hong Kong....37
2.4 Customer Profile ....................................... 14 4.6 Normal Business Practices in Hong Kong....39
Private Customer........................................... 14
Public Customer............................................ 14
5. INDIA’S FOOD EXPORT POTENTIAL.......41
2.5 Size and Suppliers...................................... 15
5.1 Major Products..........................................41
Cereals.........................................................43
3. INDIAN EXPORT OPPORTUNITIES ......... 17 Meat and Poultry ...........................................43
Marine Products............................................43
Fruits and Vegetables.....................................44
3.1 Indian Food Export to Hong Kong ............. 17 Spices...........................................................44
Organic Spices..............................................44
3.2 India’s Share in Hong Kong’s Imports ....... 18 Tea...............................................................45
Coffee..........................................................45
3.3 India vis-à-vis Major Exporters.................. 19 Milk and Milk Products..................................46
3.4 Indian Cuisine in Hong Kong..................... 22 5.2 Policies and Programs for Food Export.......47
National Agriculture Policy............................47
First Report of Task Force on Agriculture.........48
4. HONG KONG MARKET DETAILS............ 23 Legal Framework for Food Industry.................49
Important Laws ..........................................49
4.1 Hong Kong Food Distribution Channels..... 23 Moves towards Harmonisation.....................49
Bulk Imports................................................ 23 Quality Control..............................................50
Wholesalers.................................................. 23
Direct Sales.................................................. 24 5.3 Food Processing Industry in India...............51
Retail........................................................... 24
Sales Agents................................................. 25 5.4 Indian Organisations for Food Export........53
4.2 Standards, Rules and Regulations .............. 25

Import Regulations........................................ 25 6. RESOURCES .............................................57
Reorganisation of Food Safety Agencies.......... 25
Food Safety Rules of Hong Kong.................... 26 6.1 Key Contacts and Support Services.............57
Monitoring Pesticides Residue........................ 28 Hong Kong Contacts......................................57
Rice Control and De-Licensing....................... 28 India Contacts...............................................64
4.3 Labelling ................................................... 29 6.2 Useful Websites..........................................71

General Requirements................................... 29
GM Food Labels........................................... 30
7. READER EVALUATION.............................72
G U I D E T O E X P O R T F O O D P R O D U C T S
Summary
Guide to Export Food Products to Hong Kong

4
Executive Summary
Market Scope
Opportunities for Indian Exports
India as a Food Exporter
Hong Kong Market Details
Market Entry Strategies
The report “Guide to export food products to Hong Kong” is meant to serve
trade promotion organizations and individual companies that are involved in
exporting Indian food products.
India has made lot of progress in agriculture in the past few decades in terms of
growth in output and variety of products. It has gone through a Green
Revolution, a White Revolution, a Yellow Revolution, and a Blue Revolution.
Today India is the largest producer of milk, fruits, cashewnuts, coconuts and tea in
the world, and the second largest producer of rice, wheat, vegetables, sugar, and
fish.
Hong Kong imports about US$ 7 billion to US$ 8 billion worth of food products
every year. India’s share in food imports of Hong Kong is only 0.6%. From this
small base, Indian food exports to Hong Kong have grown from US$ 34 million
in 1998 to US$ 46 million in 2000. Presently, it is growing at the rate of 32%.
The scope of further improvement is vast and promising.
A. Market Scope
1. Hong Kong is Import Dependent
Of the per capita Hong Kong has a small area of 1098 sq. km. It has a
GDP of US$ population of 6.8 million with per capita GDP of US$
23,987, only 0.1 % 23,987 and 0.1% of GDP coming from agriculture and
comes from fishing. Hong Kong depends heavily on imports for local
agriculture and food consumption. Hong Kong is also the gateway for
fishing. Chinese food market. Despite China’s entry into WTO,
Hong Kong will continue its role as a re-export centre for
high value processed food products flowing into the huge Chinese market.
Consulate General of India, Hong Kong 1

2. Dynamics of the Market
• Hong Kong food market is continuously changing and international food

items are gaining acceptance. The faster life-style, increasing median age of the
population, growing number of women workforce, space constrained living
quarters, etc. have increased the acceptance of Hong Kong population for variety
and convenient food habits.
• Hong Kong consumer market for food items is generally guided by the
concept of ‘value for money’.
• Hong Kong food market reacts sharply to the incidents of health scares like
bird flu, E -coli etc.
• Due to growing consciousness about health food through social dynamics
and media, the Hong Kong market is demanding more health food.
• The recent awareness about organically grown food items provides bright
scope for Indian food items.
3. Customer Profile
Habitually Hong Kong shopper prefers to shop daily, especially fresh food items.
Small-sized residences restrict refrigerating capacity. The low personal transport
ownership and widespread availability of supermarkets embedded in the housing
complexes are conducive for this habit.
As a public customer, the Stores and Procurement Regulations of HKSAR

Government comply with WTO Agreement on Government Procurement.
4. Size and Supplies
During 2000, Hong Kong imported US$ 7364 million worth of food items. Meat,
fish, vegetables and fruit, are major imports of Hong Kong. As one could see,
these are potential export items of India. Presently, Hong Kong food market has
only five countries enjoying up to 60% market share. China and USA have 40%
share, while Thailand, Australia, and Japan have another 20%.
Opportunities for Indian Export

1. India’s Share in Hong Kong Food Imports
During the year 2000, India ranked as the 26th important food exporter to Hong
Kong. Indian exports grew by a substantial 18% to reach US$ 46 million. Fresh
fish form the major export items of India to Hong Kong food market (39%).
During the year 2000, Indian export of fresh fish grew at +40% to reach a value
of US$ 18 million. During the first half of 2000, this is growing at a rate of
+129%. India is the 12th important exporter of fish to Hong Kong.
2. Indian Export items
Fresh fish, dried fish, crustaceans and fruit and nuts form more than 84% of
Indian export of food and live animals to Hong Kong. Spices export is also
showing substantial growth. During 2000, the value reached US$ 1.3 million
2 Consulate General of India, Hong Kong

(+18%), and during first half of 2001, US$ 1.4 million (108%). Thailand is the top
exporter of grains to Hong Kong (US$135 million in 2000).
Indian export of cereals and cereal preparations is still to reach even US$ 1
million. However, starting from a small base, it is growing at the rate of +229%
during the first half of 2001. Indian export of coffee to Hong Kong is also seeing
a positive growth of +112% after a negative growth for the last three years. Still
the export base is just US$ 1.5 million.
3. Indian Food in Hong Kong
About 30,000 Indians live in Hong Kong. Indian food is still their main food
preference. There are about half a dozen Indian provision stores in Hong Kong.
Hong Kong has about more than 50 Indian restaurants, which enjoy not only
Indian customers but also other nationals. The number of Indian tourists to
Hong Kong is also growing at the rate of more than 22%. During January -
November 2001, the number has reached 150,000, which saw a growth of 23.3 %.
This also creates more demand for Indian food in Hong Kong.
India as a food exporter

India possesses a huge resource base for food export. The Ministry of
Commerce has identified ten agricultural products for sizeable export promotion.
These are rice, wheat products, coarse grains, spices, cashew, oil meals, suga r,
horticultural products, floricultural products, and processed food. While waiting
for the domestic middle class sector to mature for the value added food products,
food-processing industry could focus on the immediately available export
possibilities. Export focused re-orientation would certainly accelerate the growth
of India food industry and pave way for its improvement in infrastructure and
investments. As per a recent study on the food -processing sector, the turnover of
the total food market is approximately US$ 69 billion, out of which value-added
food products comprise US$ 22.2 billion. Size of the semi -processed and ready to
eat packaged food industry is over US$ 1 billion. It is growing at over 20%.
Processed food exports were at over US$ 3.2 billion in 1998-99. Out of these
exports, rice accounted for 46%, whereas marine products accounted for over
34%.
Moreover, India has the largest livestock in the world with 50% of world’s
buffaloes and 20% of cattle. However, only over 1% of meat production is
converted into value-added products.
India has large marine and inland product and processing potential with varied
marine food resources along the 8041 km. long coastline, 28000 km. of rivers
and 3 millions of hectares of reservoirs and 1.4 million hectares of brackish water.
Marine fishes found in Indian include prawns, shrimps, tuna, cuttlefish, squids,
octopus, red snappers, ribbon fish, mackerel, lobsters, cat fish and countless other
varieties. 60% of the production of fish in India is from marine sources.

India is the world’s second largest producers of fruit and vegetables. India
produces large variety of fruit and vegetables – tropical, sub-tropical, or temperate.
These include mangoes, banana, apple, oranges, chikoo, ber, pomegranates etc.,
and vegetables like potatoes, tomatoes, onions, cauliflower, cabbage etc. The total
area under fruit and vegetables cultivation is estimated to be at 5.63 and 5.6
million hectares. However, hardly 2% of the fruit and vegetables of India is
processed. Food habits and cost factors are seen to be the main reasons for this.
India supplies India is the land of spices producing all varieties worth
46 % in volume over US$ 900 million amounting to 25-30% of world
and 25 % share in production, which is processed for value-addition and
value of the world export. India grows over 50 different varieties of spices.
spices trade. Total production is around 2.7 million tonnes. Of this,
about 0.25 million tonnes (8-10%) is exported to more than
150 countries. India dominates 46% in volume and 25% share in value of the
world spices trade.
The world demand for organically produced food is growing rapidly, especially
in developed countries. India has always been practicing the traditional ways of
using indigenous technologies and inputs mostly in line with modern organic
forming principles. This means it is very easy for Indian farmers to embrace
organic supplies forming in its true sense. At present, India is exporting around
50 tonnes of different varieties of organic spices.
India is world’s single largest producer of tea. 870 million kgs of tea was
produced in India in 1998. Being home to the world’s best tea, India is also one
of the largest exporters of tea. In India, coffee growing is a process that the
centuries have preferred to an art. Today, 293,000 hectares, almost entirely in
South India, produce an average of 200,000 tonnes of coffee a year valued at US$
500 million.
Policies and Programmes
The National Agriculture Policy that stands as the guiding document for Indian
food exports emphasizes creating surplus for exports, value addition, increased
production and creating globally competitive agricultural products. Task Force on
Agriculture (TFA) set up by the Indian Prime Minister reported that globalisation
of food market means more opportunities for Indian exports. India should
improve its competitiveness through the key factors and quality and standards.
Our legal framework provides improved laws that govern the Indian food
industry, for exa mple, Prevention of Food Adulteration Act; Agricultural Products
(Grading and Marking) Act, Essential Commodities Act, etc. However, the
various departments creating and implementing these food laws are realizing the
importance of harmonizing of legal framework for Indian food export.
Quality Control
There is an all round realisation at every level that quality production of

international standard is the watchword for survival now. Consequently, the
processors, small or big, have started taking steps to improve quality right from

the selection of the raw material and that of the ingredients. Side by side, steps
have also been taken by them to upgrade the hygienic and sanitary conditions of
the workers, plant, and machinery to ensure quality of the finished product. There
is a much greater emphasis now to invest in research and development and in
product innovation.
Indian Organisations for Food Export
In tune with the high priority given for the food export in India, the Government
of India has created an organisational structure suited to facilitate further growth.
Some of the important organisations are: Department of Food Processing
Industries, Agricultural and Processed Food Product Export Organisation
Authority (APEDA), Marine Product Export Development Authority, Spices
Board, Tea Board, Coffee Board, Cashewnuts Export Promotion Council of India
Hong Kong Food Product Market Details

1. Channels of Distribution
Hong Kong food market has well-established range of channels for food
distribution. Apa rt from the importers who import essentially for re-export
purposes, local distribution channels include bulk importers, wholesalers, direct
sales channels like retail through shops, supermarkets, etc.
2. Standards, Rules, and Regulations
Hong Kong is a free port and hence generally does not impose any import or
export tariffs. Food exports to Hong Kong do not attract any import tariff except
for liquor, spirits tobacco products, and hydrocarbon oil for fuel. Apart from
these dutiable commodities, food products like meat, milk, and dairy products are
also to be imported after getting import permits.
3. Re-organisation of Food Safety Agencies in Hong Kong
HKSAR Government had reorganized its food safety agencies on 1st January
2001. To create it, a new Environment and Food Bureau under which there are
three departments, namely, Environmental Protection Department, Agriculture,
Fisheries and Conservation Department; Food and Environmental Hygiene
Department. Earlier, the food safety work used to be done by many departments
under various bureaus. The reorganisation is seen as the effective way of dealing
with food safety work.
4. Food Safety Rules of Hong Kong
The Public Health and Municipal Services Ordinance (Cap.132 – Pt. V- Section
54) provides that no food intended for sale in Hong Kong should be unfit for
human consumption. Majority of these legislations are implemented by Food and
Environment Hygiene Department. At present, there are 26 countries whose
authorities for issuing hygiene certificate for food exports are recognized by
Director of Food and Environmental Hygiene Bureau of Hong Kong. India is
not one of the 26 countries. Hence, each Indian food export that requests license
and also needs prior permission to be obtained by the licensed importer in Hong

Kong. India could provide necessary information to the Hong Kong side for
getting recognition for the hygiene certificate issuing authorities of India.
5. Rice Control and De-licensing
Rice is the staple food for 90% of Hong Kong population. It imports about US$
180 billion worth of rice every year.
According to the Reserved Commodities Ordinance (Cap. 296), rice is classified as

a reserved commodity. At present, 55 licensed rice stockholders import rice for
local consumption. However, none of them imports basmati rice to a significant
level. However, since Hong Kong has a substantial number of Indian population,
HKSAR Government permits the Indian provision stores to import basmati rice
‘out of quota’.
However, Hong Kong is planning to de-license the rice control by 2003-2004.

This will free even the domestic rice market for direct import by any importer,
providing more opportunities for Indian exporters.
6. Labelling
The Food and Drugs (Composition and Labelling) Regulations require that
almost all food products sold in Hong Kong be labelled in a prescribed uniform
and legible manner. The labelling regulations of Hong Kong allow for use of
either of the official languages, namely, English or Chinese. Most of the items
aimed for wider middle class customers do carry bilingual labels.
The debate on Genetically Modified (GM) food products is gaining awareness in

Hong Kong market. HKSAR Government has formed a Consultative
Committee in this regard. The voluntary labelling system is widely proposed for
‘GM free products’.
7. Normal Business Practices in Hong Kong
Business in Hong Kong is typically formal. Exchanging visiting cards (presented

by holding it with both hands) is the customary first step. Shaking hands and
wearing formal business suits are norms. Meetings are by appointments only.
Normal payment methods include Letter of Credit, Open Account, Sight Draft,
and Documents against Payment. Exporters should contact Hong Kong
importers with offers quoting c.i.f. or c.f. prices preferably in U.S. Dollars. Hong
Kong is a free port and hence the Government does not enforce any credit or
currency control.
Indian food exports should take special care about quality packaging. The general
feedback about delay in Indian shipment is to be avoided, especially in fresh food
export deals. Indian exporters can capitalize on low transport cost due to
geographical closeness by improving the delivery schedules

Market Entry Strategies

1. Food Commodity Fairs in India
Indian food exporters can participate in important food commodity expos

organized in India like Krishi Expo, Aahar, International Dairy and Food
Technology Expo etc. The international food importers regularly visit these
expos. Consulate General of India, Hong Kong would liaise with the organizers
of these expos to popularise them in Hong Kong market as a sourcing
opportunity.
2. Trade Queries
Indian food exporters can forward their company’s information including the
export offers of their products to Consulate General of India, Hong Kong.
Consulate General of India, Hong Kong would collect important importers of
that particular food item and forward the same to the Indian exporter. Moreover,
the details of this offer would be published in the Consulate’s publications, which
are widely circulated to business community in Hong Kong. Indian exporters can
send emails to commerce2@indianconsulate.org.hk for further information.
The Consulate General of India, Hong Kong has a new website

(http://www.indianconsulate.org.hk). This website has a new system of online
trade query. Through this facility, visitors can search for business contacts in
Hong Kong based on products traded, including food products. Moreover,
Indian exporters can register their company details online. These details will be
made available in the website of the Consulate General of India, Hong Kong.
3. Subscription to Newsletters
Indian food export organisations and exporters can subscribe to the fortnightly
free e-newsletters of Consulate General of India, Hong Kong. The newsletter
‘Business Opportunities in Hong Kong’ provides current valuable information
including important tender offers including food tenders, business contact
particulars of Hong Kong importers including food importers etc. This could be
subscribed individually by the company or by the organisations/agencies and then
could be distributed to its members.
4. Virtual Trade Fair
At present APEDA’s website http://www.apeda.com provides an excellent

opportunity for Indian food exporters to have a web presence. Indian food
exporters can create their own virtual ‘exhibition stall’. This detail could be
forwarded to prospective importers in Hong Kong so that they can see the
products and get more information if necessary from the ‘exhibition stall’. Other
organisations/agencies could also provide this facility in their websites.
5. Food Commodity Fairs in Hong Kong
Hong Kong trade fairs are gaining importance as important sourcing fairs for the
Asian products. Moreover, most of the Hong Kong importers utilize these fairs
to meet potential exporters in Asian countries. Indian food exporters could

participate in some of the food-commodity trade fairs in Hong Kong including

Hong Kong International Food Expo, Asian International Exhibition of
Hospitality Equipment, Supplies and Technologies, Food and Drink (HOFEX),
Hong Kong International Food Fair, Beauty and Fitness Expo etc.
6. Market Access Initiative
The organisations/agencies could create specific Market Access Initiative (MAI)

for the Indian food exporters to participate in these fairs. It could be structured
so that over a period of three years, the exporters get the support to participate in
these fairs by way of getting say 75%, 50%, and 25% of the cost of participation
from the organisation or agency. After the third year, the individual company will
be able to participate on its own having realized the potential of the market and
the gained trade volume. Moreover, if all the Indian companies can come under a
national pavilion, organized by these organisations/agencies, this would provide a
greater business impact.
7. Business Delegation
Indian food export organisations/agencies can organize a business delegation to

Hong Kong comprising select exporters whose products have more relevance to
Hong Kong market. Consulate General of India, Hong Kong could arrange
business interactions with relevant government bureaus, agencies, food industry
associations, food distribution channels including buying offices of supermarkets
etc. Consulate General of India, Hong Kong could also arrange general business
meetings with food traders who are members of other Chambers of Commerce.
The delegations could be taken on a guided tour to see the food distribution
channels including storage houses, supermarkets, retail markets including wet
markets etc.
8. Study
Indian food exporter organisations/agencies could initiate a deeper study for

individual products like fisheries, grains etc. These studies could be made
comprehensive by collecting detailed information about that particular product
from various sources including government bureaus and agencies, food industry
associations, food importers, buying offices of supermarkets etc. International
legal firms could be approached to get further information on ways of facilitating
the common standard between India and Hong Kong.
Further Information
Extensive list of key contacts and support services both in India and in Hong
Kong with reference to Indian export of food products to Hong Kong are given
at the end of the report. Apart from the many email addresses and website
addresses provided in the report, a separate list of important websites that would
be useful for an Indian food exporter to Hong Kong market is also appended for
ready reference. Consulate General of India would be happy to assist any
individual exporter or Organisation in exporting food products to Hong Kong.

1
Intro
1. Introduction
Vast and promising scope
C onsulate General of India, Hong Kong is happy to bring out this Guide
to Export Food Products to Hong Kong.
This report covers food products under Standard International Trade

Code 0, and hence includes market potential for the items covered under Food
and Live Animals. The ten products groups covered as sub categories are given in
the following table:
Table 1.1 Sub categories covered under Food and Live Animals (SITC 0)
SITC Commodity
01 Meat and Meat Preparations
02 Dairy Products and Birds’ Eggs
03 Fish, Crustaceans, Molluscs and Aquatic
Invertebrates and Preparations thereof
04 Cereals and Cereal preparations
05 Vegetable and Fruit
06 Sugars, Sugar Preparations and Honey
07 Coffee, Tea, Cocoa, Spices, and Manufactures
thereof
08 Feeding Stuff for Animals
09 Miscellaneous Edible products
00 Live Animals
Hong Kong imports about US$ 7 to 8 billion worth of food products every year.
India’s share in Hong Kong food market is steadily increasing from US$ 34
million in 1998 to US$ 46 million in 2000. Still, the scope for improvement is vast
and promising.
India has made lot of progress in agriculture since independence in terms of

growth in output, and variety of products. It has gone through a Green
Revolution, a White Revolution, a Yellow Revolution, and a Blue Revolution.
Today, India is the largest producer of milk, fruits, cashew nuts, coconuts and tea
in the world, and the second largest producer of rice, wheat, vegetables, sugar, and
fish.

We are confident This report aims to provide an overview of Hong Kong’s

that this report food market, the present position of India’s exports to this
would offer good market. This report also attempts to cover India’s potential
opportunity to take in the food export, especially in the areas relevant to Hong
the first step Kong’s food market. It analyses India’s present position
towards vis-à-vis major suppliers to Hong Kong food market. Key
exploration into contacts and support services in India are given. This
Hong Kong food
would provide the essential first step for the Indian
market.
exporter to contact the relevant organisation or agency in
India. Additionally, details about market entry
opportunities in India are also given. On the other hand, key contacts and
support services in Hong Kong have been provided. This includes list of
important importers of the commodities covered under the report. Additionally, a
detailed section on market entry opportunities in Hong Kong is also given. We
are confident that this report would offer good opportunity for an Indian
organisation/exporter to take the first step towards their exploration into Hong
Kong food market.
We have included a ‘Reader Evaluation Form’ at the end of the report. Kindly
provide your valued feedback to us, which would help us in fine-tuning our future
reports to suit to your needs.

2
Part
2. Hong Kong Market Scope

Overview of Hong Kong food market
Important import products
Market Dynamics
Customer Profile
Size and suppliers
2.1 Overview of Hong Kong Food Market
H
ong Kong has a small area1 of 1098 km2 and a population2 of 6.8
million. With a per capita GDP3 of US$ 23,987 and only 0.1% of GDP
coming from agriculture and fishing4, Hong Kong depends heavily on
imports for local food consumption. Hong Kong is also the gateway of
China. It plays dual roles of re-exporter of food items into China and re-exporter
of food items from China.
Despite the dominance by the Chinese food, Hong Kong food market is
continuously changing and the international food items are gaining acceptance.
Factors like increased exposure to international cuisine, raising level of disposable
income, availability of variety through supermarkets, changing food habits of the
younger generation, etc., have contributed to this trend.
Hong Kong will The average age of Hong Kong population is increasing.
continue its role The median age of the population rose from 30 in 1988 to
as a re-export 36 in 1998. Coupled with this aging population, the
centre for high increase in number of women workforce has contributed
value processed indirectly to the greater acceptance of fast food culture.
food products for Hong Kong household, limited by the space constraint,
the huge Chinese purchases its food needs in small quantities. Fresh food
market. items are purchased habitually on daily basis. Average
Hong Kong household spends about 12% of its income in
food items. Hong Kong consumer market for food items is generally guided by
the concept of ‘value for money’.
1 Hong Kong in figures, p9, Information Services Department, HKSAR Government, March 2001.
2 Hong Kong in figures, p10
3 Per capita GDP at current market prices, 2000. Hong Kong in figures, p3
4 Hong Kong in figures, p15

Imports of food to Hong Kong actually decreased during 19995. This decrease
can be attributed to three factors: first, Hong Kong's reduced import of non-
necessity and luxurious food products like chocolates, live edible coral fish, etc.
during the economic downturn; second, the global decrease in agricultural product
prices, in particular meat and vegetables; third, the global increase in direct exports
to China. Negotiations for China's entry into the World Trade Organisation
(WTO) are nearing completion. Hence, direct trade access will be further eased
upon China being granted membership in the international organisation. WTO
membership for China will lead to higher levels of direct trade exports, however
Hong Kong will continue its role as a re -export centre for high value processed
food products for the huge Chinese market.
2.2 Important Import Products

Meats
The consumer market for meat in Hong Kong reacts sharply to the incidents of
spread of diseases through food items. The recent years have seen down swing in
demand for meat due to bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) and E-coli
(beef and pork – 1997) and avian flu virus (chicken – 1997 and 2001). The disease
in one meat variety immediately drives the Hong Kong consumer to the next
variety, though not to be the level of perfect compensation.
The consumer Repeated scare of flu virus has decreased the consumption
market for meat of live poultry. However, the frozen poultry market is
reacts sharply to growing steadily. Driven by the functional ease and cost
the incidents of effectiveness, the hotels and restaurants have shifted from
spread of food use of fresh meat to frozen meat. Supermarket chain stores
based diseases have increased their competition to the local fresh meat
markets by providing range of frozen meat varieties.
Hence, the consumer acceptance of frozen meat is on the raise. Presently, the
frozen poultry supply from China is dominating the market due to its cost
competitiveness. However, leading supermarkets provide frozen poultry from
western countries like USA.
Fish and Seafood
Hong Kong is a promising market for seafood and fish. Hong Kong imports
40% of marine fish supply and 90% of fresh water fish supply. The major
varieties of other seafood consumed by Hong Kong people are lobster, sea
cucumber, shellfish, oyster, scallop, etc.
Processed Foods
Of the total re -export of canned fruits and vegetables from Hong Kong, more
than 60% reaches China. However, due to increase of direct exports to china and
5In 1998, Hong Kong imported food worth US$ 7.3 billion. In 1999, it declined to US$ 7.1 billion.
Hong Kong’s international trade figures provided all through the report, unless specified otherwise, are
based on figures by statistical service of Hong Kong Trade Development Council with inputs from the
Census and Statistics Department of Hong Kong SAR Government.

setting up of foreign manufacturing units in china, the re -export level is falling

since 1993. On the other hand, the local consumption of canned food in Hong
Kong is steadily growing at the average rate of 12%, except for a dip during 1997-
98 due to the Asian financial crises.
Health Foods
Due to growing consciousness about heath food through social dynamics and the
media, the market for health food in Hong Kong is on the rise. However, as in
any other market, the definition of health food is vague in Hong Kong also.
Products with eye-catching packaging, clearly highlighting the health benefits of
consumption, with ‘value for money’ are gaining acceptance in Hong Kong.
Food items for women are mainly focusing angles like slimming, beautifying etc.
Western health foods like fish oil etc are also gaining acceptance apart from the
Chinese health food like ginseng root products. Due to the mixed nature of the
products, the health foods are marketed through various kinds of outlets,
including supermarkets, drug stores, and shops selling health products.
2.3 Market Dynamics

China's Accession to the WTO
China's accession Hong Kong’s role as a major re-exporter of food items to

to WTO would give China is made possible due to its strategic advantage as a
a positive impetus trading port supplemented by storage facilities, and
to direct export of distribution infrastructure. However, China's accession to
food items to WTO, which would result in de-regulation of import
Mainland China. regime, increased transparency in the custom rules etc.,
would give a positive impetus to direct export of food
items to mainland China. This in turn, would encourage further improvements in
storage facilities and distribution infrastructure for food items. Eventually, Hong
Kong’s re-export of food items to China would decrease to certain extent.
Health Scares
The heavily import dependent Hong Kong food market reacts sharply to health
scares around the world. International issues like mad cow disease and localised
scares like avian flu, etc., have been shaping the market decisively. Governmental
standards for the hygiene are on the rise especially after the 1993 health scares.
However, the health scare in the beginning of 2001 once again proved the
dramatic influence of these scares in the food market of Hong Kong. Hong
Kong government ordered the destruction of Hong Kong’s entire poultry stock
and blocked imports from Mainland China. Interestingly, due to the closer
binding of Chinese food export for Hong Kong local consumption, the decline in
Hong Kong’s intake of food imports directly affects the prices of food items in
China. These factors collectively make more consumers to choose frozen food
from the supermarkets. This preference for frozen meat is slowly making the
frozen vegetables also more acceptable, despite the price difference.

Apart from the health scares of meat varieties, the increasing disposable income of
the population and the general preference for a ‘cleaner’ lifestyle is compelling
more people to choose supermarkets instead of local wet markets. Despite the
Government’s effort to make the wet markets hygienic, the consolidation of food
markets through supermarket chain store could be seen as a definitive trend in
Hong Kong. This could concomitantly create a more direct link in the food-
product distribution chain, between the foreign exporter and the importer-retailers
of Hong Kong.
2.4 Customer Profile

Private Customer
‘Value for money’ would be one of the important considerations for a Hong
Kong consumer. Even top brand labels are no more taken automatically to
guarantee high quality. Rather, above-average quality products with nominal price
are attracting the discerning Hong Kong consumer. This trend may see more
private label quality inexpensive products in the market.
Habitually, the Hong Kong shopper prefers to shop daily, especially fresh food
items. The small sized residences prevent a Hong Kong household to have a
large refrigerator with huge freezer compartments. That explains the relatively
low availability of large ‘family-pack’ food items, which would otherwise be cost
effective. The low car ownership and widespread availability of supermarkets
situated ‘inside’ the housing complexes make this frequent shopping habit to
continue.
Public Customer
Hong Kong is a founding member of WTO. The Stores and Procurement

Regulations -- under the Public Finance Ordinance, which complies with the
WTO Agreement on Government Procurement, govern Hong Kong’s public-
sector procurement. The following table gives the minimum levels at which
various public sector purchases have to issue public tenders for procurement of
products and services:
Table 2.2 Values for procurement through public tenders
Customer Contract value

All government bureaus and departments US$188,500
Non-government public bodies (Authorities and US$580,000
Corporations) for product and service contracts
For construction service contracts US$7.2 million
Most of these are on open tender basis for local and international bidders. The
tender information is disseminated through Government Gazettes, media,
Internet, and through foreign representative offices. Indian exporters wishing to
participate in these biddings can register in the approved suppliers and contractors
list. Details of how to apply for inclusion on lists of qualified
suppliers/contractors could be accessed through the website of HKSAR Finance
Bureau: http://www.info.gov.hk/fb/tender/tender.htm.

2.5 Size and Suppliers

Hong Kong imports more than US$ 7 billion worth of Food and Live Animals
(SITC 0) every year. In 1998, Hong Kong imported a total of US$ 7370 million
worth of Food and Live Animals. In 1999, the import figures stood at US$ 7147
million, and bounced back again to US$ 7364 million in 2000.
Hong Kong imported US$ 1690 million worth of meat and meat preparations
during 2000. This import has seen a growth of +4.5% over the last year. Hong
Kong import of dairy products reached US$ 424 million (+1.6%) while its marine
imports have seen a steep growth of +22.9% to reach a value of US$ 1941
million. Hong Kong’s cereal imports saw a minor decline (-2.6%) and yet the
value of imports stood at US$ 425 million. Coffee, tea, and spices saw a growth
of +5.7 million as the import value reached US$ 191 million.
Many other items have actually registered a decline. However, the import value
remains quite substantial. These include, vegetable and fruit (US$ 1415 million [-
4.6%]) , sugar and honey (US$ 207 million [-7.1%]), feeding stuff for animals (US$
73 million [-2.1]), miscellaneous edible products (US$ 582 million [14.2%])and live
animals (US$ 415 million [-9.4%]) The following table provides the break-up of
Hong Kong’s imports in this sector and the growth in the respective headings:
Table 2.3 Hong Kong’s import of Food and Live Animals - 2000
SITC Commodity Imports in US$ million % Change

01 Meat and Meat Preparations 1,690 +4.5
02 Dairy Products and Birds’ Eggs 424 +1.6
03 Fish, Crustaceans, Molluscs and Aquatic 1,941 +22.9
04 Cereals and Cereal preparations 425 -2.6
05 Vegetable and Fruit 1,415 -4.6
06 Sugars, Sugar Preparations and Honey 207 -7.1
07 Coffee, Tea, Cocoa, Spices, and 191 +5.7
Manufacturers thereof
08 Feeding Stuff for Animals 73 -2.1
09 Miscellaneous Edible products 582 -14.1
00 Live Animals 415 -9.4
Major Suppliers to Hong Kong Food Market
Hong Kong remains the major gateway of Chinese products in Food and Live
Animal (SITC 0). Hong Kong imported in 2000, Food and Live Animal from
China worth US$ 1.7 billion. Chinese imports into Hong Kong formed 23% of
Hong Kong’s total imports.
USA supplied in 2000 US$ 1.32 billion worth of Food and Live Animals to Hong
Kong, which is 18% of the total imports of Hong Kong. Hence, China and USA
supplied more than 40% of Hong Kong’s imports in this sector.

Few major players
Just five countries have more than 60% market share in Hong Kong
food market. China and US have 40% share, Thailand, Australia,
and Japan have another 20%
As seen from the table given below, Thailand (US$ 565 million), Australia (US$
500 million), and Japan (US$ 352 million) supplied about 20% of Hong Kong’s
import of Food and Live Animals. This is followed by Brazil (US$ 278 million),
Indonesia (US$ 264 million), New Zealand (US$ 239 million), Netherlands (US$
172 million), and Philippines (US$ 120 million).
Table 2.4: Major suppliers to Hong Kong food market – 2000
No. Major Suppliers Value US mn % Share % Change

1 China 1,680 22.8 +4
2 USA 1,320 17.9 -2
3 Thailand 565 7.7 -1
4 Australia 500 6.8 +7
5 Japan 352 4.8 -14
6 Brazil 278 3.8 +20
7 Indonesia 264 3.6 +7
8 New Zealand 239 3.2 +15
9 Netherlands 172 2.3 -18
10 Philippines 120 1.6 +25
Hong Kong is a free port, and hence, there is no effect of import duty on price.
The only factor that decides the difference between the prices at the country of
origin to Hong Kong is the transportation costs. In this, countries like China,
Australia, etc., benefit most. India also has competitive advantage over many of
the western and European countries.

3
Part
3. Indian Export Opportunities

Indian food export to Hong Kong
Indian share in Hong Kong’s food export
India vis-à-vis major exporters
Indian cuisine in Hong Kong
3.1 Indian Food Export to Hong Kong
D uring 2000, Indian was the 26th important food exporter to Hong Kong.
During first half of 2001, India is Hong Kong’s 25 th important exporter
of Food and Live Animals. In 1998, India exported Food and Live
Animals worth US$ 34 million to Hong Kong. In 1999, it grew to US$ 39 million.
In 2000, Indian exports to Hong Kong grew by a substantial 18% to reach US$ 46
million. During the first half of 2001, this growth rate has doubled to reach 32%
and the value of Indian food export to Hong Kong has reached US$ 25 million.
As one could see, though the growth rate is impressive, the base is still negligible
and far below the potential.
Top 10 Indian Food Exports to Hong Kong
In 2000, India exported US$ 46 million worth of Food and Live Animals to Hong
Kong. Of this, fish, fresh (live or dead), chilled or frozen (SITC 034) occupies
39% of the total export. This export item grew during the year at the rate of
+40% to reach a value of US$ 18 million. During January – June 2001, this item
is growing at the rate of +129% and has reached the value of US$ 10 million.
Fish, dried, salted or in brine (SITC 035) is the next important item of Indian
exports to Hong Kong. During 2000, this item grew at the rate of +16% and
reached US$ 13 million in value. This forms 28% of the total Indian exports in
this sector. During January – June 2001, it grew at +3% to reach US$ 7.7 million.
Crustaceans, Molluscs and aquatic invertebrates (SITC 036) is another important

item which formed 16% of India’s exports of Food and Live Animals to Hong
Kong in 2000 reaching a value of US$ 7.5 million. During January – June 2001, it
has reached the value of US$ 3.4 million.
Fruit and nuts (SITC 057) export is also growing steadily at 11% rate and its value
has reached US$ 5 million (growth +5.4%). During January – June 2001, India
exported US$ 1.7 million worth of fruit and nuts.

Hence, Fresh fish, dry fish, crustaceans, and fruits and nuts form more than 84%
of Indian export of Food and Live Animals to Hong Kong.
Another promising product, namely, spices (SITC 075) is also showing substantial
growth. During 2000, India exported spices worth US$ 1.3 million growing at the
rate of +18.4%. However, during January – June 2001, this product is growing at
the rate of +108% and has already reached the value of US$ 1.4 million, which
has crossed the total spices export for 2000.
The following table gives the top 10 important items of Indian exports to Hong
Kong in Food and Live Animals sector during 2000 and during the first half of
2001.
Table 3.1 Top 10 Indian food exports to Hong Kong - 2000 and first half of 2001
Value in US$ thousands
% Jan-June %
SITC Commodity 2000
Change 2001 Change
034 Fish, fresh (live or dead), chilled or frozen 17953 +40.2 10466 +128.5
035 Fish, dried, salted or in Brine, smoked fish, flours, 12923 +16.3 7701 +2.6
meals and pellets of fish
036 Crustaceans, Molluscs and Aquatic invertebrates 1532 -3.1 3380 -6.9
057 Fruit and nuts (not including Oil Nuts), fresh or dried 5045 +5.4 1703 -24.2
075 Spices 1279 +18.4 1400 +108.3
012 Other meat, edible meat Offal, fresh, chilled or frozen 171 +105.3 133 +446.3
054 Vegetables, roots, tubers, fresh, chilled, frozen or 188 -3.0 107 +11.4
simply preserved
044 Maize (not including sweet corn), un-milled - - 64 -
056 Vegetables, roots and tubers, prepared or preserved, 183 -2.8 58 -40.4
Nes
017 Meat and edible meat offal, prepared or preserved - - 50 -
3.2 India’s Share in Hong Kong’s Imports

The major import Interestingly, major import items of Hong Kong with fast
items of Hong growth are major export items of India. However, share of
Kong with fast Indian export to total demand of Hong Kong is very small,
growth are the providing the scope for vast and promising improvement.
major export items
of India. India’s share in total import of Hong Kong under the
category Fish, Crustaceans, Molluscs, etc., is 2%. Except
for this product, India’s share in all other sub categories of Food and Live
Animals is less than one percent. For the sub category Coffee, Tea, Cocoa, and
Spices, India’s share is 0.52%. India’s share in Vegetable and Fruit is 0.38%.
India’s share in Meat and Meat preparations is 0.02% of Hong Kong’s total
imports. Even for Dairy products and Birds’ eggs and Cereals and Cereal
preparations, India’s share is only 0.02%. Under Sugar, Sugar preparations and
Honey, again India has only 0.01% of the share. Indian share under the sub
categories Feeding stuff for animals, Miscellaneous edible products and Live
animals is negligible.
The following table provides Hong Kong’s imports under various food categories
along with Indian exports under these categories:

Table 3.2 Hong Kong total imports and Indian share in 2000 – a comparison
Value in US$ million
HK’s Change Indian Change India’s

SITC Commodity
Imports % Exports % share%
01 Meat and Meat Preparations 1,690 +4.5 0.4 +371.8 0.02
02 Dairy Products and Birds’ Eggs 424 +1.6 0.09 -9.2 0.02
03 Fish, Crustaceans, Molluscs and Aquatic 1,941 +22.9 39 +20.7 2
04 Cereals and Cereal preparations 425 -2.6 0.08 -32.5 0.02
05 Vegetable and Fruit 1,415 -4.6 5.5 +5.5 0.38
06 Sugars, Sugar Preparations and Honey 207 -7.1 0.03 -39.2 0.01
07 Coffee, Tea, Cocoa, Spices, and 191 +5.7 1 -0.6 0.52
Manufacturers thereof
08 Feeding Stuff for Animals 73 -2.1 0.004 - -
09 Miscellaneous Edible products 582 -14.1 - - -
00 Live Animals 415 -9.4 - - -
3.3 India vis-à-vis Major Exporters

Meat and Meat Preparations
Hong Kong imported Meat and Meat Preparations (SITC 01) worth US$ 1,690
million (+4.5%) during 2000. USA is the top exporter of meat and meat
preparations to Hong Kong. Its exports reached US$ 625 million (-7.6%). USA
is followed by China (US$ 290 million [+6.4%]) and Brazil (US$ 250 million
[+19.0%])
Indian export of The present Indian export of US$ 0.4 million grew at a rate
meat and meat of + 371.8% during 2000, and is growing at a rate of +
preparations grew 144% in 2001. The scope is substantial for the Indian
at the rate of exporters who are willing to meet the standards prevalent in
+ 371.8% during the market. The wide range of poultry products in demand
2000, and is includes chicken fillet, chicken drumsticks, chicken mid-
growing at a rate joint, chicken whole wings, etc. Though a niche market for
of + 144% in 2001. fry-and-serve value added products like chicken nuggets are
available, establishing a brand would be a slow process.
Commitment to quality even during peak seasons, direct and timely shipping,
moderate prices, committing to long-term business relations, etc., would be valued
in the Hong Kong market.
Dairy Products and Birds’ eggs
Hong Kong imported Dairy Products and Birds’ eggs (SITC 02) worth (US$ 424
million [+1.6%]) during 2000. New Zealand is the top exporter of dairy products
and birds’ eggs to Hong Kong. Its exports reached (US$ 90 million [+18.1%])
followed by Republic of Ireland (US$ 48 million [+757.3%]) and China (US$ 70
million [+23.4%]).

Indian export of this commodity declined in 2000 (-9.2%) and the value was US$
85,000. During the first half of 2001, it is however growing at a rate of +7.3%
and has reached US$ 39,000.
Fish, Crustaceans, Molluscs and Aquatic Invertebrates
Hong Kong imported Fish, crustaceans, molluscs and aquatic invertebrates and
preparations thereof (SIC 03) worth US$ 1941 million (+22.9%). China is the
top exporter of fish, crustaceans, molluscs and aquatic invertebrates and
preparations thereof to Hong Kong. Its exports reached US$ 321 million
(+22.4%). China is followed by Australia (US$ 221 million [+21.0%]) and Japan
(US$ 184 million [+8.5%])
India is the 12th India is the 12 th ranking important exporter of this

ranking important commodity to Hong Kong. From an import value of US$
exporter of fish to 25.5 million in 1998, India’s export has reached US$ 38.5
Hong Kong. million in 2000. This registered a growth of 20.7%. During
the first half of 2001, this commodity is showing a further
growth of 36.5% and has already reached a value of US$ 21.6 million.
Indian rich seafood variety and the adventurous appetite for the Hong Kong
population for newer seafood could be complementary. India would have the
advantage of lower expenditure in freight and shipping charges than most of the
western suppliers in the current market. The acceptable product range is truly
wide, including lobster, varieties of high value fishes, crabs (especially the larger
ones), oysters, sea cucumbers, sea urchins, etc.
Cereals and Cereal Preparations
During the first Hong Kong imported cereals and cereal preparations (SIC
half of 2001, Indian 04) worth US$ 424 million (-2.6%) during 2000. Thailand
cereal export to is the top exporter. Its exports reached US$ 135 million (-
Hong Kong 0.2%) followed by China (US$ 108 million [+4.8%]) and
growing at Japan (US$ 37 million -[12.2%]). During 2000, Indian
+ 229.1% and the export of cereals to Hong Kong actually declined steeply by
value of export has – 32.5% and the value was US$ 76,000. However, during
already crossed the first half of 2001, this commodity export is showing a
the total export
remarkable bounce back by growing at + 229.1% and the
during the year
value of export has already reached US$ 96,000, which is
2000.
more than the total export during 2000.
Vegetables and Fruit
Hong Kong imported vegetables and fruit (SITC 05) worth US$ 1415 million (-
4.6%) during 2000. USA is the top exporter of vegetables and fruit to Hong
Kong. Its export reached US$ 430 million (+7.7%) followed by China (US$ 326
million [-4.9%]) and Thailand (US$ 143 million [-7.3%]). India exported a total of
US$ 5.5 million worth of fruits and vegetables to Hong Kong during 2000, which
saw a 5.5% growth.

Sugars, Sugar Preparations, and Honey
Hong Kong imported sugars, sugar preparations and honey (SITC 06) worth US$
207 million (-7.1%). China is the top exporter of sugars, sugar preparations, and
honey to Hong Kong. Its export reached US$ 54 million (+18.9%) followed by
Republic of Korea (US$ 46 million [-9.2%]) and Japan (US$ 29 million [-4.8%]).
India exported US$ 34,000 worth of sugar and honey to Hong Kong during 2000,
which was actually a steep decline (-39.2%).
Coffee, Tea, Cocoa, Spices
Hong Kong imported coffee, tea, cocoa, spices, and manufactures thereof (SITC
07) worth US$ 191 million (+5.7%) during 2000. China is the top exporter of
coffee, tea, cocoa, spices, and manufactures thereof to Hong Kong. Its export
reached US$ 47 million (-10.9%) followed by USA (US$ 18 million [+11.3%]) and
Singapore (US$ 22 million [+64.0%]).
Indian export of India is the 15th ranking important exporter of coffee tea
coffee to Hong and spices to Hong Kong. It is actually regaining its
Kong declined for ground in this sector as Indian export to Hong Kong saw a
the last 3 years. continuous decline during 1998 (-14.7%) and 1999 (-
However, in 2001, 43.8%). Indian export of these commodities during 2000
it is growing at showed a very slight decline (0.6%) and the value was US$
111.8%. 1.4 million. However, during the first half of 2001, this
sector shows a promising growth of + 111.8% and the
value of imports during these first six months have already crossed the total value
of exports during 2000, to reach US$ 1.5 million.
Feeding Stuff for Animals
Hong Kong imported feeding stuff for animals (SITC 08) worth US$ 73 million (-
2.1%) during 2000. China is the top exporter of feeding stuff for animals to Hong
Kong. Its export reached US$ 27 million (-11.9%) followed by USA (US$ 16
million [+16.1%]) and Australia (US$ 6 million [+17.9%]). Indian export in this
commodity is negligible.
Miscellaneous Edible Products
Hong Kong imported miscellaneous edible products and preparations (SITC 09)
worth US$ 582 million (-14.1%) during 2000. Indonesia is the top exporter of
miscellaneous edible products and preparations to Hong Kong. Its export
reached US$ 128 million (+6.4%) followed by China (US$ 119 million [-12.7%])
and USA (US$ 91 million [-16.5%]). Indian export in this commodity is
negligible.
Live Animals
Hong Kong imported live animals (SITC 00) worth US$ 414 million (-9.4%)
during 2000. China is the top exporter of live animals to Hong Kong. Its export
reached US$ 318 million (-0.4%) followed by Thailand (US$ 51 million (-45.0%)
and Australia (US$ 18 million [-0.9%]). Indian export in this commodity is
negligible.

Health Food and Convenience Food
With the established ‘brand’ of Indian natural health products, the market
potential for health food is sizeable. The prominent product range includes
products for beautifying, slimming, and hair-growing. Strong contenders for the
market would be Japan, US, Australia and China. The Hong Kong consumers
perceive Japanese health products as the trustworthiest products due to the
consumers established trust in Japanese technology6. The presently limited market
of dietary products may stay as a niche market. However, the potential for
organic food products would increase with the concerns of biotechnology in the
food industry. Indian exporters should have long-term goal to establish their
brands in Hong Kong.
The ‘convenience’ factor is gaining importance in the Hong Kong food market.
Sauces, butter, jam products packed for convenient uses and for single-time-use
packets have good opportunity in Hong Kong.
3.4 Indian Cuisine in Hong Kong

About 30,000 Indians live in Hong Kong. Even though they have adopted their
food habits to accommodate wider range of food, Indian food is still one of their
preferred foods. The distinguishing feature of this market is that most of the
customers have a high volume of disposable income through their successful
business in Hong Kong. They are the main markets for the sale of high variety
basmati rice in Hong Kong.
There are about To cater to the needs of the Indians in Hong Kong, there
30,000 Indians in are about half a dozen Indian provisions stores in Hong
Hong Kong. Indian Kong. They sell typically Indian provision, almost all of
food is becoming them imported from India. However, as explained under
popular among the topic of rice control in Hong Kong, the import of
non-Indians also. basmati rice still operates on an ad-hoc basis, through a
special permission for each consignment. Most of the
provision stores in Hong Kong import their rice directly from Indian importers.
Hong Kong has more than 50 Indian restaurants. The regular customers include
not only Hong Kong Indian community, but also local Chinese community and
the expatriate community of Hong Kong. The number of Indian tourists to
Hong Kong during 20007 was 131,368, which saw a growth of 22.4%. During
2001, this figure crossed 150,000 and saw a 23.3% growth. This also adds to the
demand for Indian food in Hong Kong. Indian food is becoming popular as a
good change from the European food. Moreover, Indian food is seen as
matching to the spicy needs of Chinese and Asian tastes.
6 Based on a report of Hong Kong polytechnic university’s market study

7 A statistical review of Hong Kong tourism 2000, Hong Kong Tourism Board, May 2001

4
Part
4. Hong Kong Market Details

Hong Kong food distribution channels
Standards, rules and regulations
Labelling
Market entry strategies for organisations
Market entry strategies for exporters
Normal business practices in Hong Kong
4.1 Hong Kong Food Distribution Channels
T hough the geographical area of Hong Kong for domestic food market is
very limited, Hong Kong has developed a range of channels for food
distribution. Apart from the importers who import essentially for re -
export, the following channels are important for local distribution of food
products in Hong Kong.
Bulk Imports
Food imports of Hong Kong are normally imported in bulk, which is then
distributed locally to wholesalers, retailers and even to bulk users like food
establishments. This kind of food imports form about one-third of total food
imports in Hong Kong.
Wholesalers
The wholesalers The wholesalers handle another one-third of the import of

supply to bulk food items in Hong Kong. The wholesalers supply to bulk
users like food users like food establishments, retailers, including the
establishments, supermarkets. The supply to supermarket is either to the
retailers, including individual shops (especially perishable and products
the supermarkets requiring cold storage transportation) or to the central
distribution centres of the supermarkets. In the later case,
the supermarkets charge for the distribution charges also. Normally the
wholesalers enter into business on contractual basis, ranging for a few months.

Direct Sales
Due to extreme Bulk users and supermarkets sometime import food items
polarisation of the and this category forms one-third of the total import of
Hong Kong food food items in Hong Kong. A direct sale to supermarkets
retailing industry, normally comes with the clause of exclusive product
the retailers wield retailing rights in Hong Kong market. Supermarkets
an extremely hard purchase non-branded items like fruits, meat and vegetables
bargaining power. directly as this is cost competitive. However, due to
extreme polarisation of the Hong Kong food retailing
industry, the retailers wield an extremely hard bargaining power to demand price,
terms and conditions, etc. Some of the food establishments also directly import
certain food items.
It is said that the importers and wholesalers mark up c.i.f. (cost, insurance, and
freight) prices on food up to 20%. Supermarkets, due to operational costs and
rentals, mark up the prices even up to 35%.
Retail
For a small area as that of Hong Kong, the concentration of food retail outlets is
on the higher side. Hong Kong has about 15000 general grocery stores, which
handing 28% of the retail sales in Hong Kong, amounting to about US$ 1 billion.
However, the 1300 supermarkets handle 37% of the sales, amounting to more
than US$ 4 billion. Other than the outlets mentioned above, there are
hypermarkets, other food outlets, cooperatives, convenience stores like 7-Eleven
etc. Traditional wet markets, including fish shops, butchers, and vegetable stands,
accounted for up to 22% of food sales in 1999, at US$ 2.5 billion.
Hong Kong supermarkets normally are smaller compared to the international

standards. Hence, the stock – supply – sale cycle is shorter than the normal
practices. This demands that the supplier should be able to send the shipments
more frequently, in smaller quantities.
The stock – supply The supermarket industry in Hong Kong is facing a virtual
– sale cycle is duopoly between Wellcome and PARKnSHOP chains.
shorter than the Wellcome is a division of Dairy Farm, owned by Jardine.
normal practices. PARKnSHOP is part of the Hutchison conglomerate,
This demands that owned by Li Ka Shing family. Wellcome has about 251
the supplier should outlets while PARKnSHOP has about 196 outlets. CRC
be able to send the chain, (66 outlets), Dah Chong Hong (38 outlets) etc., are
shipments more
smaller players in this market. French giant Carrefour
frequently, in
closed its operations in 2000 citing the bullying competition
smaller quantities.
style of the duopoly, which exercises power through cutting
the supplier-supermarket links by stipulating exclusivity
clause. The Mainland China owned Guangnan KK supermarkets closed their 43
outlets in 2001.
The niche independent Japanese-owned supermarkets like Seibu, Sogo, Jusco

serve to the high-end clientele by offering premium products, not available in the

normal supermarket chains. Indian exporters aiming to market premium brands

could consider this market seriously.
As most of the supermarkets in Hong Kong are situated in highly populated areas,
the shelf space becomes costly. Informal estimates suggest that supermarkets
mark-up the prices up to 35%. Convenient stores like 7-Eleven, mark- up to 50%
and some high and food courts mark -up even as high as 100%. Hence, despite
the number of outlets, it is difficult for a small or medium sized exporter to obtain
shelf space. The Indian exporters may consider working with distributor, agent,
or consolidator to reach the supermarket shelves. In addition, some smaller food
retailers and inspection shops may encourage new products at nominal rates.
Sales Agents
An agent may be a useful tool for an Indian exporter to reach the marketing and
distribution channels of food market of Hong Kong. The exporters should try to
get details about agents’ contacts with the supermarkets, the company’s
reputation, and distribution network. In addition, the agent selection should be
based on whether the agent is equipped with delivery system with the required
technology and quality for the product you want to export.
4.2 Standards, Rules and Regulations

Import Regulations
Hong Kong is a free port and hence generally does not impose any import or
export tariffs. Food exports to Hong Kong do not attract any import tariff except
liquor, spirits, tobacco products, and hydrocarbon oil (for fuel). Beer and liquor
with less than 30% alcohol by volume are subject to 40% duty. Liquor with more
than 30% alcohol is subject to 100% duty. All wines are subject to 60% import
duty. Any dutiable commodity will require that the importer apply for a licence
from Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department. Every consignment has to
be imported after applying for a permit. Commodities like meat, milk and raw
frozen and dairy food products are also to be imported after getting import
permits.
Frozen poultry is already subject to import permits from Food and

Environmental Hygiene Depart ment, especially to check the rising trend of
smuggled-in frozen poultry from Mainland China.
Reorganisation of Food Safety Agencies
HKSAR Government reorganised its food safety agencies on 1 January 2001.

The main feature of the reorganisation is the creation of the Environment and
Food Bureau.

All agencies Environment and Food Bureau has consolidated various

dealing with food food safety and environmental hygiene responsibilities
safety in Hong previously handled by three different government bodies,
Kong come under namely, the Health Department, the Agriculture and
one Bureau, Fisheries Department, and the Municipal Councils. In the
namely, earlier set up, the food safety agencies were split between
Environment and Economic Services Bureau and Health and Welfare Bureau.
Food Bureau. With this reorganisation, all agencies dealing with food
safety in Hong Kong come under one Bureau, namely,
Environment and Food Bureau. The reorganisation aims for creating a structure
that is more efficient and better coordinated.
The new Environment and Food Bureau is responsible for policy matters
concerning food supply and food safety; environmental hygiene; environmental
protection; conservation; and agriculture and fisheries. This new Bureau will
oversee three depart ments:
§ Environmental Protection Department

§ Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department
§ Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (newly created)
The new Food and Environmental Hygiene Department takes over

responsibilities from the municipal councils for environmental hygiene services
such as licensing and inspection of food premises, food safety and control
responsibilities such as food surveillance, food science and research, standards,
labelling, nutritional surveys from Department of Health, and live poultry and
food animal inspection from Agriculture and Fisheries Department. In other
words, one department will administer food safety surveillance at all distinct levels.
The Agriculture and Fisheries Department has been renamed as Agriculture,

Fisheries, and Conservation Department starting 1st January 2000. With the role
of conservation added, this Department has transferred the following functions to
the new Food and Environmental Hygiene Department: poultry inspection and
control; food animal quarantine and health checks; livestock/poultry farm hygiene
inspections etc.
The handling of the recent avian flu crisis of 2001, though caused by a more
benign virus, was widely appreciated by the public and the media vindicating the
reorganisation. The avian flu crisis of 1997 saw more widespread alarm, economic
impact, and spread of disease leading to killing of human beings.
Food Safety Rules of Hong Kong
In Hong Kong, the legal framework of food safety control is laid down in Part V
of the Public Health and Municipal Services Ordinance, Cap 1328. The basis
8Main ordinance and relevant subsidiary legislation can be browsed on

http://www.infogov.hk/justice/laws/index/htm

requirement, as stipulated in Section 54 of the Ordinance, is that no food intended

for sale should be unfit for human consumption.
Import of frozen or Food and Environment Hygiene Department is

chilled beef, responsible for implementing territory -wide policies of
mutton, pork, and food safety control and enforcing the food legislation. To
poultry is subject this end, this Department is authorised by law to take food
to import licensing samples at points of entry for various kinds of tests,
control. including bacteriological examination and chemical analysis.
Food importers are responsible for ensuring that the imported food items comply
with local legislation. It is advisable that the Indian exporter obtains health
certificates issued by health authorities of India to accompany their exports.
Exporting of Game, Meat and Poultry
Under the Import and Export Ordinance, Cap 60, import of frozen or chilled
beef, mutton, pork, and poultry is subject to import licensing control. Food and
Environmental Hygiene Department is responsible for issuing import licenses for
these foods.
Indian exporters At present, there are 26 countries whose authority for

are advised to issuing hygiene certificate for the food items are recognised
attach the Indian by Director of Food and Environmental Hygiene Bureau
hygiene certificate of Hong Kong. The countries are Argentina, Australia,
along with their Botswana, Brazil, Canada, China, Denmark, France,
exports and liaise Germany, Japan, Kenya, Republic of Korea, Malawi,
with their Namibia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, Singapore,
importer. South Africa, Sweden, Thailand, United Kingdom, United
States of America, Uruguay, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Indian organizations are in touch with Hong Kong Government for getting
recognition for Indian certificate issuing authorities. Meanwhile, Indian exporters
are advised to attach the Indian hygiene certificate along with their exports and
liaise with their importing counterpart in Hong Kong in this regard. It is to be
noted that the Hong Kong importer will liaise with Hong Kong authorities before
each consignment of transhipped meat or poultry. All exports of game, meat, and
poultry are to be entered through Man Kam To Checkpoint or through the Hong
Kong International Airport.
Exporting Marine Products
At present, when the consignment of marine products arrives at entry points of

Hong Kong, it may be subject to inspection or sampling by the Department. If
the importer concerned is not able to present a health certificate during
inspection, the Department will take samples from the consignment for
examinations before its release.
Exporting Meat and Poultry (Frozen / Chilled)
According to Food and Environmental Hygiene Department, the definition of

meat includes beef, mutton, pork, veal or lamb, and the offal of any animal from

which such meat is derived. The poultry includes the carcass of a domestic fowl,
duck, goose or turkey or any part of such a carcass, and any part of a bird
mentioned above which is edible or used in the preparation of food.
Indian exporters may note that each consignment of this meat and poultry (frozen
or chilled) will be imported by their importers with import licence authority for
one time only. A valid health certificates must support licence applications.
Please note that import licences for these items are given or issued only to firms
registered with Food and Environmental Hygiene Department. One of the
licensing conditions for issue import licenses requires imported consignment of
meat and poultry are to be stored in authorised cold storages only.
Monitoring Pesticides Residue
The Public Health and Municipal Services Ordinance, Cap 132 stipulates that no
person shall sell or process or consign for the purpose of selling any food that are
unwholesome, adulterated or unfit for human consumption.
On a routine basis, Food and Environmental Hygiene Department takes samples

of different foods for analysis for verification if the pesticide residues are within
the ‘tolerance levels’.
HKSAR currently adopts the Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) and Extraneous
Maximum Residue Limits (EMRLs) for pesticides recommended by Codex
Alimentarious Commission of the WHO/FAO.
Rice Control and De-Licensing
According to the Reserved Commodities Ordinance (Cap. 296), rice is classified as

a reserved commodity and its supply and prices are subject to control. This
system is in force since 1955. For this, the Rice Control Unit issues licences for
the ‘stockholders’ who import and hold the stock. At present, there are 55
licensed rice stockholders9.
The Reserved Commodities Unit of Trade and Industry Department used to

control import of rice, frozen meat and poultry for local consumption in Hong
Kong. In August 2000, the Department of Food and Environment Hygiene has
taken over the responsibility for issuing licences for import of frozen meat and
poultry. Hence, the Reserved Commodities Unit of Trade and Industry
Department is now called as Rice Control Unit.
However, the HKSAR Government has been practising ‘out of quota’ basmati
rice importing system for special considerations. Since 197710, provision stores
that cater to the local Indian community are importing basmati rice directly from
India, Pakistan and a small quantity from Brazil and Italy outside the quota.
Officials report that this practice was initiated because hardly any of the licensed
‘stock holders’ is keen to import and maintain stock of basmati rice for local
9 Figures provided by Rice control unit, HKSAR Government.

10 Rice Control Unit records.

consumption. While Hong Kong imports around 320,000 tonnes of rice per year,
the import of basmati rice is only around 300 to 400 tonnes per year.
Hong Kong is planning to de-licence the import of rice for local consumption by
2003-4. Once this licensing system is abolished, anybody can import any kind of
rice, including basmati rice, directly. It is to be noted that only retailing rice for
local consumption in Hong Kong is under control and not trading in rice for re -
exporting.
Basmati rice importers are free to import from any country of their choice.
Presently, the low quality Pakistani rice, which is about 30% cheaper than the high
quality Indian rice, is being imported more, even by the Indian provision stores.
Indian rice exporters with cheaper-variety Basmati rice can utilise this exiting
market opportunity of about 300 to 400 tonnes.
Rice is staple food for 90 percent of the Hong Kong population. Despite the
increase in population, Hong Kong’s total annual rice consumption has remained
more or less stable at around 330,000 to 350,000 tons since 1975. With a more
diverse diet due to improved living standards, per capita rice consumption has
declined from 78 kgs in 1975 to 48 kgs in 1998. With an annual import value of
US$180 million, the loosening of import quota administration will definitely
attract newcomers. Large supermarkets with numerous retail outlets will naturally
explore new opportunities in order to cut costs. Reportedly, PARKnSHOP, one
of the two major supermarket chains in Hong Kong, has already indicated interest
in importing rice directly from overseas suppliers. With more competition on the
supply side, rice prices can be expected to drop in the short term following
liberalisation of quota allocation.
All the rice consumed in Hong Kong is imported. In 1998, Hong Kong’s primary
suppliers were Thailand (76 percent), Australia (20 percent), China (3 percent),
and Vietnam (1 percent). Rice imports are sourced according to price, quality, and
flavour. As a free port, Hong Kong maintains no import duty on rice.
4.3 Labelling
General Requirements
The Food and Drugs (Composition and Labelling) Regulations require that all11
food products sold in Hong Kong be labelled in a prescribed, uniform and legible
manner. The label of all pre -packaged food items must provide the following
information:
Name of food
List of Ingredients
‘Best before’ or ‘use by’ date
11 Exceptions provided under law are, Individually wrapped confectionary products, fruit sold as single
items, food for sale to catering businesses for immediate consumption; and food items containing more
than 1.2% alcohol by volume

Special requirements for storage conditions and/or usage of item

Name and address of manufacturer and packer
Number, net weight, or net volume of item.
The labelling regulations of Hong Kong allow for use of either of the official
languages, namely, English or Chinese. However, this discretion is more product-
specific. If the exported items require detailed instructions for usage, the
instructions should preferably be Chinese. Otherwise, English labelling normally
carries the prestige stamp also. Most of the items aimed for wider middle-class
customer do carry bilingual labels.
GM Food Labels
As mentioned above, Hong Kong relies upon imports for food supply and hence
the debate on genetically modified (GM) crops or livestock is gaining importance
in this market. In July 2000, Hong Kong Government has formed a consultative
committee comprised of representatives from the food and beverage industry,
food wholesalers and retailers, and consumer and pressure groups, to discuss a
labelling regulation for GM food products. Though the voluntarily labelling
system is widely proposed, the re-export opportunities to other western markets
and presumed consumer preference for products with “GM free” label may
provide a more specific market sector for these products.
In September 2001, one of the biggest supermarket chains, PARKnSHOP has

voluntarily announced that it would not use GM food items for its own brand
distributions. This is expected to be followed by other players too.
4.4 Market Entry Strategies for

Organisations
Market Access Initiative (MAI)
Indian food export organisations / agencies could provide impetus to the focus
on Hong Kong food market by planning MAI’s for Indian exporting compa nies.
To participate in food commodity trade fairs in Hong Kong, MAI could be
structured so that over a period of three years, the exporters get the support to
participate in Hong Kong food commodity trade fairs by way of getting, say 75%,
50%, 25% of the cost of participation from the organisation / agency. After the
third year, the individual company will be able to participate on its own having
realized the potential of the market and the trade volume.
Even though the number of Indian companies participating in the exhibition

could improve on its own by the potential of the market, if all the Indian food
exporting companies can come under a National Pavilion organized by the food
exporting organisations/agencies of India, this would provide a greater business
impact. All these stalls would be decorated with an Indian theme and this would
project the size of Indian participation in the exhibition and India’s interest in
Hong Kong food market.

Dissemination of Information
Business Opportunities in Hong Kong
Indian food export associations and agencies can subscribe to the free email
newsletter published by the Consulate General of India, Hong Kong called
“Business Opportunities in Hong Kong” on a fortnightly basis. This newsletter
contains business information including the following:
§ Current economic developments in Hong Kong

§ Trade queries received from Hong Kong traders for all items including
food commodities
§ Tender notices received from the Government departments for all the
items including food commodities
§ Introduction and contact details about important commercial associations
of Hong Kong
§ Forthcoming important business conferences and trade fairs in Hong
Kong in all sectors including food industry
This valuable business information could be dissemi nated to the members of the
organisations in two ways:
§ This could be directly emailed to the members’ email addresses

§ If the organisation/agency has a website, a separate web page could be
created to provide business opportunity information like trade queries and
tenders with relevant links to get further information.
In case the Indian food organisation/agency is not receiving our free fortnightly
email newsletter “Business Opportunities in Hong Kong”, they can subscribe by
sending an email to commerce2@indianconsulate.org.hk
Business Opportunities in India
Indian food export associations can utilize the effective tool of another free e-
news letter published on fortnightly basis to project the capabilities of the
associations/agencies in catering to the needs of an importer from Hong Kong
food market. The role and functions of the associations with full contact details
could be provided. This information would be circulated to important business
organisations and associations, apart from individual business people of Hong
Kong.
This newsletter can also be utilized to advertise various business events and fairs
organised in India for the food commodity export. Indian food export
associations/agencies can write to Consulate General of India, Hong Kong with
full details about the event, which could be highlighted in the newsletter.
Virtual Trade Fairs
At present, Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development

Authority (APEDA) website (http://www.apeda.com) provides a special feature
called “Virtual Trade Fairs” (VTF). This feature provides opportunity for

effective online interaction between Indian food exporters and potential buyers
globally to promote Indian agricultural and processed food export.
Every individual Indian food exporter could be provided the facility to create a
unique ‘trade fair booth’. Here the company can provide its background
information, the products it offers, the cost range and contact details. Every
Indian company, which has created its own ‘trade fair booth’ in this VTF, can
include this information when they send trade queries or offers to potential buyers
abroad. This would facilitate the buyer to visually see the product and get more
information, if necessary on the website itself.
Food Commodity Trade Fairs in Hong Kong
Hong Kong hosts a number of important international conferences and trade fairs
for all the sectors, including the food commodities. These fairs provide good
opportunities for the Indian trade promotion organisations to take the initiative in
helping their members entering Hong Kong food market as these shows attract
the local distributors and importers in large number.
Food Expo
This expo for food and beverage is an annual event conducted by Hong Kong
Trade Development Council (http://www.tdctrade.com). Normally organised
during August every year, this event is gaining popularity among the business
community. In 2000, 222 exhibitors participated and 217,583 visitors attended the
event.
Important products displayed in the expo include Baby food, bakery products,
beers, beverages, biscuits, bread, cakes, canned food, cereals and cereal products,
cheese, Chinese tea, confectionery, convenience food, dairy products, delicatessen,
desserts and dessert mixes, edible oil, food preparation apparatus, fruit
(fresh/canned/dried), fruit juices, frozen food, ginseng, health food, honey
products, ice-cream, kitchen utensils, mineral water, natural food, noodles and
pasta, sauces and seasonings, sausages, snacks, soups, vegetables, wines and spirits,
yoghurt, etc.
The Food expo 2002 is to be held during 15 to 19 August 2002. For further
information on participation fee, package, application, etc, please log on to
http://foodexpo.tdc.org.hk/
HOFEX
This important fair called Asian International Exhibition of Hospitality

Equipment, Supplies and Technologies, Food and Drink is conducted once in
two years. The next fair is to be organised during 6-9 May 2003. HOFEX is
organised by Hong Kong Exhibition Services Ltd. The items exhibited in the fair
include beverage, confectionery, dairy products, flour and wheat, frozen food,
fresh fruit, liqueur, meat and meat products, nut, oil and oil products, organic
products, seafood, tea, wine and hospitality equipment, supplies and technology.
Indian trade promotion organisations desiring to participate in the HOFEX 2003

may contact Consulate General of India, Hong Kong at the e-mail address

commerce2@indianconsulate.org.hk. For further information the organisations

may also contact the following address:
Hong Kong Exhibition Services Ltd.,

Unit 2010, 20/F
China Resources Building
26 Harbour Road
Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 - 2804 1500
Fax: +852 - 2528 3103
Web: http://www.hkesmontnet.com.hk
Email: exhibit@hkesmontnet.com.hk
Hong Kong International Food Fair
This annual fair is conducted by Neway International Trade Fairs Ltd. About 500
exhibitors participate in this food fair, which is attended by around 15,000 visitors.
The items exhibited are confectionery, biscuits and pastry, canned food, dairy
products, delicatessen, frozen and prepared food, fruit and vegetable products,
green and organic food, health and dietetic food, noodle and pasta, coffee and tea,
spirits, wine, natural beverages, health drinks, condiments, additives, maintenance
equipment, processing/dispensing equipment, packaging/display/retain supplies
and equipment, guest amenities.
The next Hong Kong international food fair is to be organised during January 24-
27, 2002. Indian trade promotion organisations desiring to participate in the fair
Neway International Trade Fairs Ltd.,

9/F, Fortis Tower,
77 Gloucester Road,
Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 - 2561 5566
Fax: +852 - 2811 9156
Web: http://www.newayfairs.com
Email: info@newayfairs.com
Beauty and Fitness Expo
This Expo focuses on beauty and fitness products including health food. Around
100 exporters participate in this Expo, which is attended by 50,000 visitors. Even
though this Expo aims at a niche market, the growing health and beauty conscious
younger generation is normally provided with a substantial disposable income.
Indian exporters interested in diet food, health food etc. may consider
participating in this Expo.

The products exhibited in this Expo include diet food and equipment, cosmetics,
skin care products and courses, health food and products, fitness courses and
equipment, Chinese and Western diet medicine, fitness centres and magazines etc.
Indian trade promotion organisations desiring to participate in the HOFEX 2003

HK (Asia) Exhibitions Co. Ltd.,

Room 601-3
Gigna Tower, 482 Jeffee Road
Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 - 2591 9823
Fax: +852 - 2573 3311
Web: http://www.hka.com.hk
Email: hkexhi@hka.com.hk
Business Delegation
Indian food export organisations/agencies can organize a business delegation to

Hong Kong. This delegation could be composed of select exporters whose
products have more relevance to Hong Kong market. If complete information
about the members of the delegation along with their trade interest were made
available, Consulate General of India, Hong Kong would arrange business
interactions with relevant government bureaus and agencies, food industry
associations, food importers, buying offices of superma rkets etc. Consulate
General of India, Hong Kong can also arrange general business meetings with
food traders who are members of other chambers of commerce in Hong Kong.
These delegations could be taken on a guided tour to see the food distribution
channels in Hong Kong food market including the storage houses, the
supermarkets, the retail markets including Indian provision stores, etc.
Delegations can interact with government bureaus and agencies to know first
hand the standards, rules and regulations to be followed when Indian food
commodities are exported to Hong Kong. Technical details in the two standard
regimes between India and Hong Kong could be discussed and options for
creating common standards could be explored.
Study
Indian food exporting organisations/agencies could initiate a deeper study for

individual products like fishes, grains etc. These studies could be made
comprehensive by getting detailed information about the food market for the
particular product from various sources in Hong Kong including Government
bureaus and agencies, food industry associations, food importers, buying offices
of supermarkets etc. International trade legal firms could be approached to get
further information about ways of facilitating the common standard between the
two countries.

4.5 Market Entry Strategies for Exporters

Trade Query
Important contact details of importers of food items in Hong Kong are given at
Part 6 of this report. However, if any Indian food exporter wants to narrow the
search for a suitable importer for a specific export item, they can write to
Consulate General of India giving details about their products. The Consulate
would search our database and send a list of relevant food importers in Hong
Kong, including phone, fax and email addresses.
Subscribing to Newsletter
Consulate General of India, Hong Kong brings out a fortnightly free e-newsletter
called “Business Opportunities in Hong Kong”. This newsletter reaches the
subscribers through their email. This newsletter contains business information
including the following:
§ Current economic developments in Hong Kong

§ Trade queries received from Hong Kong traders for all items including
food commodities
§ Tender notices received from the Government departments for all the
items including food commodities
§ Introduction and contact details about important commercial associations
of Hong Kong
§ Forthcoming important business conferences and trade fairs in Hong
Kong in all sectors including food industry
Interested Indian exporters can send an email to

commerce2@indianconsulate.org.hk to subscribe to this useful newsletter. This
periodic current business information will provide excellent opening for Indian
exporters to exploit the trade opportunities in Hong Kong food market.
Virtual Trade Fair for Food Export12
Virtual Trade Fair (VTF) is an on-line project by APEDA to provide an

opportunity for effective on-line interaction between Indian food exporters and
potential buyers globally to promote Indian agricultural and processed food
exports. The salient features include the following:
§ Information on domestic and international trade fairs, both ongoing and

forthcoming, until 2002, constantly updated.
§ The Auditorium zone, which provides a stage for online seminars,
discussions, celebrity, etc. The regi stered visitors to the VTF are informed
of celebrity and online seminars.
12 http:// www.apeda.com

§ An Exhibition Hall, which displays links to all exhibitors at the VTF. This
section also provides for the facility to search for companies and
products.
§ A Trading Zone, which is the core of the trade fair. This is the section
where companies can post their offers, their demands, and match up their
requirements. Registered international buyers/buying agents can view
offers for all APEDA-related agro products.
§ A News Centre, where re gular updates on food-processing related news,
APEDA newsletters and other business news are available.
§ An online chat facility called APEDA Chat. This helps communication
between buyers and exporters, and is divided according to area – cereals,
floriculture and seeds, processed fruits and vegetables, fruits and
vegetables, other processed foods and animal products.
Indian food exporters may create their own ‘stalls’ in this virtual trade fair. They
can include this particular web address in their company profile and send the
information to interested importers in Hong Kong.
Food Commodity Trade Fairs in India
India organises a number of important international conferences and trade fairs in

the food export sector. These exhibitions are drawing substantial number of food
importers from other countries. These could provide a good opening for an
Indian food exporter. Here, basic details of some of these fairs are given.
Krishi Expo
This Annual Fair is conducted by India Trade Promotion Organisation. The

product range includes agriculture and related products. The Krishi Expo is
normally held at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.
Interested Indian exporters can participate in this Expo by contacting the

organisers at the following address:
India Trade Promotion O rganisation

Contact: General Manager (DFD)
Pragati Bhavan, Pragati Maidan
New Delhi 110 001
Tel: 91-11-337 1582/ 331 5277/ 337 1814/ 332 2819
Fax: 91-11-37 1869/ 331 1842/ 331 8135
Email: itpo@giasd101.vsnl.net.in
Web: http://www.krishiexpoindia.com
Aahar
This important exhibition displays food industry products including processed

foods, processing, packing and refrigeration machinery, agricultural products, and
hotel and restaurant equipment.

Aahar is normally organized at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. Interested Indian

exporters may contact the organisers at the following address:
India Trade Promotion Organisation

Contact: General Manager (DFD)
Pragati Bhavan, Pragati Maidan
New Delhi 110 001
Tel: 91-11- 337 1582/ 331 5277/ 337 1814/ 332 2819
Fax: 91-11-337 1869/ 331 1842/ 331 8135
Web: http://www.aharaindia.com
International Dairy and Food Technology Expo (IDFT)
IDFT is an annual Expo featuring multi-faceted dairy and food technology

products of India. The displays range includes health, animal housing and
management, fodder; feedstuff and storage, packaging, storage and distribution;
milking refrigeration and cooling technology; food processing machines and
equipment; food preservation and storage; processed and extruded; food
packaging machines and equipment; measuring, testing and material handling
equipment and systems; liquid food processing. IDFT is organised by Tafcon
Projects (India) Pvt. Ltd., and is sponsored by Ministry of Agriculture
(Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying).
Interested exporters may contact the organisers:
Tafcon Projects (India) Pvt. Ltd

Contact: Mr. K. Ravi Varma or Mr. V. K. Sharma
C-60, Nizamuddin East
New Delhi 110 013
Tel: 91-11- 463 3881/ 463 3889/ 469 2182
Fax: 91-11-463 5215/ 464 4077
Email: tafcon@del2.vsnl.net.in
Web: http://www.tafcon.com/dairy.htm
Food Commodity Trade Fairs in Hong Kong
Hong Kong hosts a number of important international conferences and trade fairs
for all the sectors, including the food commodities. These fairs provide good
opportunities for the Indian exporter to take the initiative in entering Hong Kong
food market as these shows attract the local distributors and importers in large
number.
Food Expo
This expo for food and beverage is an annual event conducted by Hong Kong
Trade Development Council (http://www.tdctrade.com). Normally organised
during August every year, this event is gaining popularity among the business

community. In 2000, 222 exhibitors participated and 217,583 visitors attended the
event.
Important products displayed in the expo include Baby food, bakery products,
beers, beverages, biscuits, bread, cakes, canned food, cereals and cereal products,
cheese, Chinese tea, confectionery, convenience food, dairy products, delicatessen,
desserts and dessert mixes, edible oil, food preparation apparatus, fruit
(fresh/canned/dried), fruit juices, frozen food, ginseng, health food, honey
products, ice-cream, kitchen utensils, mineral water, natural food, noodles and
pasta, sauces and seasonings, sausages, snacks, soups, vegetables, wines and spirits,
yoghurt, etc.
The Food expo 2002 is to be held during 15-19 August 2002. For further
information on participation fee, package, application, etc, please log on to
http://foodexpo.tdc.org.hk/
HOFEX
This important fair called Asian International Exhibition of Hospitality

Equipment, Supplies and Technologies, Food and Drink is conducted once in
two years. The next fair is to be organised during 6-9 May 2003. HOFEX is
organised by Hong Kong Exhibition Services Ltd. The items exhibited in the fair
include beverage, confectionery, dairy products, flour and wheat, frozen food,
fresh fruit, liqueur, meat and meat products, nut, oil and oil products, organic
products, seafood, tea, wine and hospitality equipment, supplies and technology.
Indian exporters desiring to participate in the HOFEX 2003 may contact the
organisers at the following address.
Hong Kong Exhibition Services Ltd.,

Unit 2010, 20/F
China Resources Building
26 Harbour Road
Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 - 2804 1500
Fax: +852 - 2528 3103
Web: http://www.hkesmontnet.com.hk
Email: exhibit@hkesmontnet.com.hk
Hong Kong International Food Fair
This annual fair is conducted by Neway International Trade Fairs Ltd. About 500
exhibitors participate in this food fair, which is attended by around 15,000 visitors.
The items exhibited are confectionery, biscuits and pastry, canned food, dairy
products, delicatessen, frozen and prepared food, fruit and vegetable products,
green and organic food, health and dietetic food, noodle and pasta, coffee and tea,
spirits, wine, natural beverages, health drinks, condiments, additives, maintenance
equipment, processing/dispensing equipment, packaging/display/retain supplies
and equipment, guest amenities.

The next Hong Kong international food fair is to be organised during 24-27
January 2002. Interested Indian exporters may contact the organisers at the
following address:
Neway International Trade Fairs Ltd.,

9/F, Fortis Tower,
77 Gloucester Road,
Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 - 2561 5566
Fax: +852 - 2811 9156
Web: http://www.newayfairs.com
Email: info@newayfairs.com
Beauty and Fitness Expo
This Expo focuses on beauty and fitness products including health food. Around
100 exporters participate in this Expo, which is attended by 50,000 visitors. Even
though this Expo aims at a niche market, the growing health and beauty conscious
younger generation is normally provided with a substantial disposable income.
Indian exporters interested in diet food, health food etc. may consider
participating in this Expo.
The products exhibited in this Expo include diet food and equipment, cosmetics,
skin care products and courses, health food and products, fitness courses and
equipment, Chinese and Western diet medicine, fitness centres and magazines etc.
Indian exporters wishing to participate in this exhibition may contact the

organisers at the following address:
HK (Asia) Exhibitions Co. Ltd.,

Room 601-3
Gigna Tower, 482 Jeffee Road
Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 - 2591 9823
Fax: +852 - 2573 3311
Web: http://www.hka.com.hk
Email: hkexhi@hka.com.hk
4.6 Normal Business Practices in Hong

Kong
Business in Hong Kong is typically formal. When interacting with Hong Kong
business people, exchanging business cards (visiting cards) is a customary first
step. The card is presented by holding it with both hands. Shaking hands and
wearing formal business suits are norms. Meetings are always by appointments
and punctuality is strictly maintained. Meetings normally are of 45 minutes to 1
hour duration.

Normal payment methods include Letter of Credit, open account, sight draft, and
documents against payments. Documents covering a shipment normally include
an invoice, health certificate, and bill of lading/airway bill. For air -freight
shipment, exporter should send the documents to the importer as soon as the
shipment is effected.
Indian food exporters should take special care about the quality packaging while
maintaining the ‘value for money’ considerations for an average Hong Kong
customer. Indian exporters should contact Hong Kong importers with offers
quoting c.i.f (cost, insurance and freight) or c.f (cost and freight) prices preferably
in US currency (HK dollar is pegged to US dollar at US$ 1 = HK$ 7.8). Hong
Kong is a free port and hence the government does not enforce any credit or
currency control.
The general feedback about delay in Indian shipment is to be avoided especially in

the fresh food export deals. Indian exporters can capitalise on the low transport
costs due to geographical closeness by improving the delivery schedules.

5
Part
5. India’s Food Export Potential

Major products
Policies and programmes for food exports
Food processing industry in India
Indian organisations for food export
5.1 Major Products
I ndian agricultural potential is growing remarkably. It has gone through a

green revolution, a white revolution, a yellow revolution, and a blue
revolution. Today, India is the largest producer of milk, fruits, cashew nuts,
coconuts and tea in the world, the second largest producer of rice, wheat,
vegetables, sugar a nd fish.
The Indian Ministry of Commerce has identified 10 agricultural products for

sustainable export promotion. These are: rice, wheat products, coarse grains,
spices, cashew, oil meals, sugar, horticultural products, floriculture products and
processed foods. The Ministry plans to have a consistent policy for the export of
basmati and non-basmati rice, wheat products and pulses. Rice meant for export
may be exempted from levy obligation. While the imports and exports of rice and
pulses can be freed, special efforts may be made to cultivate a sustainable export
market for tea, coffee, vegetables, and oil meals.
Ten products identified for sustainable export promotion
Rice, wheat products, coarse grains, spices, cashew, oil meals, sugar,
horticultural products, floriculture products and processed foods.
India possesses a huge resource base for food export. While waiting for the
domestic middle class population to consume more value added food products,
Indian food-processing industry could focus on the immediately available export
possibilities. Export focused re-orientation would certainly accelerate the growth
of Indian food industry and pave way for its improvements in infrastructure and
investments. As per a recent study on the food-processing sector, the turnover of
the total food market is approximately US$ 69.4 billion, out of which value-added
food products comprise US$ 22.2 billion. Size of the semi -processed and ready to
eat packaged food industry is over US$ 1 billion. It is growing at over 20%.

Processed food exports were at over US$ 3.2 billion in 1998-99. Out of these
exports, rice accounted for 46%, whereas marine products accounted for over
34%13.
In the recent years, the following major products have been performing well in
the export market:
Table 5.1 Indian export of agricultural and processed food product
Qty In MTs. Value in Rs. Lakhs
1997-98 1998-99 1999-00

Item
Qty Value Qty Value QTY Value
Floriculture and Seeds 5850.88 13714.01 6062.38 16294.90 8179.89 18909.77
Fruits and Vegetables
Fresh onions 333348.96 20246.09 215693.61 17604.72 260475.27 20270.14
Other Fresh Vegetables 98348.91 11407.08 64654.63 10233.37 115626.37 14414.62
Dried Nuts (Walnuts) 3889.60 5647.60 5327.90 6892.22 4992.83 6055.6
Fresh Mangoes 42894.93 7359.61 45407.59 7913.67 34631.18 7154.89
Fresh Grapes 23808.12 6601.28 11525.41 3788.60 14082.58 5554.65
Other Fresh Fruits 64605.09 7265.84 44820.43 7172.90 72969.80 11271.62
Total for Fruits and 566895.61 58527.50 387429.57 53605.48 502778.03 64721.52
Vegetables
Processed Fruits and Vegetables
Dried and Preserved 200262.70 47988.99 145049.55 38305.29 235637.74 58989.61
Vegetables
Mango Pulp 45874.53 12531.22 38133.73 13856.43 72384.22 19652.66
Pickle and Chutney 24372.27 7670.51 21138.05 7595.68 26737.60 8998.49
Other Processed Fruits and 28421.80 7958.95 34322.16 10811.15 39152.26 11723.14
Vegetables
Total for Processed Fruits 298931.30 76149.67 238643.49 70568.55 373911.82 99363.90
and Vegetables
Animal Products
Buffalo Meat 176328.68 72930.39 153956.15 69129.43 167291.41 70642.92
Sheep / Goat Meat 7546.60 6265.66 8648.45 7847.88 12419.44 9089.85
Poultry Products 11040.46 8884.14 7390.89 5172.91 8367.93 5425.44
Dairy Products 2378.24 1338.71 2568.42 1365.06 6134.42 3721.6
Animal Casings 371.22 1195.84 382.06 1359.09 352.65 1169.76
Processed Meat 264.77 222.02 297.96 299.25 815.77 458.5
Total for Animal Products 197929.97 90836.76 173243.93 85173.62 195381.62 90508.07
Other Processed Foods 523719.77 149488.81 226519.41 113458.86 352156.22 149449.28
Cereals
Non Basmati Rice 1796279.55 168502.69 4365841.58 187690.92 638380.14 178033.83
Basmati Rice 592678.26 168596.89 597756.43 440384.53 1257747.51 134558.38
Wheat 0.00 0.00 1761.00 135.79 3.15 0.26
Other Cereals 15348.53 1259.40 9513.30 9513.30 6045.05 991.3
Total for Cereals 2404306.34 338358.98 4974872.31 637724.54 1902175.85 313583.77
GRAND TOTAL 3997633.87 727075.73 6006771.09 976825.95 3334583.43 736536.31
(Source: DGCIS, annual volume)
13 Department of food processing industries website, http://mofpi.nic.in/

Cereals
Indian green revolution is highlighted as one of the most successful cereal

programs in the world. India has grown from the level of self-sufficiency to the
level of one of the important exporters of cereals in the world.
According to DGCIS figures, Indian cereal export was 2404306.34 MTs in 1997-
98. The value of cereal export during this period was about US$ 787 million.
This grew to US$ 1483 million during 1998-99, with cereal export quantity
reaching 4974872 MTs.
Indian cereal export is dominated by rice. Basmati and non-basmati rice exports
form about 90% of Indian cereal exports. Of this, the value of Basmati rice is
about 70% and that of non-basmati rice is about 20%.
Meat and Poultry
India's livestock population is largest in the world. India has 50% of world's
buffaloes and 20% of cattle. Indian livestock population is 470 million, including
205 million cattle and 90 million buffaloes. The country produces about 450
million broilers and 30 billion eggs annually. However, only about 1% of total
meat production is converted to value added products.
The production of meat and meat products has shown impressive growth. The
details of production of meat and meat products, in thousand tonnes, from 1994
to 1998 are as under:
Table 5.2 Indian production of meat and meat products
Commodity 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998

Mutton and Goat Meat 637 647 669 670 675
Pork Meat 366 420 420 420 420
Poultry Meat 422 578 480 580 600
Cattle Meat (Beef) 1290 1292 1202 1292 1295
Buffalo Meat 1200 1204 1204 1205 1210
(Source-Annual Report 1999-2000,DFPI)
The total meat production in the country is 4 million tonnes, which includes beef,
buffalo meat, mutton, goat meat, and pork and poultry meat. Of this, only about
1% is converted into value added products like sausages, ham bacon, luncheon
meat, kebabs, meatballs etc. The total meat export during 1999-2000 was Rs.845
crores consisting mostly of mutton and buffalo meat out of which 70% was
contributed by export of buffalo meat.
Marine Products
India has large marine and inland product and processing potentials. It has varied
fish resources along the 8041 km. long coastline, 28000 km. of rivers and 3
millions hectares of reservoirs and 1.4 million hectares of brackish water. Marine
fishes found in India include prawns, shrimps, tuna, cuttlefish, squids, octopus,
red snappers, ribbon fish, mackerel, lobsters, cat fish and countless other varieties.
Sixty per cent of the production of fish in India is from marine sources.

Processed fish products for export include conventional block frozen products,
individual quick frozen products (IQF), minced fish products like fish sausage,
cakes, cutlets, pastes, surimi, texturised products and dry fish etc.
Fruits and Vegetables
India is the world's second largest producer of fruits and vegetables. India
produces large variety of fruits and vegetables ---- tropical, sub-tropical, or
temperate. These include mango, banana, apple, orange, chikoo, ber,
pomegranates, etc., and vegetables like potato, tomato, onion, cauliflower,
cabbage, etc. The total area under fruits and vegetables cultivation is estimated to
be at 5.63 and 5.6 million hectares respectively. However, hardly 2% of the fruits
and vegetables of India is processed. Food habits and cost factors are seen as the
main reasons for this.
India in a small way, has been in the export market for almost 30 years. Among
the popular items in export are mango chutneys, pickles, fruit juices, canned and
dehydrated mushrooms, frozen and canned fruit and vegetables. In the year
1997-98, the exports of processed fruit and vegetables were in the order of 299
thousand tonnes valued at US$ 200 million.
Spices
Within the past one decade, the international trade in spices has grown rapidly.
An estimated 500,000 tonnes of spices and herbs are now imported globally every
year.
India supplies 46% India is the land of spices producing all varieties worth over
in volume and 25% US$ 900 million amounting to 25-30% of world
in value of the production, which is processed for value-addition and
world spices trade. export. India grows over 50 different varieties of spices.
Total production is around 2.7 million tonnes. Of this,
about 0.25 million tonnes (8-10 per cent) is exported to more than 150 countries.
India dominates 46% in volume and 25% share in value of the world spices tra de.
In recent years, export of Indian spices has been taking giant leaps. The Indian
export of spices has crossed the US$ 400 million mark during 1998-99 and has
reached US$ 420 million. This remarkable achievement is born of changes in the
industry scenario. From traditional commodity exports, Indian spices have
evolved into a state-of-the-art industry. In tune with this trend, the industry is
adopting itself in many ways including absorbing technology, broad basing its
products range, developing value added products, identifying niche markets,
forging strategic alliances, clinching global collaborations and joint ventures, etc.
Organic Spices
The world demand for organically produced foods is growing substantially in

developed countries. Worldwide, food trends are changing with a marked health
orientation. Since organic foods are free from chemical contaminants, the
demand for these products should steadily increase in the new millennium.
Moreover, there is a definite shift towards traditional / ethnic medicines. Since

spices form part of many of these medicines, the demand for organically
produced spices should grow. According to the UN agency figures, more than
130 countries produce certified organic foods. 100 of them are from Asia and
Africa.
India has always been practising the traditional ways of using indigenous
technologies and inputs mostly in line with modern organic farming principles.
The per capita consumption of fertilizers and pesticides in India is far below that
of developed countries. Which means, it is very easy for Indian farmers to
embrace organic spice farming in its true sense. In recent years, organic
agriculture has been gaining considerable importance. Many farmers today show
interest in organic cultivation. Several of them have begun switching to this
traditional method of cultivation as a means to produce safe foodstuffs and
preserve the environment. The concept of sustainable farming has caught on in
India.
Export of organic spices from India has started in right earnest. The country at
present exports around 50 tonnes of different varieties of organic spices. Exports
will get a significant boost in the coming years as more farmers switch to organic
methods. Spices Board has prepared a document on production of organic
spices. It features the organic concepts, principles, basic standards, production
guidelines, documentation, inspection, and certification.
Tea
India is world's India is world's single largest producer of tea. 870 million
single largest kgs of tea was produced in India in 199814. Being home to
producer of tea. the world's best teas, India is also one of the world's largest
exporters of tea. Almost every tea-drinking nation in the
world imports some varieties of Indian tea. Some of the premium vari eties
available throughout the world are inevitably Indian apart from the value-added
Tea Bags and Instant Tea.
In 1997, India exported an estimated 203 million kgs of tea, valued at Rs. 1.8
crores and in 1998, our export of tea reached 206 million kgs, worth Rs. 2.2
crores.
Coffee
In India, coffee growing is a process that the centuries have preferred to an art.
Today, 293,000 hectares, almost entirely in South India, produce an average of
200,000 tonnes of coffee a year valued at US$ 500 million.
The principal varieties of the Indian coffee are Arabica and Robusta: India is one
of the few countries to offer both these varieties. Indian coffee is today rated as
one of the finest "mild" coffees in the international market.
14 Tea board website, http://tea.nic.in/

India produces around 200,000 tonnes of coffee, of which it domestically

consumes 55-60,000 tonnes. Of the Indian coffee exports, 85% is green coffee,
1% is roasted coffee, and 14% is instant/soluble coffee. Indian Robusta is stated
to be the best coffee for espresso coffee blends. India mainly exports washed
coffee, which is of top quality. Indian coffee is exported from the ports of
Cochin, Tuticorin, Bombay, and Vizag. Indian coffee is exported in green bags of
60kgs. Exports are both containerised (18-tonne containers) and non-
containerised. India also exports Instant Coffee, which is offered in consumer
packs of 50gms and 100gms, and in bulk packs of 25kgs. At present, only spray-
dried instant coffee is being offered for export from India.
The following table provides the Indian coffee export from 1995 to 2000
compared with the world coffee trade:
Table 5.3 World coffee export and Indian share – a comparison
Production Exports
Year World India India's Share (%) World India India's Share (%)
1995-96 93232 3717 3.99 74729 3572 4.78
1996-97 102637 3417 3.33 81422 2476 3.04
1997-98 96028 3805 3.96 76972 3534 4.59
1998-99 105140 4417 4.2 79030 3527 4.46
1990-00 ** 114218 4867 4.26 91296 4288 4.7
* Production and exports of ICO members * * Provisional.
Milk and Milk Products
India is set to India is the largest milk producer in the world and about
retain its position 15% of the total milk production is processed through the
as the world’s organised sector. India is set to retain its position as the
largest milk world’s largest milk producer in 1999-2000 with the output
producer in 1999- expected to touch 78 million tonnes mark, up from 74.5
2000 with the million tonnes last year. The large increase in milk
output expected to production has been the result of frozen semen technology,
touch 78 million
progeny testing and programme resulting in genetic up-
tonnes mark.
gradation of cows and buffaloes. There has been increase
in the estimated production of milk powders including
Infant milk food from 2.22 lakh tonnes in 1998 and the estimated production of
malted food product has increased from 65.000 tones in 1998 to 66.000 tonnes in
1999. The production of cheese in the organised sector in1999 has been
estimated as 5,000 tonnes, the estimated production of condensed milk has
increased from 9000 tonnes in 1998 to 11,000 tones in 1999.

5.2 Policies and Programs for Food Export

National Agriculture Policy
India’s National Policy on Agriculture recognises the importance of export efforts

of the food commodities. The following are relevant parts of the policy that
stands as the guiding document for Indian food exports15:
The establishment of an agrarian economy which ensures food and nutrition to India’s
billion people, raw materials for its expanding industrial base and surpluses for
exports, and a fair and equitable reward system for the farming community for the
services they provide to the society, will be the mainstay of reforms in the agriculture sector.
The National Policy on Agriculture seeks to actualise the vast untapped growth potential
of Indian agriculture,.….promote value addition, accelerate the growth of
agro business, ….. and face the challenges arising out of economic
liberalisation and globalisation.
…..growth that is demand driven and caters to domestic markets and maximises
benefits from exports of agricultural products in the face of the
challenges arising from economic liberalisation and globalisation.
A major thrust will be given…..for augmenting food supply, exports and

generating employment in the rural areas.
…..systematic development of horticulture having emphasis on increased

production, post-harvest management, precision farming, bio-
control of pests and quality regulation mechanism and exports.
Development of animal husbandry, poultry, dairying and aqua-culture will receive a high
priority…..and for generating exportable surpluses.
Since animal disease eradication and quarantine is critical to exports, animal

health system will be strengthened and disease free zones created.
Consequent upon dismantling of Quantitative Restrictions on imports as per WTO

Agreement on Agriculture, commodity-wise strategies and arrangements
for protecting the grower from adverse impact of undue price
fluctuations in world markets and for prom oting exports will be
formulated. …..Exports of horticultural produce and marine products
will receive particular emphasis. A two-fold long term strategy of diversification
of agricultural produce and value addition enabling the production system to respond to
external environment and creating export demand for the commodities
produced in the country will be evolved with a view to providing the farmers
incremental income from export earnings. A favourable economic environment and
supportive public management system will be created for promotion of agricultural
exports…..
15 Emphasis added.

…..build up a substantial base for production of value added agro-products for domestic
and export markets with a strong emphasis on food safety and quality.
Grading and standardisation of agricultural products will be promoted for export

enhancement. Application of science and technology in agriculture will be promoted
through a regular system of interface between SandT institutions and the users/potential
users, to make the sector globally competitive.
First Report of Task Force on Agriculture
Prime Minister of India constituted a Task Force on Agriculture (TFA) on 12th

September 2000. The Task Force was assigned terms of reference including
assessing the impact of WTO commitments on Indian agriculture and to suggest
steps to safeguard the interests of the sector, while exploiting the opportunities
presented by this treaty; to make recommendations to integrate the use of
information technology and other emerging technologies in the agricultural sector;
to make recommendations for effective risk management in agriculture including
in production systems, insurance, price mechanisms, future trading etc.
The conclusions of the task force included the following:
The WTO has opened a new horizon of opportunities for increased access for which
domestic production system has to gear itself for deriving maximum benefits…..
The competitiveness of Indian agriculture has to be enhanced to realise new market access
opportunities. The development of product specific regions linked to export channels,
tapping the potential of organic farming and development of value addition chain and post
harvest infrastructure in tune with global needs will go a long way in establishing India in
the international trade scenario. Concurrently, the domestic market reforms also have to
be speeded up to unshackle Indian agriculture from restrictions of movement, storage, sale,
purchase and exports.
In this process, the issue of quality of produce and its standardisation as per international
standards needs high priority. Besides the production, the quality issues should also cover
the subsequent value addition chain. The quality consciousness has to percolate to the
grass root levels.16
Task force on agriculture says:
1. WTO means more opportunities

2. India should improve its competitiveness
3. Quality and standards are the keys
16Further information on the Task Force report could be accessed at

http://agricoop.nic.in/taskagr.htm

Legal Framework for Food Industry
There are a number of food laws being implemented by various

Ministries/departments. These are primarily meant for two purposes namely (1)
Regulation of Specifications of food and (2) Regulation of Hygienic condition of
Processing/Manufacturing. Some of these food laws are mandatory and some are
voluntary.
Important Laws
The following is a brief list of important laws, which govern the Indian food
industry.
1. Prevention of Food Adulteration Act (Ministry of Health)
The Act lays down specifications for various food products and is mandatory.
The Ministry of Health in 1995 had constituted a Task Force under the chair of
Shri E.S. Venkataramaiah, Chief Justice of India (retired). The Task Force
recommended that there should be emphasis on good manufacturing practices
instead of detection of adulteration and prosecution. It also expressed concern
about lack of laboratory equipments and quantified persons. In addition, it also
suggested that the name of PFA Act be changed to Food Safety Act.
2. Agriculture Produce (Grading and Marking) Act (Ministry of Rural Development)
This Act is commonly known as AGMARK and is voluntary. The Act lays down
the specifications for various agricultural commodities including some processed
foods.
3. Laws being operated by Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)
BIS is the largest body for formulating standards for various food items. These
standards are also voluntary.
4. Essential Commodities Act
A number of quality control orders have been issued under Essential

Commodities Act such as FPO, MMPO, Meat Product Order, and Vegetable Oils
Control Order. These orders are mandatory and primarily meant for regulating
the hygienic conditions. They need to be clubbed under one order, which may be
called Food Products Order.
Moves towards Harmonisation
The review of multiple laws is necessary to have a uniform and logical approach
for regulating the quality of food. The following actions are being taken by
various Ministries:
1. The Ministry of Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs has brought out a paper
for consideration of Committee of Secretaries (COS). The paper recommends
that BIS should formulate standards for all food items in the country. This will be
a major step towards harmonisation of food laws and is still under consideration
of COS for finalisation.

2. The Task Force constituted by the Prime Minister under the chair of Shri Nulsi
Wadia has submitted its report, which is under the consideration of the
Government. The Task Force had advocated promotion of food safety and
quality. The Task Force has further made following suggestions:
• Food Regulation Authority (FRA) to be set up to formulate and

update food standards for domestic and export market. FRA
should replace the PFA to conform to international standards. The
Task Force has given ten specific recommendations such as
provision of storage simplicitor, simplification of sampling
procedure, simplification of procedure for nominee, time limit for
prosecution, standard methods of analysis to be prescribed, penalty
should graded according to the gravity of offences and provision of
adequate/infrastructure and laboratories.
• Harmonisation of Indian standard with quality norms of Codex

and WTO.
• The Central Committee of food Standard (CCFS) should be

replaced by FRA Governing Body for expeditious decisions.
Quality Control
There is an all round realisation at every level that quality production of

international standard is the watchword for survival now. Consequently, the
processors, small or big, have started taking steps to improve quality right from
the selection of the raw material and that of the ingredients. Side by side, steps
have also been taken by them to upgrade the hygienic and sanitary conditions of
the workers, plant, and machinery to ensure quality of the finished product. There
is a much greater emphasis now to invest in research and development and in
product innovation.
APEDA gives subsidy to upgrade the laboratory facilities for quality control
measures. It has also brought out a practical guide on ISO 9000 on the food
industry, which includes comprehensive details about documentation, installation,
certification of quality management systems, etc.
India is likely to The union government is likely to make the

make the implementation of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control
implementation of Point (HACCP) mandatory for the food sector. It has
HACCP mandatory already asked the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) to
for the food sector. identify the areas. The BIS is likely to recommend
perishable foods, dairy products, marine products, spices,
meat products, poultry products, and processed food for mandatory
implementation of HACCP. The BIS has already prepared and brought out a
specification of IS:15000-1998, which is based on HACCP guidelines and
recommendations made by the Food Hygiene Committee of FAO/WHO Codex
Alimentarius Commission.

5.3 Food Processing Industry in India

The Food Processing Industry sector in India is one of the largest in terms of
production, consumption, export, and growth prospects. The government has
accorded it a high priority, with a number of fiscal relief and incentives, to
encourage commercialisation and value addition to agricultural produce, for
minimising pre/post harvest wastage, generating employment and export growth.
Until February 2000, proposals for projects of over US.13.4 billion have been
proposed in various segments of the food and agro-processing industry. Besides
this, Government has also approved proposals for joint ventures, foreign
collaboration, industrial licenses, and 100% export oriented units envisaging an
investment of US$ 4.80 billion during the same period. Out of this, foreign
investment is over US$ 2.28 billion.
Apart from the huge unorganised primary food processing industry, the organised
sector has over 820 flourmills, 418 fish processing units, 5198 fruit/vegetable
processing units, and 171 meat processing units.
Meat and Poultry Processing
Only 1% of the 4 Only 1% of the 4 million tonnes meat production is

million tonnes converted into value added products like sausages, ham
meat production is bacon, luncheon meat, kebabs, meatballs, etc. About 70%
converted into of Indian meat export is contributed by buffalo meat.
value added
products. Poultry processing is still in its infancy. There are only
seven modern integrated poultry processing plants.
However, there are a good number of small poultry processing units engaged in
production of poultry meat products. There are five egg-processing units engaged
in exporting egg products.
The country has 3600 slaughterhouses, 9 modern abattoirs, and 171 meat
processing units licensed under Meat Products Order. A few modern pork
processing plants are also coming up in the country.
Fish Processing Sector
Indian fish processing units mostly exist in the small-scale sector as

proprietary/partnership firms or fishing community co-operatives. Over the last
decade, the organised corporate sector has become increasingly involved in
preservation, processing, and export of coastal fish. However, the wide variety of
fish resources found in Indian inland waters, coastal areas and deep seas
comprising India's Exclusive Economic Zone, remain largely under utilised.
Processing of produce into canned and frozen forms is carried out almost entirely
for the export market. In all, there are about 393 freezing units, 13 canning units,
160 ice-making units, 12 fishmeal units, and about 476 (as on 30 November 1999)
cold storage units.

Fruit and Vegetable Processing Sector
Fruits and vegetable processing industry has potential to develop into a Sunshine
Industry of the country. In spite of the fact that India is the second largest
producer of fruit and of vegetables in the world, the commercial processing of
fruit and vegetables is less than 2%. So far, 1120 proposals of industrial licenses
and 100% export oriented units were approved17 and about 248 such proposals
have already been implemented. The important countries with which the joint
ventures have been signed are USA, U.K., Netherlands, Switzerland, and
Germany. The proposals include in the fields like technology transfer, financial
and/or marketing tie-ups. These tie-ups include production of items like canned
mushrooms, banana and mango puree, fruit concentrates, dehydration of
vegetables particularly of onion. A few proposals of frozen fruit and vegetables
have also been approved.
While the traditional cottage units of fruits and vegetables processing industry
have capacity of 250 tonnes per annum, the modern Indian and multinational
companies in the sector have large capacities in the range of 30 tonnes per hour.
A few very modern plants to produce mango pulp, tomato paste etc. in aseptic
packing, freeze drying of many fruit and vegetables including mushroom is being
taken up. The installed capacity that was 1.1 million tonnes, in December 1993
increased to 2.1 million tonnes at the end of 1999.
Changing face of Indian food processing industry
While the traditional cottage units of fruits and vegetables processing

industry have capacity of 250 tonnes per annum, the modern
Indian and multinational companies in the sector have large
capacities in the range of 30 tonnes per hour.
The important items manufactured in the country are fruit pulps particularly of
tomatoes and mangoes, ready to serve juices, canned fruits, jam, pickles, squashes,
etc. Recently, items like frozen fruits, pulps, dehydrated and freeze-dried
vegetables, and canned mushrooms etc. are being produced. In the coming years
new items as carbonated fruit drinks, dehydrated and freeze dried fruits, fruit juice
concentrate are expected to be manufactured.
Milk and Milk Products Sector
Dairy development in India has been acknowledged the world over as one of
modern India's most successful developmental programme. India is the second
largest milk producing country with anticipated production of about 78 million
tons during 1999-2000.
17 Till February 2000. DGFT figures.

The milk surplus states in India are Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan,
Gujarat, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. The
manufacturing of milk products is concentrated in these milk surplus States.
Cheese and condensed milk production stands at 5000 and 11000 tonnes
respectively. Some plants are coming-up for producing lactose, cassein and
improved cheese varieties.
5.4 Indian Organisations for Food Export

In tune with the high priority given for the food export in India, the Government
of India has created an orga nisational structure suited to facilitate further growth.
Contact details are available at the end of the report.
Department of Food Processing and Industries
The Department of Food Processing Industries, set up in July 1988, is the main
central agency of the Government responsible for developing a strong and vibrant
food processing sector, with creating surplus for exports as one of its focus.
DFPI also deals Important sub sectors in food processing industries dealt
with specialized by the department are fruit and vegetable processing, fish-
packaging for food processing, milk processing, meat and poultry processing,
processing packaged/convenience foods, alcoholic beverages and soft
industries. drinks and grain processing etc. The DFPI also deals with
specialized packaging for food processing industries, and
technical assistance and advice to food processing industry.
Agricultural and Processed Food Product Export Development Authority - APEDA
APEDA is an autonomous organisation attached to the Ministry of Commerce of

the Government of India. The main function of APEDA is to build links
between Indian producers and the global markets. APEDA undertakes the
briefing of potential sources on government policy and producers.
APEDA deals with important agricultural and processed food products like
floriculture, fruits and vegetable seeds, fresh and processed fruits and vegetables,
meats, poultry products, dairy products, animal casings, processed meat,
groundnuts, guar gum, jaggery and confectionery, cocoa products, cereal
preparations, alcoholic beverages, miscellaneous preparations, basmati rice, non
basmati rice, wheat, etc.
APEDA undertakes many development programmes including development of

database on products, markets and services, publicity and information
dissemination, organisation of buyer-seller meets and other business interactions,
etc.

Financial APEDA offers financial assistance under various

assistance is schemes, which seek to promote and develop agro exports.
available for Financial assistance under these schemes is available to
quality exporters, growers, trade associations, and governmental
upgradation agencies. Some of the activities that are eligible for financial
efforts. assistance are strengthening of market intelligence and data
base through studies and surveys, quality upgradation,
development of infrastructure, research and development, development of
packing quality, human resource development, upgradation of meat processing
facilities, etc.
APEDA brings out useful publications aimed at India exporters of food

commodities. The following suggested list of publications by APEDA would be
of use for exporters of food items to Hong Kong.
1. India export directory - Agricultural and Processed Food Products - 1997.

Rs.1200
2. Export statistics of Agro and Processed food products for 1997-98 Rs.300
3. Quality assurance manual for export of grapes Rs.250 (Similar titles available for
mangoes, lychees, kinnow, grapes, etc)
4. Report on packaging development for fresh fruits Project I and II-Alphonso
mangoes and Kesar, Chausa, Dusheri and Banganapalli mangoes Rs.75
5. Report on packaging development for fresh fruits Project III and IV, V-
Chikoo, Lychees and Grapes Rs.75
6. ISO9000 on the food Industry – a practical guide. (Including documentation,
installation, certification of quality management system, etc)
Marine Product Export Development Authority
The Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) was constituted

in 1972. The role envisaged for the MPEDA under the statute is compre hensive -
covering fisheries of all kinds, increasing exports, specifying standards, processing,
marketing, extension and training in various aspects of the industry.
MPEDA’s focus is MPEDA functions under the Ministry of Commerce,

on capture Government of India and acts as a coordinating agency
fisheries, culture with different Central and State Government
fisheries, new establishments engaged in fishery production and allied
technology and activities. The plan schemes of the Authority are
modernisation. implemented under four major heads, namely, export
production - capture fisheries; export production - culture
fisheries; induction of new technology and modernisation of processing facilities
and market promotion.
MPEDA’s work programme includes registration of infrastructure facilities for

seafood export trade, collection and dissemination of trade information,
projection of Indian marine products in overseas markets by participation in
overseas fairs and organising international seafood fairs in India, implementation
of development measures vital to the industry like distribution of insulated fish

boxes, putting up fish landing platforms, improvement of peeling sheds,

modernisation of industry such as upgrading of plate freezers, installation of IQF
machinery, generator sets, ice making machineries, quality control laboratory etc,
promotion of brackish water aquaculture for production of prawn for export,
promotion of deep sea fishing projects through test fishing, joint venture and
equity participation, etc.
Spices Board
The Spices Board India, established in 1987, is the apex body for the export
promotion of Indian spices. The Board is a link between the Indian exporters and
the importers abroad.
Strategies for Its broad-based activities include formulation and

quality implementation of quality improvement systems, research
improvement: and development programmes, education and training of
Indian Spices Logo farmers, processors, packers and exporters on post harvest
and Spice House handling, registration, and licensing of traders and
Certificate. exporters.
It acts as a data bank and communication channel for importers and exporters
and promotes Indian spices abroad.
The Board has close association with international agencies like International
Trade Centre (ITC) Geneva, United Nations Development Programmes
(UNDP), International Pepper Community (IPC) Jakarta, American Spice Trade
Association (ASTA), European Spice Association (ESA), All Nippon Spice
Association (ANSA) Japan, International Spice Group (ISG), Food and
Agricultural Organisation (FAO), Commonwealth Secretariat (COMSEC)
London, International General Producers Association (IGPA), United Nations
Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO).
The Spices Board has adopted two major strategies for quality improvement.
One is the introduction of the Indian Spices Logo; the other the Spice House
Certificate. For details, Indian exporters may contact Spices Board at the address
given at the end of the report.
Tea Board
Tea Board India, under the Ministry of Commerce, acts as a facilitator for the
development of the tea industry in India. The Board promotes tea research and
exports of tea worldwide, collects and disseminates statistical data aimed at
ensuring the health and vibrancy of the world’s largest producer of tea. It was
established in 1953 by an Act of Parliament, and headquartered at Calcutta.
Coffee Board
The coffee Board is a statutory body, representing various interests of coffee

industry, namely, growers, traders, curers, labourers, consumers, and the
government. With complete liberalisation of marketing of coffee, the Coffee
Board is actively devising new roles for the changed free market situation. These
include research and development, transfer of technology through extension

network, quality upgradation, sales promotion - domestic and international,

development of free market by providing market intelligence and information,
platform for international negotiations and agreements, etc
Cashew nuts Export Promotion Council of India
CEPC’s laboratory The Cashew Exports Promotion Council of India (CEPC)

services are was established by the Government of India in the year
available to the 1995, with the active co-operation of the Cashew industry
entire range of for promoting exports of cashew kernels and cashew nut
agricultural and shell liquid from India. The council provides the necessary
food processing institutional framework for performing the different
industries. functions that serve to intensify and promote exports of
cashew kernels, cashew nut shell liquid, cardanol and allied
products.
The council publishes two periodicals viz. "Cashew Bulletin" (monthly, circulated
in India) and Indian Cashew Journal (quarterly, circulated abroad).
The Cashew Export Promotion Council of India has set up a Quality Upgradation
Laboratory and technical consultancy Division of international standards. The
services of this laboratory and technical consultancy division will be available not
only to cashew industry in India, but also to the entire food processing industry in
India and abroad.
The Council's laboratory has the most modern state-of-the-art equipments

procured from India and abroad, which are not currently available in other R and
D laboratories, especially in south India. The council’s laboratory is of semi-
commercial nature, mainly for serving the cashew industry, from picking of raw
cashew nuts to packing of cashew kernels in different forms. However, the
services of the laboratory are available to the entire range of agricultural and food
processing industries like fruits, vegetables, spices, sea foods, oils, cereals, cereal
products, food and beverages and the like. Interested exporters can contact the
laboratory at the following address:
The Principal Scientist, Technical Consultancy Division

CEPC Laboratory, 5th Floor Ponnamma Chambers 2
Hospital Road, Kollam –691001, Kerala.
Tel / Fax: 91-474 – 742 704

6
Part
6. Resources
Key contacts and support services
Useful websites
6.1 Key Contacts and Support Services

Hong Kong Contacts
§ Govt bureaus and agencies

§ Food industry associations
§ Food importers
§ Supermarkets
§ Indian provision stores
§ Indian restaurants
Government Bureaus and Agencies. Web: http://www.info.gov.hk/afcd

FOOD AND PUBLIC HEALTH BRANCH
Contact: M Y H Ma GOVERNMENT GAZETTE PRINTING
DEPARTMENT
Food and Environmental Hygiene
14/F Cornwall House
Department
Taikoo Place, 979 King's Rd.
43/F, Queensway Government Offices
Quarry Bay, Hong Kong
66 Queensway, Hong Kong
Tel.: +852 - 2564 9500/ 2565 1145
Tel: +852 - 2867 5586/ 2867 5582
Fax: +852 - 2147 4821
Fax: +852 - 2521 4784
Email: gpd@hkstar.com
RICE CONTROL UNIT
Web: http://www.info.gov.hk/pd
Contact: Mr So Man
CUSTOMS AND EXCISE DEPARTMENT
Trade and Industry Department
8/F Harbour Building
Room 401, Trade and Industry
38 Pier Rd.
Department Tower
Central, Hong Kong
700 Nathan Road
Tel.: +852 - 2852 3324
Kowloon
Fax: +852 - 2542 3334
Tel: +852 - 2398 5569
Fax: +852 - 2398 3747 Food Industry Associations .
AGRICULTURE, FISHERIES AND THE HONG KONG FOOD TRADES
CONSERVATION DEPARTMENT ASSOCIATION LTD
5/F, Cheung Sha Wan Government Contact: Mr. Ip Yeuk Lam,
Offices, President
303 Cheung Sha Wan Road, CMA Building, 1/F
Kowloon, Hong Kong 64-66 Connaught Road
Tel: +852-2150 6666 Central, Hong Kong
Fax: +852-2311 3731 Tel: +852 - 2542 8619
Email: afcdenq@afcd.gcn.gov.hk Fax: +852 - 2541 8154

Email: mitron@hkstar.com Kowloon

Web: http://www.hkfc.org.hk Tel: +852 – 2375 3838
Fax: +852 – 2375 7676
HONG KONG DRIED SEA FOOD AND Email: info@hkha.org
GROCERY MERCHANTS ASSOCIATION LTD Website: hrttp://www.hkta.org/hkha
Contact: Mr. Mak Ching Po,
President Food Importers of Hong Kong.
1/F, 218 Des Voeux Road West
Hong Kong EBSEN AND CO LTD
Tel: +852 - 2547 1912 Contact Mr. H.M. Jebsen
Fax: +852 - 2517 6883 Managing Director
Mr. Gavin Jones
HONG KONG FRESH FRUITS IMPORTERS Manager
ASSOCIATION LTD 28th Floor, Caroline Centre
Contact: Mr. Patrick Kam, 28 Yun Ping Road
Chairman Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
401-3, Prosperous Bldg Tel: +852 - 2926 2222
48 Des Voeux Road Fax: +852 - 2882 1787
Central, Hong Kong Email: jebsen@mail.jebsen.com.hk
Tel: +852 - 2521 1228 Web: http://www.jebsen.com
Fax: +852 - 2868 4402
ANANDA FOOD LIMITED
KOWLOON FRESH MEAT RETAILER’S Contact: Mr. Yeuk-Pun Chan
ASSOCIATION LTD Director
Contact: Mr. Lau Shiu Man Mr. Chun-Nam Cheung
Blk A, 10/F, 746 Nathan Road Manager
Kowloon 14th Floor, Room 1402
Tel: +852– 2394 8316 Ananda Tower
Fax: +852–2394 8316 57-59 Connaught Road Central
Central, Hong Kong
ORGANIC FARMING ASSOCIATION Tel: +852 - 2853 5111
C/o Kadoorie and Botanic Garden Fax: +852 - 2854 0433
Lam Kam Road
Tai Po New Territories L V M ASIA PACIFIC LTD
Hong Kong Contact Mr. Husson Remy,
Tel: +852 - 2483 9787 Finance Director
Fax: +852 - 2488 3035 Taikoo Place, 34th Floor
Dorset House
FEDERATION OF HONG KONG 979 King’s Road
RESTAURANT OWNERS LTD
Contact: Mr William Mak
Tel: +852 - 2968 9288
Rm 202, Lap Fai Bldg
Fax: +852 - 2968 9222
6-8 Pottinger St
Central THE GARDEN CO. LTD.
Hong Kong Contact: Mr. Steven S Y Cheung,
Tel: +852–2523 2617 Managing Director
Fax: +852–2868 4210 Miss Regina Leung,
Marketing Manager
THE HONG KONG AND KOWLOON
PROVISIONS, WINE AND SPIRIT DEALERS Ground Floor – 7th Floor
ASSOCIATION 58 Castle Peak Road
2/F, Blk B, Fu Lok Bldg Sham Shui Poi, Kowloon
131-133 Wing Lok St Hong Kong
Hong Kong Tel: +852 - 2386 4231
Tel: +852 -2854 2544/ 2854 2514 Fax: +852 - 2387 4344
Fax: +852 -2854 3816 Email: smh@garden.com.hk
HONG KONG HOTELS ASSOCIATION SWIRE COCO-COLA HK LTD

Rm 508-511 Silvercord Tower II Contact: Mr. Guy Bradley,
30 Canton Rd Director and General Manager
Tsim sha tsui Miss Irene Lo, Manager,

Corporate Communications Director

Siu Lek Yuen Flat A1, Wah Ha Factory Building
17 –19 Yuen Shun Circuit G/F., 1069-1073, King's Road
Sha Tin, New Territories, Hong Kong Quarry Bay, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 - 2636 7888 Tel: +852 – 2911 4981
Fax: +852 - 2637 9784 Fax: +852 – 2563 0300
ANGLISS CHINA COMPANY LTD Supermarkets.

Contact: Mr. Charles Ling,
PARK N SHOP O/B A S WATSON GROUP (HK)
Managing Director LIMITED
47-51 Kwai Fung Cres Contact: Mr. Noel Shielq,
Kwai Chung, New Territories, Commercial Manager
Hong Kong Watson House
Tel: +852 - 2481 5111 9th Floor, 1-5 Wo Liu Hang Road
Fax: +852 - 2489 8861 Sha Tin, New Territories, Hong Kong.
Tel: +852 - 2606 8833
EUROASIA HOLDINGS LIMITED
Fax: +852 - 2602 2914
Contact: Mr. Peter Lee, Email: richardw@asw.com.hk
Director
Room 1101-3, 11th Floor DAH CHONG HONG LTD
The Leader Commercial Building Provisions Division
534 Hillwood Road, Contact: Mr. Arthur Tsol,
Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon General Manager
Hong Kong 20 Kai Cheung Road, 8th Floor
Tel: +852 - 2366 9309 Kowloon Bay, Kowloon
Fax: +852 - 2721 5021 Hong Kong
Tel: +852 - 2768 3152
MERCHANTLINK INTERNATIONAL LTD
Fax: +852 - 2953 0163
Contact: Mr Fritz C Wong, Email: dch@dch.com.hk
Director Web: http://www.dch.com.hk
Unit 12A, Prudential Assurance
79 Chatham Road WELLCOME CO. LTD
Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Contact: Mr. Jeff Shaw,
Hong Kong Chief Executive Officer
Tel: +852 - 2750 8036 Devon House
Fax: +852 - 2318 1354 5th Floor
Email: fritz@merchantlink.com.hk 979 King’s Road, Tai Koo Place
MOON KEE CO.
Tel: +852 - 2299 3838
Contact: Mr. Kam-Wai Chu, Fax: +852 - 2299 2838
Manager Email: eliu@wellcome.com.hk
G/F, Shop 8, Block A, Shun Lee Bldg Web: http://www.wellcomehk.com
240 Ferry Street
Kowloon, Hong Kong DAIRY FARM COMPANY LIMITED –
Tel: +852 – 2770 7385 7 ELEVEN
Fax: +852 – 2770 0074 Contact: Mr. Sunny Ng,
Manager
MINGSON INDUSTRIES LTD. Devon House
Contact: Mr. Andrew Lee, 4th Floor
Managing Director 979 King’s Road, Tai Koo Place
Unit F-J, 3rd Floor, Block 1 Quarry Bay, Hong Kong
Kwai Tak Industrial Centre Tel. +852 - 2299 1711
Kwai Tak St., Kwai Chung Fax: +852 - 2299 4099
Hong Kong Web: http://www.dairyfarmgroup.com
Tel.: +852 - 2420 0308
Fax: +852 - 2480 4466 CHINA RESOURCES SUPERMART (HK) CO.
LTD
WORLDWIDE SEAFOOD LTD. Contact: Mr. Dong-Sheng Qin
Contact: Mr. Joseph Lee, Deputy General Manager

China Resources Building Miss Maria Bong,

32nd Floor, 26 Harbour Road General Manager
Wan Chai, Hong Kong Merchandising Division
Tel: +852 - 2827 8333 1st Floor, Wing On Godown Building
Fax: +852 - 2827 9975 1 Wang Kee Street
Kowloon Bay, Kowloon
SOGO HONG KONG LTD Hong Kong
Contact: Mr. Tsuneo Hirota, Tel: +852 - 2318 2318
General Manager Fax: +852 - 2543 6465
12th Floor, New Wing Email: mlau@wingonet.com
East Point Centre Web: http://www.wingonet.com
555 Hennessy Road
Causeway Bay, Hong Kong HONG KONG NEW WORLD DEPARTMENT
Tel: +852 - 2833 8338 STORE CO. LTD
Fax: +852 - 2838 2030 Contact: Mr. Bobby Auw,
Email: info.jp@sogo.com.hk Regional Director (HK)
Web: http://www.sogo.com.hk 1st Floor East Wing
New World Centre
INTERNATIONAL DEPT STORE AND 24 Salisbury Road
SUPERMARKET LTD Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
Contact: Mr. Louis Kwong, Hong Kong
Managing Director Tel: +852 - 3113 2888
Miss Tong Lai Wah, Fax: +852 - 3113 2889
Director
124-130 Ngs Tsin Wai Road YUE HWA CHINESE PRODUCTS EMPORIUM
Ground and Mezzanine Floor LTD
Kowloon City, Kowloon Contact: Mr. Kwok-Chun Yu
Hong Kong Chairman and Managing Director
Tel: +852 - 2382 2211 Mr K F Fan
Fax: +852 - 2383 2830 Senior Manager
Email: idss@netvigator.com 15th Floor, Champion Building
301-309 Nathan Road
UNY HK CO. LTD Yau Ma Tei, Kowloon
Contact: Mr. Takakide Harada, Hong Kong
Managing Director Tel: +852 - 2384 0084
Mr. Benjamin Wong, Fax: +852 - 2385 8383
Manager Email: info@yuehwacp.com
18 Tai Koo Shing Road Web: http://www.yuehwa.com.hk
City Plaza 2
Quarry Bay, Hong Kong CITY SUPER LTD
Tel: +852 - 2885 0331 Contact: Miss Nathaile Chan,
Fax: +852 - 2885 8081 Buyer
Tower 2, Room 3509-3511
WATSON’S THE CHEMIST The Gateway, 25 Canton Road
Contact: Mr. Philip Ingham Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
Managing Director Hong Kong
Mrs. Maylong Mounger Tel: +852 - 2306 3826
Merchandise Director Fax: +852 - 2956 0336
10th Floor, Watson House Email: food_grocery@citysuper.com.hk
1-5 Wo Liu Hang Road Web: http://www.citysuper.com.hk
Sha Tin, New Territories
Hong Kong NEW WORLD DEPARTMENT STORES LTD.
Tel: +852 - 2606 8833 Contact: Mr. Philip Cheung,
Fax: +852 - 2601 5942 Managing Director
Miss Johanna Lau,
THE WING ON DEPARTMENT STORES (HK) Commercial Director
LTD East Wing, 12th Floor, Unit 1218
Contact: Mr. Mark Kwok, New World Office Building
Managing Director 20-24 Salisbury Road

Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon Tel: +852 - 2369 3038 / 2369 0571
Hong Kong Fax: +852 - 2366 9488
Tel. +852 - 2753 3988 Email: nds@netvigator.com
Fax: +852 - 2318 0884
Email: shnwds@public1.sta.net.cn KIRAN’S TRADING CO
Shops 45 and 5, 1st Floor
MARKS AND SPENCER (ASIA PACIFIC) 58 Nathan Road
LIMITED Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
Contact: Mr. Jim Mcdonald Hong Kong
Regional Chief Executive Tel: +852 - 2723 6781
8th Floor, Room 822 Fax: +852 - 2723 6193
Ocean Centre
5 Canton Road MAHARAJA INDIA EMPORIUM
Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon Mr. V C P Jain,
Hong Kong Proprietor
Tel: +852 - 2926 3318 Mr. Mohammed Arif
Fax: +852 - 2730 0170 1st Floor, No. 1 Hanoi Road
Web: http://www.marks-and- Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
spencer.com Hong Kong
Tel: +852 - 2756 5611
JUSCO STORES (HK) CO. LTD Fax: +852 - 2756 5693
Contact: Mr. Ben P.W. Tse, Email: maharaja@netvigator.com
Senior Buyer
3/F, Stanhope House RANISON
738 King's Road Ms. Rani M Ramchandani,
Quarry Bay, Hong Kong Proprietor
Tel: +852 – 2565 3600 1st Floor, 17 Mody Road
Fax: +852 – 2563 8654 Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon Hong Kong
Tel: +852 - 2367 3754
CIRCLE K CONVENIENCE STORES (HK) Fax: +852 - 2367 3744
LTD
Email: ranison@hotmail.com
Contact: Mr. Wallace Tse,
Buying and Marketing Manager INDIAN PROVISION STORES
10th Floor, CNT Group Building 34 Bowrington Road, Ground Floor
822 Lai Chi Kok Road Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Kowloon, Hong Kong Tel: +852 - 2891 8024/ 2891 8324
Tel: +852 - 2991 6318 Fax: +852 - 2572 5073
Fax: +852 - 2991 6317
Indian Restaurants in Hong Kong.
Indian Provision Stores in Hong Kong.
TANDOOR INDIAN RESTAURANT
INDIAN PROVISION STORE AND Contact: Mr. B. S. Rana
SUPERMARKET
Manager
Contact: Mr. B S Brar,
3/F, On Hing Building
Proprietor
1-9 On Hing Terrace
65-66 Chung King Arcade, Ground Floor
Central
36-44 Nathan Road
Hong Kong
Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
Tel: +852 - 2845 2299
Hong Kong
Fax: +852 - 2845 2282
Tel: +852 - 2368 2158
Fax: +852 - 2724 2050 CURRY POT
Email: brar1974@netvigator.com Contact: Mr. Hari Karki
Executive Director
NEW DELHI STORE
68-70 Lockhart Road
Contact: Mr. Kulbir S. Dhaliwal
Wanchai
Manager
Hong Kong
Shop 23 and 26, Ground Floor
Tel: +852 - 2865 6099
36-44 Nathan Road
Fax: +852 - 2527 4931
Hong Kong

TAJ MAHAL RESTAURANT Fax: +852 - 2369 8016

Contact: Mr. Jasbir Singh Gill Fax: +852 - 2366 6221 (Direct)
Proprietor Email: banquet@goldenmile.com
80A, G/F, 36-44, Nathan Road, Web: http://www.goldenmile.com
Chung King Mansion,
Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon CONRAD HONG KONG
Hong Kong Contact: Mr. Garry Ng
Tel: +852 - 2724 4000 / 2555 8494 Pro curement Manager
Fax: +852 - 2332 3072 88 Queensway
Pacific Place
KOHINOOR RESTAURANT Hong Kong
Contact: Ms Roopa Mehta Tel: +852 - 2521 3838 / Ext 8815
P.O. Box 95592 Fax: +852 - 2521 3888
Hong Kong ASHOKA RESTAURANT
Tel: +852 - 2722 0831 /2722 0673 G/F, 57-59 Wyndham Street
Fax: +852 - 2366 0879 Central
Hong Kong
KOH-I-NOOR RESTAURANT Tel: +852 - 2524 9623
103 California Entertainment Building,
34 D'Aguilar Street BRANTO INDIAN PURE VEG FOOD
Central 1/F, 9 Lock Road
Hong Kong Tsim Sha Tsui
Tel: +852 - 2877-9706 Kowloon
Hong Kong
KOH-I-NOOR RESTAURANT Tel: +852 - 2366 8171
1/F, 3-4 Peninsula Mansion
16C Mody Road CLUB SRI LANKA
Tsim Sha Tsui Basement, 17 Hollywood Road
Kowloon Sheung Wan
Hong Kong Hong Kong
Tel: +852 - 2368-3065 Tel: +852 - 2526 6559
MUGHAL RESTAURANT GAYLORD INDIAN RESTAURANT

Contact: Mr. Christopher Sikdar 223-225 Ashley Road
1/F Carfield Commercial Building Tsim Sha Tsui
75-77 Wyndham Street Kowloon
Central Hong Kong
Hong Kong Tel: +852 - 2376 1001
Tel: +852 - 2524 0107
Fax: +852 - 2845 2473 THE HIGHER TASTE VEGETARIAN DINING
CLUB V
GUNGA DIN’S CLUB 6/F, 27 Chatham Road South
Contact: Mr. Ganga Tsim Sha Tsui
Managing Director Kowloon
Lower Ground Floor Hong Kong
57-59 Wyndham Street, Tel: +852 - 2723 0260
Central,
Hong Kong INDIA TODAY
Tel: +852 - 2523 1439 / 2523 1276 26-30 Elgin Street
Central
HOLIDAY INN GOLDEN MILE HONG KONG Hong Kong
Contact: Ms Kenneth Yong Tel: +852 - 2801 5959
Assistant Food and Beverage Manager
50 Nathan Road NEW MAHARANI
Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon Shop H, 2/F
Hong Kong Winner Building
Tel: +852 - 2315 1272 (Direct) 27-37 D'Aguilar Street
Tel: +852 - 2369 3111 Central
Hong Kong

Tel: +852 - 2891 6525 HONG KONG GENERAL CH AMBER OF

COMMERCE
ROYAL NEPALESE CUISINE Contact: Ms. Mabel Yao
G/F, Staunton Road Assistant Manager (International Business)
Soho 22/F, United Centre
Central 95 Queensway, Hong Kong
Hong Kong Tel: +852 - 2529 9229
Tel: +852 - 2869 6212 / 2521 9108 Fax: +852 - 2527 9843
Email: lens@asiaonline.net
FEDERATION OF HONG KONG
INDUSTRIES
SOUTH INDIAN RESTAURANT
Contact: Mr. Joseph Y K Li
Shop D1
Membership Director
3/F, Chung King Mansion
4th Floor, Hankow Centre
Tsim Sha Tsui
5-15 Hankow Road
Kowloon
Kowloon, Hong Kong
Hong Kong
Tel: +852 - 2732 3188
Tel: +852 – 2368 1834
Fax: +852 - 2721 3494
SWAGAT INDIAN RESTAURANT
CHINESE GENERAL CHAMBER OF
Shop 103 and 104, 1/F COMMERCE HONG KONG
Chung King Mansion Contact: Ms. Lavinia Chan
Tsim Sha Tsui Senior Secretary (External Affairs)
Kowloon 4th Floor, 24-25 Connaught Road
Hong Kong Central, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 - 2723 7618 Tel: +852 - 2525 6385
Fax: +852 - 2366 0879 Fax: +852 - 2845 2610
WOODLANDS VR
Room 5-6, G/F
Mirror Tower
61 Mody Road
Tsim Sha Tsui East
Kowloon
Hong Kong
Tel: +852 - 2369 3718 / 2366 1945
General Trade Organisations.

INDIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Contact: Mr. V. Santha Ram,
Secretary General
Hoseinee House, 2nd Floor
69 Wyndham Street
Central, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 - 2523 3877
Fax: +852 - 2845 0300
Email: vsram@icchk.org.hk
HONG KONG TRADE DEVELOPMENT

COUNCIL
Contact: Ms. Jessica Kwan
Executive Assistant, External Relations
38/F, Office Tower,
Convention Plaza, 1 Harbour Road
Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 - 2584 4496
Fax: +852 - 2824 0249
Email: jessica.kwan@tdc.org.hk
Web: http://www.tdct rade.com

Key Contacts and Support Services
India Contacts
§ Govt ministries and agencies

§ Food industry associations
§ Food research institutions
§ Recognised laboratories
§ State agencies
§ Food packaging institutes
§ General trade associations
Govt Ministries and Agencies. INDIA TRADE PROMOTION

ORGANISATION
DEPARTMENT OF FOOD PROCESSING Contact: Mr. J. Vasudevan
INDUSTRIES
Chairman and Managing Director
Contact: Mr. A.N.P. Sinha
Pragati Bhavan
Joint Secretary
Pragati Maidan
Ministry of Agriculture
New Delhi 110001
Krishi Bhavan,
Tel: +91 – 11 - 337 1540 / 337 1836
New Delhi 110001
Fax: +91 – 11 - 331 8142 / 331 7896
Tel: +91 – 11 - 649 2475
Fax: +91 – 11 - 649 3228
Email: anpsinha@mofpi.delhi.nic.in AGRICULTURAL AND PROCESSED FOOD
EXPORT DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
MINISTRY OF FINANCE (Ministry of Commerce, Govt. of India),
Department of Economic Affairs NCUI Building
Contact: Mr. K. K. Pathak 3, Siri Institutional Area, August Kranti
Deputy Secretary (EE) Marg, New Delhi 110016
Room No. 66-B, North Block Tel: +91 – 11 - 651 3204 / 651 4572
New Delhi 110011 Fax: +91 – 11 - 653 4870
Tel: +91 – 11 - 301 1247 Email: headq@apeda.com
Fax: +91 – 11 - 301 2477 / 379 3422 Web: http://www.apeda.com
Email: kkpathak@finance.delhi.nic.in
SPICES BOARD
DEPARTMENT OF ANIMAL HUSBANDARY (Ministry of Commerce, Govt of India)
AND DAIRYING
Sugandha Bhavan, N.H. Bypass,
Contact: Dr. K. R. Viswanathan
P.B. No. 2277, Palarivattom P.O.,
Deputy Commissioner,
Cochin, Kerala 682025
Room No. 235, Krishi Bhavan
Tel: +91 – 484 - 333 610 / 333 616
New Delhi 110001
Fax: +91 – 484 - 331 429 / 334 429
Tel: +91 – 11 - 338 4553
Email: mail@indianspices.com
Fax: +91 – 11 - 338 6674 / 338 4146
Web: http://www.indianspices.com
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AND
COOPERATION CASHEW EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL
OF INDIA
Contact Mr. S. N. Khurana,
Contact: Mr. P.Bharathan Pillai
Plant and Protection Nodal Officer,
Chairman
Room No. 233, Krishi Bhavan
Dr. K. G. Nayar
New Delhi 110001
Secretary
Tel: +91 – 11 - 338 9441
P.B.No. 1709, Karakkat Road,
Fax: +91 – 11 - 338 2137
Ernakulam South, Kerala
Tel: +91 – 484 - 353 357 / 361 459

Fax: +91 – 484 - 351 973 / 370 973 STATE TRADING CORPORATION OF INDIA
Contact: Mr. Deepak Prasad
MARINE PRODUCTS EXPORTS Director (Marketing)
DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (MPEDA) Jawahar Vyapar Bhavan
Contact Mr. K. Jose Cyriac Tolstoy Marg,
Chairman New Delhi 110001
Mr. V. Venkatesan, Tel: +91 – 11 - 370 1018
Director Fax: +91 – 11 - 332 6741
MPEDA House,
PB No. 4272, Panampilly Nagar Avenue, Food Industry Associations .
Cochin Kerala 682036
ALL INDIA FOOD PROCESSORS'
Tel: +91 – 484 - 331 979 / 331 803 ASSOCIATION
Fax: +91 – 484 - 313 361 Contact: Contact: Mr. P P S Dhillion,
President
COFFEE BOARD
Nestle India Ltd.
Contact: Ms. Lakshmi Venkatachalan, D L F Centre,
Chairman Sansad Marg,
Mr. Nitin R. Gokran New Delhi 110001
Director Tel: +91 – 11 - 373 0943 / 372 2741
1 Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Veedhi Fax: +91 – 11 - 372 2756
P.O.Box 5366
Bangalore 560001 FRAGRANCE OF FLAVOR ASSOCIATION OF
Tel: +91 – 80 - 226 6992 / 225 9459 INDIA
Contact: Mr. Sudhir Jain
COCONUT DEVELOPMENT BOARD President
Contact: Dr. P. Rethinam Gupta and Co. Ltd
Chairman 14/284, Delhi Toliwali
Ministry of Agriculture Sadar Bazaar
Kerala Bhavan Delhi 110006
Kochi, Kerala 682011 Tel: +91 – 11 - 777 4742 / 354 0210
Tel: +91 – 484 - 371 266 / 371 267 Fax: +91 – 11 - 751 9215
Fax: +91 – 484 - 371 902
Email: cdbkochi@vsnl.com HOTEL ASSOCIATION OF INDIA
Contact: Mr. S S H Rehman
TEA BOARD President
Contact: Mr. N. K. Das 9A -- USO Road
Chairman Qutab Institutional Area
Mr. Anup Kumar Matilal New Delhi 110030
Secretary Tel: +91 – 11 - 685 0242
14, B.T.M.Sarani (Brabourne Road)
P.O. Box 2172 INDIAN CONFECTIONARY
Kolkata 700001 MANUFACTURERS ASSOCI ATION
Tel: +91 – 33 – 235 1411 (8 lines) Contact: Mr. K Sivamohan Reddy
Fax: +91 – 33 – 221 5715 President
Email: teadevex@cal.vsnl.net.in Contact: Chief Executive Officer
aninditaray@hotmail.com Nutrine Confectionary Pvt. Ltd.
tboard@gems.vsnl.net.in Chittoor, Andhrapradesh 517001
Web: http://tea.nic.in Tel: +91 – 85721 – 26287 / 23221
NATIONAL AGRICULTURAL COOPERATIVE THE VANASPATI MANUFACTURERS

MARKETING FEDERATIONOF INDIA ASSOCIATION OF INDIA
(NAFED) Contact: Mr. Pramod Dugar
Contact: Ms. Priyadarshini Thakur Chairman
Managing Director Contact Peson: Contact: Mr. S K Chadha
Nafed House, Ashram Chow The Vanaspati Manufacturers Association
Ring Road, of India
New Delhi 110014 903, Akasdeep Building
Tel: +91 – 11 - 684 0019 / 683 1810 26-A Barakhamba Road
Fax: +91 – 11 - 622 4311 New Delhi 110001
Tel: +91 – 11 - 331 2640 / 331 0758

Fax: +91 – 11 - 331 5698 Tel: +91 – 11 - 686 3801

Email: vmai.vanaspati Fax: +91 – 11 - 686 3135
@smy.sprintrpg.ems.vsnl.net.in
INDIAN CONFECTIONERY
INDIAN TEA ASSOCIATION MANUFACTURERS' ASSOCIATION,
Contact: Mr. Ranjit Das New Delhi
Secretary General Tel: +91 – 11 - 641 6711
Royal Exchange, 6 Netaji Subhas Road, Fax: +91 – 11 - 647 2409
Kolkata 700001
Tel.: +91 – 33 - 220 8383 (14 lines) ROLLER FLOUR MILLERS' FEDERATION,
Fax: +91 – 33 - 243 4301 New Delhi.
Tel: +91 – 11 - 683 0139
INDIAN TEA PLANTERS’ ASSOCIATION Fax: +91 – 11 - 683 6198
Contact: Mr. R. K. Maheswari
Hony. Secretary Food Research Institutions .
P.O.Box NO. 74, CENTRAL FOOD TECHNOLOGICAL
Jalpaiguri 735101 RESEARCH INSTITUTE (CFTRI)
Tel: +91 – 3561 - 220 82 Director,
Fax: +91 – 3561 - 222 70 CFTRI
Mysore 570013
THE SEAFOOD EXPORTERS ASSOCIATION Tel: +91 – 821 - 565 760 / 521 713
OF INDIA Fax: +91 – 821 – 565 603
Contact: Mr. Sandu Joseph
Secretary CENTRAL INSTITUTE OF FISHERIES
Seafood House, Wellington Island TECHNOLOGY
Cochin, Kerala 682003 Cochin, Kerala
Tel: +91 – 484 - 666 152 Tel: +91 – 484 - 666 845
Fax: +91 – 484 - 667 470 Fax: +91 – 484 - 668 212
INDIAN SUGAR MILLS ASSOCIATION DEFENCE FOOD RESEARCH LABORATORY

Contact: Mr. S.L. Jain (DFRL):
Director General Director,
Sugar House, 39 Nehru Place DFRL, Mysore
New Delhi 110019 Tel: +91 – 821 - 33053
Tel: +91 – 11 - 646 2096 / 647 2554 Fax +91 – 821 - 33052
Fax: +91 – 11 - 647 2409
INDIAN VETERINARY RESEARCH
Email: sugarmil@mda.vsnl.net.in INSTITUTE
Izzat Nagar
ALL INDIA FOOD PRESERVERS
ASSOCIATION Uttar Pradesh
Executive Secretary Tel: +91 – 581 - 442 056
206,Aurobindo Place Fax: +91 – 581 – 457 284
2nd Floor
NATIONAL RESEARCH AND
Aurobindo Marg, DEVELOPMENT CENTRE,
New Delhi 110016 New Delhi
Tel: +91 – 11 - 651 8848 Tel: +91 – 11 - 641 7942
Fax: +91 – 11 - 651 0860 Fax: +91 – 11 - 646 0506
Web: www.nrdcindia.com
CONFEDERATION OF INDIAN FOOD
TRADE AND INDUSTRY
Secretary Government Recognised Laboratories.
Federation House, M/S.GEO-CHEM LABORATORIES PVT. LTD
Tansen Marg, 26/27/28/34, Raja Industrial Estate
New Delhi 110001 1 Floor, Purushottam Kheraj Marg,
Tel: +91 – 11 - 373 8760 (10 lines) Mulund (West),
Fax: +91 – 11 - 333 2071 / 372 1504 Mumbai 400080
Tel: +91 - 22 - 569 0611 / 564 2021
FEDERATION OF BISCUIT Fax: +91 - 22 - 565 3641
MANUFACTURERS' OF INDIA
New Delhi.

M/S. VIMTA LABS LLD Web: http://andaman.nic.in

142, IDA, Phase -II,
Cherlapa11y ANDHRA PRADESH
Hyderabad 500051 Secretary
Tel: +91 - 40 - 726 4141 Agriculture andCooperation Department
Fax: +91 - 40 - 726 3657 Secretariat Building
Email:foodlab@vimta.com Hyderabad 500022
Tel: +91 – 842 – 231 798
Web: http://www.andhrapradesh.com
M/S.RELIABLE ANALYTICAL
LABORATORIES,
ARUNACHAL PRADESH
221, Amar Gian, Opp. S.T. Workshop,
Chief Secretary,
L.E.S. Marg, Thane
Government of Arunachal Pradesh
Mumbai 400601
Itanagar
Tel: +91 – 22 - 547 6801
Tel: +91 – 3781 - 22595
Fax +91 – 22 - 547 0968
ASSAM
SHRIRAM INSTITUTE FOR INDUSTRIAL
RESEARCH, Secretary
19, University Road, Delhi 110007 Department of Industries
Tel: +91 – 11 - 725 7267 Government of Assam
Fax: +91 – 11 - 725 7676 Guwahati
Tel. +91 – 361 – 560 400
SHRIRAM INSTITUTE FOR INDUSTRIAL Web: http://assamgovt.nic.in
RESEARCH,
14-15, Sadarmangla Industrial Area, BIHAR
Whitefield Road, Banaga1ore 560048 Industrial Development Commissioner
Tel: +91 – 80 - 845 2166 Department of Industries
Fax: +91 – 80 - 845 2734 Government of Bihar
Vikas Bhavan
MAHATAMA PHULE KRISHI VIDYAPETH, Patna 800001
Rahauri -413722, Tel. +91 – 361 - 560400
Distt. Ahmednagar Web: http://goidirectory.nic.in/bihar.htm
Maharashtra
Tel: +91 - 2426 - 43240 CHANDIGARH
Director
NATIONAL HORTICULTURE RESEARCH Industries and Tourism
AND DEVLOPMENT FOUND ATION Chandigarh Administration
Post Box No.61, Kanda Batata Bhavan Chandigarh
2954 E, New Mumbai Agra Road Tel: +91 – 172 - 707 343
Nashik, Maharashtra 422001 Web: http://chandigarh.nic.in/
Tel.: +91 – 253 – 592 523 / 592 531
Fax: +91 – 523 – 596 606 DADRA AND NAGAR HAVELI
District Industries Centre
INSECTICIDE AND RESIDUETESTING Dadra and Nagar Haveli
LABORATORY
Collectorate
Krishi Bhavan Silvasa 36210
Shijaji nagar Tel: +91 – 2638 - 42367
Pune 411005 Fax +91 – 33221 - 5715
Maharashtra.
TeleFax: +91 – 20 - 324 348 DAMAN AND DIU
Deputy Director of Agriculture
State Agencies for Food Export. Secretariat, Moti
ANDHAMAN AND NICOBAR ISLANDS Daman 396220
Contact Address: Tel: +91 - 2638 - 54875
Director
Andaman and Nicobar DELHI
Island Agriculture, Commissioner (Industries)
Port Blair C/o Commissioner of Industries
Tel: +91 – 3192 – 33257 Delhi Administration

Kashmiri Gate Government of Kerala

Delhi Trivandrum 695001
Tel: +91 – 11 - 296 8144 Tel: +91 – 471 - 67376
Web: http://delhi.nic.in Web: http://www.keralagov.com
GOA LAKSHDWEEP
Development Commissioner Managing Director
Government of Goa Lakshadweep Development Corporation
Panaji Second Floor,
Tel: +91 – 832 – 223 196 Near Padma Junction,
Fax: +91 - 33221 - 5715 M.G.Road)
Web: http://www.nic.in/goa Ernakulam
Cochin, Kerala 682035
GUJRAT Tel: +91 – 484 – 373 665 / 371 724
Industries Commissioner Web: http://www.nic.in/lakshadweep/
Udyog Bhavan
Sector-11 MAHARASHTRA
Gandhi Nagar Managing Director
Gujarat 382016 Maharashtra Agro Industries -
Tel: +91 – 2712 - 25833 Development Corporation Ltd
Web: http://www.gujaratindia.com Rajan House
Prabha Devi
HARYANA Mumbai
Managing Director Tel: +91 – 22 – 430 8211
Haryana Agro Industries Corporation Web: http://www.maharashtra.gov.in/
Haryana
Tel: +91 – 172 – 707 343 MEGHALAYA
Web: http://www.nic.in/haryana Director of Industries
Industries Department,
HIMACHAL PRADESH Government of Meghalaya
Director of Industries Meghalaya
Government of Himachal Pradesh Tel: +91 – 364 - 22523
Shimla Web: http://www.nic.in/meghalaya
Tel: +91 – 177 - 213414
Web: http://himachal.nic.in MIZORAM
Head Quarters
JAMMU AND KASHMIR Food and Allied Industries Corporation
Jammu and Kashmir State Industrial Ltd 26020 (MIFCO)
Development Corporation Aizwal
Government of J and K Tel: +91 – 389 - 23860
Drabu House
Ram Bagh MADHYA PRADESH:
Srinagar State Agro Industries Development
Tel: +91 – 194 - 30036 Corporation
Web: http://jammukashmir.nic.in 'Panchanan'
Third Floor,
KARNATAKA Malvia Nagar
Technical Consultancy Services Bhopal
Organisation of Karnataka (TECSOK) Tel: +91 – 755 – 551 807
Directorate of Industrial Commerce, Web: http://www.nic.in/madhyapradesh
Aastrothana Parishat Bhavan,
Nrupathunga Road NAGALAND
Bangalore Secretary
Tel: +91 – 80 – 226 6134 Department of Industries -22534
Web: http://kar.nic.in/govt Government of Nagaland,
Kohima
KERALA Tel: +91 – 370 - 22919
Secretary Web: http://www.nic.in/nagaland
Department of Agriculture)

ORISSA Lucknow
Managing Director Tel: +91 – 522 – 238 411
Agriculture Promotion and Investment Web: http://upinfo.org
Corporation of Orissa Ltd
Plot no 1266, WEST BENGAL
Unit- 9 Bhubaneshwar Secretary
Tel: +91 – 674 - 420 505 Department of Food Processing
Web: http://goidirectory.nic.in/orissa Industries
Government of West Bengal
PONDICHERRY Mayukh Bhavan
Director of Industries Bindan Nagar
Industries Department 35512 Kolkata 700091
Thttacharady Tel: +91 – 33 - 337 4244
Pondicherry 605009 Web: http://www.westbengal.gov.in
Phone +91 – 413 - 34145
Web: http://pondicherry.nic.in Food Packaging Institutions.
PUNJAB INDIAN INSTITUTE OF PACKAGING

Managing Director E2 MIDC Area, Post Box 9432
Punjab Agro Industries Corporation Chakala, Andheri (East)
2-A, Sector -28A, Madhya Marg Mumbai 400093
Chandigarh 160002 Tel: +91 – 22 – 821 9803 / 821 9469
Tel: +91 – 172 – 651 386 Fax: +91 – 22 – 837 5302
Web: http://punjabgovt.nic.in Email: iip@bom4.vsnl.net.in
RAJASTHAN REGIONAL CENTRES INDIAN INSTITUTE

OF PACKAGING, CHENNAI
Director of Industries
Plot No. 169, Ind. Estate,
Department of Industries
Perungudi, Chennai 600 096
Government of Rajasthan
Tel: +91 – 44 - 496 1560 / 496 1077
Jaipur
Fax: +91 – 44 - 496 1077
Tel: +91 – 140 – 380 796
Email: iipche@giasmd01.vsnl.net.in
Web: http://www.rajgovt.org
KOLKATA
SIKKIM
Block C. P., Sector - V,
Director of Industries
Salt Lake, Bindhan Nagar,
Department of Industries 22318
Kolkatta 700091
Government of Sikkim
Tel: +91 – 33 – 367 9561 / 367 6016
Gangtok 737101
Fax: +91 – 33 – 367 9561
Tel: +91 – 3592 - 22670
Email: iipcal@cal.vsnl.net.in
Web: http://sikkim.nic.in
NEW DELHI
TAMIL NADU
Plot no. 21 Functional Indl Estate,
Tamil Nadu Agro Industries Corpn Ltd
Patparganj, Opp Patparganj Bus Depot,
Agro House Industrial Estate
Delhi 110092
Guindy
Tel: +91 – 11 – 216 6703
Chennai 600032
Fax: +91 – 11 – 216 9612
Tel: +91 – 44 – 855 4479
Email: iipdelhi@nde.vsnl.net.in
Web: http://www.tn.nic.in
General Trade Associations .
TRIPURA
Additional Chief Secretary ASSOCIATED CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OF
Government of Tripura 224392 INDIA
Agartala Allahabad Building
Tripura Parliament Street
Tel: +91 – 381 – 223 200 New Delhi 110001
Web: http://www.tripura.nic.in Tel: +91 – 11 - 334 4202
Fax: +91 – 11 - 334 2193 / 373 4917
UTTAR PRADESH
Horticulture and Food Processing
Government of UP

CONFEDERATION OF INDIAN INDUSTRY

(CII)
Director,
23, 26 Lodi Road
New Delhi
Tel: +91 – 11 - 462 9994
Fax +91 – 11 - 463 3168 / 462 6149
FEDERATION OF INDIAN CHAMBERS AND

COMMERCE OF INDUSTRY
Secretary General
Federation House
Tansen Marg
New Delhi 110001
Tel: +91 – 11 - 373 8760 (11Lines)
Fax: +91 – 11 - 332 0717 / 312 1504
CONFERANTION OF 100% EXPORT UNITS

Contact: Mr. Romi Dhall
Secretary General,
PHD House, 4th Floor,
Opp. Asian Games Village
New Delhi 110016
FEDERATION OF INDIAN EXPORTS

ORGANISATION
PHD House (3rd floor)
Opp Asian Games Village
New Delhi 110016
Tel: +91 – 11 – 685 1310/ 685 1312
Fax +91 – 11 - 686 3087
Email: fieo@nda.vsnl.net.in

6.2 Useful Websites

A large number of available website addresses for key contacts are listed under
individual contact details. Only a select Hong Kong website addresses are
provided here:
Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government:

http://www.info.gov.hk/eindex.htm
Forecast of Major Purchases, HKSAR Government
http://www.info.gov.hk/gsd/english/plan.htm
Hong Kong Trade Development Council
http://www.tdctrade.com
Hong Kong Telecom Phone Directory
http:// www.cwhk.com/directories/index.html
Hong Kong Standards and Testing Centre
http://www.hkstc.org/
Business License information centre
http://www.info.gov.hk/licence/
South China Morning Post
http://www.scmp.com/news
Indian Chamber of Commerce
http://wsww.icchk.org.hk
Sea cargo tracking facility
http://www.schednet.com/tdc/seatrak.htm
Air cargo tracking facility
http://www.schednet.com/tdc/seatrak.htm
Real time flight info for Hong Kong airport
http://www.hkairport.com/eng/flight_info/FlightInfoFrame.jsp

7
Evaluation
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reports that meet your business information needs. Your feedback will
help us in fine-tuning future editions of this report and other similar
reports being prepared by the Consulate.
Complete the evaluation form (just five questions) on the next page and return it to
us by post or by Fax.
Thank you for your valuable feedback.

Reader Evaluation of Report: Guide to Export Food Products to Hong Kong

Please post or fax the filled in form to
Consulate General of India, 26 A, United Centre, 95, Queensway, Hong Kong. Fax: +852 – 2529 0421
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BUSINESS OPPORTUNITI ES IN HONG KONG

Guide to Export Food Products to Hong Kong

4.2 Standards, Rules and Regulations .............. 25

4.3 Labelling ................................................... 29 6.2 Useful Websites..........................................71

Guide to Export Food Products to Hong Kong

Consulate General of India, Hong Kong 1

2. Dynamics of the Market

• Hong Kong food market is continuously changing and international food

As a public customer, the Stores and Procurement Regulations of HKSAR

4. Size and Supplies

Opportunities for Indian Export

2. Indian Export items

2 Consulate General of India, Hong Kong

3. Indian Food in Hong Kong

India as a food exporter

Consulate General of India, Hong Kong 3

Policies and Programmes

There is an all round realisation at every level that quality production of

4 Consulate General of India, Hong Kong

Indian Organisations for Food Export

Hong Kong Food Product Market Details

2. Standards, Rules, and Regulations

3. Re-organisation of Food Safety Agencies in Hong Kong

4. Food Safety Rules of Hong Kong

Consulate General of India, Hong Kong 5

5. Rice Control and De-licensing

According to the Reserved Commodities Ordinance (Cap. 296), rice is classified as

However, Hong Kong is planning to de-license the rice control by 2003-2004.

The debate on Genetically Modified (GM) food products is gaining awareness in

7. Normal Business Practices in Hong Kong

Business in Hong Kong is typically formal. Exchanging visiting cards (presented

6 Consulate General of India, Hong Kong

Market Entry Strategies

Indian food exporters can participate in important food commodity expos

The Consulate General of India, Hong Kong has a new website

4. Virtual Trade Fair

At present APEDA’s website http://www.apeda.com provides an excellent

5. Food Commodity Fairs in Hong Kong

Consulate General of India, Hong Kong 7

participate in some of the food-commodity trade fairs in Hong Kong including

6. Market Access Initiative

The organisations/agencies could create specific Market Access Initiative (MAI)

Indian food export organisations/agencies can organize a business delegation to

Indian food exporter organisations/agencies could initiate a deeper study for

8 Consulate General of India, Hong Kong

This report covers food products under Standard International Trade

India has made lot of progress in agriculture since independence in terms of

Consulate General of India, Hong Kong 9

We are confident This report aims to provide an overview of Hong Kong’s

10 Consulate General of India, Hong Kong

2. Hong Kong Market Scope

2.1 Overview of Hong Kong Food Market

Consulate General of India, Hong Kong 11

2.2 Important Import Products

12 Consulate General of India, Hong Kong

setting up of foreign manufacturing units in china, the re -export level is falling

2.3 Market Dynamics

China's accession Hong Kong’s role as a major re-exporter of food items to

Consulate General of India, Hong Kong 13

2.4 Customer Profile

Hong Kong is a founding member of WTO. The Stores and Procurement

Customer Contract value

14 Consulate General of India, Hong Kong

2.5 Size and Suppliers