Personal use does not automatically exempt an item from controls. Check the item itself, not only its price.
Evidence to keep
Before you start
Hong Kong controls specified food, medicines, plants, animals, and other articles, alongside dutiable goods and cash-declaration requirements. Mainland customs has separate rules; check both sides.
What to do, step by step
- Check Customs' controlled-item list and the responsible food or medicine authority before buying.
- Check mainland rules for the same item, quantity, and evidence.
- Keep receipts and declare truthfully. Ask Customs if unsure; the green channel is not a waiver.
- Provide item details and originals for inspection and retain official paperwork.
Costs, timing, and things to check
Someone else's uneventful crossing is not legal permission. Know the contents of anything carried for another person.
Thresholds and concessions have conditions; use current official guidance rather than an isolated number.
Check controls before purchase and declare truthfully.
Official information and enquiries
These are the reference and service entry points for this guide. Check current fees, eligibility, and schedules with the authority. The preparation date is not each source's official update date.
- Hong Kong Customs: passenger clearance
- Hong Kong Customs: prohibited and controlled articles
- General Administration of Customs of China
This is general information; an individual dispute depends on the facts, documents, and current law.