Food Business (Amendment) Regulation 2026 gazetted
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The Government proposes to amend the Food Business Regulation (Cap 132X) to empower the Director of Food and Environmental Hygiene to grant permission for dogs to enter and stay on food premises, subject to the compliance with certain statutory requirements.
A Government spokesperson said, "The new initiative will create new business opportunities for the catering industry and promote harmony between people and pets. It has responded to the aspirations of many members of the public. At the same time, both the public and restaurant operators will have choices. Restaurant operators will need to take the initiative to apply for permission; and approved restaurants will be required to display designated signage at a conspicuous place at the entrance to help members of the public decide whether to patronise such restaurants.
"The new initiative, with safety and environmental hygiene accorded priority, will be taken forward in small steps in a prudent manner. It is proposed that a quota of about 500 to 1 000 places be set for the first phase. The Government will closely monitor the implementation of the initiative and refine the implementation details for the next phase as necessary."
Subject to the Regulation being passed by the Legislative Council, the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department will announce in due course the detailed application arrangements for restaurants. The first batch of permission is expected to be granted by mid-2026.
Ends/Friday, March 13, 2026
Issued at HKT 11:00
Issued at HKT 11:00
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