Hong Kong

Before committing: distinguish the convenience of a financial centre from the safety of a particular counterparty, private meeting or cross border itinerary.

Emergency: 999 for police, fire or ambulance. 18222 provides anti scam consultation; it is not a substitute for reporting a crime or requesting emergency help. [S25]

What changes the plan here

For Central, Admiralty, Wan Chai or Tsim Sha Tsui business visits, choose meetings by verified host and venue operations. The district name is not a security rating. A professional looking office or an introduction from a chat group does not authenticate an OTC desk.

For high rise accommodation, confirm visitor access, room privacy, replacement key rules and the building's emergency instructions. Avoid using your hotel room as a place to show wallets or settle deals. Keep sensitive discussions out of taxis, lifts and crowded lounges.

Typhoons can disrupt transport. Monitor local official warnings and confirm whether your intended service is running before leaving. Build extra flexibility into a schedule involving flights, ferries or onward crossings. [S26]

Crypto and legal checks

Use the SFC's official platform lists to distinguish licensed operators from applicants and other categories. Verify the exact contracting entity and activity; a brand name, pending application or an overseas licence is insufficient. Do not assume a visible crypto storefront has the authorisation appropriate to your transaction. [S27]

Official UK advice notes the broad scope of Hong Kong national security laws, including certain conduct outside Hong Kong and obligations to provide device access in investigations. Obtain qualified advice if your work, disputes or public activity could raise concerns. Do not assume foreign citizenship eliminates exposure. [S26]

If the itinerary includes Shenzhen or Macao

Treat each crossing as a change in legal, immigration, communications and payment conditions. Verify entry and re-entry for your actual passport or permit. Do not assume Hong Kong rules permit the same crypto activity on the mainland.

Give the trusted contact a clear update when the destination changes. Save the new emergency numbers and accommodation address; make sure the contact can tell authorities which side of a boundary you are on.

Do before arrival: verify meetings and settlement arrangements; arrange your own transport; check typhoon information; and confirm how your hotel handles callers asking for you.

If threatened in a deal: get help from local police when safe. Do not let embarrassment, confidentiality claims or the prospect of losing the deal keep you in a coercive setting.