Want to start your own business but don’t have enough funds to cover rent?
With the rise of e-commerce and social media, online shopping has become an “addictive” habit in modern life. Moreover, the barriers, costs, and requirements for running an online store are much lower than those for a physical store, making it an attractive option for many first-time entrepreneurs looking to earn their “first bucket of gold.”
However, opening an online store isn’t as simple as just “listing products.” Every step—from business registration and product selection to platform choice—can make or break your success. Next, HONIK will guide you from scratch, breaking down the key processes of running an online store to help you avoid common pitfalls and embark on your e-commerce journey to success!
Step 1: Legitimacy First—Business Registration is a Must
Many new sellers mistakenly believe that “selling online doesn’t require registration.” However, according to Hong Kong’s Business Registration Ordinance, any profit-driven commercial activity—whether physical or online—requires a business license. Failure to register may result in fines of up to HKD 5,000 or even imprisonment.
Generally, the Inland Revenue Department will examine factors such as purchasing, promotion, sales, delivery, transactions, and payment methods, as well as the scale and location of operations, to determine whether the activity constitutes a business in Hong Kong.
Of course, if you have no intention of running a business and are only engaging in a one-off transaction that doesn’t constitute a commercial operation, registration is unnecessary. (For specifics, consult the relevant government department or HONIK Biz.)
Step 2: Product Strategy—Finding Your “Hot-Selling Item”
Many first-time online store owners face challenges like: What should I sell? Where can I find reliable suppliers?
Indeed, choosing the right products is crucial—picking the wrong ones could derail your entire business. Here are some tips from HONIK Biz on how to select the right products:
Start with what you know or love—This helps you better understand market demand and customer preferences.
Research current and future trends—Identify high-potential products through keyword searches, social media monitoring, and competitor analysis.
Offer unique or high-value products—Stand out from competitors. If that’s not possible, opt for durable, practical items that customers will repurchase.
Beware of seasonal or external factors—Some products (e.g., air conditioners, ice cream, swimsuits, scarves) may see fluctuating demand.
Once you’ve decided on your products, find reliable suppliers through local wholesale markets, online B2B platforms, or trade fairs. Ensure they deliver quality goods on time—your store’s reputation depends on it.
Step 3: Platform Choice—Build Your Own Site vs. Join an E-Commerce Marketplace
There are two main ways to open an online store: building your own website or selling on an established marketplace. Each has pros and cons, so choose based on your business goals.
A. Building Your Own Website
Pros:
Unique branding—Full control over design, layout, and functionality to establish a strong brand identity.
Loyal customer base—Collect customer data (browsing habits, purchase behavior) to build lasting relationships.
Higher profit margins—Lower reliance on third-party platforms means better earnings.
HONIK Biz’s partner,HKWEB(hkweb.com.hk), offers the “Worry-Free SME Web Design Package,” including domain registration, SSL certificates, and content updates. Contact HONIK Biz for details!
B. Selling on an E-Commerce Marketplace
Pros:
Traffic & exposure—Marketplaces have massive user bases, boosting visibility.
Easy setup—Pre-made store templates let you start selling quickly, saving time and costs.
Operational support—Many platforms handle payments, logistics, and customer service, reducing workload.
Some sellers also use Facebook or Instagram for short-term sales. However, these platforms lack integrated payment and logistics solutions. For long-term growth, a dedicated website or marketplace is better—especially a branded site, which enhances credibility and data management.
