On 13 October 2025, the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) updated their checklists and FAQs to provide for a streamlined process for new REITs authorisation application. In particular, the SFC has streamlined the authorisation process and documentary requirements for REITs, taking into account the latest updates under the Rules Governing the Listing of Securities on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited and market practices. Under the streamlined process, the SFC anticipates that a new REIT authorisation application can be decided within four weeks from take-up under normal circumstances. The SFC also streamlined the documentary requirements for secondary offerings by REITs in order to enhance the time-to-market efficiency of REITs and facilitate their fund-raising activities for growing their investments.
In addition, the SFC launched the “REIT Channel” which is a dedicated one-stop consultation channel to facilitate new REIT authorisation applications. Prospective REIT applicants and their professional advisers may contact the SFC through the REIT Channel via email at REIT_Channel@sfc.hk to consult or seek guidance on specific product or licensing issues regarding their REIT applications on a confidential basis.
