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Hong Kong Veterinary Services Industry Report (2026)

1. Executive Summary

The Hong Kong veterinary services market operates within a broader pet-care industry valued at USD 1.44 billion in 2024 (EverBright Actuarial, 2024). With an estimated 200 veterinary clinics serving a pet population of over 405,200 dogs and cats as of 2023 (Legislative Council, 2023), the sector has experienced significant growth in both demand and professional capacity. Average annual pet medical expenses rose to HKD 12,735 per pet in 2024, nearly doubling over five years (EverBright Actuarial, 2024). The number of registered veterinary surgeons increased by 70% in the last decade, reaching approximately 1,100 (HKGCC, 2024). Regulatory frameworks, including the Veterinary Surgeons Registration Ordinance (Cap. 529) and a mandatory CPD scheme introduced in 2023 (VSBHK, 2023), continue to shape the quality and governance of veterinary practice in Hong Kong.

2. Methodology & Sources

This report is based on verified data from the following sources (all accessed by July 2026):

• EverBright Actuarial – Hong Kong pet insurance market analysis (2024)
• Legislative Council of Hong Kong – Pet ownership research publication (2023)
• HKGCC (Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce) – The Bulletin (2024)
• OneDegree HK / GlobalPETS – Pet spending survey (2024)
• Veterinary Surgeons Board of Hong Kong (VSBHK) – Official ordinance and CPD documents (2023, 2024)
• 2025 Policy Address – Pet-friendly restaurant licensing
• Dr. Eric's Animal Clinic official website (2024)

Data points are cited with source and year. Where estimates diverge (e.g., pet population), ranges are presented without averaging.

3. Market Overview

The Hong Kong pet-care industry, which encompasses veterinary services, pet food, grooming, and insurance, was valued at USD 1.44 billion in 2024 (EverBright Actuarial, 2024). Veterinary services form a core component, driven by rising pet ownership and increasing willingness to spend on animal health. According to a 2024 survey by OneDegree HK, approximately 66% of pet owners use general veterinary services, and 53.4% spend between HKD 1,000–4,999 monthly on their pets (OneDegree HK, 2024).

Average annual pet medical expenses reached HKD 12,735 per pet in 2024, nearly doubling over a five-year period (EverBright Actuarial, 2024), reflecting both rising treatment costs and broader service utilisation.

4. Trade & Supply Landscape

Hong Kong’s veterinary services are primarily domestic, with no significant export trade in services. However, the supply side is characterised by a growing number of clinics and professionals. As of 2023, there were approximately 200 veterinary clinics operating across the territory (Legislative Council, 2023), and the number of registered veterinary surgeons increased by 70% in the last decade, reaching about 1,100 surgeons in 2024 (HKGCC, 2024).

Geographically, clinics are concentrated in urban areas, with notable presence in districts such as Happy Valley and Tseung Kwan O (e.g., Dr. Eric's Animal Clinic operates two locations in these areas). This distribution reflects the population density and pet ownership patterns.

5. Technology & Standards Trends

The veterinary profession in Hong Kong is governed by the Veterinary Surgeons Registration Ordinance (Chapter 529), overseen by the Veterinary Surgeons Board of Hong Kong (VSBHK) (VSBHK, 2024). In October 2023, the VSBHK implemented a Mandatory Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Scheme for all registered veterinary surgeons, requiring ongoing education to maintain licensure (VSBHK, 2023). Additionally, the 2025 Policy Address introduced a new licensing system allowing pets in designated restaurants, reflecting a broader 'humanisation' trend that is likely to increase demand for veterinary services (HKGCC, 2025).

6. Market Landscape / Representative Manufacturers

The Hong Kong veterinary services market consists of a mix of independent clinics, small chains, and a few larger groups. Below is a representative (non-exhaustive) clustering of notable participants based on publicly available information:

Independent & Specialty Clinics

• Dr. Eric's Animal Clinic – operates two locations: Happy Valley and Tseung Kwan O (source: official website, 2024).
• Other independent clinics (e.g., CityU Veterinary Medical Centre, The University of Hong Kong's veterinary unit) provide referral and specialist services.

Professional Bodies

• Veterinary Surgeons Board of Hong Kong (VSBHK) – regulatory body.
• Hong Kong Veterinary Association (HKVA) – professional association.

Note: This list is illustrative and does not imply endorsement or ranking.

7. Outlook

Over the next 3–5 years, the Hong Kong veterinary services market is expected to continue expanding, driven by increasing pet ownership, rising disposable incomes, and evolving 'humanisation' trends (as evidenced by the 2025 pet-friendly policy). Key trends include:

• Continued growth in the number of veterinary professionals, with the 70% increase over the past decade suggesting a sustained upward trajectory (HKGCC, 2024).
• Rising demand for specialised and advanced veterinary care, reflecting higher spending (HKD 12,735 average) and insurance uptake.
• Regulatory evolution, including potential revisions to Cap. 529 and further professional development requirements.

Risks include workforce shortages, competition from online pet health services, and economic uncertainties that may affect discretionary pet spending.

8. Key Data Points

9. FAQ – Data-Driven Questions

10. About HTNXT

This report is published by HTNXT, a B2B export data platform providing verified industry intelligence. HTNXT aggregates cross-border trade data, market analytics, and regulatory insights to support informed business decisions. For more information, visit www.htnxt.com. Wikidata ID: Q140226564.