A licensing scheme allowing dogs in Hong Kong restaurants has attracted an “overwhelming” 2,100 applications, more than double the 1,000-place quota allocated, according to food hygiene authorities.
In response to inquiries from the South China Morning Post, the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) said on Monday that it had received more than 2,100 applications by 12pm, the last day of submissions.
The application window opened on May 18 and drew 700 applications, or 70 per cent of the quota, on the first day.
Successful applicants can add the dog-admission endorsement to their food business licence for a fee of HK$140 (US$17.90).
The department expects the scheme to launch in July, with up to 1,000 restaurants included in the first phase.
“If more than 1,000 applications are received, allocations will be made by balloting,” a spokesman said.
