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What is the dividend withholding rate between Hong Kong and Malaysia?

Under the Hong Kong-Malaysia tax treaty, the withholding rate on dividends is 10% for portfolio investors (general rate). A reduced rate of 5% applies when the beneficial owner is a company holding a qualifying ownership stake (typically 10% or more of voting stock). Note that the reduced rate requires the recipient to file the appropriate treaty benefit claim form before payment. This 10% rate compares to a median of 10% across Hong Kong's 23 active treaty partners, and 10% across Malaysia's 24 active partners.

Network Comparison

Hong Kong

Rank 14 of 23 active treaties (lowest rate = #1)

Lower rates with: Italy (10%), Japan (10%), Luxembourg (10%)

Higher rates with: Netherlands (10%), Singapore (10%), Thailand (10%)

Malaysia

Rank 13 of 24 active treaties (lowest rate = #1)

Lower rates with: United Arab Emirates (10%), China (10%), Egypt (10%)

Higher rates with: Indonesia (10%), India (10%), Thailand (10%)

Sources

Data last reviewed: 2026-04-07

Important: Treaty rates require proper claim forms (e.g., IRS Form W-8BEN for U.S. treaties, HMRC DT-Individual for U.K. treaties, CRA Form NR301 for Canadian treaties) filed before payment. Limitation on Benefits (LOB) provisions may restrict eligibility. A 0% withholding rate does not mean no tax — the residence country may still tax the income. This is not tax advice.

Related Questions: Hong Kong - Malaysia