The Listed Seller of Poisons Licence is intended for retail shops commonly known as “medicine shops” or “drug stores”. The main difference from an Authorised Seller of Poisons (ASP) (pharmacy) licence lies in the range of medicines that may be sold and the personnel requirements. A pharmacy holding an ASP licence may sell all categories of medicines, including prescription medicines and medicines sold under supervision, because a registered pharmacist is on the premises. A medicine shop holding an LSP licence may sell only Part II poisons and “non-poison” proprietary medicines that contain no ingredients listed in any poison schedule. It may not sell prescription medicines or medicines sold under supervision. In terms of personnel, a medicine shop does not need to employ a registered pharmacist, but staff selling Part II poisons must have completed an approved training course. The threshold for entry is therefore relatively low, but the scope of business is also considerably restricted.
HONG KONG DRUG LICENSING
What is a Listed Seller of Poisons (LSP) licence? How does it differ from a pharmacy licence?
A complete explanation of the regulatory basis, Drew Tang’s recommendations and risk alerts. The original material dates from 2025; read it alongside the latest official requirements.
Original guide, 2025 edition: These FAQs are provided for topic-based reference and have not all been individually checked against current rules. Please confirm fees, personnel, renewal, changes and product requirements against the professional in-depth guide for the relevant licence type and the official requirements in force at the time.
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