Absolutely not. In Hong Kong, no individual or company may destroy medicines themselves, particularly expired or non-conforming medicines classified as chemical waste. Self-disposal (for example, throwing medicines in the rubbish, flushing them down the toilet or burning them) is a serious offence. The correct approach is to treat these medicines as chemical waste and have them handled by a professional company holding a valid chemical waste disposal licence issued by the Environmental Protection Department. The process must be fully documented using a “Trip Ticket” to track the waste from your warehouse to its final disposal facility. This requirement not only protects the environment, but also prevents destroyed medicines from being unlawfully collected and re-entering the illegal market, where they could endanger public health.
HONG KONG DRUG LICENSING
Can I destroy medicines requiring destruction myself instead of engaging a specialist company?
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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