If your application is formally rejected by the PPB Committee, this is undoubtedly disappointing, but it is not the end of the world. You have a statutory right of appeal. Under the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance, an applicant dissatisfied with a PPB decision may appeal to the Administrative Appeals Board within the specified period after receiving written notification of the rejection (usually 28 days). The Administrative Appeals Board is an independent statutory body that will rehear your case and consider submissions from both you and the PPB. Alternatively, you may choose not to appeal, but instead thoroughly address the reasons given by the PPB in its rejection letter and submit a completely new application at an appropriate time (for example, after 6 months). The choice of route depends on the specific grounds for rejection and your assessment of your circumstances.
HONG KONG DRUG LICENSING
If my pharmaceutical licence application is unfortunately rejected by the PPB Committee, what options do I have afterwards?
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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