If your Hong Kong office serves only as a centre for liaison, coordination and market information gathering, and is not involved in any commercial transactions involving the actual storage, distribution, sale, import or export of medicines, it will generally not need to apply for any pharmaceutical licence issued by the Department of Health (such as a Wholesale Dealer Licence). However, all your promotional activities must comply with the law, and prescription medicines must not be promoted directly to the public. The actual import and distribution of medicines must be carried out by a local Hong Kong company holding a valid Wholesale Dealer Licence. This licensed wholesaler will act as your local agent and handle all compliance matters relating to the physical movement of medicines.
HONG KONG DRUG LICENSING
I am an overseas pharmaceutical company and want to set up an office in Hong Kong for marketing. Do I need to apply for a 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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