The key staffing requirement for a “Listed Seller of Poisons” licence (commonly known as a “dispensary licence”) is that the retail business must be continuously and personally supervised by one or more “Competent Persons”. A Competent Person must complete a training course approved by the Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) and pass the relevant assessment, demonstrating sufficient knowledge to advise customers on the safe use of Part II poisons (non-prescription medicines). The law requires at least one Competent Person to be present during the shop's opening hours. Although the law does not expressly require the person to be “full-time”, in practice, covering all opening hours means that the person would need to work full-time or several Competent Persons would need to take turns on duty.
HONG KONG DRUG LICENSING
What qualifications must the person responsible for a “Listed Seller of Poisons” licence have? Does this person need to work full-time?
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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