Yes, if you plan to open a retail shop in Hong Kong selling Chinese herbal medicines listed in Schedule 2 to the Chinese Medicine Ordinance (Cap. 549), you need to apply to the Chinese Medicine Regulatory Office (CMRO) for a retail licence for Chinese herbal medicines. This licence permits you to sell these traditional herbs to end consumers. In your application, you must demonstrate that your shop meets hygiene, storage and safety standards, and that you or your staff have sufficient knowledge of Chinese herbal medicines to provide customers with appropriate guidance. The shop must also have compliant measuring instruments, such as a traditional Chinese balance.
HONG KONG DRUG LICENSING
I want to open a shop specialising in Chinese herbal medicines. Is it sufficient to apply for a licence to retail Chinese herbal medicines?
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.
Back to Category B: Licence Types and Scope of Application (Q51-Q100) Search more questions