Yes, Hong Kong residents may, subject to certain conditions, order by post from overseas or carry into Hong Kong reasonable quantities of medicines for their personal use without applying for an import licence. This is the “personal baggage exemption”. The key requirements are “reasonable quantities” and “personal use”. “Reasonable quantities” is usually understood to mean enough for one course of treatment or use over a few months; Customs officers determine the specific quantity at their discretion. “Personal use” means that the medicines must not be resold or distributed to others. This exemption is fundamentally different from commercial importation, which is for sale or distribution in Hong Kong, must be carried out by a licensed company and requires an official import/export licence for each consignment.
HONG KONG DRUG LICENSING
In Hong Kong, may individuals order medicines from overseas by post for their own use? How does this differ from commercial importation?
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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