Bringing Japanese Medicines to Hong Kong Risks Prosecution
HK01 · 1 SOURCESabout 20 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
Hong Kong residents traveling to Japan should be aware that bringing back medicines containing controlled ingredients may violate local laws. The Department of Health conducted operations on May 5 and 6, seizing Japanese-labeled medicines suspected of containing ibuprofen and dihydrocodeine, both classified as Part I Poisons under the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance . While travelers carrying reasonable quantities for personal use may be exempt from import licenses, excessive amounts could trigger prosecution .
Key Points
- The Department of Health seized Japanese medicines without Hong Kong registration numbers "HK-XXXXX" during operations on May 5 and 6 .
- Ibuprofen and dihydrocodeine are classified as Part I Poisons, requiring sale under registered pharmacist supervision .
- Illegal sale or possession of unregistered pharmaceutical products carries penalties of up to HK$100,000 fine and 2 years imprisonment .
- Travelers may be exempt from import licenses for reasonable personal quantities, generally defined as one to two months' supply .
- Three high-risk categories include controlled psychotropic substances, endangered wildlife ingredients, and mercury-exceeding cosmetics .
Why It Matters
This issue affects numerous Hong Kong residents who frequently purchase Japanese medicines during travel, often unaware of legal restrictions. The potential penalties are severe, with dangerous drug offenses carrying maximum sentences of HK$5 million fines and life imprisonment .
This issue affects numerous Hong Kong residents who frequently purchase Japanese medicines during travel, often unaware of legal restrictions. The potential penalties are severe, with dangerous drug offenses carrying maximum sentences of HK$5 million fines and life imprisonment .