New Guidelines on Over-the-Counter Drug Distribution Issued: Retail Markets Without Distribution Centers Now Required to Partner with Drugstores

In order to improve the overall accessibility, availability and affordability of Over-The-Counter (“ OTC ”) drugs and limited OTC drugs (collectively referred to as “ OTC Drugs ”), while ensuring their safety, efficacy and quality, the Minister of Health has issued Decree No. HK.01.07/MENKES/972/2025 of 2025 (“ Decree 972/2025 ”) on Guidelines for the Distribution and Dispensing of OTC Drugs Through Hypermarkets, Supermarkets and Minimarkets (collectively referred to as “ Retail Markets ”), which has been in force since 16 October 2025. [1]