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]