Development of Hong Kong pharmacy in the post-colonial period, 1997-2022

This article chronicles the changes that have occurred in pharmacy in Hong Kong in the 25 years since the transfer of sovereignty from the United Kingdom to China. Pharmacy progressed in some areas but remained stagnant in others. The article highlights the renaissance of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), hospital and retail pharmacy sectors, pharmacist manpower, drug abuse, and the impact of epidemics and pandemics. The most significant change has been to the official status given to TCM as part of the health care system. In addition, the function of hospital pharmacy has been elevated to that of a British or European general hospital. Community pharmacies (dispensaries) continue to supply toiletries, soda water, medicines, and health supplements.