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Q: Importing medications - anyone done it?
Have you tried to buy online medicines? Was it ok? Was getting it into China a problem? And how long did it take - from online ordering to getting it in your hand?
12 years 29 weeks ago in Health & Safety - China
It really depends on what and how much. Technically, it is illegal to bring medications into China (if they aren't on you personally when you go through customs). However, if you are just shipping in a bottle or two, then it should clear customs okay if the package doesn't scream "Medicine Inside". Check with the vendor before ordering, they should be able to tell you if they can ship to China or not.
Typically, it will take about 2-3 weeks for a normal parcel to reach you. Less if you are in a tier 1 city or you use priority shipping methods.
Shining_brow:
Well, I'm not thinking of starting up my own pharmacy (although, with some costs, it's an idea!! :D) So yeah, only a bottle or 2, or a couple of packs of stuff. (and, WTF are they so expensive??? Ahhhh... too used to Australia's subsidised medications...)
Xpat.John:
I knew one guy who tried to set up an underground, expat pharmacy. He was doing okay until he got greedy and tried importing almost half a container worth of OTC drugs. The fines were so huge that he had to sneak out of China and head home.
when we go to China I always make sure I get all medication labeled by a Chemist (Pharmacy) and I never have a problem
but it is clear it is for personal use.
Had stuff sent in the mail at least a ten times never had a problem.
So it is true then, August last year I bought some medication for my partner through EMS because we couldn't find one counterpart here. Unfortunately, it was confiscated in Beijing according to the local agent after waiting for five months..It cost us 3000 rmb 
It was a sad experience..
Shining_brow:
If it's not too much to ask, what type of meds? I just had 2 people come in over the border bringing me stuff - both painkillers that need a script here. One from Thailand, and another from Australia - no issues with either. (AFAIK, no-one even got an eyebrow raised).
Meds for colon problem..
Shining_brow:
So, the Chinese government doesn't like the suggestion that this place gives you the sh!ts?? :P
