Hong Kong’s Medical Device Regulation Is Changing
Hong Kong is preparing a major shift in its medical device regulatory framework. The long-standing Medical Device Administrative Control System (MDACS), a voluntary listing mechanism, will soon transition to a mandatory medical device registration system under a new legislative framework.
The Department of Health (DoH) has confirmed that this change aims to strengthen patient safety, enhance market transparency, and align Hong Kong’s regulatory system with mature global frameworks such as those in the EU, Singapore, and Australia.
For medical device manufacturers, distributors, and Local Responsible Persons (LRPs), this transition is a regulatory overhaul that requires early preparation, documentation alignment, and strategic planning.
Understanding MDACS and Why It’s Changing
The MDACS framework was launched to introduce structured oversight for medical devices while maintaining Hong Kong’s open market model. It allowed voluntary device listing, where manufacturers could demonstrate compliance with international standards and reference-country approvals.
However, with the growing complexity of medical technology and the global push toward harmonized regulation, voluntary listing no longer offers sufficient assurance of quality or traceability.
The new mandatory registration framework will be implemented through the establishment of the Centre for Medical Products Regulation (CMPR), expected to become operational by 2026. This body will oversee registration, vigilance, and post-market surveillance of medical devices in Hong Kong.
Key Differences Between MDACS and the New Mandatory Registration
Parameter | MDACS (Current System) | Mandatory Registration (New System) |
Legal Basis | Voluntary administrative control | Statutory legal requirement |
Oversight Authority | Department of Health, MDCO | Centre for Medical Products Regulation (CMPR) |
Registration Type | Voluntary listing | Compulsory registration |
Evidence Requirement | Basic documentation and reference-country approval | Comprehensive technical documentation and clinical evidence |
Post-Market Obligations | Limited vigilance | Structured vigilance and recall procedures |
Local Representation | Local Responsible Person (LRP) for listed devices | Legally accountable LRP with extended duties |
This change means that unregistered devices may no longer be supplied, imported, or sold once the new law takes effect.
Implications for Manufacturers and Local Responsible Persons (LRPs)
1. Reassessment of Market Strategy
Manufacturers that previously relied on MDACS listing will need to reassess their product portfolios, prioritize high-risk devices, and plan regulatory timelines in advance.
2. Enhanced Documentation Requirements
The new framework will require complete technical files, including risk management documentation, design dossiers, and clinical evaluation reports.
3. Expanded LRP Responsibilities
The Local Responsible Person will play a more critical role, becoming legally accountable for product safety, adverse event reporting, and corrective actions. Contracts between manufacturers and LRPs should be reviewed and revised to reflect these obligations.
4. Stricter Post-Market Surveillance
Manufacturers must establish robust post-market surveillance (PMS) systems to monitor device performance and safety, and to manage recalls effectively.
Practical Steps to Prepare for Mandatory Registration
1. Audit Existing MDACS Listings: Review all current MDACS-listed devices. Identify those requiring transition to the new registration system.
2. Develop Comprehensive Technical Files: Prepare risk management documentation (ISO 14971), clinical evaluation data, and design validation reports in advance.
3. Strengthen LRP Agreements: Define responsibilities related to submission, vigilance, and communication with the Department of Health.
4. Implement PMS and Vigilance Systems: Ensure mechanisms for tracking adverse events and field safety corrective actions are established and documented.
5. Stay Updated on CMPR Announcements: Monitor official updates from the Department of Health and the CMPR as they release implementation guidance.
Common Challenges in the Transition
- Regulatory Uncertainty: Some procedural details are still being defined by the authorities, making early compliance planning difficult.
- Documentation Gaps: Many manufacturers using older technical files may find their documentation incomplete for the new system.
- Limited Local Expertise: The legal obligations for LRPs will increase, requiring training and capacity building.
- Time Constraints: Once the transition period begins, application volumes will surge, potentially causing delays in approvals.
How This Shift Benefits the Healthcare Ecosystem
Although the transition adds regulatory workload, it will lead to stronger patient protection, better quality oversight, and international alignment. The new system will reduce counterfeit or substandard device entry, improve post-market vigilance, and enhance confidence in Hong Kong’s healthcare supply chain.
DDReg’s Capabilities
At DDReg, we view this regulatory evolution as a positive step toward global harmonization. Our experience in medical device registration, technical dossier preparation, and eCTD regulatory submissions across Asia-Pacific positions us to support companies through this change.
Conclusion
The transition from MDACS listing to mandatory registration in Hong Kong marks a critical turning point for the region’s medical device market. Companies that act early, strengthen technical documentation, and align local compliance structures will gain a significant competitive advantage.
The upcoming CMPR-led regulatory model will not only enhance public health protection but also elevate Hong Kong’s position as a trusted medical device hub in the Asia-Pacific region.
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