WHO Holds Expert Meeting in Hong Kong to Discuss Development of International Herbal Pharmacopoeia

The World Health Organization (WHO) is currently holding its 5th International Expert Meeting on Herbal Pharmacopoeia in Hong Kong, discussing and advancing harmonized international quality standards for selected herbal medicines to establish an International Herbal Pharmacopoeia.

According to the Hong Kong government, the three-day meeting began today and involves experts from all six WHO regions. The Hong Kong Department of Health's Chinese Medicine Regulatory Office is supporting the organization of this meeting and participating in drafting monographs for selected herbs, assisting in related technical work.

WHO stated that traditional medicine plays an important role in global health systems and should be integrated based on scientific evidence. The development of an International Herbal Pharmacopoeia aims to support the establishment and harmonization of quality control standards, strengthen regulatory capacity, and ensure the quality and safety of traditional medicine products.

The meeting follows the adoption of the 'Global Strategy on Traditional Medicine 2025–2034' by the World Health Assembly in 2025, serving as a key step in implementing its strategic goals.

Dr. Lam Wai-kin, Director of Health of the Hong Kong Department of Health, stated that the department will fully leverage Hong Kong's expertise in herbal medicine standard setting, testing, and quality regulation, working closely with WHO and international experts to contribute to the standardization, safety, and quality of traditional herbal medicines.

The Hong Kong government emphasized its ongoing support for WHO's efforts in developing the International Herbal Pharmacopoeia, noting that this meeting marks Hong Kong's continued commitment to supporting this significant global initiative.