Summer vacation is here, and many have already planned their holidays, preparing to travel abroad for leisure. Among the top destinations, Japan stands out, especially for its well-known drugstores offering not only a delightful shopping experience but also effective products. With the Japanese Yen at historic lows, tourists can't resist stocking up on their favorite items. The Taiwan Food and Drug Administration advises travelers returning with medications to be mindful of the quantity limits specified under the "Regulations on Inspection, Taxation, and Release of Luggage Items Carried by Incoming Passengers."
Taiwan Food and Drug Administration advises that travelers carrying non-prescription medications are limited to 12 bottles, boxes, cans, packs, or tubes per type, not exceeding a total of 36 items. (Image: Taiwan Food and Drug Administration)
Taiwan Food and Drug Administration stipulates that travelers can carry up to 12 bottles (boxes, cans, packs, or tubes) per type of non-prescription medication, with a total limit of 36 bottles (boxes, cans, packs, or tubes). For prescription medications, travelers without a doctor's prescription or supporting documents are restricted to a two-month supply. Those with valid prescriptions are limited to a reasonable quantity as specified on the prescription, up to a six-month supply.
Taiwan Food and Drug Administration advises the public to be particularly vigilant. When carrying medications for chronic conditions or controlled substances abroad, travelers should ensure they possess a valid prescription or supporting documents issued by a physician. Additionally, when purchasing medications overseas, it is essential to verify whether they contain controlled substances prohibited in Taiwan. Various countries have different regulations regarding controlled substances, so travelers must not only be familiar with the rules of their destination but also those governing the importation of medications upon their return home.
Taiwan Food and Drug Administration reminds travelers returning with medications to Taiwan to be aware of the "Regulations on Inspection, Taxation, and Release of Luggage Items Carried by Incoming Passengers," which specifies quantity limits. (Image: Medical Leader Chinese Editing Group)
Finally, the Taiwan Food and Drug Administration emphasizes that medications carried abroad are strictly for personal use and cannot be sold. Violators may face fines ranging from NT$30,000 to NT$2,000,000 under Articles 27 and 92 of the Pharmaceutical Affairs Act, and may also incur penalties under Article 83 of the same act.
