Small package of Chinese herbal medicine pieces will be fully promoted

Last week, the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine released the fourth draft of the “Guidelines for the Application of Small Packages of Chinese Herbal Medicines (Draft for Comment)”, inviting public feedback.

The term “small package” refers to pre-measured portions of traditional Chinese medicine decoction pieces that can be directly used without further measurement. The “Draft for Comment” outlines standardized specifications, packaging, and storage procedures for these small packages, with plans to promote their use across more hospitals nationwide. What impact will this standardization have on manufacturers and the broader industry?

According to a reporter from Medicine Economics, the main market for traditional Chinese medicine is currently in hospital settings. Some top hospitals, including Western hospitals, began using small packages two or three years ago. Since August last year, the State Administration has been conducting pilot programs in nearly 20 medical institutions.

“Standardizing small packages in hospitals means companies must produce uniform packaging and portions that meet hospital requirements,” said General Zhou Lushan of Guangzhou Caizhilin Pharmaceutical. He noted that many clinics and hospitals started using small packages as early as 2004 for convenience, but the packaging and specifications varied widely among different manufacturers.

Under the guidelines, small packaged medicines should be “different from medicine” in terms of dosage, aligning with clinical prescription needs without restricting prescription amounts. For example, licorice, a common herb, comes in three sizes—3g, 6g, and 10g per bag.

In terms of packaging materials, the draft recommends five types, including polyethylene composite plastic film and non-woven bags. In practice, most companies use similar materials, though they may vary in quality and cost.

After nearly a year of trials, the State Administration believes it is feasible to expand the use of small packages. This approach addresses issues with traditional large packaging, such as inefficiency, inaccurate dosing, and waste. It also promotes standardization, branding, and industrial development of TCM decoction pieces.

The consultation period ends on April 18, after which the administration will hold a summary meeting to finalize the guidelines.

During interviews, medical institutions showed strong support for small packages, especially in southern regions where humidity makes large packages prone to mold. However, some manufacturers expressed concerns about increased costs. Zhou Lushan argued that small packaging doesn’t improve product quality, only adds to production expenses, including labor and materials.

Some insiders worry that rising production costs could lead to higher prices, making it harder for hospitals to adopt the new system. Huang Zhihai from Guangdong Provincial Hospital of TCM mentioned that the hospital hasn’t raised prices since switching to small packages, but others believe price increases are inevitable.

Su Guiyun from Beijing Shuangqiao Yanjing Chinese Herbal Pieces Factory criticized the environmental impact of widespread plastic packaging, warning of resource waste and pollution. Meanwhile, Li Jianhua of Guangdong Kangmei Pharmaceutical believes companies should absorb some costs to support industry growth and patient access.

As the debate continues, the push for small packages represents a significant shift in how traditional Chinese medicine is prepared and distributed, with both opportunities and challenges ahead.