Pharmaceutical Products

Comprehensive guide to HS codes for medicines, medical devices, and healthcare products

Average Duty Rate

0-5% (medicines), 5% (medical devices)

Common HS Chapters

Ch. 30 (Pharma), Ch. 90 (Medical Devices)

MOH Registration

Mandatory for all medicines

Cold Chain

Required for biologics & vaccines

Industry Overview

The pharmaceutical industry is one of the most heavily regulated sectors for international trade. HS code classification for medicines, medical devices, and healthcare products requires understanding of active ingredients, therapeutic applications, and regulatory classifications. The GCC pharmaceutical market is valued at over $25 billion, with stringent import requirements including Ministry of Health registrations, Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) certificates, and temperature-controlled logistics.

Pharmaceutical Import Regulations

MOH Registration - All pharmaceutical products must be registered with the Ministry of Health before importation
GMP Certification - Good Manufacturing Practice certificates from country of origin required for all medicines
Controlled Substances - Narcotics and psychotropic substances require special permits from Ministry of Health
Temperature Monitoring - Cold chain products must have temperature logs and proper storage documentation
Labeling Requirements - Arabic labeling with patient information leaflets mandatory for retail medicines

Common Classification Challenges & Solutions

Dietary supplements vs. medicines classification

Solution: If marketed for therapeutic use with dosage instructions: Chapter 30 (medicines). If marketed as food supplement without medical claims: Chapter 21 (food preparations). Check MOH guidance.

Medical devices classification (diagnostic vs. therapeutic)

Solution: Diagnostic equipment (MRI, CT scanners): 9018.19. Therapeutic equipment (dialysis machines): 9018.90. Check if device is implantable - different HS codes apply.

Combination products (drug-device combinations)

Solution: Apply GIR 3(b): Pre-filled syringes with medicine = 3004 (medicines). Medicated plasters = 3005. The pharmaceutical component typically determines classification.

Best Practices

1
Obtain MOH product registration before attempting to import - process takes 3-6 months for new drugs
2
Maintain GMP certificates and certificates of pharmaceutical product (CPP) from country of origin
3
For biologics and vaccines, ensure cold chain documentation with temperature monitors throughout transport
4
Clearly distinguish between over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medicines in documentation
5
For controlled substances, obtain special permits well in advance - can take 2-3 months
6
Keep active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) content clearly documented for customs verification