Obtaining Class C medical device MDACS registration in Hong Kong serves multiple important purposes, especially for manufacturers and distributors who intend to access the public and private healthcare sectors in the region. Although MDACS (Medical Device Administrative Control System) is currently voluntary, it plays a crucial regulatory, commercial, and compliance role.
MDACS registration allows Class C medical devices (medium- to high-risk) to be legally listed and recognized for importation, sale, and use in Hong Kong.
While not yet a statutory requirement, registration is strongly encouraged by the Hong Kong Department of Health.
It’s an essential part of good regulatory practice and is widely adopted by public hospitals and clinics.
Hong Kong’s Hospital Authority (HA) and public healthcare institutions require MDACS listing for procurement.
If your Class C device (e.g., diagnostic monitor, infusion system, surgical equipment) is not listed, it is not eligible for public tenders.
Many private hospitals and clinics also prefer or require MDACS listing as part of their due diligence.
By registering under MDACS, the device is verified to meet essential principles of safety and performance as per international standards, including:
GHTF/IMDRF principles (aligned with MDACS)
ISO 13485 (quality management system)
ISO 14971 (risk management)
ISO 10993 (biocompatibility)
IEC 60601 (electrical safety), etc.
🔍 The review by the Medical Device Division (MDD) ensures the product is backed by:
Reference market approvals (e.g., CE, FDA)
Clinical evidence
Compliance with labeling, software safety, and manufacturing quality
Devices listed under MDACS carry a Hong Kong Medical Device number (HKMD No.) and are publicly listed in the MDACS database.
This increases buyer and user confidence in the product’s legitimacy and compliance.
It gives your product an edge over unlisted competitors and builds your brand credibility in Hong Kong and other Asia-Pacific markets.
The Hong Kong government plans to transition MDACS into a mandatory statutory regulatory system in the future.
By obtaining registration now, companies are proactively aligning with upcoming legal changes.
Future conversion from voluntary to mandatory status may prioritize already-listed products.
Distributors and agents often require proof of regulatory acceptance in the region.
Listing the device under MDACS shows the product is locally recognized and compliant with the Hong Kong Department of Health’s expectations.
| Purpose | Description |
|---|---|
| 🛒 Market Access | Enables legal sale of the device in Hong Kong |
| 🏥 Public Procurement | Required for Hospital Authority and public hospital purchases |
| 🔐 Regulatory Compliance | Demonstrates adherence to recognized safety and quality standards |
| 📈 Commercial Advantage | Enhances product reputation, buyer trust, and market access |
| 🛡 Risk Mitigation | Reduces liability by confirming regulatory due diligence |
| 📑 Future Preparedness | Aligns with expected statutory device regulation in Hong Kong |
| Scenario | Without MDACS | With MDACS |
|---|---|---|
| Tender at public hospital | ❌ Rejected | ✅ Eligible |
| Private clinic purchase | ❓ Uncertain | ✅ Preferable |
| Customs import | ⚠️ May raise red flags | ✅ Smoother clearance |
| Distributor onboarding | ❓ Delays | ✅ Faster entry |
The purpose of obtaining Class C MDACS registration is not merely procedural—it is strategic, regulatory, and commercial. It ensures your device is recognized, compliant, and accessible in one of Asia’s most transparent and safety-conscious medical device markets.
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