The purpose of obtaining Class D medical device MDACS registration in Hong Kong is to ensure that high-risk medical devices meet internationally recognized standards of safety, performance, and quality before they are marketed, imported, or used in Hong Kong. Although the Medical Device Administrative Control System (MDACS) is currently voluntary, it plays a critical regulatory role and is widely recognized by healthcare institutions, customs, and public hospitals.
Public and private hospitals (including the Hospital Authority) often require MDACS listing for procurement.
Medical devices not listed under MDACS may face rejection in government tenders and clinical usage.
📌 In practice, MDACS registration functions as a de facto approval system in Hong Kong.
MDACS ensures that Class D medical devices comply with the Essential Principles of Safety and Performance (GN-01 / GN-02).
High-risk devices must show evidence of:
Effective risk control
Valid clinical performance
Verified manufacturing quality (ISO 13485)
🧠 This increases user trust and reduces liability for healthcare providers.
Devices that are CE-marked, FDA-cleared, TGA-approved, or approved by other reference authorities can leverage existing approvals under MDACS.
The MDACS framework aligns with GHTF/IMDRF guidelines, making it internationally harmonized.
🌍 This streamlines registration for multinational manufacturers.
While Hong Kong has no mandatory pre-market approval law, customs officials and port authorities often require MDACS documentation for Class D devices, especially if the product is:
Intended for public hospitals
Imported in large quantities
Under regulatory scrutiny
📦 MDACS listing simplifies logistics, inspections, and warehousing.
The Hong Kong government is planning to move toward a mandatory system. MDACS registration now prepares manufacturers for:
Future legal compliance
Rapid transition to statutory regulation
It also supports compliance with related regulatory systems like:
Hong Kong Hospital Authority requirements
Local ethical committee and clinical trial approvals
Class D listing under MDACS mandates the manufacturer and LRP to:
Report adverse events (AEs)
Manage recalls and Field Safety Corrective Actions (FSCA)
Maintain a post-market surveillance plan
This improves public health outcomes and reduces regulatory risks.
🛡 Listing ensures continuous safety monitoring of high-risk devices in the market.
| Device Type | Example |
|---|---|
| Implantables | Heart valves, hip implants |
| Life-supporting equipment | Dialysis machines, ventilators |
| High-risk IVDs | HIV test kits, Hepatitis B detection |
| Electromedical Class IIb devices | ICU monitors, external pacemakers |
| Context | Importance |
|---|---|
| Hospital Procurement | Required in tenders, especially Hospital Authority |
| Clinical Use | Listing adds credibility and acceptance among doctors |
| Import & Distribution | Helps avoid customs or legal challenges |
| Post-Market Integrity | Enables structured surveillance and field action |
| Future Regulation | Prepares for future legal reforms in Hong Kong |
The purpose of obtaining Class D MDACS registration in Hong Kong is to:
✅ Facilitate access to hospitals and clinics
✅ Demonstrate safety, performance, and international compliance
✅ Enable smooth customs clearance and distribution
✅ Fulfill post-market surveillance obligations
✅ Position the product for future legal regulation

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