Xiangsong Tongluo You—a traditional Chinese topical medicine with over a century of history, originally developed by Hong Kong's Ling Nam Medicine Factory Ltd.—has officially been approved for sale in the Chinese mainland after being commissioned and manufactured by Guangdong-Macao Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. in the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin.

This approval marks the first successful implementation in the zone under a plan to support drug marketing from Hong Kong and Macao.

The project effectively addresses four major challenges long faced by Hong Kong and Macao pharmaceutical firms seeking to manufacture in the Chinese mainland: it eliminates the need for self-built factories, significantly accelerates production timelines; enables efficient resource integration while reducing operational costs; ensures seamless alignment with regulatory standards; and adopts a prioritized, parallel review and approval process that substantially shortens administrative timelines.

In line with supporting policies, Hengqin has prioritized the development of four emerging industries: sci-tech R&D and advanced manufacturing, Macao-branded traditional Chinese medicine, cultural tourism and exhibition commerce, and modern finance. Hengqin is now capable of offering comprehensive support for the traditional Chinese medicine and wellness sector in Macao.

As of March 1, 2024, the special customs operation has further enhanced its appeal as a platform for Hong Kong and Macao pharmaceutical enterprises. Throughout the implementation process, government departments across multiple regions in the GBA provide dedicated, one-on-one guidance to businesses.