Taiwan FDA to Revise Law, Impose Heavy Fines on Illegal Online Drug Sales

Taiwan's Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is set to revise regulations to tackle the growing problem of illegal online drug sales. The agency announced a 60-day public comment period for the proposed amendments to the Pharmaceutical Affairs Act. These changes aim to strengthen oversight mechanisms and empower health authorities to proactively monitor online platforms using technological tools. A key provision allows for significant penalties, including fines of up to NT$5 million (approximately $155,000 USD), for non-compliant online businesses. Specifically, internet service providers and website operators will be required to remove illegal drug advertisements within 24 hours of receiving notification from authorities. Failure to comply will result in substantial fines. The FDA's move comes in response to a surge in online pharmacies selling unapproved or counterfeit medications, posing serious risks to public health. The proposed legislation seeks to create a more robust framework for regulating online pharmaceutical sales and protecting consumers from dangerous products.