The Chinese Medicine Ordinance (Cap. 549 of the Laws of Hong Kong) was passed by the Legislative Council on 14 July 1999. The regulatory system for Chinese medicine established under the Ordinance on the one hand, can enhance the protection of public health and on the other hand, accord a professional status for Chinese medicine practitioners and ensure the safety, quality and efficacy of Chinese medicines.

The contents of the Chinese Medicine Ordinance include the composition and functions of the Chinese Medicine Council, Chinese Medicine Practitioners Board, Chinese Medicines Board and the seven committees established under the Chinese Medicine Council; the regulatory system for Chinese medicine practitioners, which includes registration, examination and discipline of Chinese medicine practitioners; and the regulatory system for Chinese medicines, which includes licensing and regulation of Chinese medicines traders and registration of proprietary Chinese medicines. In addition, the Ordinance contains Schedule 1 of 31 types of potent/toxic Chinese herbal medicines and Schedule 2 of 574 types of Chinese herbal medicines.