Herbal Product Market in Europe / 中华中医药杂志

ABSTRACT

Herbal products,either in the form of drugs,cosmetics or health food are increasingly popular in Europe.There are wide variations throughout Europe with regard to the quality and safety control of these products.In recent years EU begins to adopt a new wave of legislation aiming at harmonizing the law.While small and medium herbal companies may feel very difficult to tackle the legal restriction problems newly imposed upon them,some large pharmaceutical companies with adequate capital and technical know-how are showing keen interest in investing in herbal products for supply to the European market.Strategic alliance,merger and acquisitions,and industry restructuring activities will frequently take place in the foreseeable future.This article argues that although facing fierce market competition Chinese herbal companies are well positioned to expand their business in Europe.Besides it makes an in-depth analysis of a set of important rules and regulations concerning borderline products,labeling,packaging,health and nutrition claims;all of which are important legal issues deserving special attention of Chinese herbal companies.