Goods Across Borders · Customs rule card

Adderall (Medication) → China

Purpose: Traveling · Verified: 2026-04-25

PROHIBITED

Amphetamine-class stimulants prohibited for travelers

Details

Adderall (mixed amphetamine salts) is classified as a Category 1 Psychotropic Substance under China's Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Control Regulations (Order No. 442). Personal-import is prohibited for travelers, including those holding a foreign prescription. Possession on entry can lead to seizure and prosecution. Methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) is similarly Category 1.

Quantity limit

Prohibited — amphetamine is a Class I narcotic under China's Narcotic Drug Control Regulations; any quantity illegal

Documentation required

No personal import permit available from NMPA/NNCB for amphetamine

Legal reference

Order No. 442 of the State Council (Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Regulations)

At the airport

Amphetamines are Schedule I narcotics in China. If you arrive with Adderall, proceed to the customs declaration area at PVG, PEK, or your port of entry.
Declare the medication on your Customs Declaration Form (ticking the 'medicines' box). Present your foreign prescription and physician's letter.
Customs will consult with narcotics officials. Expect confiscation and possible detention. Criminal penalties under China's Narcotics Control Law are severe.
Contact your country's embassy immediately (US Embassy Beijing: +86-10-8531-3000). Do not sign documents in Chinese without a certified interpreter.

Transit

Transit not permitted. China classifies amphetamines as Schedule I narcotics and enforces this against all persons in Chinese territory. Transit passengers at PVG, PEK, and other major hubs are subject to inspection. No transit safe harbour exists for amphetamine-based medications.

Practical advice

Do not bring or send Adderall to China. Discuss alternative ADHD treatment options with a Chinese physician on arrival, or consult the Chinese embassy in your home country before travel for any clinical exemption process.

Customs authority

General Administration of Customs of China (GACC) · http://www.customs.gov.cn