iHerb Temporarily Halts Shipping to Malaysia: What It Means for Consumers

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Malaysians who rely on iHerb for their health and wellness needs may be in for an unpleasant surprise—the global online retailer has ceased shipping to Malaysia. As of March 6, 2025, customers attempting to place orders on the platform are now met with a notice stating that delivery services to Malaysia are no longer available.

Malaysians who rely on iHerb for their health and wellness needs may have noticed a recent change—the global online retailer has temporarily ceased shipping to Malaysia. As of March 6, 2025, customers attempting to place orders on the platform are met with a notice stating that delivery services to Malaysia are unavailable.

Why Did iHerb Stop Shipping to Malaysia?

While iHerb has not issued an official statement explaining the decision, several possible factors may have contributed to this move:

  1. Regulatory Compliance
    Malaysia has strict import regulations on health supplements. Some ingredients—such as DHEA, poppy seeds, and hemp—are prohibited under local laws. Ensuring compliance with these regulations may pose challenges for international retailers (iHerb).
  2. Customs and Taxation Policies
    Since January 2024, Malaysia has implemented a 10% sales tax on low-value imported goods purchased online, with additional Goods and Services Tax (GST) applied to certain orders exceeding RM500. These taxation changes could have affected iHerb’s decision to pause shipping (Royal Malaysian Customs Department).
  3. Shipping and Logistics Considerations
    Some customers have reported issues with customs clearance, where certain supplements face delays or rejection due to Malaysia’s health product registration requirements. This could have impacted iHerb’s ability to maintain consistent delivery services (Lowyat Forum).

What Are the Alternatives for Malaysian Consumers?

With iHerb currently unavailable, consumers seeking health supplements may consider the following options:

  • Local Online Retailers: Platforms such as Lazada, Shopee, and Watsons Malaysia offer a range of supplements that comply with local health regulations.
  • International Brands with Local Distributors: Some well-known supplement brands have official distributors in Malaysia, ensuring regulatory compliance.
  • Licensed Pharmacies: Purchasing from reputable pharmacies like Guardian, Caring Pharmacy, and Big Pharmacy provides assurance of product authenticity and safety.

Looking Ahead

It is unclear whether iHerb will resume shipping to Malaysia in the near future. Consumers should stay informed about changes in regulatory policies and explore alternative purchasing options that align with Malaysian health and safety guidelines.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or medical advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we do not make any guarantees regarding the completeness or accuracy of the content. Readers should verify details with official sources and consult relevant authorities for specific concerns.

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