The Republic of Singapore and Hong Kong are discussed together because of the clear similarities in the population, per capita gross national product, disease patterns, medical practice, and regulatory requirements for clinical trials. A major difference is highlighted and that is the role of the Singaporian government, whose expressed aim is to establish Singapore as a viable coordinating hub for drug development in the region. The steps to realize this objective by building the necessary infrastructure are outlined. Finally, difficulties and issues encountered in running clinical drug trials to good clinical practice (GCP) guidelines are described with the aim that sharing such experiences will assist others in the implementation of GCP in East Asia. © 1997, Drug Information Association. All rights reserved.