The government of Taiwan does not regard drug use and HIV as a chief problem and therefore no direct policy exists. While drug users are regarded as criminals, they are sent to hospital for detoxification and then a drug treatment centre rather than prison. If patients comply they may be released early and placed on probation for two years during which time they must submit to urine testing. The relapse rate remains at 80 per cent. Methamphetamine and heroin are the drugs of choice. Since inhalation, snorting and ingestion are primary methods of use HIV/AIDS is not a major concern as reflected in the government's limited drug policy.

Similarly, methamphetamine is the major drug used in Japan and South Korea, although, the drug policies of these countries are more focused and firm. After alcohol, methamphetamine is Japan's most popular drug. Drug users tend to inject the methamphetamines and some use foil paper vapor. Heroin and diazepam are also injected and a high level of needle sharing is reported. Japan does not cultivate or manufacture controlled substances but it is a major producer of 60 types of precursor chemicals that have legitimate industrial uses. Consequently, law enforcement agencies combat the importation and distribution of methamphetamine by imposing strict sentences for drug violations.

Injection remains the preferred method of taking methamphetamine in South Korea. The amount of heroin trafficked into the country appears to be on the increase and most of it is for local consumption. The government is repressive towards drug users and consequently, little is known about drug use patterns in the country. Drug users are charged with community service and repeat offenders are forced to attend detoxification and rehabilitation. Alternatively, they may be sentenced to a 3 year jail term. Strict narcotics regulations state that drug traffickers are to be charged with huge fines, life imprisonment or capital punishment. South Korea is recognized as a low HIV prevalence country although, the disease appears to be on the increase and the high level of injection among drug users presents as a major concern.