Tongrentang has been one of the most renowned names representing the Chinese pharmaceutical sector since its establishment in 1669. With rich history deep-rooted in Chinese daily life, the firm, however, cannot deny the grave challenges it faces behind all the glamour. Beijing Tongrentang Holdings Limited announced this week a 4.1% year-on-year fall in its third-quarter sales income to 512 million yuan (64 million US dollars) and a 47.81% year-on-year fall in its net profit to 38.41 million yuan (4.8 million US dollars). What is driving the age-old drug giant to such poor financial performance?