From English and Chinese periodicals published by missionaries, to Chinese and English periodicals published by the Chinese, China's medical periodicals have experienced a developmental process that is the outcome of the introduction of Western medicine into China, gradually replacing traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), to become eventually the mainstream medicine. For half a century after the founding of People's Republic of China, Chinese medical periodicals focused on serving the planned economy, directed as they were by government policies on healthcare and publication. These periodicals scarcely entered the international sphere, and became typical regional publications. This article charts the interesting history of these developments. At the beginning of the 21st century, the growth of international medical exchange put Chinese medical periodicals in a difficult position: both good submissions and subscriptions are insufficient for viability. In today's multicultural world, the internationalization of Chinese medical periodicals can be accomplished by promoting the internationalization of TCM and regional medicine. The ability to ensure academic independence and control of their economic management are essential if these periodicals are to thrive.