China's Concern Over Fake COVID-19 Test Kits Distribution... "Strengthening Monitoring"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyunjung] As COVID-19 is rapidly spreading in China, health authorities have stepped up monitoring of 'fake COVID-19 kits.'

On the 14th, according to the Hong Kong South China Morning Post, China's National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) announced plans to strengthen monitoring of rapid antigen test kits. The administration stated, "We will strictly crack down on illegal production and operation of unregistered COVID-19 antigen detection tests in violation of laws."

Unlike other countries where kits are widely used, China had not sold COVID-19 kits. However, last week, the National Health Commission (NHC) of China approved the use of kits for early detection of COVID-19.

The approved companies are Beijing Huaketai Biotechnology, Nanjing Bazim Biotechnology, Guangzhou Windpo Biotechnology, Beijing Jinwopu Biotechnology, and Shenzhen Huadinyuan Pharmaceutical Technology, a subsidiary of BGI Genomics, totaling five companies.

Facing quality and safety issues, Windpo Life Sciences announced last weekend that it discovered unauthorized trademark infringement on its COVID-19 kits and stated, "We have reported this to the Public Security Bureau and will hold those responsible legally accountable."

Retail pharmacies, including local pharmacy chains, announced they will soon sell kits both in stores and online. LBX, a pharmacy chain listed in Shanghai, has signed a contract with Windpo Life Sciences to sell COVID-19 kits in 12 regions, including Shanghai, Hunan Province, and Jiangsu Province.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.