Coronavirus: China bans export of test kits, medical supplies by firms not licensed to sell them at home
- After European buyers complain of being sold substandard products, Beijing says only companies approved by the National Medical Products Administration can ship their goods overseas
- Previously, manufacturers needed only to have CE accreditation to be able to sell in Europe
The move comes after China was hit with a number of complaints from buyers in Europe about the quality and accuracy of tests kits and other products.
The new rule applies to all companies seeking to export test kits, face masks, protective clothing, ventilators and infrared thermometers, according to a joint statement issued on Tuesday by the Ministry of Commerce, General Administration of Customs and the National Medical Products Administration.
Previously, Chinese exporters were required only to have CE certification to indicate their goods conformed to the health and safety standards required for sale within the European Economic Area.
The statement said also that companies must demonstrate to the Chinese customs agency that their products meet the relevant standards of the countries to which there goods are being exported.