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An agreement was signed today (May 24) between the Mainland's State Food and Drug Administration (SFDA) and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government's Department of Health to enhance co-operation and communication on the control of drugs and medical devices.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Director of Health, Dr P Y Lam, said the agreement would go far in enhancing the regulatory control of drugs and medical devices between the two places through co-operation.
Dr Lam said the public have high expectations for safety, quality and efficacy of Western medicines, Chinese medicines and medical devices.
"The agreement will broaden the scope of co-operation in the interest of public health," he said.
The agreement was signed by Dr Lam and SFDA Commissioner, Mr Shao Mingli, in Hong Kong.
A wide scope of regulatory collaboration is covered by the agreement including strengthening of exchanges on systems and regulation of drugs and medical devices; registration and safety information; good manufacturing practice; training of personnel; enhanced co-operation over regulation of Chinese medicines; and better communication and co-operation on the monitoring of clinical trials on Western and Chinese medicines.
The opportunity was also taken to set up a high-level exchange mechanism with top officials. Expert working meetings will also be held on a needs basis.
Ends/Monday, May 24, 2010
Issued at HKT 19:19
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