(Xinhua)
Updated: 2008-01-17 11:27

Beijing-based China Sexology Association (CSA) is facing an investigation from the Ministry of Civil Affairs (MCA) for allegedly profiting from its activities.

Evidence shows it has taken part in a series of business activities, and has even compiled business contracts where the association can reap as much as 60 to 80 percent of profits from the exercises, reported the Legal Evening News.

Founded in 1994 as an academic society, the CSA is not allowed to profit from business activities.

The association, however, is suspected of having set up an expert committee to give comment on reproductive health products without approval from the Ministry of Civil Affairs, the Beijing-based newspaper said.

At a sex culture festival held in Guangzhou last month, the association sold copper plates that bore its name to dealers of sex health products. The plates were worth 400 yuan (US$55) to 600 yuan each, the newspaper quoted a person with the association who declined to give his name.

MCA regulations stipulate that academic societies and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are prohibited from running businesses. An MCA official confirmed it is considering a full investigation into the case.

"We welcome authorities to come and investigate," said Xu Tianmin, CSA chairman. "It will get rid of misunderstanding and prove that we are not guilty."