42 thoroughbreds delivered to domestic horse companies

Forty-two racing horses imported from Australia were on March 6 delivered to their owners in China after a 30-day quarantine at Shanghai customs.

With a total value of 10 million yuan ($1.5 million), the 42 thoroughbreds were transported in chartered aircrafts from Melbourne to Shanghai Pudong International Airport last month. It cost about 100,000 yuan to transport each of the animals. The animals will feature in equestrian events in China, including the Yulong International Racing Tournament.

During the 30-day quarantine, customs officials carried out blood sampling procedures and laboratory tests before permitting the horses to be delivered to the domestic horse companies.

According to the authorities, this is the first time that domestic horse breeders have completed the procedure on their own to import thoroughbreds which are known for their agility and speed.